by qdmhistory | Jun 28, 2021 | History
According to some historians, the shape of world politics changed forever on June 28, 1389. On that day, the Serbian and Ottoman armies clashed on the outskirts of what is now Kosovo. Though both sides suffered heavy losses, the Ottoman armies managed to squeak out a...
by qdmhistory | Jun 27, 2021 | History
In a dark theater at Bell Labs in New York City on June 27th, 1929, a woman sat in front of a lamp flickering across her face and dress. Within moments, her moving image was transmitted to a television screen across the room. The first color tv moment was broadcasted....
by qdmhistory | Jun 26, 2021 | History
The first 14,000 infantry U.S. troops landed in France at the port of Saint-Nazaire on June 26, 1917, during World War I. The motive to keep the site secret from the German submarines was thwarted by the sizable enthusiastic crowd that waited to welcome them....
by qdmhistory | Jun 25, 2021 | History
As early as 1944, with World War II still raging, American leaders knew the next big conflict would be between the United States and the Soviet Union. In the post-war chaos, this conflict settled into what would become known as the Cold War; decades of tension,...
by qdmhistory | Jun 24, 2021 | History
The most influential artist of our time, Pablo Picasso, was born on October 25th, 1881 in Malaga, Spain. His father was a drawing professor inspiring his son into pursuing art, and at the early age of 13, Picasso held his first art exhibition. Later, he dropped his...
by qdmhistory | Jun 23, 2021 | History
The push for reproductive rights has a long and difficult history. With the feminist movement came a push for bodily autonomy. Traditionally in the 1950s, women were not allowed to be prescribed birth control methods in the United States of America due to the...
by qdmhistory | Jun 22, 2021 | History
The signing of the GI Bill took place on June 22, 1944, by US president Franklin D Roosevelt. This bill covered costs for veterans and their families to attend training or schooling. After the end of the war, there was a looming fear of a great depression. To avoid...
by qdmhistory | Jun 21, 2021 | History
On June 21, 1778, New Hampshire voted to ratify the United States Constitution, the ninth state of the original thirteen colonies to do so and the last needed to complete the ratification process. Prior to that, the colonies operated under the Articles of...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 30, 2021 | History
The Third Reich ended not with a triumphant last stand, but with a gunshot in a bunker. On April 30, 1945, as Soviet forces stormed Berlin, Adolf Hitler—the dictator who plunged Europe into war—took his own life inside the Führerbunker. It was the final act of a man...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 29, 2021 | History
Today in history marks the day that a jury in Simi Valley, to the shock and disbelief of many, acquitted four Los Angeles Police Department officers charged with the brutal beating of Rodney King, an unarmed Black motorist. The incident was captured on video by a...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 28, 2021 | History
Benito Mussolini, the iron-fisted ruler of Italy and a prominent figure in European fascism, did not meet his end with a grand speech or a final salute. Instead, he was struck down by a sudden barrage of bullets on a quiet road in Giulino di Mezzegra. The narrative of...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 27, 2021 | History
As the former Yugoslavia fractured in the early 1990s, new nations emerged. On April 27, 1992, Serbia’s formal declaration as a republic, in alliance with Montenegro to form the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, was a pivotal moment in the shifting political...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 26, 2021 | History
The world watched in awe as South Africans of all races formed patient queues stretching for kilometers on April 26, 1994. This was a significant moment in South African history, marking the end of 46 years of apartheid rule. For three extraordinary days (extended to...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 25, 2021 | History
On this day in 1953, James Watson and Francis Crick published a brief but groundbreaking paper in *Nature* that revealed the double helix structure of DNA. This discovery answered fundamental questions about biology and heredity, transforming our understanding of the...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 24, 2021 | History
On April 24, 1915, the Ottoman Empire initiated a systematic campaign of deportation, mass killings, and forced marches that would culminate in the Armenian Genocide, one of the first modern genocides. That day, hundreds of Armenian intellectuals, community leaders,...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 23, 2021 | History
On April 23, 1985, Coca-Cola made a decision that would go down in business history as one of the most spectacular miscalculations of all time: the company discontinued its 99-year-old formula and replaced it with New Coke. The move triggered immediate outrage,...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 22, 2021 | History
After 150 years of rapid industrial growth, the first Earth Day on April 22, 1970, symbolized hope for environmental conservation. An impressive 20 million Americans participated in nationwide protests, motivated by the urgent need for environmental protection and...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 21, 2021 | History
On April 21, 1836, Texan forces under General Sam Houston launched a surprise attack against Mexican troops near the San Jacinto River. Beginning at 4:30 pm, the assault lasted only 18 minutes but proved devastating. General Houston’s 900 soldiers overwhelmed...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 20, 2021 | History
The future dictator of Nazi Germany entered the world on April 20, 1889, in Braunau am Inn, a small Austrian town near the German border. This day would prove foundational for a tragic path that shaped global history. Family conflicts and personal struggles marked...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 19, 2021 | History
On this day in 1775, tensions between Britain and the American colonies escalated into open conflict. The Battles of Lexington and Concord marked the beginning of the American Revolution, as colonial militias engaged British troops. The famous phrase “the shot...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 18, 2021 | History
At 5:12 AM on April 18, 1906, San Francisco was violently jolted awake by a magnitude 7.9 earthquake. The quake, centered along the San Andreas Fault, unleashed catastrophic destruction across Northern California and ignited fires that would rage for days. In the end,...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 17, 2021 | History
On April 17, 1984, an act of bravery and sacrifice unfolded in London’s St James’s Square, an event that would reshape UK-Libya relations. During a peaceful protest against Gaddafi, PC Yvonne Fletcher, 25, stood her ground. She was fatally shot when Libyan...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 16, 2021 | History
On April 16, 1943, Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann recorded the first ever documented LSD intoxication experience, which fundamentally transformed human understanding of consciousness. During his work at Sandoz Laboratories, Hofmann experienced his first LSD exposure...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 15, 2021 | History
In one of the most infamous maritime disasters in history, the RMS Titanic sank in the early hours on April 15, 1912, after colliding with an iceberg in the North Atlantic. The luxury liner, operated by the White Star Line, was on its highly anticipated maiden voyage...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 14, 2021 | History
On April 14, 1865, history was made at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C., when President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth, a man motivated by Confederate sympathies. As the Civil War was nearing its end, Lincoln’s assassination...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 13, 2021 | History
The city of Dublin witnessed a musical event that would echo through the ages—the inaugural performance of George Frideric Handel’s oratorio, “Messiah,” which happened on April 13, 1742. This masterpiece, now a cornerstone of the choral repertoire,...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 12, 2021 | History
On April 12, 1961, Yuri Gagarin and the Soviet Union etched their names in history. With unparalleled bravery, Gagarin ascended into the Vostok 1 and soared into the cosmos, becoming the first human to ever journey into space. This moment was a triumph of Soviet...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 11, 2021 | History
NASA conducted the Apollo 13 launch from Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 2:13 p.m. EST on April 11, 1970. NASA planned Apollo 13 as the mission to insert astronauts on the Moon for the third time, yet what became history’s most thrilling rescue effort during...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 10, 2021 | History
Embarking on its maiden voyage on April 10, 1912, the RMS Titanic set sail from Southampton, England, a majestic symbol of human ingenuity and luxury. With its grand reputation as the largest and most elegant ocean liner of the time, the Titanic, carrying over 2,200...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 9, 2021 | History
On April 9, 1865, at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, the course of American history changed dramatically as General Robert E. Lee formally yielded his Confederate forces to General Ulysses S. Grant. This signaled surrender and a close to the Civil War. Lee’s...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 8, 2021 | History
The U.S. Constitution received its 17th Amendment ratification on April 8, 1913, establishing crucial changes for American democratic systems. The method of selecting senators through state governments fell victim to political machines, powerful and often corrupt...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 7, 2021 | History
History was made when Bell Telephone Laboratories successfully conducted the first long-distance television transmission on April 7, 1927. This groundbreaking event, which took place between Washington, D.C., and New York City, marked a significant breakthrough in the...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 6, 2021 | History
On April 6, 1896, Athens, Greece, made history by hosting the first modern Olympic Games, reviving the tradition after more than 1,500 years of inactivity. To promote national unity and peaceful coexistence among nations, the visionary Pierre de Coubertin revived the...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 5, 2021 | History
Born into slavery on April 5, 1856, in Franklin County, Virginia, Booker Taliaferro Washington became a prominent educator, author, and leader in American history. Booker was born to his mother, Jane, an enslaved cook, and an unidentified Caucasian man. He faced the...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 4, 2021 | History
On April 4, 1949, 12 nations signed the North Atlantic Treaty, formally establishing the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). This historic agreement created a military alliance to ensure security and stability despite growing Soviet influence during the Cold...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 3, 2021 | History
On April 3, 1948, President Harry S. Truman signed the European Recovery Program (ERP), commonly known as the Marshall Plan. This significant initiative was designed to rebuild war-torn Europe, prevent the spread of communism, and restore economic stability. Over the...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 2, 2021 | History
The United States Congress passed the Coinage Act on April 2, 1792. This act established the nation’s first official mint in Philadelphia, the capital of the United States at the time. It aimed to standardize the American monetary system, replacing the diverse...
by Matilda Cruz | Apr 1, 2021 | History
Google made a monumental leap in the history of email when it launched Gmail on April 1, 2004. This launch was not just a milestone but a revolution that reshaped the email industry. Gmail was a game-changer with its robust search and a groundbreaking 1GB of free...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 31, 2021 | History
To mark its completion, the Eiffel Tower had a special dedication ceremony on March 31, 1889, ahead of its official unveiling at the World’s Fair in May. Gustave Eiffel hosted the event, which was attended by French Prime Minister Pierre Tirard, esteemed guests,...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 30, 2021 | History
In 1959, Tibet faced a crisis as tensions between the Chinese government and the Tibetan resistance forces, who were fighting for Tibetan autonomy, escalated. On March 10, thousands of Tibetans gathered in Lhasa to protest Chinese rule, fearing that the Dalai Lama was...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 29, 2021 | History
On March 29–30, 1901, Australians embarked on a momentous journey as they participated in the first federal election in the nation’s history. This election, a pivotal moment following the Federation of Australia on January 1, 1901, which united six former British...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 28, 2021 | History
Two hundred years ago, the idea of flying a metal box over land, let alone water, would have been considered fiction or even madness. But on March 28, 1910, Henri Fabre, a French engineer and aviator, defied these notions and made history. With his courage and vision,...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 27, 2021 | History
On March 27, 1952, “Singin’ in the Rain” debuted in New York City, instantly cementing itself as one of the greatest musicals ever. The film would define the Golden Age of Hollywood with its dazzling choreography, unforgettable songs, and charming...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 26, 2021 | History
On March 26, 1979, history was forever altered when Israel and Egypt signed a peace treaty in Washington, D.C., formally ending decades of hostility between the two nations. This monumental agreement, a turning point in Middle Eastern history, resulted from intense...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 25, 2021 | History
The Abolition of the Slave Trade Act, a landmark legislation that passed through the British Parliament on March 25, 1807, marked a decisive moment in the global battles against the transatlantic slave trade. With this legislation, British ships lost their right to...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 24, 2021 | History
On March 24, 1989, the Exxon Valdez oil tanker struck a reef in Prince William Sound, Alaska, unleashing a staggering 11 million gallons of crude oil into the ocean. This colossal event is one of the most severe environmental catastrophes in history, inflicting...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 23, 2021 | History
The naval and aerial bombardment for the Battle of Okinawa started on March 23, 1945, in preparation for the U.S. ground invasion on April 1, 1945. This became World War II’s largest and deadliest amphibious battle throughout the Pacific theater. The Allied and...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 22, 2021 | History
The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) passed the U.S. Senate on March 22, 1972, successfully completing its journey through Congress and moving on to the states for ratification. This historic amendment, which had been in development for nearly 50 years, was created to...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 21, 2021 | History
On March 21, 1943, German resistance fighter Rudolf Christoph Freiherr von Gersdorff came closer than most to assassinating Adolf Hitler. Armed with explosives hidden in his coat, he intended to sacrifice himself to eliminate the Führer. However, with his uncanny...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 20, 2021 | History
Modern history recorded one of the most destructive terrorist actions when Aum Shinrikyo’s members launched their assault in Tokyo, Japan, on March 20, 1995. During the rush hour commute, Aum Shinrikyo cult members discharged lethal nerve gas sarin from five...
by Sarah Zappitelli | Mar 19, 2021 | Uncategorized
On March 19, 1920, the U.S. Senate rejected the Treaty of Versailles for a second time, preventing the United States from joining the League of Nations. This decision shaped the course of international diplomacy and kept America out of post-war European affairs....
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 18, 2021 | History
Stephen “Grover” Cleveland, the 22nd and 24th president of the United States, was born on March 18, 1837, in Caldwell, New Jersey. He is the first of two U.S. presidents to serve two non-consecutive terms, winning elections in 1884 and 1892. His leadership was...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 17, 2021 | History
Amid the brutal Sino-Japanese War (1937–1945), furious battles raged between Chinese and Japanese forces. The Imperial Japanese Army launched an attack to take Nanchang, a vital Chinese military base and supply hub. This led to the start of the Battle of Nanchang on...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 16, 2021 | History
On March 16, 1872, the pioneering spirit of the first English FA Cup Final took place in London, heralding the beginning of football history. This occasion established the foundation for contemporary football and signified the start of the world’s oldest...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 15, 2021 | History
The screenplay of The Godfather, which premiered on March 15, 1972, in NYC, was created by Francis Ford Coppola and Mario Puzo following the success of Puzo’s 1969 best-selling novel. With its powerful narrative, the Godfather film serves as a thought-provoking...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 14, 2021 | History
Albert Einstein was born in Ulm, Germany, on March 14, 1879, and would become one of the most influential physicists in history. His theory of relativity, introduced in the early 20th century, reshaped how scientists understand the universe. His equation, E=mc²,...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 13, 2021 | History
Chester Greenwood invented his first prototype of earmuffs in 1873 at the age of 15. The earmuff became his most successful product, making him a well-known figure and quite wealthy. Earmuffs were officially patented on March 13, 1877. Chester Greenwood was born in...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 12, 2021 | History
History was made at Bristol Cathedral on March 12, 1994. For the first time in its 460-year history, the Church of England ordained women as priests. Thirty-two women, with unwavering courage, stepped forward, defying centuries of tradition, to claim their place at...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 11, 2021 | History
On a seemingly ordinary morning at Camp Funston, Kansas, on March 11, 1918, a sudden and deadly turn of events occurred. Soldiers, who had been going about their daily routines, were suddenly struck with fever, chills, and sore throats, and were rushed to the...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 10, 2021 | History
During Operation Meetinghouse on March 9-10, 1945, U.S. forces devastated Tokyo, resulting in the deaths of 100,000 civilians and the destruction of 16 square miles of the city. This significant loss considerably weakened Japan’s war efforts. By early 1945,...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 9, 2021 | History
The world recognizes Inter Milan as one of the most renowned historical football teams. On March 9, 1908, the team separated from the Milan Cricket and Football Club (now AC Milan) to form a new organization that suited international players, thus creating the...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 8, 2021 | History
On March 8, 1996, Fargo premiered in U.S. theaters, captivating audiences across the country. Directed and written by the Coen brothers, this dark comedy received exceptional critical acclaim. The film’s unique combination of crime, suspense, and deadpan humor...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 7, 2021 | History
On March 7, 1936, Adolf Hitler made a bold and dangerous move: He ordered 20,000 German troops to march into the Rhineland, a region that had been demilitarized under the Treaty of Versailles. This act violated the Versailles Treaty (1919) and the Locarno Treaties...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 6, 2021 | History
On March 6, 1899, the German pharmaceutical company Bayer secured a patent for acetylsalicylic acid, commonly known as Aspirin. This milestone began one of history’s most widely used drugs, transforming pain relief and modern medicine. Willow bark, high in...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 5, 2021 | History
Today in history marks the day when a tragic event unfolded on the streets of Boston, igniting the flames of revolution. On the evening of March 5, 1770, what began as a confrontation between an angry mob and a small group of Redcoats ended in a heartbreaking...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 4, 2021 | History
Following his successful presidential term, John Quincy Adams gained political power again when he won the election for the House of Representatives on March 4, 1830, and resumed public office. This was a significant event in American history, marking the first time a...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 3, 2021 | History
Alexander Graham Bell, a pioneer in communication technology, was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, on March 3, 1847. His groundbreaking inventions, including the telephone, revolutionized global communication, profoundly impacting the way we connect and communicate today....
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 2, 2021 | History
On March 2, 1807, the U.S. Congress took a significant step by passing the Act Prohibiting the Importation of Slaves. Although slavery itself remained legal, this law made it illegal to import enslaved people into the United States. It marked a critical moment in the...
by Matilda Cruz | Mar 1, 2021 | History
After eighteen successful years in baseball, Mickey Mantle announced his retirement from professional sports on March 1, 1969. This marked the end of a significant era for Yankees baseball and the sport as a whole, solidifying his status as a historical figure in...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 28, 2021 | History
On February 28, 1991, coalition forces brought the Gulf War. This momentous event marked a major military victory and a significant turning point in global politics and warfare strategy. The swift operation, characterized by advanced technology and international...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 27, 2021 | History
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was born on February 27, 1807, in Portland, Massachusetts (now Maine). His family had no way of knowing that he would grow to become one of the most celebrated poets of the 19th century. Longfellow is best known for his verses, which shaped...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 26, 2021 | History
The Bank of England issued the first-ever £1 note on February 26, 1797. This event, spurred by the extraordinary circumstances of the era, marked a significant moment for British currency and financial practices. The late 18th century, amidst the turmoil of the French...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 25, 2021 | History
Millicent Fenwick, a woman ahead of her time, was born on February 25, 1910. Hailing from a wealthy tobacco family in New Jersey, she defied societal expectations and built a career focused on public service and advocacy. Known for her sharp wit, unwavering integrity,...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 24, 2021 | History
In the early hours of February 24, 1942, a wave of panic swept over Los Angeles. Searchlights pierced the night sky, anti-aircraft guns roared, and thousands of residents braced for an enemy attack. But when the smoke cleared, there was no wreckage, no enemy...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 23, 2021 | History
On February 23, 1904, the United States, demonstrating its engineering prowess, purchased the Panama Canal Zone for $10 million to construct the Panama Canal. After Panama’s independence in 1903, the United States secured control over a 10-mile-wide strip...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 22, 2021 | History
On February 22, 1967, Operation Junction City began, marking one of the most significant U.S. military operations during the Vietnam War. This ambitious offensive aimed to disrupt Viet Cong operations and destroy their bases in South Vietnam’s Tay Ninh Province....
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 21, 2021 | History
February 21, 1931, marked a groundbreaking moment in sports history—the first exhibition night baseball game was played in Houston, Texas. With the field illuminated by floodlights, fans witnessed a revolutionary way to experience one of America’s favorite pastimes....
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 20, 2021 | History
On February 20, 1872, the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) opened to the public in New York City, marking the beginning of one of the most influential art institutions in the world. Founded to offer Americans art and educational experiences, the museum began its...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 19, 2021 | History
On February 19, 1878, Thomas Edison secured U.S. Patent No. 200521 for his groundbreaking invention of the Cylinder Phonograph. This development was critical in the history of audio technology as it created the world’s first sound recording and playback device....
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 18, 2021 | History
Mark Twain made history in American literature with the publication of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn in the United States on February 18, 1885. The book follows the journey of Huck Finn and Jim, a runaway enslaved man, as they sail down the Mississippi River....
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 17, 2021 | History
On February 17, 1938, pioneer Scottish inventor John Logie Baird demonstrated color television to the public during a London event. The event showcased television history’s subsequent development while demonstrating the potential for future broadcast...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 16, 2021 | History
February 16, 1959, marks a significant turning point in Cuban history. It was the date when Fulgencio Batista’s authoritarian regime was successfully overthrown. This regime was characterized by widespread corruption and repression, and its downfall set Cuba on...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 15, 2021 | History
The evening of February 15, 1933, was a dreary day for Americans. President-elect Franklin Delano Roosevelt narrowly escaped an assassination attempt in Miami, Florida, on this day in history. The event unfolded at Bayfront Park, where Roosevelt had just delivered a...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 14, 2021 | History
This historic day, February 14, 1849, marks a pivotal moment in both presidential and photographic history. It was the day when the first sitting President, James K. Polk, was ever photographed. This significant event was captured by Mathew Brady, a pioneering figure...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 13, 2021 | History
Today in history, on February 13, 1945, Allied forces began the first of four bombing raids on Dresden, Germany. Bombs were dropped through the 14th and 15th and again on March 2nd as part of Operation Thunderclap. While other cities in eastern Germany were included...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 12, 2021 | History
Today in history, a significant event unfolded on February 12, 1999, when President Bill Clinton’s impeachment trial concluded with his acquittal. After a five-week trial, the Senate fell short of the two-thirds majority vote required to convict on charges of...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 11, 2021 | History
On February 11, 1847, renowned inventor and entrepreneur Thomas Alva Edison was born in Milan, Ohio. He grew up in Port Huron, Michigan, alongside his six older siblings and was primarily home-schooled by his mother. At the age of 13, Edison began selling newspapers...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 10, 2021 | History
February 10, 1967, this day in history, marks a significant milestone in the United States’ journey. It was the day when the 25th Amendment to the Constitution was ratified, a pivotal step in clarifying presidential succession and addressing issues of...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 9, 2021 | History
The attack on Pearl Harbor caught American forces off guard and unprepared for war, but it also showed their resilience. Despite the country’s initial desire to remain neutral and the military’s lack of practical combat experience, the battles that...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 8, 2021 | History
In its early days, the NFL was far from the well-oiled machine it is today. The league was often engulfed in chaos, especially during player recruitment. Teams engaged in a free-for-all, attempting to outbid each other, leading to frequent bidding wars. This chaotic...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 7, 2021 | History
Today in history marks the birth of Charles John Huffam Dickens. He was born on February 7, 1812, in Portsmouth, England, and would become one of the most celebrated novelists of the Victorian era. His early life was marked by hardship. At 12, Dickens was forced to...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 6, 2021 | History
On February 6, 1921, Charlie Chaplin introduced the world to The Kid, his first full-length silent film. This film was more than just a comedy; it somehow combined humor and heartbreak, greatly influencing the growth of the movie industry and the world of cinema. It...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 5, 2021 | History
The United States of America, the most populated country in the Western Hemisphere and the third most populated country in the world achieved this status through explosive population growth during the twentieth century. A significant moment in this growth was on...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 4, 2021 | History
On February 4, 1985, the international community took a historic step toward eradicating one of humanity’s gravest abuses. The United Nations Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (UNCAT) was signed, marking a...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 3, 2021 | History
On February 3, 1931, at 10:47 a.m., New Zealand experienced its deadliest natural disaster. A powerful earthquake, measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale, devastated the Hawke’s Bay region on the North Island. The quake leveled cities, claimed numerous lives, and...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 2, 2021 | History
The Nutcracker, choreographed by George Balanchine, premiered at the New York City Ballet (NYCB) on February 2, 1954. This debut significantly changed the course of American ballet. It showcased Balanchine’s artistic genius and established the ballet as a...
by Matilda Cruz | Feb 1, 2021 | History
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) was established on February 1, 1884, marking a significant shift in our understanding of English. Its creation represented a monumental effort, combining scholarship, ambition, and perseverance. The Birth of a Dictionary In 1857,...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 31, 2021 | History
Eddie Slovik, a man who never wanted to go to war, found himself drafted into the army against his will. His criminal record, which initially led to him being classified as 4-F and excused from the draft, was not enough to spare him. The army, in desperate need of...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 30, 2021 | History
Franklin Delano Roosevelt was born in a prominent family on January 30, 1882, in Hyde Park, New York. He graduated from Harvard University and studied law at Columbia before starting his political career in the New York State Senate. He served as Assistant Secretary...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 29, 2021 | History
William McKinley was born in Niles, Ohio, on January 29, 1843. He grew up in a large family of 9 children to two immigrant parents. His family lived a modest lifestyle, and McKinley worked various jobs during his youth to help his family out. McKinley began his...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 28, 2021 | History
On January 28, 1915, the United States Congress enacted the Coast Guard Act, a significant piece of legislation to enhance maritime safety and law enforcement. This act arose from an increasing demand for a coordinated response to maritime emergencies and the...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 27, 2021 | History
On January 27, 1967, a tragic fire broke out in the Apollo 1 spacecraft during a pre-launch test on the launch pad at Cape Kennedy Air Force Station in Florida. The incident claimed the lives of three American astronauts: Virgil “Gus” Grissom, Edward H....
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 26, 2021 | History
On January 26, 1788, the British First Fleet, under the command of Captain Arthur Phillip, established a penal colony at Sydney Cove, marking the beginning of European settlement in Australia. On January 26, 1788, a pivotal historical moment unfolded as the British...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 25, 2021 | History
São Paulo, Brazil, a city that was founded almost 500 years ago, on January 25, 1554, has a story of resilience and growth. Today, it is the largest city in the southern hemisphere, but its beginnings were humble. It started as a small native settlement with a...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 24, 2021 | History
On January 24, 1984, one of the most unusual and highly discussed commercials debuted during the Super Bowl: Apple’s “1984” ad. In reality, if it weren’t for a bold act of corporate defiance, this ad might have been entirely buried and...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 23, 2021 | History
On January 23, 1978, Sweden made environmental history by becoming the first country to ban aerosol sprays. This trailblazing decision was prompted by growing evidence that chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in aerosol products actively damaged the ozone layer. Sweden’s...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 22, 2021 | History
On January 22, 1901, the United Kingdom mourned the conclusion of a transformative reign with the death of Queen Victoria. She was the second-longest reigning monarch in British history, and her passing at Osborne House on the Isle of Wight marked the end of the...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 21, 2021 | History
On January 21, 1793, King Louis XVI of France was executed by guillotine in a public square in Paris. This momentous event occurred during the height of the French Revolution, a time of intense social and political upheaval in France. The revolutionary government,...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 20, 2021 | History
On January 20, 1936, King George V of England passed away, concluding a 25-year reign that had seen the British Empire navigate World War I and significant societal change. His reign, marked by his steadfast dedication and efforts to strengthen the monarchy, was an...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 19, 2021 | History
On January 19, 1809, a renowned literary figure was born in Boston, Massachusetts: Edgar Allan Poe. His life was marked by tragedy, including the early deaths of both parents, but also by brilliance, evident in his significant literary contributions. Poe’s...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 18, 2021 | History
On January 18, 1980, Pink Floyd’s album The Wall reached #1 on the Billboard charts, solidifying its status as a rock classic. This concept album explores themes of isolation and rebellion, captivating audiences worldwide with hits like “Another Brick in...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 17, 2021 | History
On January 17, 1942, the world welcomed a legend. Born Cassius Clay, Muhammad Ali redefined boxing and inspired millions through his prowess and fearless activism. Celebrate the life and legacy of “The Greatest,” who taught us to fight not just in sports...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 16, 2021 | History
On January 16, 1936, Hollywood’s landscape would change forever with the incorporation of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG). This pivotal moment formalized the efforts of actors to protect their rights and improve working conditions in an industry booming with opportunity...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 15, 2021 | History
On January 15, 1870, a political cartoonist transformed an unassuming farm animal into an enduring symbol of the Democratic Party. Thomas Nast first used the donkey to represent the Democrats in Harper’s Weekly. The cartoon, titled “A Live Jackass Kicking a Dead...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 14, 2021 | History
On January 14, 1892, the world welcomed Hal Roach, a man who would shape the golden age of comedy. As a film producer and director, Roach brought joy to millions through iconic works like Laurel and Hardy and Our Gang. Roach’s genius lay in his ability to blend...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 13, 2021 | History
January 13, 1888, marks the momentous day that a great group of scholars, explorers, and scientists got together in Washington, D.C., and officially established the National Geographic Society. Their mission: “the increase and diffusion of geographic...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 12, 2021 | History
On January 12, 2010, Haiti experienced one of the deadliest natural disasters in its history. A magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck near Port-au-Prince, leaving 160,000 people dead and millions homeless. This tragedy devastated a nation and sparked global humanitarian...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 10, 2021 | History
January 10, 1984, marks the day that the United States and the Vatican reestablished diplomatic relations, ending a 116-year hiatus. This milestone marked a significant shift in the relationship between the world’s most powerful democracy and the smallest independent...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 10, 2021 | History
On January 11, 1964, U.S. Surgeon General Luther Terry released a groundbreaking report titled “Smoking and Health: Report of the Advisory Committee to the Surgeon General of the Public Health Service.” This monumental document, the result of an extensive...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 9, 2021 | History
Today in history, on January 9, 2007, Apple announced the first iPhone at the MacWorld Conference in San Francisco. CEO Steve Jobs presented the company’s first smartphone as a “revolutionary and magical product.” The iPhone had secretly been in...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 8, 2021 | History
Today in history, on January 8, 1935, famous singer Elvis Presley was born in Tupelo, Mississippi. The boy who would one day be known as the “King of Rock and Roll” was born to Gladys and Vernon Presley, with a twin brother who was stillborn 35 minutes...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 7, 2021 | History
On January 7, 1782, the Bank of North America officially opened in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, becoming the first commercial bank in the United States. The Revolutionary War had left the American colonies in a state of financial turmoil. The Continental Congress...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 6, 2021 | History
On January 6, 1412, a baby girl was born in the small village of Domrémy in northeastern France. This girl, Joan of Arc, would one day change history. A peasant with an unshakeable belief in her divine mission, she became one of France’s most enduring symbols of...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 5, 2021 | History
On January 5, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon announced the development of NASA’s Space Shuttle program, marking a significant shift in U.S. space exploration. This initiative aimed to create a reusable spacecraft system, making access to space more attainable...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 4, 2021 | History
On January 4, 1809, in the charming French village of Coupvray, a child who would go on to change the world for millions of visually impaired individuals was born. Through his resilience and creativity, Louis Braille developed a tactile reading and writing system now...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 3, 2021 | History
On January 3, 1959, President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially admitted Alaska as the 49th state of the United States. Alaska had previously been a territory, and its citizens had been seeking statehood for many years. The strategic importance of the land became...
by Matilda Cruz | Jan 1, 2021 | History
On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation officially went into effect, declaring freedom for enslaved individuals in Confederate states. While it did not end slavery entirely, this landmark act transformed the purpose of the Civil...
