Linus Torvalds released the first version of the Linux operating system kernel for free on the Internet.
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Finnish long-distance runner Taisto Mäki broke the 10,000-meter world record in 29:52:06.
The Dutch expedition captained by Admiral Van Warwyck first sighted Mauritius.
German-British astronomer William Herschel discovered the moon of Saturn, 'Mimas.'
The New York Stock Exchange reopened for trading after the September 11 attacks.
Miss America crowned Vanessa Williams, the first black winner, in New York City.
