The Spanish National Assembly officially abolished slavery in Puerto Rico.
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The super-bright comet 'Hale-Bopp' reached its closest point to Earth at a distance of 1.215 AU, making it visible to the naked eye.
The Beatles released their very first album, 'Please Please Me.'
New York became the first US court to allow blood test results to be used as evidence.
America built the first rocket to reach an altitude of 50 miles (80 km).
Aston Villa's director, William McGregor, formed the English Football League.
