On this day in 1954, the first shots of the Algerian War of Independence were fired.
On this day in 1968, the Motion Picture Association of America's film rating system was officially introduced, originating with the ratings G, M, R, and X.
On this day in 1982, Honda became the first Asian automobile company to produce cars in the United States.
On this day in 1993, the Maastricht Treaty took effect, formally establishing the European Union.
And on this day in 2012, Taiwan was formally admitted to the US Visa Waiver Program.