The first mass inoculation against polio is conducted. Virologist Jonas Salk's vaccine is still one of the two versions used today, along with Hilary Koprowski's live polio vaccine.

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) begins operating. The ISO issues standards for everything from bicycle tires to date formats.

Glenn T. Seaborg and his team chemically identify Plutonium. The radioactive element plays an important role as nuclear fuel or in nuclear weapons.

The February Revolution begins in Russia. The demonstrations and armed clashes ultimately resulted in the demise of the Russian Empire.

The Gutenberg Bible is published. Johannes Gutenberg's Bible edition was the first book ever printed in movable type, heralding the age of the printed book in the West.