American singer Aretha Franklin, who defined the golden age of soul music of the 1960s and was known as the “Queen of Soul,” died at age 76. 2018.
Idi Amin—who assumed Uganda’s presidency (1971–79) following a coup and became known as the “Butcher of Uganda” for his brutality—died in Saudi Arabia. 2003.
American singer Elvis Presley, known as the “King of Rock and Roll,” died of a heart attack brought on largely by drug abuse. 1977.
The island of Cyprus achieved independence from Britain and became a republic. 1960.
Canadian filmmaker James Cameron—who was known for his expansive vision and innovative special-effects movies, notably Titanic (1997) and Avatar (2009)—was born. 1954.
