Nicosia, Cyprus. Several significant historical events took place on July 2 across different years, including political milestones, notable deaths, a disappearance, and a record-setting flight.
Notable events on July 2
In 1915, Porfirio Diaz, the Mexican soldier and president from 1877 to 1911, died in Paris.
In 1937, Amelia Earhart and co-pilot Fred Noonan disappeared over the Pacific while attempting to fly around the world.
In 1961, American novelist Ernest Hemingway, best known for “A Farewell to Arms” and “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” shot himself.
In 1964, U.S. President Lyndon Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act, prohibiting racial discrimination.
In 1973, American actress, singer and World War Two pin-up girl Betty Grable died.
In 1997, American movie star James Stewart died. He won an Oscar for his role in “The Philadelphia Story” in 1940 and received a special Academy Award in 1984 after 50 years in films.
In 2002, millionaire Steve Fossett became the first solo balloonist to circle the globe non-stop, reaching a point off Australia’s southern coast after flying nearly 19,500 miles, or 31,400 km, around the southern hemisphere. He finally landed on July 4.
In 2004, Marlon Brando, the reclusive Oscar-winning star of “The Godfather” and “On the Waterfront,” died at the age of 80. He had been hailed as one of the most influential actors of his generation.
In 2005, singers Paul McCartney and U2’s Bono performed before a huge crowd in London’s Hyde Park for the anti-poverty campaign Live 8, described as the biggest music event ever staged.
