What happened in 1971?

Intel launches the first commercial microprocessor

On 15 November 1971, Intel advertised the 4004, the first commercially available microprocessor: a whole computer processor on a single chip, smaller than a fingernail. It held about 2,300 transistors and was designed for a Japanese calculator company, Busicom. Microprocessors went on to power personal computers, phones and countless devices.

Countries sign a treaty to protect wetlands

On 2 February 1971, countries meeting in the city of Ramsar signed the Convention on Wetlands, one of the first global agreements to protect nature. Wetlands such as marshes, mangroves and lakes shelter wildlife and clean water. The date is now marked every year as World Wetlands Day.

Mariner 9 becomes the first spacecraft to orbit another planet

On 14 November 1971, NASA's Mariner 9 entered orbit around Mars, becoming the first spacecraft to orbit another planet. After waiting out a planet-wide dust storm, it mapped most of the Martian surface, revealing giant volcanoes, a huge canyon system and ancient riverbeds.

Intel announces the first commercial microprocessor

On 15 November 1971, Intel advertised the 4004, the first commercially available microprocessor, a complete computer processor on a single chip. It was designed for a Japanese calculator company. Microprocessors now power everything from phones and cars to washing machines.

The Intel 4004 is advertised

First commercial microprocessor