Historical Events
- American Dave Gryllis sets world bicycle speed record of 94.37 kph
- MLB Houston Astros owner John McMullen replaces GM Tal Smith with Al Rosen
Historic Publication
William Safire’s column entitled "The Ayatollah Votes" is published in the New York Times, and was later quoted in a campaign ad for Ronald Reagan in that year's presidential election
1980 History
Famous Birthdays
- Missy Mazzoli, American classical composer (Breaking the Waves; The Listeners), and pianist, born in Lansdale, Pennsylvania
- Tanel Padar, Estonian singer-songwriter (46th Eurovision Song Contest winner, 2001 - "Everybody"), born in Uhtna, Estonia
Famous Deaths
- John Van Vleck, American physicist, mathematician, and Nobel Laureate who pioneered the modern quantum mechanical theory of magnetism, dies at 81
- Judy LaMarsh, Canadian lawyer, politician (Member of Parliament, 1960-68), author, and broadcaster (CBC Radio), dies of pancreatic cancer at 55
- Steve Peregrin Took, English musician (Tyrannosaurus Rex), dies of a drug overdose at 31
About October 27, 1980
Day of the Week: Monday
How Long Ago? 42 years, 7 months and 6 days
Leap Year: Yes
Generation: Generation X
Chinese Zodiac: Monkey
Star Sign: Scorpio
Holidays: Labour Day (New Zealand), October Bank Holiday (Ireland)
Music Charts
#1 Song: Woman In Love - Barbra Streisand
#1 Song: Woman In Love - Barbra Streisand
