What Happened in 1989?
Welcome to our special overview of the most memorable events from 1989. Join us as we celebrate Printing Partners' 35th anniversary by revisiting the year we were founded, highlighting key moments in various fields.
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
December 1, 1989This beloved holiday comedy, starring Chevy Chase, premiered on December 1, 1989. The film quickly became a Christmas classic, known for its humorous take on family holiday chaos. The movie's popularity continues to endure, bringing laughter and nostalgia to many during the holiday season. Learn more on Wikipedia. This is one of the top movies of 1989 that people still love today.
Batman
June 23, 1989Tim Burton's "Batman," starring Michael Keaton as Batman and Jack Nicholson as the Joker, was released on June 23, 1989. This iconic superhero film had a significant cultural impact and remains a classic in the superhero genre. "Batman" not only broke box office records but also redefined the superhero movie genre. Read more on IMDb. This is what happened in 1989 in the world of movies.
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
May 24, 1989"Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade," starring Harrison Ford and Sean Connery, was released on May 24, 1989. The film was a box office success and remains a favorite in the adventure genre. This installment of the Indiana Jones series captivated audiences with its thrilling storyline and dynamic duo of Ford and Connery. Discover more about this classic on IMDb. It is one of the major movies of 1989.
Lethal Weapon 2
July 7, 1989"Lethal Weapon 2," starring Mel Gibson and Danny Glover, hit theaters on July 7, 1989. The sequel continued the action-packed and comedic partnership of Riggs and Murtaugh, becoming a favorite among action movie fans. The film's blend of humor and high-octane action scenes solidified its place in the hearts of many. Find out more on Wikipedia. This movie is a great example of what happened in 1989 in the action genre.
Honey, I Shrunk the Kids
June 23, 1989This family-friendly sci-fi comedy, directed by Joe Johnston, was released on June 23, 1989. The film, about a scientist who accidentally shrinks his children, became a beloved classic for its imaginative plot and special effects. "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids" was a significant hit, capturing the imagination of both children and adults. Learn more on Wikipedia. This is what happened in 1989 in family movies.
Other Top Movies of 1989 in the United States
1989- Dead Poets Society - Released June 2, 1989
- Back to the Future Part II - Released November 22, 1989
- The Little Mermaid - Released November 17, 1989
- When Harry Met Sally... - Released July 21, 1989
- Driving Miss Daisy - Released December 13, 1989
- Field of Dreams - Released April 21, 1989
- Glory - Released December 15, 1989
- Licence to Kill - Released July 14, 1989
- Born on the Fourth of July - Released December 20, 1989
- Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure - Released February 17, 1989
- The Abyss - Released August 9, 1989
- Steel Magnolias - Released November 15, 1989
- Do the Right Thing - Released June 30, 1989
- Parenthood - Released August 2, 1989
- Ghostbusters II - Released June 16, 1989
- Uncle Buck - Released August 16, 1989
- Tango & Cash - Released December 22, 1989
- Sea of Love - Released September 15, 1989
- Crimes and Misdemeanors - Released October 13, 1989
- The War of the Roses - Released December 8, 1989
- Look Who’s Talking - Released October 13, 1989
- Turner & Hooch - Released July 28, 1989
- Road House - Released May 19, 1989
- Major League - Released April 7, 1989
- Lean on Me - Released March 3, 1989
- My Left Foot - Released November 10, 1989
- The Fabulous Baker Boys - Released October 13, 1989
- Black Rain - Released September 22, 1989
- Cyborg - Released April 7, 1989
- Pet Sematary - Released April 21, 1989
- Say Anything… - Released April 14, 1989
- All Dogs Go to Heaven - Released November 17, 1989
- Shocker - Released October 27, 1989
- The Adventures of Baron Munchausen - Released March 10, 1989
- Weekend at Bernie’s - Released July 5, 1989
- The Wizard - Released December 15, 1989
- Harlem Nights - Released November 17, 1989
- Sex, Lies, and Videotape - Released August 4, 1989
- The Fly II - Released February 10, 1989
- Earth Girls Are Easy - Released May 12, 1989
- The Punisher - Released October 5, 1989
- The January Man - Released January 13, 1989
- Let It Ride - Released August 18, 1989
- Millennium - Released August 25, 1989
- Shirley Valentine - Released August 30, 1989
- Scenes from the Class Struggle in Beverly Hills - Released June 3, 1989
- Relentless - Released January 11, 1989
- Fletch Lives - Released March 17, 1989
- The Dream Team - Released April 7, 1989
- Enemies, A Love Story - Released December 13, 1989
Milli Vanilli's Lip-Syncing Scandal
1989In 1989, Milli Vanilli topped the charts with hits like "Girl You Know It's True." However, their fame came to a screeching halt when it was revealed that they were lip-syncing their songs. Despite the scandal, their music remains a nostalgic favorite. Learn more about the Milli Vanilli scandal. This is what happened in 1989 in the world of music scandals.
New Kids on the Block Rise to Fame
1989New Kids on the Block rose to fame in 1989 with their hit album "Hangin' Tough." The boy band quickly became a pop culture phenomenon, known for their catchy songs and dedicated fan base. Their success paved the way for future boy bands. Read more about New Kids on the Block. This is one of the significant events that happened in 1989 in pop music.
The Rolling Stones' Steel Wheels Tour
1989In 1989, The Rolling Stones embarked on their Steel Wheels Tour, which marked a significant comeback for the band. The tour was one of the highest-grossing of the year and demonstrated the enduring popularity of The Rolling Stones. Learn more about the Steel Wheels Tour. This tour is a major event that happened in 1989 in rock music.
Nirvana's Debut Album "Bleach"
1989Nirvana released their debut album "Bleach" in 1989, which laid the foundation for the grunge movement of the early 1990s. While not initially a major commercial success, "Bleach" has since become a cult classic. Learn more about "Bleach". This album marks what happened in 1989 in the evolution of grunge music.
Top 100 Songs of 1989 in the United States
19891. "Look Away" – Chicago
2. "My Prerogative" – Bobby Brown
3. "Every Rose Has Its Thorn" – Poison
4. "Straight Up" – Paula Abdul
5. "Miss You Much" – Janet Jackson
6. "Cold Hearted" – Paula Abdul
7. "Wind Beneath My Wings" – Bette Midler
8. "Girl You Know It's True" – Milli Vanilli
9. "Baby, I Love Your Way/Freebird Medley (Free Baby)" – Will to Power
10. "Giving You the Best That I Got" – Anita Baker
11. "Right Here Waiting" – Richard Marx
12. "Waiting For a Star to Fall" – Boy Meets Girl
13. "Lost In Your Eyes" – Debbie Gibson
14. "Don't Wanna Lose You" – Gloria Estefan
15. "Heaven" – Warrant
16. "Girl I'm Gonna Miss You" – Milli Vanilli
17. "The Look" – Roxette
18. "She Drives Me Crazy" – Fine Young Cannibals
19. "On Our Own" – Bobby Brown
20. "Two Hearts" – Phil Collins
21. "Blame It on the Rain" – Milli Vanilli
22. "Listen to Your Heart" – Roxette
23. "I'll Be There for You" – Bon Jovi
24. "If You Don't Know Me by Now" – Simply Red
25. "Like a Prayer" – Madonna
26. "I'll Be Loving You (Forever)" – New Kids on the Block
27. "How Can I Fall?" – Breathe
28. "Baby Don't Forget My Number" – Milli Vanilli
29. "Toy Soldiers" – Martika
30. "Forever Your Girl" – Paula Abdul
31. "The Living Years" – Mike + The Mechanics
32. "Eternal Flame" – The Bangles
33. "Wild Thing" – Tone Loc
34. "When I See You Smile" – Bad English
35. "If I Could Turn Back Time" – Cher
36. "Buffalo Stance" – Neneh Cherry
37. "When the Children Cry" – White Lion
38. "So Alive" – Love and Rockets
39. "Soldier of Love" – Donny Osmond
40. "Batdance" – Prince
41. "Rock On" – Michael Damian
42. "Real Love" – Jody Watley
43. "Love Shack" – The B-52's
44. "Angel Eyes" – The Jeff Healey Band
45. "Patience" – Guns N' Roses
46. "Born to Be My Baby" – Bon Jovi
47. "We Didn't Start the Fire" – Billy Joel
48. "I Feel for You" – Chaka Khan
49. "Love Song" – The Cure
50. "I Like It" – Dino
51. "Secret Rendezvous" – Karyn White
52. "Shower Me With Your Love" – Surface
53. "With Every Beat of My Heart" – Taylor Dayne
54. "Don't Rush Me" – Taylor Dayne
55. "Miss You Like Crazy" – Natalie Cole
56. "No More Rhyme" – Debbie Gibson
57. "Back to Life (However Do You Want Me)" – Soul II Soul
58. "Smooth Criminal" – Michael Jackson
59. "Keep on Movin'" – Soul II Soul
60. "Cover Girl" – New Kids on the Block
61. "You Got It (The Right Stuff)" – New Kids on the Block
62. "What I Am" – Edie Brickell & New Bohemians
63. "Put a Little Love in Your Heart" – Annie Lennox & Al Green
64. "This Time I Know It's for Real" – Donna Summer
65. "It's No Crime" – Babyface
66. "Heaven Help Me" – Deon Estus
67. "Close My Eyes Forever" – Lita Ford & Ozzy Osbourne
68. "So Alive" – Love and Rockets
69. "Funky Cold Medina" – Tone Loc
70. "On Our Own" – Bobby Brown
71. "Cuddly Toy (Feel for Me)" – Roachford
72. "Once Bitten, Twice Shy" – Great White
73. "Keep on Lovin' You" – Reba McEntire
74. "If You Don't Know Me by Now" – Simply Red
75. "Born to Be Wild" – Steppenwolf
76. "Doctor Feelgood" – Mötley Crüe
77. "Don't Shed a Tear" – Paul Carrack
78. "I Beg Your Pardon" – Kon Kan
79. "Love In an Elevator" – Aerosmith
80. "Every Little Step" – Bobby Brown
81. "The End of the Innocence" – Don Henley
82. "Into the Night" – Benny Mardones
83. "What You Don’t Know" – Exposé
84. "Fool for Your Loving" – Whitesnake
85. "All Around the World" – Lisa Stansfield
86. "Dreamin'" – Vanessa Williams
87. "Cherish" – Madonna
88. "I Wanna Have Some Fun" – Samantha Fox
89. "Wild, Wild West" – The Escape Club
90. "Rock On" – Michael Damian
91. "After All" – Cher & Peter Cetera
92. "Seventeen" – Winger
93. "Don't Be Cruel" – Cheap Trick
94. "The Doctor" – The Doobie Brothers
95. "When the Night Comes" – Joe Cocker
96. "Hangin' Tough" – New Kids on the Block
97. "Love Song" – Tesla
98. "Did I Shave My Legs for This?" – Deana Carter
99. "Something So Strong" – Crowded House
100. "It’s the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)" – R.E.M.
Launch of the World Wide Web
March 1989In March 1989, Tim Berners-Lee, a British scientist at CERN in Switzerland, invented the World Wide Web. This groundbreaking invention revolutionized how information is shared and accessed globally, laying the foundation for the digital age and transforming communication, commerce, and entertainment. Learn more about CERN. I wonder what they are up to nowadays.
Release of Nintendo Game Boy
July 31, 1989Nintendo released the Game Boy on July 31, 1989. This handheld gaming system became very popular, with games like Tetris entertaining millions. The Game Boy changed how people played video games, making it possible to play anywhere. This is one of the top inventions from 1989. Discover more on Nintendo’s official site.
First GPS Satellite Launched
February 14, 1989The U.S. Air Force launched the first of 24 Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites on February 14, 1989. This innovation paved the way for modern navigation systems, transforming how we travel and locate destinations, and revolutionizing various industries from transportation to mobile technology. Read more about GPS history.
Introduction of the Lexus and Infiniti Brands
January 11, 1989The luxury car brands Lexus and Infiniti were introduced at the North American International Auto Show on January 11, 1989. These brands set new standards for luxury and performance in the automotive industry, offering innovative design and advanced technology. Learn more about Lexus and Infiniti.
First Commercial Dial-Up Internet Connection
November 1989In November 1989, the first commercial dial-up Internet connection became available in the U.S., connecting more people to the digital world and marking the beginning of the Internet era. This milestone was crucial in making the Internet accessible to the general public. Explore the history of the Internet.
Sega Genesis Released in North America
August 14, 1989Sega released its iconic Sega Genesis gaming console in North America on August 14, 1989. The console introduced popular games such as "Sonic the Hedgehog," which became a major competitor to Nintendo's offerings and significantly influenced the gaming industry. Find out more on Sega's official site.
Motorola MicroTAC 9800X Cell Phone Released
April 25, 1989In 1989, Motorola introduced the MicroTAC 9800X, one of the first flip phones. This innovation marked a significant step in the evolution of mobile communication, making cell phones more compact and portable for everyday use. Learn more about Motorola's innovations.
George H. W. Bush Inaugurated as U.S. President
January 20, 1989On January 20, 1989, George H. W. Bush was inaugurated as the 41st President of the United States, with Dan Quayle as Vice President. His presidency oversaw significant events, including the end of the Cold War and the Gulf War. Learn more about George H. W. Bush. This is what happened in 1989 in American history.
Fall of the Berlin Wall
November 9, 1989On January 20, 1989, George H. W. Bush was inaugurated as the 41st President of the United States, with Dan Quayle as Vice President. His presidency oversaw significant events, including the end of the Cold War and the Gulf War. Learn more about George H. W. Bush. This is what happened in 1989 in American history.
Tiananmen Square Protests
April-June 1989The Tiananmen Square protests in Beijing, China, from April to June 1989, were a series of pro-democracy demonstrations. The Chinese government's violent crackdown on June 4, 1989, led to widespread condemnation and left an indelible mark on history. One of the most famous images from 1989 is the brave man who stood in front of tanks in Tiananmen Square. This act of defiance became a powerful symbol of resistance against oppression. And that is what happened in 1989 in China. Learn more about the Tiananmen Square protests.
End of the Cold War
December 3, 1989The Cold War, a period of geopolitical tension between the Soviet Union and the United States, began to thaw significantly in 1989. The Malta Summit on December 3, 1989, marked the end of the Cold War, signaling a new era of cooperation between the superpowers. Read more about the end of the Cold War. This is what happened in 1989 in world history.
Hillsborough Disaster
April 15, 1989The Hillsborough disaster occurred on April 15, 1989, during an FA Cup semi-final match between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest. Overcrowding in the stadium led to the deaths of 96 fans and highlighted the need for improved stadium safety measures and crowd control practices. Learn more about the Hillsborough disaster. This tragic event is a significant part of what happened in 1989 in the United Kingdom.
Panama Invasion by the U.S.
December 20, 1989On December 20, 1989, the United States launched Operation Just Cause, invading Panama to overthrow dictator Manuel Noriega. The invasion marked a significant military intervention in Latin America, aimed at restoring democracy and combating drug trafficking. Read more about the Panama invasion. This is a major event that happened in 1989 in Latin America.
Eastern European Revolutions
1989In 1989, several Eastern European countries, including Poland, Hungary, East Germany, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, and Romania, saw revolutionary movements that led to the fall of communist regimes. These events marked a significant shift towards democracy and market economies in the region. Learn more about the Eastern European revolutions. This is what happened in 1989 in Eastern Europe.
Romanian Revolution
December 1989In December 1989, the Romanian Revolution led to the overthrow of the communist dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu. The violent uprising ended with Ceaușescu's execution, marking a dramatic shift in Romania's political landscape. Read more about the Romanian Revolution. This is one of the significant events that happened in 1989 in Romania.
Super Bowl XXIII: San Francisco 49ers Win
January 22, 1989The San Francisco 49ers defeated the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl XXIII on January 22, 1989. This victory, led by quarterback Joe Montana, became one of the most memorable moments in NFL history. Montana's legendary "The Catch" play secured the win. Read more about Super Bowl XXIII. This is what happened in 1989 in American sports history.
World Series: Oakland Athletics Win
October 28, 1989The Oakland Athletics won the 1989 World Series against the San Francisco Giants. This victory was particularly notable due to the Loma Prieta earthquake that disrupted the series, making it a historic and emotional championship. Learn more about the 1989 World Series. This event is a significant part of what happened in 1989 in baseball.
Nick Faldo Wins the Masters
April 9, 1989Nick Faldo won the Masters Tournament on April 9, 1989, after a thrilling playoff against Scott Hoch. This victory marked Faldo's first Masters win and solidified his status as a top golfer, renowned for his precision and composure under pressure. Read more about Nick Faldo's victory. This is one of the notable sports achievements of 1989.
Detroit Pistons Win NBA Championship
April 9, 1989The Detroit Pistons, known as the "Bad Boys," won the NBA Championship on June 13, 1989, defeating the Los Angeles Lakers. This victory marked their first NBA title, celebrated for their tough defense and aggressive playing style. Learn more about the 1989 NBA Finals. This is what happened in 1989 in the world of basketball.
U.S. Open Tennis: Boris Becker and Steffi Graf Win
September 1989German tennis stars Boris Becker and Steffi Graf won the U.S. Open in September 1989, dominating the tournament and showcasing their exceptional talent on the court. Their victories highlighted a golden era for German tennis. Read more about the 1989 U.S. Open. This is a key event that happened in 1989 in tennis.
Joe Montana Named Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year
1989In 1989, Joe Montana was named Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year, recognizing his outstanding performance and leadership as the quarterback of the San Francisco 49ers. Montana's achievements cemented his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. Learn more about Joe Montana. This honor reflects what was happening in 1989 in the world of sports.
Exxon Valdez Oil Spill
March 24, 1989The Exxon Valdez oil tanker spilled millions of gallons of oil into Prince William Sound, Alaska, on March 24, 1989. This spill caused a major environmental disaster, affecting wildlife and the local economy. Efforts to clean up the spill took many years. Learn more about the Exxon Valdez oil spill. This event is a significant part of what happened in 1989 in environmental history.
Loma Prieta Earthquake
October 17, 1989The Loma Prieta earthquake struck the San Francisco Bay Area on October 17, 1989, causing significant damage and resulting in the deaths of 63 people. The earthquake also disrupted the World Series between the Oakland Athletics and the San Francisco Giants, making it one of the most memorable and tragic events in the history of American sports. Read more about the Loma Prieta earthquake. This is what happened in 1989 in California.
Eastern Airlines Bankruptcy
March 9, 1989Eastern Airlines filed for bankruptcy on March 9, 1989, marking the end of an era for one of the largest U.S. airlines. The bankruptcy highlighted the challenges facing the airline industry at the time, including labor disputes and financial mismanagement. Learn more about Eastern Airlines. This is what happened in 1989 in the airline industry.
Savings and Loan Crisis Peaks
1989The Savings and Loan crisis, a financial disaster that led to the failure of over 1,000 savings and loan institutions, peaked in 1989. This crisis had a significant impact on the U.S. economy and led to major regulatory reforms in the banking industry. Read more about the Savings and Loan crisis. This is what happened in 1989 in American economic history.
