What happened today in history?

What happened
today in history?
[ Feb 10 ]

2019 - 61st Grammy Awards Highlights

The 61st Grammy Awards, held in 2019, notably celebrated Childish Gambino as the first rapper to win Song of the Year for "This Is America," while Kacey Musgraves took home Best Album for "Golden Hour," showcasing the diverse talent in the music industry.

Cardi B at the 2019 Grammy Awards

2019 - The 2019 Global Insect Population Crisis

In 2019, a comprehensive global review revealed alarming declines in insect populations, with 40% declining and 30% endangered, threatening the stability of ecosystems and highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts.

2019 - 2019 Southern Baptist Sexual Abuse Investigation

In 2019, an investigation by the Houston Chronicle and San Antonio Express-News revealed a staggering number of sexual abuse cases within Southern Baptist churches, impacting over 700 victims and implicating 400 members. This investigation sparked a movement for accountability and reform within the faith community.

2019 - The Launch of the Alliance of American Football

On February 9, 2019, the Alliance of American Football launched its first game, featuring the Orlando Apollos defeating the Atlanta Legends 40-6 at Spectrum Stadium in Orlando, Florida. This event marked a significant moment in the world of professional football.

2018 - Tottenham Hotspur vs. Arsenal: A Historic Clash at Wembley

On December 16, 2018, Tottenham Hotspur edged out Arsenal 1-0 at Wembley Stadium in a thrilling North London derby, attracting a record attendance of 83,222 fans in the English Premier League. This match underscored the intensity of their rivalry and Spurs' growing dominance in the league.

2016 - Venezuelan Government Orders Early Mall Closures in 2016

In 2016, Venezuela faced an energy crisis spurred by El Niño-induced drought, leading the government to order early closures of over 100 malls to conserve electricity. This response highlighted challenges in energy reliance and public frustration with government policies.

2013 - Tragic Stampede at Allahabad Train Station in 2013

In February 2013, a devastating stampede at the Allahabad train station claimed the lives of 36 individuals and injured 39 others during the Maha Kumbh Mela. This tragic event highlighted critical issues in crowd management and safety protocols at large public events in India.

2013 - The 55th Grammy Awards: Celebrating Music and Excellence

The 55th Grammy Awards in 2013 featured Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross winning Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media for their haunting composition in 'The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo'. This ceremony celebrated outstanding musical talent and contributions to the film industry.

Musician Trent Reznor

2008 - 50th Grammy Awards: A Night to Remember

The 50th Grammy Awards in 2008 celebrated exceptional talents with Amy Winehouse winning five awards, including Record of the Year for 'Rehab,' and Herbie Hancock securing Album of the Year for 'River: The Joni Letters.'

Singer Amy Winehouse
Musician and Composer Herbie Hancock

2005 - The Engagement of Charles and Camilla in 2005

On February 10, 2005, Prince Charles announced his engagement to Camilla Parker Bowles, marking a significant moment for the British royal family. Their relationship, shaped by years of public and private challenges, finally blossomed into a loving partnership recognized by royal fans.

Queen Consort of Great Britain Camilla Parker Bowles
King of the United Kingdom Charles III

1998 - 1998 Maine Voters Repeal Gay Rights Law

In a historic move in 1998, Maine voters repealed a gay rights law passed just a year prior. This event marked Maine as the first U.S. state to reject such legislation, reflecting significant societal tensions surrounding LGBTQ+ rights during that period.

1997 - 1997 5th ESPY Awards Highlights

The 1997 ESPY Awards celebrated sports excellence with notable winners like Michael Johnson and Amy Van Dyken Lobo. Recognizing their achievements brought attention to the evolving landscape of sports. Johnson won for Best Male Athlete while Van Dyken Lobo won for Best Female Athlete.

1997 - Historic Launch of Soyuz TM-25 to MIR

On March 22, 1997, Soyuz TM-25 launched successfully, transporting an international crew to MIR. This mission marked a significant collaboration in space and set the stage for future international partnerships in human spaceflight.

1995 - Andreas Wellinger Wins Gold at Pyeongchang

Andreas Wellinger of Germany captures the gold medal in the individual normal hill ski jump at the Pyeongchang 2018 Olympics, edging out Norway's Johann André Forfang by a mere 0.2 meters, making for an exhilarating competition.

1992 - The Final Episode of "Dangerous Women"

On July 9, 1992, audiences said goodbye to the groundbreaking series 'Dangerous Women' on WWOR-TV. Known for its powerful female leads, the show unfortunately ended, but its legacy paved the way for future explorations of women's narratives in media.

1990 - The 1990 Perrier Water Controversy: Product Recall Due to Benzene

In 1990, Perrier Water faced a significant crisis after discovering benzene contamination in its bottled water. A massive recall of over 160 million bottles ensued, raising health concerns and questioning the safety of bottled beverages. The incident prompted industry changes and efforts to restore consumer trust.

1989 - The Birth of the 1989 Minor League Football System in St. Louis

In 1989, the Minor League Football System convened its first organizational meeting in St. Louis, marking a pivotal moment in American sports. This initiative aimed to provide aspiring football players with vital development opportunities outside the NFL, directly impacting the football landscape.

1989 - 2014 Netherlands Dominates Men's 500m Speed Skating

In a historic event at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, the Netherlands swept the men's 500m speed skating medals. Michel Mulder won gold, followed closely by teammates Jan Smeekens and Ronald Mulder, showcasing the nation's dominance in the sport.

1987 - The Tragic Lupao Massacre of 1987

The Lupao Massacre occurred in 1987 when Philippine military troops killed 17 civilians, sparking outrage and highlighting severe human rights violations amidst ongoing insurgency efforts.

1987 - Charlotte Kalla's Olympic Triumphs

Charlotte Kalla made history at the 2018 Winter Olympics by winning her third gold medal in the 15k skiathlon, adding to her previous victories in Vancouver (2010) and Sochi (2014). A celebrated figure in cross-country skiing, Kalla's dedication continues to inspire athletes globally.

1982 - The Historic 1982 Bromont Skiing Stunt

In 1982, 28 skiers in Bromont, Quebec, performed an unforgettable stunt by executing backflips while holding hands, a daring display of camaraderie and skill. This remarkable event pushed the limits of skiing stunts, leaving a legacy in the ski community.

1978 - 1978 U.S. Premiere of 'Blue Collar'

The 1978 U.S. premiere of 'Blue Collar' marked Paul Schrader's directorial debut, focusing on the struggles of factory workers. With strong performances and socio-political themes, the film resonated with the challenges of the working class.

1975 - The 1975 Ceasefire Agreement of the Provisional IRA

In 1975, the Provisional Irish Republican Army agreed to a ceasefire with the British government, marking a pivotal moment in the Troubles. This agreement established monitoring centres in nationalist areas to oversee the cessation of violence and foster a path towards negotiation.

1973 - The Staten Island Gas Tank Explosion of 1973

The 1973 Staten Island gas tank explosion resulted in 40 fatalities and over 100 injuries. This tragedy highlighted safety flaws in the petroleum industry and led to changes in safety regulations to prevent future disasters.

1972 - Fatal Land Mine Attack in Cullyhanna

In 1972, two British soldiers were killed in a land mine attack near Cullyhanna, County Armagh, while an IRA member was shot dead in a subsequent exchange of gunfire with the RUC. This event marked a tragic day in the ongoing conflict of The Troubles in Northern Ireland.

1972 - Aaqib Javed's Historic Test Debut in 1989

On November 9, 1989, Aaqib Javed made his Test debut for Pakistan at just 16 years and 189 days old against New Zealand, marking a significant moment in cricket history as he became one of the youngest cricketers to play in a Test match.

1970 - Record-Breaking Precipitation on Mount Washington

On April 16, 1970, Mount Washington, NH, set a state record by receiving 26.4 cm of precipitation in a single day. This extraordinary weather event highlighted the mountain's unpredictable nature and drew attention to its significant impact on local communities and ecosystems.

1970 - Tragic Avalanche at Val d'Isère

In February 1970, a tragic avalanche struck a youth hostel in Val d'Isère, killing 40 young people from Belgium, France, and Germany. The event highlighted the dangers of winter sports and led to significant changes in avalanche safety protocols.

1969 - The Docklands Bombing of 1996

The Docklands bombing in 1996 shook London, ending a 17-month ceasefire. James McArdle was found guilty of the attack, receiving a 25-year sentence, igniting discussions on the complexities of peace in Northern Ireland.

1968 - The Rise of 'Spooky' by Classics IV

In 1968, Classics IV released 'Spooky', which reached #3 on the Billboard Hot 100. This haunting track, characterized by its catchy melody and evocative lyrics, became a classic, influencing future generations and securing a place in pop culture history.

1966 - Mike Tyson's Conviction: A Turning Point in Sports History

In 1992, Mike Tyson was convicted of raping Desiree Washington, a significant event that shocked the sports world and prompted discussions on sexual violence, celebrity culture, and justice. This conviction marked a turning point in how society perceives athletes and sexual assault cases.

Heavyweight Boxing Champion Mike Tyson

1963 - Deep Blue Triumphs Over Garry Kasparov in 1996

In 1996, IBM's Deep Blue made history by defeating world chess champion Garry Kasparov in a single game, showcasing the prowess of artificial intelligence in competitive environments. This landmark event altered perceptions of AI's capabilities in strategy and computation.

Chess Grandmaster and Political Activist Garry Kasparov

1959 - The Devastating 1959 Tornado in St. Louis

The 1959 tornado in St. Louis was a devastating event that killed 19 and injured over 265 people. The F4 tornado struck unexpectedly, causing extensive damage in the city and leading to changes in disaster preparedness policies.

1956 - The Premiere of 'My Friend Flicka' on Television

In 1956, 'My Friend Flicka' premiered on CBS, captivating audiences with the heartwarming tale of a boy, Ken McLaughlin, and his horse, Flicka. The series reflected themes of friendship, loyalty, and the bond between humans and animals in the American West.

1955 - The 1955 US Navy Evacuation of Tachen Islands

In 1955, the US Navy successfully evacuated thousands from the Tachen Islands amidst rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait, showcasing military prowess and commitment to allies during the Cold War. The operation influenced US-China relations and altered the lives of many evacuees.

1955 - Allan Border's Only Missed Test Match in 1979

In December 1979, Allan Border was named the 12th man for Australia during a Test match, marking the only match he would miss in his career. This event highlights Border’s resilience and the team spirit in cricket history.

Test Cricketer Allan Border

1955 - Tony Robinson: Nottingham's First Black Sheriff in 1989

In 1989, Tony Robinson made history by becoming Nottingham's first black sheriff, marking a significant milestone in representation and diversity in local governance. His leadership inspired future generations and fostered community engagement across Nottingham.

1953 - The 1953 Ice Dance Championship at Davos

The 1953 Ice Dance Championship at Davos showcased stunning performances, particularly by British team Anne Westwood and David Demmy, who wowed audiences and judges, ultimately winning the title. Their groundbreaking routine contributed significantly to the evolution of ice dancing.

1951 - The Rise of 'John and Marsha': A Parody Sensation

In 1951, Stan Freberg released 'John and Marsha,' a comedic parody about soap operas featuring just two voices. The clever repetition of names captivated audiences, peaking at #21 on the charts, showcasing Freberg's unique approach to satire.

1950 - Judy Ikenberry: Trailblazer of the US Women's Marathon

In 1974, Judy Ikenberry made history by winning the first U.S. Women's Marathon with a remarkable time of 2:55:17. This milestone event not only highlighted Judy's incredible talent but also served as a catalyst for women's participation in long-distance running. Her victory inspired generations of female athletes to pursue their passion for sports.

1950 - The Failed 1988 Coup in Bophuthatswana

The 1988 coup attempt by Rocky Malebane-Metsing in Bophuthatswana aimed to remove President Lucas Mangope but ended in failure. This event highlighted the political turbulence and aspirations for change within the apartheid struggle.

1947 - The 1947 Cession of Venezia Giulia: Italy to Yugoslavia

In 1947, Italy ceded most of Venezia Giulia to Yugoslavia following WWII. This event reshaped the cultural and political landscape of the region, leaving a lasting impact on its diverse communities and national identities. Discover the complex history and legacy of this territorial change.

1947 - Pete Maravich's 66-Point Game in 1969

On February 7, 1969, Pete Maravich scored an impressive 66 points against Tulane, showcasing his basketball talent, despite LSU losing the game 101-94. This record performance highlighted Maravich's extraordinary skills, leaving a lasting legacy in college basketball.

NBA Guard Pete Maravich

1947 - O.J. Simpson Jury Awards $25 Million in 1997

In 1997, O.J. Simpson was awarded $25 million in punitive damages by the jury in a civil trial concerning the wrongful deaths of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman, highlighting significant issues relating to celebrity accountability and public perception of justice.

NFL Running Back and Convicted Criminal O.J. Simpson

1946 - 1993: US Officially Backs Peace Plan in Bosnia

In 1993, the US officially backed a peace plan for Bosnia during the ongoing war, promoting ethnic reconciliation and humanitarian relief efforts. This crucial support marked a turning point in international diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict, leading towards eventual peace.

1943 - The 1943 British 8th Army Campaign in North Africa

In 1943, the British 8th Army swept through North Africa to Tunisia, culminating in a decisive victory against Axis forces. Under General Montgomery, this campaign not only marked the end of Axis control in North Africa but also set the stage for future Allied successes in Europe.

1941 - The Historic 1941 Highway Post Office Journey

The first Highway Post Office made its inaugural trip on August 14, 1941, from Washington, D.C., to Harrisonburg, Virginia, revolutionizing mail delivery and connecting urban centers with rural communities effectively.

1941 - The Birth of 'Het Parool': A Voice of Resistance

In 1941, 'Het Parool' began publishing in Nazi-occupied Netherlands, offering a crucial voice of resistance against oppression. This underground newspaper provided truthful information and inspired defiance among the Dutch people, shaping the narrative of resistance during World War II.

1940 - John Lennon: Live in NYC 1986 Album Release

On May 3, 1986, the posthumous album "John Lennon: Live in NYC" was released, showcasing an iconic concert and highlighting his enduring legacy as a musician and activist. This album continues to resonate with themes of peace and love.

Musician and Beatle John Lennon

1935 - Jim Beatty Sets American Indoor Mile Record

On February 4, 1962, Jim Beatty made history by breaking the American indoor mile record with a stunning time of 3:58.9 in Los Angeles, becoming the first American to achieve this feat indoors, inspiring countless athletes and changing the landscape of middle-distance running.

1933 - Record Cold: The 1933 Seneca Temperature Drop

In February 1933, Seneca, Oregon, recorded a staggering low temperature of 54°F (-48°C), marking Oregon's coldest day ever. This extreme weather phenomenon highlighted the region's unique climate conditions and showcased the resilience of its residents amidst adversity.

1933 - The End of the 1933 Mutiny on '7 Provinces'

The 1933 Mutiny on the HNLMS '7 Provinces' began on February 4 and ended tragically on February 27, resulting in 23 deaths. Driven by grievances over treatment and conditions, sailors took control, echoing calls for reforms in the Dutch Navy.

1933 - The Birth of the Singing Telegram

In 1933, the Postal Telegraph-Cable Company introduced the world's first singing telegram in New York City, combining music with message delivery and transforming communication. It became a joyful method for conveying messages, celebrating moments with a unique flair.

1931 - The Shift of India's Capital: New Delhi in 1931

In 1931, New Delhi was inaugurated as India's capital, designed by Edward Lutyens, reflecting both colonial ambitions and India's diverse heritage. The city's establishment marked a pivotal moment in India's political history.

1931 - The Premiere of 'America's Sweetheart' on Broadway

In 1931, Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart's musical 'America's Sweetheart' premiered on Broadway at the Broadhurst Theatre, showcasing a captivating narrative filled with romance and humor, setting the stage for the American musical landscape.

Composer Richard Rodgers
Broadway Lyricist Lorenz Hart

1930 - Frank C. Carlucci's Ascension at the CIA in 1978

In 1978, Frank C. Carlucci succeeded John F. Blake as the deputy director of the CIA. His leadership marked a significant transition in the agency's approach to intelligence and public perception during a challenging historical period.

1929 - Bill White: Trailblazing the Broadcast Booth

In 1971, Bill White debuted as the first African American baseball announcer for the New York Yankees, marking a significant milestone in sports broadcasting and monumentally changing the landscape of baseball commentary.

1926 - The Birth of the Olympic Stadium Amsterdam

The Olympic Stadium Amsterdam began its construction in 1926, designed by Jan Wils to host the 1928 Summer Olympics. This iconic venue symbolizes the Olympic spirit and has left a lasting legacy in sports history.

1925 - The 1974 Iran-Iraq Border Conflict

In 1974, border skirmishes erupted between Iran and Iraq, rooted in territorial disputes over key areas like the Shatt al-Arab. This event foreshadowed the more extensive Iran-Iraq War that would follow in the 1980s, influenced by nationalism and international politics.

1923 - The Revolutionary Invention of Ink Paste in 1923

In 1923, the Standard Ink Company introduced ink paste, revolutionizing the ink manufacturing industry. This innovative product provided enhanced control and quality in printing, setting a new standard for future developments in ink technology.

1918 - The Impact of 'Valley of the Dolls'

Published in 1966, Jacqueline Susann's 'Valley of the Dolls' became a sensational bestseller, selling over 31 million copies. The novel explores the lives of three women grappling with fame and addiction, making it a timeless classic.

Author Jacqueline Susann

1916 - The Start of Military Conscription in Britain (1916)

In March 1916, Britain implemented military conscription to address the urgent need for soldiers in WWI. The Military Service Act mandated enlistment for unmarried men aged 18 to 41, leading to significant societal impacts and mixed public reactions.

1908 - The Patent for Fused Silica: A Glass Production Breakthrough

In 1942, American chemist James Franklin Hyde was granted a patent for fused silica, revolutionizing glass production. This breakthrough introduced a high-purity silicon dioxide material critical for industrial and military applications, leading to significant technological advancements.

Inventor James Franklin Hyde

1906 - The Launch of HMS Dreadnought: A New Era in Naval Warfare

The launch of the HMS Dreadnought in 1906 marked a turning point in naval warfare, showcasing revolutionary design and technology that rendered all former capital ships obsolete. Its all-big-gun armament and speed set new standards in military naval engineering, influencing future ship designs globally.

1906 - The 1906 State of Siege in Zululand

In 1906, the British authorities proclaimed a state of siege in Zululand following uprisings by the Zulu people against colonial rule. This significant event marked a pivotal moment in the struggle for Zulu rights and reshaped their fight for autonomy.

1904 - Glenn Miller's 'In The Mood' Hits #1 in 1940

In 1940, Glenn Miller's 'In The Mood' surged to #1, becoming a defining song of the swing era and offering a musical refuge during World War II. Its catchy melodies and vibrant rhythms continue to captivate audiences today.

Big Band Leader and Jazz Composer Glenn Miller

1904 - The Outbreak of the Russo-Japanese War: 1904

In 1904, Japan and Russia declared war, igniting the Russo-Japanese War. The conflict stemmed from competing imperial interests in Manchuria and Korea, leading to significant military engagements that reshaped East Asia's political landscape.

1897 - The Birth of a Journalism Revolution: NY Times' Slogan

In 1897, the New York Times popularized the slogan 'All the News That's Fit to Print,' setting a standard for ethical journalism, contrasting sensationalism, and focusing on responsible reporting, a legacy that continues to influence modern media practices.

1893 - King Carol II Drives Out Dictator Goga in 1938

In 1938, King Carol II of Romania forcibly ousted Prime Minister Octavian Goga, ending his dictatorial reign marked by anti-Semitic policies and repression. This pivotal moment reflected the struggle for power and democracy in Romania during the pre-war years.

1890 - Eisenhower's Warning Against Vietnam Intervention (1954)

In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower warned against U.S. military intervention in Vietnam, stressing the importance of diplomacy and caution in foreign policy amidst Cold War tensions. His stance set the stage for future debates about U.S. involvement in Southeast Asia.

34th US President and WWII General Dwight D. Eisenhower

1890 - The Cession of Sioux Lands in 1890

In 1890, the Sioux Indians ceded approximately 11 million acres to the US government, significantly altering their way of life and opening the land for settlement. This event reflects the ongoing pressures faced by Native Americans during the era of westward expansion.

1888 - The 1934 Byrd Souvenir Sheet: A Postal Milestone

The 1934 Byrd Souvenir Sheet, the first unperforated ungummed US stamp, was issued in New York City to honor Admiral Richard Byrd's Antarctic exploits. This unique collectible is a significant piece of postal history, reflecting a shift towards collector-focused releases in philately.

1883 - The Tragic Fire at New Hall Hotel, Milwaukee 1883

The catastrophic fire at Milwaukee's New Hall Hotel in 1883 killed 71, marking a tragic moment in history. The event raised awareness about hotel safety and led to significant reforms in fire safety regulations across the United States.

1873 - The Symbolic Wedding of Poland to the Sea

On February 10, 1920, Jozef Haller de Hallenburg performed a symbolic wedding ceremony of Poland to the sea in Puck, celebrating Poland's restored access to the Baltic Sea after World War I, marking a significant event in Polish history.

1872 - Calvin Coolidge's Call for Disarmament: A 1927 Initiative

In 1927, President Calvin Coolidge called for a second disarmament conference to promote international peace and arms control post World War I. His efforts reflected a dedication to reducing militarization, though challenges and skepticism impeded significant agreements.

30th US President Calvin Coolidge

1869 - Release of Passive Resistance Prisoners in 1914

In 1914, following negotiations between Gandhi and Smuts, 119 passive resistance prisoners were released in South Africa, marking a significant victory in the struggle for civil rights within the Indian community and highlighting the power of non-violent resistance.

Pacifist and Spiritual Leader Mahatma Gandhi
Field Marshal and Prime Minister of South Africa Jan Smuts

1868 - The Pact of Zanjón: A Turning Point in Cuban History

The Pact of Zanjón, signed in 1878, ended the Ten Years' War in Cuba but left many issues unresolved, leading to future uprisings for independence. It symbolized both the hope for peace and the frustration of unfulfilled reforms, shaping Cuban resistance against Spanish rule.

1862 - The Premiere of 'Lily of Killarney'

In 1862, 'Lily of Killarney' premiered at Covent Garden, London, composed by Julius Benedict with a libretto by Dion Boucicault, combining Irish folklore with powerful melodies, marking a pivotal moment in opera history.

Actor and Playwright Dion Boucicault

1856 - The British US Flag Deception of 1915

In 1915, US President Woodrow Wilson protests the British use of American flags on merchant ships to deceive German U-boats, leading to diplomatic tensions that complicate US-British relations during World War I.

28th US President Woodrow Wilson

1855 - 1855 US Citizenship Laws Amended

In 1855, US citizenship laws were amended to grant automatic citizenship to all children born abroad to American parents, marking a pivotal moment in the recognition of the rights of expatriates and their families.

1846 - The 1846 Mormon Migration: A Journey to the West

In 1846, the Mormon pioneers, led by Brigham Young, embarked on a challenging migration from Illinois to Utah, seeking religious freedom and a safe haven to build their community. Their journey was marked by hardship, resilience, and faith.

1844 - The Premiere of 'Snyegurochka' in St. Petersburg

The premiere of Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's opera 'Snyegurochka' in St. Petersburg on December 3, 1882, marked a significant milestone in Russian music, presenting a beautiful tale of love and sacrifice against a backdrop of enchanting melodies.

1815 - Formation of the 1866 Dutch Government Led by Frans van der Putte

In 1866, Frans van der Putte formed a coalition Dutch government during a politically turbulent time, aiming to balance liberal and conservative interests while introducing significant reforms. Despite facing substantial opposition, his leadership style marked a transitional period in Dutch politics.

1810 - Understanding Pope Leo XIII's Encyclical 'Arcanum'

In 1880, Pope Leo XIII published the encyclical 'Arcanum', discussing the sanctity of Christian marriage. This pivotal document highlighted the importance of the marital bond within societal and religious frameworks, addressing contemporary challenges and reaffirming traditional values.

256th Pope Leo XIII