Historical Events
Cannes Film Festival
32nd Cannes Film Festival: "Apocalypse Now" directed by Francis Ford Coppola and "Die Biechtrommel" directed by Volker Schlondorff jointly awarded the Palme d'Or
Sports History
Billy Martin issues a public apology to Reno sportswriter Ray Hagar
- USSR performs nuclear test at Eastern Kazakh/Semipalitinsk USSR
Famous Birthdays
- Frank Mir, American UFC fighter and professional wrestler, born in Las Vegas, Nevada
- Tracy McGrady, American Basketball Hall of Fame forward (NBA All-Star 2001–07; NBA scoring champion 2003, 04; Toronto Raptors, Orlando Magic, Houston Rockets), born in Bartow, Florida
Famous Deaths
- Jan Arvan, actor (Red Skelton Show, Zorro), dies
1979 Highlights
About May 24, 1979
Day of the Week: Thursday
How Long Ago? 43 years, 8 months and 5 days
Leap Year: No
Generation: Generation X
Chinese Zodiac: Goat/Sheep
Star Sign: Gemini
Music Charts
#1 Song: Reunited - Peaches & Herb
#1 Song: Sunday Girl - Blondie