October 1991

Friday 04:

The Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty was opened for signature.

Saturday 05:

The first official version of the Linux kernel, version 0.02, is released.

Tuesday 08:

The Croatian Parliament cuts all remaining ties with Yugoslavia

Wednesday 09:

Ecuador becomes a member of the Berne Convention copyright treaty.

Saturday 12:

Askar Akayev, previously chosen President of Kyrgyzstan by republic's Supreme Soviet, is confirmed president in an uncontested poll

Tuesday 15:

Following a bitter confirmation hearing that involved allegations of sexual misconduct, the United States Senate votes to confirm Judge Clarence Thomas to the Supreme Court of the United States.

Wednesday 16:

George Hennard runs amok in Killeen, Texas, killing 23 and wounding 19 in Luby's Cafeteria.

Sunday 20:

The Oakland Hills firestorm kills 25 and destroys 3469 homes and apartments, causing more than $2 billion in damage.

Friday 25:

Rock band Steely Dan reunites

Saturday 26:

Lori Keevil-Matthews is killed after a 485-pound umbrella slams her against a boulder in a Christo art installation.

Sunday 27:

Turkmenistan achieved independence from the Soviet Union.

Tuesday 29:

The American Galileo spacecraft makes its closest approach to 951 Gaspra, becoming the first probe to visit an asteroid.

Wednesday 30:

The Madrid Conference for Middle East peace talks opens.