Some significant events that took place in 1962 include:

1. Cuban Missile Crisis: The US and USSR faced off in a tense standoff over Soviet missiles in Cuba.
2. James Meredith becomes the first African American student to enroll at the University of Mississippi, sparking riots.
3. Algerian War of Independence officially ends with a ceasefire between France and the National Liberation Front.
4. The first Wal-Mart store opens in Rogers, Arkansas.
5. The first James Bond film, "Dr. No," is released.
6. The first Walgreens store with a drive-through window opens in Chicago.
7. The Seattle World's Fair opens, showcasing technological innovations such as the first ATM.
8. The Telstar 1 satellite launches, facilitating the first live trans-Atlantic television broadcast.