First German to go into Space:
Sigmund Jähn, a pilot from the East German Air Force joined the crew of Soyuz 31.

Namibian War of Independence Begins:
The 24-year long rebellion against the South African government began with an attack by the South African Defence Force on the members of the South-West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO). Namibia gained independence on 21 March 1990. Namibians observe Heroes Day annually on August 26.

First Tennis Match to be Telecast in Color:
The Davis Cup match between Australia and the US from the West Side Tennis Club in Forest Hills, New York, was telecast on NBC.