A closer look at key historic events that took place on June 27:

In 1988, Mike Tyson defeats Michael Spinks

Tyson knocked him out in a mere 91 seconds. At the time, it was the richest boxing match in the sport’s history, amassing $70 million.

In 1977, Djibouti gains its independence

It achieved independence from France after a referendum was held in May of that year. A 99% vote in favor of independence granted Djibouti its wish. The first President of Djibouti, Hassan Gouled Aptidon, served until 1999.

In 1950, North Korean troops reach Seoul

This was at the beginning of the Korean War. Then-U.S. President Harry Truman deployed the U.S. Navy and Air Force to aid South Korea in their combat.

In 1880, Helen Keller is born in Tuscumbia, Alabama.

Author, activist, and disability rights advocate, Keller’s accomplishments as a deafblind person created a lasting impact, especially for children with disabilities.

In 1542, Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo becomes the first European to explore the North American west coast

He set sail from Navidad, a Mexican port. He journeyed across the coast of what is now California as his services for the Spanish Empire.

– Don’t miss out on To Vima’s daily “On this Day in History” posts.