The South African Apartheid system of racial segregation begins to disintegrate. President de Klerk announced the unbanning of the African Nation Congress (ANC) and his intentions to release Nelson Mandela.

The Battle of Stalingrad comes to an end as the Axis Powers surrender. Germany's defeat marked a turning point in World War II.

20 mushers embark on a journey to transport medicine to Nome, Alaska, inspiring the Iditarod Race. The Iditarod is the world's longest and most challenging dog sled race.

“Ulysses” by James Joyce is published. The novel is considered one of the most important works of modernist literature.

The first public flushing toilet is opened in London. Using the “Public Waiting Room” at 95 Fleet Street cost 2 pence.