1. 1992: Larry Bird decides to hang up the sneakers
Photo: biography
Photo: clipperblog
It was on this date in 1992 that the legendary basketball player, Larry Bird, decided to hand up his sneakers and retire. Bird had earned the right to be called one of the most dominant forwards in the history of the game over his 13 year career. He was a 12 time all-star and was voted league MVP three seasons in a row, all while picking up 3 NBA championship titles. He was also a member of the famous “Dream Team” featuring Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson that dominated the 1992 Olympic games. During his last few seasons, Bird was plagued by back issues that would ultimately force him to retire.
2. 1931: Yangtze River floods in China
Photo: rside
Photo: oxy
Considered to be one of the worst natural disasters of the 20th century, the massive floods nearly destroyed a vast area of China. During the months of July and August of 1931, there was significant rainfall that seemed to never let up. There were reports of multiple weather stations reporting more than 24 inches of rain in the month of July alone. It continued on that same pace all through August as well. On this date, it was reported that the Yangtze River reached its highest point. The Yangtze ran through the southern part of China, which also happens to be one of the most densely populated places on earth. The flooding reportedly covered a 500 square mile area, and by the time the waters receded there were an astounding amount of casualties. It was estimated that over the course of the two month period of flooding there were as many as 3.7 million fatalities.
3. 1988 Judge Gary M. Little takes his own life
Photo: wsj
The shocking tale of the Judge Gary M. Little begins in Seattle, Washington. Little took his own life on this date in 1988 and left a note saying he chose to take his own life because it was an appropriate end to the situation he had gotten himself into. Apparently Little had been using his authority to abuse children that had come before him in his courtroom or that he had taught when he was a teacher. The Seattle Post-Intelligencer, a local newspaper had become aware of the horrible things Judge Little was doing and had planned on running a story telling the whole world on the next day.