Test pilot George Aird narrowly escapes death by ejecting sideways from an English Electric Lightning F1 aircraft that nosedived in 1962, as a farmer casually watches from his tractor.
In 1987 an estimated 800,000 people flocked to the the Golden Gate Bridge for its 50th anniversary. The weight of the large crowd caused the bridge to sag 7 feet, flattening its usual convex shape. Engineer Daniel E. Mohn reaffirmed the bridge was not overstressed as a result of Bridgewalk '87.
Harvey Ross Ball, a graphic designer from Worcester, Massachusetts, is credited with inventing the iconic smiley face in 1963. At the time, Ball was approached by a local insurance company, State Mutual Life Assurance Company, to design an image that would uplift the spirits of their employees.
The company wanted a symbol that would promote a positive work environment and improve employee morale. In a mere 10 minutes, Ball sketched the now-famous smiley face, consisting of a bright yellow circle with two black dots for eyes and a gentle, curved line representing a smile.
The simplicity and universal appeal of the design made it an instant hit. For his creative contribution, Harvey Ross Ball was compensated with a modest payment of $45. Little did he know that his creation would go on to become one of the most recognizable symbols worldwide.
