Events on December 17 in history

Niterói circus fire (December 17, 1961)

Niterói circus fire: Fire breaks out during a performance by the Gran Circus Norte-Americano in the city of Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, killing more than 500.

The Niterói circus fire occurred on December 17, 1961 in the city of Niterói, Brazil. A fire in the tent housing a sold-out performance by the Gran Circus Norte-Americano caused more than 500 deaths. It is the worst fire disaster to occur in Brazil.

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Events on 1961

8 Jan

Charles de Gaulle
In France a referendum supports Charles de Gaulle's policies in Algeria.
16 Apr

Fidel Castro
In a nationally broadcast speech, Cuban leader Fidel Castro declares that he is a Marxist-Leninist and that Cuba is going to adopt Communism.
1 May

Fidel Castro
The Prime Minister of Cuba, Fidel Castro, proclaims Cuba a socialist nation and abolishes elections.
25 Jul

NATO
In a speech John F. Kennedy emphasizes that any attack on Berlin is an attack on NATO.
10 Aug

Agent Orange
First use in Vietnam War of the Agent Orange by the U.S. Army.

Events on December 17 in history

Niterói circus fire (December 17, 1961)

References

Choose Another Date

Events on 1961

Charles de Gaulle

Fidel Castro

Fidel Castro

NATO

Agent Orange