1. NASA is established: The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is established on October 1, 1958, in response to the Soviet Union's launch of the first artificial satellite.
2. Cuban Revolution begins: Fidel Castro and Che Guevara lead a revolution against Fulgencio Batista's government in Cuba.
3. United States launches first satellite: On January 31, 1958, the U.S. launches Explorer 1, its first artificial satellite.
4. France grants independence to Guinea: On October 2, 1958, France grants independence to Guinea, the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to gain independence.
5. First nuclear submarine launched: On January 21, 1958, the U.S. launches the USS Nautilus, the first nuclear-powered submarine.
6. European Economic Community (EEC) established: The EEC, a precursor to the European Union, is established by the Treaty of Rome.
7. First transatlantic telephone cable: The first transatlantic telephone cable is laid, providing the first direct telephone link between Europe and North America.
8. Hula Hoop craze begins: The Hula Hoop, a plastic hoop twirled around the waist, becomes a worldwide fad.
9. Fashion changes and trends of 1958:
- Poodle skirts and saddle shoes are popular among teenagers.
- The "New Look" popularized by Christian Dior in the 1940s continues to influence fashion.
- The mini skirt is introduced by Mary Quant.
10. Elvis Presley is drafted into the U.S. Army: On March 24, 1958, Elvis Presley is drafted into the U.S. Army.
These are some of the significant events that occurred in 1958.