What happened today in history?

What happened
today in history?
Aug 13

2020 - Israel-UAE Historic Normalization Agreement of 2020

In August 2020, Israel and the UAE made history by normalizing relations, marking a significant shift in Middle Eastern diplomacy. This deal included Israel's suspension of plans to annex parts of the West Bank, aiming for greater regional cooperation.

2019 - CBS and Viacom Merger in 2019

In August 2019, CBS and Viacom merged to create a powerhouse in the entertainment industry with a combined revenue of $28 billion, aiming to enhance their competitiveness against streaming giants and expand their content offerings.

2017 - Tragic Attack in Ouagadougou: A Day of Terror

On January 15, 2017, gunmen attacked the Aziz Istanbul Café in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, killing at least 18 people. The assault, attributed to Islamic extremists, heightened concerns over security in the region and drew international condemnation.

2016 - Historic Home Run Debut for Yankees Rookies

On August 13, 2016, Yankees rookies Tyler Austin and Aaron Judge made history by hitting back-to-back home runs in their first MLB plate appearances, leading to an 8-4 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium.

2016 - Great Britain Dominates Men's Eight at Rio 2016 Olympics

At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Great Britain's men's crew clinched gold in the men's eight, displaying exceptional skill and teamwork, while the US women's crew secured a convincing win in the women's eight event, highlighting the competitive nature of Olympic rowing.

2015 - The Tragic Baghdad Truck Bombing of 2015

On July 3, 2016, a truck bomb orchestrated by ISIL in Baghdad resulted in 76 deaths and over 212 injuries, marking one of the deadliest attacks in recent Iraqi history, amidst ongoing efforts to combat terrorism.

2014 - The 2014 Israeli-Palestinian Ceasefire Extension

In August 2014, a ceasefire was agreed upon to halt the conflict between Israel and Palestinian factions. Extended for another 120 hours, it aimed to foster negotiations for a more lasting resolution while providing critical humanitarian relief.

2008 - 2008 Baltic States Recession

In 2008, the Baltic states faced a severe recession marked by a GDP decline in the first, second, and third quarters. External economic pressures and the global financial crisis severely impacted their rapid growth, requiring governmental responses to manage the fallout.

2004 - Tragic Massacre of Tutsi Refugees in Gatumba

In a tragic event on August 13, 2004, 156 Congolese Tutsi refugees were massacred in the Gatumba refugee camp in Burundi by armed assailants, highlighting the ongoing ethnic tensions in the region and the precarious situation of refugees. The massacre led to international outrage but efforts for justice remained insufficient.

2004 - The Grand Opening of the 2004 Athens Olympic Games

The 2004 Athens Olympic Games, held from August 13 to 29, marked the return of the Olympics to their birthplace. Spectacular opening and closing ceremonies celebrated Greek heritage and showcased the spirit of sportsmanship with participation from thousands of athletes worldwide.

1997 - The Debut of South Park: A Cultural Phenomenon

On August 13, 1997, 'South Park' aired its first episode on Comedy Central, created by Trey Parker and Matt Stone. This animated sitcom quickly became a cultural phenomenon with its unique humor and bold commentary on societal issues, evolving into a lasting series.

The Debut of South Park: A Cultural Phenomenon

1996 - The Launch of Internet Explorer 3.0 in 1996

In 1996, Microsoft launched Internet Explorer 3.0, which transformed web browsing with features like JavaScript and CSS support. This upgrade played a critical role in the browser wars, challenging Netscape's dominance and shaping the internet landscape for years to come.

1993 - Tragedy at the Nakhon Ratchasima Hotel Collapse

The Nakhon Ratchasima hotel collapse on May 25, 1993, resulted in 114 casualties, revealing severe flaws in construction practices. This disaster prompted significant changes in building regulations across Thailand, aiming to enhance safety standards for future constructions.

1993 - 1993 US Court of Appeals E-Mail Ruling

In 1993, the US Court of Appeals ruled that Congress must save all e-mails, recognizing the importance of digital communication as vital records. This ruling set significant precedents for e-mail retention policies in government and business, highlighting accountability and transparency in electronic communications.

1992 - Elaine Thompson's Historic Gold Win at Rio 2016

In the 2016 Rio Olympics, Jamaican sprinter Elaine Thompson won the women's 100m gold medal with a time of 10.71 seconds, achieving a historic victory. Tori Bowie came second, while three-time champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce secured third place.

Elaine Thompson's Historic Gold Win at Rio 2016

1988 - Opening of the Palace of Auburn Hills

The Palace of Auburn Hills opened on August 13, 1988, becoming a major venue for sports and entertainment in Detroit. Home to the Detroit Pistons, it has hosted numerous events and concerts while known for its fan-friendly design and acoustics.

1985 - Michael Phelps: A Historic Day at the 2008 Olympics

On August 13, 2008, Michael Phelps achieved an extraordinary feat at the Beijing Olympics, winning three gold medals in one day, each in world record time. His events included the 200m IM, 200m butterfly, and the 4x200m freestyle relay, solidifying his legacy as a swimming legend.

Michael Phelps: A Historic Day at the 2008 Olympics

1978 - The 1978 Beirut Bombing: A Catastrophic Day in History

On June 27, 1978, a deadly bombing in Beirut claimed 175 lives, a grim event during the Lebanese Civil War that underscored the tragic impacts of the ongoing conflict. This attack serves as a potent reminder of the horrors faced by civilians in war-torn regions.

1977 - First Test Glide of the Space Shuttle (1977)

The first test glide of the Space Shuttle Enterprise in 1977 marked a significant milestone in space exploration. This event demonstrated the shuttle's aerodynamic capabilities and laid the groundwork for future space missions.

1977 - Travis Hafner Ties Grand Slam Record in 2006

In 2006, Travis Hafner tied Don Mattingly's MLB record for the most grand slams in a season, hitting his sixth off Kansas City's Luke Hudson, marking a significant achievement in his illustrious baseball career.

1976 - Crash My Party: Luke Bryan's Breakthrough Album

In 2013, Luke Bryan released his fourth studio album, 'Crash My Party,' which became a landmark in country music, winning the Billboard Album of the Year in 2014 and featuring hits like 'That's My Kind of Night.' It solidified his role as a leading artist in the genre.

Crash My Party: Luke Bryan's Breakthrough Album

1975 - The 1975 Bayardo Bar Attack

The 1975 Bayardo Bar attack by the Provisional IRA was a shocking act of violence in Belfast, resulting in the deaths of four Protestant civilians and a UVF member, intensifying the sectarian divide during the Troubles.

1968 - Michael Ray Barrowman's Record-Breaking Swim

On January 5, 1991, swimmer Michael Ray Barrowman set a world record in the 200m breaststroke at the World Championships in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, finishing with an impressive time of 2:10.60, which inspired future generations in the sport.

1967 - The Impact of 'Bonnie and Clyde': A Cinematic Revolution

The 1967 film 'Bonnie and Clyde', directed by Arthur Penn, revolutionized cinema with its portrayal of the infamous outlaw couple. Starring Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway, it blended romance and violence, influencing future filmmaking and leaving a lasting cultural impact.

The Impact of 'Bonnie and Clyde': A Cinematic Revolution
The Impact of 'Bonnie and Clyde': A Cinematic Revolution

1963 - The Great Gold Coin Confiscation of 1963

In 1963, US Customs agents confiscated 21 gold coins from the Witte Museum in San Antonio, Texas, sparking controversy over gold ownership rights and government overreach. This event highlighted growing tensions around private gold possession in America.

1961 - The Berlin Wall: A Barrier of Division

The Berlin Wall's construction in 1961 symbolized the Cold War divide, separating East and West Germany and highlighting the tensions between communism and capitalism. Its legacy remains a potent reminder of the struggle for freedom and unity.

1959 - Launch of Discoverer 5: A Milestone in Space Exploration

The launch of Discoverer 5 on February 1, 1959, marked a significant step in military reconnaissance, establishing a polar orbit vital for Earth's surveillance during the Cold War. This mission laid vital groundwork for future advancements in satellite technology.

1958 - Rickey Henderson's Iconic #24 Transaction

In 1993, Rickey Henderson made headlines when he purchased his number 24 jersey from teammate Turner Ward for $25,000. This event highlights the importance of jersey numbers in sports and portrays Henderson's dedication to his legacy.

Rickey Henderson's Iconic #24 Transaction

1958 - 1997: Rickey Henderson Trade to Anaheim Angels

In 1997, the San Diego Padres traded legendary outfielder Rickey Henderson to the Anaheim Angels. This significant move impacted both teams and further solidified Henderson’s status as a baseball icon. His speed and skill on the field left a lasting legacy in MLB history.

1956 - The Birth of WBIR TV Channel 10 in Knoxville

WBIR TV Channel 10 launched on July 27, 1956, transforming Knoxville's media landscape. Affiliated with CBS, the station quickly became a beloved source of news and entertainment in the community, engaging viewers with local events and programming.

1952 - Viv Richards' Historic 291 Against England in 1975

Viv Richards made history on August 3, 1975, scoring 291 runs against England at The Oval, showcasing his extraordinary batting talent and solidifying his legacy in cricket. This innings remains one of the highest scores in Test cricket history.

Viv Richards' Historic 291 Against England in 1975

1950 - US Aid to the Vietnamese Regime in 1950

In 1950, US President Harry Truman provided military aid to the regime of Bảo Đại in Vietnam, marking the beginning of American involvement in the region during the Cold War. This assistance aimed to combat the spread of communism and stabilize the Vietnamese government.

US Aid to the Vietnamese Regime in 1950
US Aid to the Vietnamese Regime in 1950

1948 - The 1948 Olympic Basketball Triumph

In the 1948 Olympics held in London, the U.S. basketball team successfully defended their title with a remarkable 65-21 victory over France, marking a significant moment in sports history and the global rise of basketball.

1948 - Measles Resurgence in 2019

In 2019, measles cases tripled globally, reaching 364,808, a dramatic increase from 129,239 in 2018. This surge, reported by WHO, highlights serious concerns about vaccination rates and public health worldwide.

1947 - 2004 Black Friday Crackdown in Malé

The 2004 Black Friday crackdown in Malé involved a violent response by the Maldivian National Security Service to a peaceful protest against the government's policies, marking a critical event in the country’s struggle for democracy.

1946 - 1946: Britain Diverts Illegal Emigrants to Cyprus

In 1946, Britain diverted illegal Jewish emigrants bound for Palestine to Cyprus, amid rising tensions in the region. This controversial decision highlighted the plight of Jewish survivors post-Holocaust and the complexities of British governance in Palestine.

1945 - Jim Palmer's No-Hitter in 1969

On August 24, 1969, Jim Palmer of the Baltimore Orioles threw a no-hitter against the Oakland Athletics, leading to an 8-0 victory. This significant achievement marked a high point in Palmer's career and contributed to the Orioles' successful season.

Jim Palmer's No-Hitter in 1969

1944 - The 1944 Meeting of Allied Generals

In 1944, Allied generals Bernard Montgomery, Miles Dempsey, and Omar Bradley met to strategize a breakthrough in the European theatre of World War II. Their collaborative efforts set the stage for significant military operations that would lead to the eventual liberation of Western Europe.

The 1944 Meeting of Allied Generals
The 1944 Meeting of Allied Generals
The 1944 Meeting of Allied Generals

1944 - 1944 British 8th Army Occupies Florence

In 1944, the British 8th Army liberated Florence, marking a significant moment in World War II. The event restored joy to locals and signaled a step towards Allied victory in Italy. The legacy of this liberation continues to resonate in Florence today.

1943 - The 1943 Recapture of Spas-Demensk

In 1943, the Red Army successfully recaptured Spas-Demensk from the German forces in Kaluga Oblast, marking a significant turning point in WWII. This victory not only boosted Soviet morale but also disrupted German military strategies in the region.

1941 - The Red Army's Evacuation of Smolensk in 1941

In July 1941, amidst the onslaught of Operation Barbarossa, the Red Army executed a strategic evacuation of Smolensk to preserve their forces from the advancing German military. This move underlined the complexities of WWII on the Eastern Front.

1940 - KRE-AM Becomes KBLX: A Radio Transformation in 1986

In 1986, KRE-AM in Berkeley, California transitioned to KBLX, marking a significant rebranding aimed at a new audience. This change not only revamped its identity but also reshaped the local music scene with a focus on urban contemporary sounds.

1939 - Historic Shutout: 1939 Yankees' 21-0 Victory Over the A's

In a historic game on June 14, 1939, the New York Yankees defeated the Philadelphia Athletics 21-0, setting a new American League record for the largest shutout margin. Led by pitcher Red Ruffing, this victory highlighted the Yankees' dominance in baseball history.

1935 - The Birth of Roller Derby in 1935

In 1935, the Transcontinental Roller Derby launched at the Chicago Coliseum, marking the birth of Roller Derby—an exciting new sport blending speed and strategy which quickly captivated audiences and shaped American sports culture.

1933 - Rocky Colavito's Pitching Debut

In a remarkable turn of events on May 7, 1958, Cleveland Indians' star outfielder Rocky Colavito made his pitching debut in a game against the Detroit Tigers, pitching three hitless innings despite the Indians losing 2-3.

Rocky Colavito's Pitching Debut

1930 - Central African Republic Proclaims Independence from France

In 1960, the Central African Republic bravely declared independence from France, led by David Dacko. This monumental event was part of a larger movement across Africa, signaling the end of colonial rule and the birth of a new nation faced with challenges of self-governance.

1926 - László Papp's Historic Olympic Triumph

In 1948, Hungarian boxer László Papp achieved greatness by winning his first Olympic gold medal at the London Games, defeating Johnny Wright. This victory marked the beginning of his record of three consecutive Olympic golds, solidifying his legacy in the boxing world.

1923 - The 1923 US Steel Corp Work Day Initiative

In 1923, US Steel Corporation pioneered the adoption of the 8-hour work day, setting a precedent in the industrial sector and influencing labor practices across the nation. This initiative exemplified the evolving attitudes toward work-life balance and worker rights.

1923 - 1948 London Olympics Cycling Triumphs

In the thrilling 1948 London Olympics, French cyclist José Beyaert won the individual race, while Belgium secured gold in the team competition, defeating Great Britain and France. This event marked an exciting return of the Olympics after a long hiatus due to World War II.

1921 - The Premiere of 'Dulcy' in 1921

In 1921, Simon Kaufman and Marc Connelly's comedic play 'Dulcy' premiered in New York City. The play features the character Dulcy, a whimsical socialite, and showcases a humorous take on the lives of affluent Americans during the 1920s, leaving a lasting impact on American theater.

The Premiere of 'Dulcy' in 1921

1907 - The Introduction of Taxicabs in New York City

In 1907, the first taxicabs began operating in New York City, imported by entrepreneur Harry N. Allen. This event marked a significant shift in urban transportation, introducing a new level of convenience for city dwellers.

1906 - The Brownsville Affair: A Historical Injustice

The Brownsville Affair of 1906 involved the wrongful discharge of 167 African American soldiers accused of raiding the town of Brownsville, Texas. Despite their innocence and support from commanding officers, they faced dishonorable discharges ordered by President Theodore Roosevelt. They were posthumously cleared in 1972.

The Brownsville Affair: A Historical Injustice

1903 - Tony Cuccinello's Incredible Day: A 6-for-6 Performance

In June 1931, Tony Cuccinello of the Cincinnati Reds accomplished an extraordinary feat by going 6-for-6 in a game against the Boston Braves, contributing to a decisive 17-3 victory. His remarkable performance remains a significant highlight in baseball history.

1894 - 1960 USSR Withdraws Advisors from China

In 1960, the USSR withdrew its advisors from China, marking a crucial turning point in Sino-Soviet relations. This decision reflected the growing ideological rift between the two communist powers and had lasting impacts on their roles in the Cold War.

1889 - Hitler Refuses Hindenburg's Proposal in 1932

In 1932, Adolf Hitler boldly rejected a proposal from President von Hindenburg to become vice-chancellor of Germany. This decision reflected Hitler's ambitions for power and set the stage for his eventual ascendancy as chancellor, deeply impacting Germany's political landscape.

Hitler Refuses Hindenburg's Proposal in 1932

1887 - The Adoption of the Pan-African Flag in 1920

In 1920, Marcus Garvey's Pan-African flag was adopted, featuring red, black, and green stripes. The flag symbolizes the blood of those who fought for freedom, the people of Africa, and the continent's riches, becoming a global emblem of African unity and pride.

The Adoption of the Pan-African Flag in 1920

1885 - The Invention of Stainless Steel in 1913

In 1913, Harry Brearley invented stainless steel in Sheffield, England, revolutionizing manufacturing with a durable, corrosion-resistant material. This innovation has since transformed numerous industries, emphasizing its importance in both daily life and modern technology.

1884 - Jack Taylor's Remarkable Streak Ends in 1906

In 1906, Chicago Cubs pitcher Jack Taylor's remarkable streak of 202 consecutive completed MLB games came to an end during a match against the Brooklyn Superbas, showing a pivotal shift in the handling of pitchers in baseball history.

1878 - Gustav Stresemann: Chancellor of Germany 1923

In 1923, Gustav Stresemann became Chancellor of Germany during a time of severe political and economic instability. His leadership and innovative policies aimed to stabilize Germany post-World War I, especially addressing hyperinflation and seeking international cooperation. His legacy continues to influence German politics today.

Gustav Stresemann: Chancellor of Germany 1923

1868 - The Devastating 1868 Earthquake in Peru and Ecuador

The 1868 earthquake struck Peru and Ecuador, resulting in 25,000 fatalities and 300 million dollars in damages. This catastrophic event reshaped the building practices and prompted international humanitarian responses in the affected countries.

1867 - Celebrating Cy Young: A Baseball Legend in 1908

In 1908, Boston celebrated baseball legend Cy Young with a special day honoring his career. Fans witnessed him pitch briefly for the Red Sox against an All-Star team, reliving his illustrious achievements and cementing his legacy in baseball history.

Celebrating Cy Young: A Baseball Legend in 1908

1864 - The 1864 Battle of Deep Bottom and Fussell's Mill

The 1864 Battle of Deep Bottom, also known as Strawberry Plains, was a key engagement during the American Civil War aimed at securing Richmond. Fought by Union and Confederate forces, it highlighted strategic maneuvers in a significant moment of the conflict.

1858 - The Invention of the Coin-Operated Telephone

In 1889, William Gray of Hartford, Connecticut patented the coin-operated telephone, a revolutionary device that allowed users to make calls by inserting coins, greatly enhancing public access to phone services.

1852 - The Tragic Crossing of the Steamer Atlantic in 1852

In 1852, the steamer Atlantic tragically sank after colliding with a fishing boat on Lake Erie, resulting in the loss of 250 lives. This disaster highlighted the dangers of maritime travel and led to significant changes in ship safety protocols.

1815 - Completion of the Esquimalt & Nanaimo Railway

On November 24, 1886, John A. Macdonald marked the completion of the Esquimalt and Nanaimo Railway by driving a gold spike with a silver hammer. This event symbolized key developments in British Columbia's economy and Canada's growth.

Completion of the Esquimalt & Nanaimo Railway

1814 - The 1814 Anglo-Dutch Treaty and Its Impact

The 1814 Anglo-Dutch Treaty formally ceded the Cape of Good Hope to the British, marking a pivotal change in colonial governance and imposing a ban on the transportation of slaves, which laid groundwork for future reforms in human rights.

1755 - The Imprisonment of French Royals During the 1792 Revolution

In 1792, amidst the chaos of the French Revolution, French royals, including Queen Marie Antoinette, were imprisoned by revolutionaries, marking a pivotal turn in French history. This event underscored the rise of revolutionary fervor and the decline of monarchical power in France.

The Imprisonment of French Royals During the 1792 Revolution

1744 - The Formation of the Triple Alliance in 1788

In 1788, Prussia aligned with Britain and the Netherlands to form the Triple Alliance, a strategic move to counter the expansion of the Russo-Swedish War. This alliance shaped the dynamics of European politics, enhancing Prussia's military reputation.

1740 - The 1740 Hunger Strike in Rotterdam

The 1740 Hunger Strike in Rotterdam was a pivotal protest by the city's workers against soaring grain prices and food scarcity. This act of collective defiance spurred governmental reforms aimed at addressing the suffering of the impoverished, symbolizing the power of unified voices demanding change.

1732 - The Premiere of Voltaire's Tragic Play 'Zaire' in Paris 1732

In 1732, Voltaire's tragic play 'Zaire' premiered in Paris, exploring deep themes of love and religion through the gripping story of a slave torn between her passions and identity. This work solidified Voltaire's role as a key figure in the Enlightenment and remains influential today.

The Premiere of Voltaire's Tragic Play 'Zaire' in Paris 1732

1638 - The Bombardment of Brussels (1695)

The Bombardment of Brussels in 1695, led by the French army under Louis XIV during the Nine Years' War, devastated the city, particularly the Grand-Place, marking a pivotal moment in the region's history and heritage destruction.

The Bombardment of Brussels (1695)

1629 - Discovery of Mars' South Polar Cap by Christiaan Huygens

In 1642, Dutch astronomer Christiaan Huygens discovered Mars' southern polar cap, marking a pivotal moment in astronomical history. His observations laid the groundwork for future Martian studies and highlighted the significance of technological advancements in science.

Discovery of Mars' South Polar Cap by Christiaan Huygens

1605 - The Controversy of Eastward Hoe (1605)

"Eastward Hoe," a controversial play by Ben Jonson, George Chapman, and John Marston premiered at Blackfriars Theatre in 1605. It sparked outrage for its satire of King James I, resulting in the imprisonment of Jonson and Chapman.

The Controversy of Eastward Hoe (1605)

1583 - The Dismissal of Albrecht von Wallenstein in 1630

In 1630, Holy Roman Emperor Ferdinand II dismissed his supreme commander Albrecht von Wallenstein, marking a significant change in the Thirty Years' War. This decision highlighted the tensions of loyalty and power within the empire, with lasting impacts on the conflict's course.

The Dismissal of Albrecht von Wallenstein in 1630
The Dismissal of Albrecht von Wallenstein in 1630

1511 - The Arrest of Michael Servetus in 1553

In 1553, the Spanish theologian and physician Michael Servetus was arrested in Geneva as a heretic. He was tried and convicted, ultimately facing execution by fire, a pivotal moment in the debate over religious tolerance.

The Arrest of Michael Servetus in 1553

1050 - The Election of Pope Paschal II: A New Era for the Catholic Church

In 1099, Raniero was elected as Pope Paschal II, marking a crucial turning point for the Catholic Church amidst political strife and the emerging confrontations between ecclesiastical and secular authorities. His leadership focused on reform and the challenges of the investiture controversy while promoting the Crusades.

523 - Pope John I: The Reign of a Gentle Leader

Pope John I began his papacy on May 13, 523. Known for his gentle leadership and dedication, he focused on peace during tumultuous times. His reign was marked by efforts against Arianism, leading to his martyrdom shortly after negotiating peace with Theodoric.

75 - The Enormous Deinosuchus: America's Terror Crocodile

The Deinosuchus, known as the 'Terror Crocodile', thrived in North America during the late Cretaceous period, reaching massive sizes and boasting banana-sized teeth. Recent studies shed light on this formidable predator's role in its ecosystem.

3114 BC - The Beginning of the Mayan Calendar: 3114 BC

The year 3114 BC marks a pivotal moment with the beginning of the Mayan calendar, representing the ancient Maya's sophisticated understanding of time and cosmos. Noted by the Lounsbury correlation, it highlights their advanced civilization and deep connection with agriculture and astronomy.