Year in a Minute: 1992

SBS celebrating 50 Years. This is a Year in a Minute 1992.

Los Angeles burns after rioters set fires in reaction to the acquittal of four Los Angeles Police officers on all but one charge for the videotaped beating of motorist Rodney King. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon) Credit: AP

After LA police are acquitted for beating Rodney King,

6 days of riots follow, killing 53.

The High Court of Australia decides the Mabo case, recognising Native Title.

Tabloids tag Paul Keating the ‘Lizard of Oz’ for touching the Queen’s back.

Author Tim Winton wins gongs for Cloudstreet,

While in a motel near Wollongong painter Brett Whiteley dies from a heroin overdose.

Bill Clinton is elected US President.

Spin bowler Shane Warne debuts for Australia.

And a Canadian sends the first text message.

Texting starts with just two words, “Merry Christmas.”