On this day in 1949, Siam changes its name to Thailand, after learning that there already is a Siam.

On this day in 1997, IBM computer Deep Blue defeats world chess champion Garry Kasparov in a six-game chess match in New York. Kasparov wins the overall competition, however, defeating the computer at Checkers, Chinese Checkers, and Sorry.

On this day in 1998, a French mint produces the first coins of Europe's single currency, the euro. It tastes "bitter, with a distinct aftertaste of anise and cinnamon," claims the food critic for Le Monde, following a practical joke.


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