In the nation

1869: A golden spike was driven in a ceremony in Promontory, Utah, marking the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States.

1994: The state of Illinois executed serial killer John Wayne Gacy, 52, for the murders of 33 young men and boys.

In the world

1933: Book burnings were held in 34 cities across Germany, targeting authors whose ideologies were in conflict with Nazism.

1994: Nelson Mandela was inaugurated, becoming the first Black president of South Africa.

Today’s birthdays

Basketball Hall of Fame coach Jim Calhoun is 83. Musician-songwriter Donovan is 79. Fashion designer Miuccia Prada is 76. Olympic skiing medalists Phil and Steve Mahre are 68. Musician-activist Bono (U2) is 65. Model Linda Evangelista is 60. Rapper Young MC is 58. Racing driver Helio Castroneves is 50. Actor Kenan Thompson is 47. Olympic swimming gold medalist Missy Franklin is 30. — The Associated Press