- India Becomes a Nuclear Power: On May 11 and 13, India conducted a series of nuclear tests in the Pokhran region of Rajasthan, declaring itself a nuclear power. The tests generated international condemnation, sanctions, and increased regional tensions.
- Eichmann's Son Convicted: On May 11, the son of Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann, who organized the deportation of Jews during the Holocaust, was convicted in Italy for collaborating with the Nazis. The conviction came more than 50 years after his father's execution in Israel.
- First International Space Station Module Launched: On May 20, the first module of the International Space Station (ISS), the Zarya Control Module, was launched into orbit by a Russian Proton rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. This marked the beginning of the assembly of the ISS.
- Lewinsky Scandal Continues: The ongoing scandal involving President Bill Clinton's affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky continued to make headlines. In May, independent counsel Kenneth Starr's report detailing the relationship and related allegations was submitted to Congress.
- Indonesia's Suharto Resigns: On May 21, Indonesian President Suharto resigned from power after 32 years of authoritarian rule. Suharto's resignation came amid widespread pro-democracy protests and riots in the country. The downfall of Suharto led to a period of transition and political reforms.
- Death of Frank Sinatra: Legendary American singer and actor Frank Sinatra died on May 14 at the age of 82. Known as "Ol' Blue Eyes" and "The Voice," Sinatra had a successful career spanning decades, with classic hits like "New York, New York" and "My Way."