Also Within this year in history

In 1957, the Soviet Union shot its Sputnik satellite into orbit, launching a space race with the U.S. The Little Rock Nine integrated an Arkansas high school to fierce local opposition, forcing President Eisenhower to send in federal troops to escort them. Congress passed the Civil Rights Act of 1957, the first such law since Reconstruction. In Liverpool, England, 16-year-old John Lennon and 15-year-old Paul McCartney met for the first time at a church fair. In the U.S., frisbees flew into popularity.

Mar

19

Elvis at Graceland

(Original Caption) 3/26/1957-Memphis, TN-A thoughtful Elvis Presley leans against a massive pillar on the front porch of his traditional southern-style home, "Graceland," at Whitehaven, near Memphis.

Bettmann Archive

May

12

This Day in History – May 12, 1957, legendary driver AJ Foyt won the midget stock car championship. This win set off his career, leading him to win 4 Indy-500 championships. To find out more about the great formula-1 driver, check out this clip.

Jul

06

Althea Gibson wins her third British title

Althea Gibson who is favourite for the women's title at Wimbledon is pictured with the trophy after beating her compatriot Darlene Hard 6-3 3-6 6-4 in the final of the Kent All-comers Championship at Beckenham. (Photo by PA Images via Getty Images)

PA Images via Getty Images

History Every Day

Sign Up for "This Day in History"

Uncover fascinating moments from the past every day! Learn something new with key events in history, from the American Revolution to pop culture, crime and more.

By submitting your information, you agree to receive emails from HISTORY and A+E Global Media. You can opt out at any time. You must be 16 years or older and a resident of the United States.