And, not to be outdone by M.I.T., Howard Aiken of Harvard developed the first automatic digital computer. Massachusetts Turnpike opened. Edward W. Brooke is first black elected to United States Senate by popular vote. Busing program to integrate Boston public schools sparks white boycotts and violent demonstrations. Governor Michael Dukakis signs bill guaranteeing health insurance to all state residents.
Voters reject proposal to shut down the state's two nuclear power plants.
Dukakis becomes Democratic nominee for president of the United States. Some entries provided by Compton's Interactive Encyclopedia.