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Events on December 17 in history

1961Dec, 17

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

  • 8Jan

    Charles de Gaulle

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

    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.
  • 1May

    Fidel Castro

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

    NATO

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

    Agent Orange

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