The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 22.6% on 19 October 1987, its largest single-day percentage decline.
The date became known as Black Monday. Selling spread across major markets after concerns about overvaluation, rising interest rates, trade tensions, and computerized trading strategies undermined confidence. The Dow lost 508 points, a dramatic numerical decline as well as a record percentage fall.
The crash was not limited to the United States. Markets in Asia, Europe, and other regions also dropped sharply, demonstrating how closely linked international finance had become. Trading rules and market structures were later reviewed in response to the disorder.
The 1987 event differs from the 1929 Wall Street Crash. Although both involved severe stock-market losses, the 1987 fall occurred in a single extraordinary session and was followed by a relatively quick recovery in the broader economy.