September 1960

Thursday 01:

Disgruntled railroad workers effectively halt operations of the Pennsylvania Railroad, marking the first shutdown in the history of the company.

Monday 05:

Muhammad Ali wins the gold medal in boxing at the Rome Olympic Games.

Thursday 08:

In Huntsville, Alabama, US President Dwight D. Eisenhower formally dedicates the Marshall Space Flight Center (NASA had already activated the facility on July 1).

Saturday 10:

Mickey Mantle hits what is thought to be the Major League baseball's longest home run, sending the ball an estimated 643 feet.

Sunday 11:

Young Americans for Freedom meeting at home of William F. Buckley, Jr. promulgates the Sharon Statement.

Wednesday 14:

The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) is founded.

Thursday 22:

Mali gains independence from France.

Monday 26:

In Chicago, Illinois, the first televised debate takes place between presidential candidates Richard M. Nixon and John F. Kennedy.

Friday 30:

The last episode of "The Howdy Doody Show" airs on NBC.