1957day.year

The Mackinac Bridge, the world's longest suspension bridge between anchorages at the time, opens to traffic connecting Michigan's upper and lower peninsulas.

The Mackinac Bridge opens as the world's longest suspension bridge between anchorages, linking Michigan's Upper and Lower peninsulas.
On November 1, 1957, the Mackinac Bridge opened to traffic, spanning the Straits of Mackinac between Michigan's Upper and Lower peninsulas. At nearly five miles in length, it was then the world's longest suspension bridge between anchorages, featuring towering steel pylons rising 552 feet above the water. The structure replaced the ferry system, dramatically reducing travel time and strengthening economic ties between the regions. Its construction employed innovative engineering techniques to withstand harsh weather and shifting ice flows. Today, the bridge remains an iconic symbol of mid-20th century American engineering and a vital transportation route.
1957 Mackinac Bridge
1987day.year

British Rail Class 43 (HST) hits the record speed of 238 km/h for rail vehicles with on-board fuel to generate electricity for traction motors.

In 1987, a British Rail Class 43 HST set a new speed record of 238 km/h for a diesel-powered train.
On November 1, 1987, a British Rail Class 43 high-speed train (HST) achieved an unprecedented speed of 238 km/h (148 mph). This milestone demonstrated the capabilities of diesel-electric traction and the potential for high-speed rail travel in the UK. The HST’s on-board diesel generators powered electric motors, delivering a smooth and efficient performance. Introduced in the mid-1970s, the Class 43 fleet revolutionized intercity travel with reduced journey times and improved passenger comfort. The record run validated engineering advancements and bolstered support for further infrastructure upgrades. Today, the legacy of the HST endures as it continues to influence modern train design and rail network planning worldwide.
1987 British Rail Class 43 (HST)