Human genome project begins. February 11 Nelson Mandela released from prison. The Simpsons debuts. 1990 Eric Lomax meets and forgives his Japanese World War II torturer, Takashi Nagase, near the site of the torture. 1989 French government approves use of RU486.
Scientists receive patent for genetically engineered animal.
Aretha Franklin inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. December 14 Dick Rutan and Jeana Yeager begin the first nonstop, non-refueled flight around the world in Voyager . September 7 Bishop Desmond Tutu becomes archbishop of Cape Town, South Africa. The Beatles appear in public for the last time. January 28 Challenger explodes, carying teacher Christa McAuliffe and crew.