What happened today in history?

What happened
today in history?
[ Feb 20 ]

2023 - Devastating Earthquake Strikes Near Antakya, Turkey

On June 4, 2023, a 6.4 magnitude earthquake near Antakya, Turkey, killed at least six people, followed by a 5.8 magnitude aftershock. The region, already devastated by earlier quakes in February, continues facing challenges in recovery and resilience.

2018 - Historic World Record by Dutch Women's Short Track Team

In a stunning turn at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics, the Dutch women's short track speed skating team set a world record of 4:03.471 in the B Final, while South Korea took gold with a slower time of 4:07.361, showcasing the unpredictable nature of Olympic competition.

2017 - Understanding the 2017 Famine in South Sudan

In 2017, famine was declared in Unity State, South Sudan, affecting 4.9 million people due to conflict, economic instability, and severe flooding. International humanitarian responses attempted to address the acute food insecurity crisis while communities showed resilience amidst the hardship.

2016 - The Devastating Impact of Tropical Cyclone Winston in Fiji

On February 20, 2016, Tropical Cyclone Winston hit Fiji with winds of 296 km/h, resulting in at least 29 deaths, making it the most powerful storm recorded in the Southern Hemisphere. The storm caused extensive devastation and marked a significant event in Fiji's history.

2013 - Discovery of Kepler-37b: The Smallest Known Exoplanet

In February 2013, Kepler-37b was discovered as the smallest known exoplanet, revealing new insights into the diversity of planetary systems beyond our own. Its infinitesimal size challenges previous understandings of planetary formation and habitability.

2010 - The 2010 Madeira Floods: A Natural Disaster

In February 2010, Madeira suffered catastrophic floods and mudslides resulting from heavy rains, leading to 32 deaths and significant destruction. This tragic event revealed the island's vulnerabilities and sparked crucial discussions on disaster preparedness and climate change.

2003 - Tragic Fire at The Station Nightclub

A tragic fire at The Station nightclub during a Great White concert on February 20, 2003, resulted in 100 deaths and over 300 injuries. The incident sparked significant changes in fire safety regulations across the United States.

1999 - Jasmine Harrison: Ocean Rowing Pioneer

In 2021, Jasmine Harrison, at just 21 years old, became the youngest woman to row across an ocean, completing the Atlantic Challenge in 70 days, 3 hours, and 48 minutes, landing in Antigua.

1996 - Adelina Sotnikova's Historic Gold Medal Win

Adelina Sotnikova made history by winning the gold medal in women's singles figure skating at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, marking Russia's first title in this event. Her remarkable performance captivated the world and solidified her status as a top athlete.

1995 - Ruby Franke Sentenced for Child Abuse

In 2024, former YouTuber Ruby Franke and her business partner were sentenced to up to 60 years in prison for physically and emotionally abusing her children. The case has sparked significant public outcry and discussions about child welfare and the responsibilities of social media influencers.

1989 - IRA Bombing in Ternhill, 1989

In 1989, the IRA bombed a British Army barracks in Ternhill, England, causing significant damage and injuries. This event highlighted the ongoing conflict known as 'The Troubles' and showcased the escalating violence between Irish nationalists and British forces.

1989 - France Dominates Men's Ski Cross at Sochi 2014

At the 2014 Winter Olympics, France made history by sweeping the men's ski cross podium with Jean-Frédéric Chapuis claiming gold, followed by teammates Arnaud Bovolenta and Jonathan Midol. This remarkable victory showcased the skill and teamwork of the French athletes.

1989 - Jorien ter Mors Makes History at the 2018 Winter Olympics

In a groundbreaking achievement, Dutch skater Jorien ter Mors became the first female athlete to win Olympic medals in two different sports at the same Winter Games in Pyeongchang 2018, capturing gold in the 1,000m speed skating and bronze in the 3,000m short track relay.

1988 - Tragedy in Rio: 1988 Floods Claim 500 Lives

The catastrophic floods in Rio de Janeiro in 1988 claimed over 500 lives, caused severe destruction, and emphasized the need for improved urban infrastructure and disaster management in vulnerable communities.

1986 - Orel Hershiser: A Milestone in Sports History

In 1986, Orel Hershiser made history as the first MLB player to win a $1 million salary through arbitration, setting a precedent in baseball that changed how player contracts were negotiated. His achievement underscored the financial evolution within sports and inspired future generations of athletes.

Baseball Pitcher Orel Hershiser

1982 - Tara Lipinski's Stunning Gold at Nagano 1998

In 1998, Tara Lipinski made history by winning the Olympic gold medal in figure skating at the Nagano Winter Games, overcoming teammate Michelle Kwan. This monumental event solidified her place in sports history as the youngest Olympic champion in figure skating.

1981 - Historic Test of Columbia's Main Engines

On October 1, 1981, NASA conducted the flight readiness firing of the Space Shuttle Columbia's main engines for 20 seconds, marking a pivotal moment for the shuttle program ahead of its historic first flight.

1981 - Beyoncé Makes History on the Country Charts

In 2024, Beyoncé became the first Black female artist to top Billboard's Hot Country Songs Chart with her song "Texas Hold 'Em," marking a significant achievement in country music history and promoting diversity in the genre.

Singer Beyoncé

1980 - 1980 Olympics Ice Dance Gold Medal Win

In a thrilling 1980 Lake Placid Olympic ice dance competition, Natalia Linichuk and Gennadi Karponosov of the Soviet Union won the gold medal by a mere 0.96 points against their Hungarian rivals, Krisztina Regőczy and András Sallay. Their remarkable performance underscored their status as two-time world champions.

1979 - The Shankill Butchers: Infamy and Sentencing

In 1979, the Shankill Butchers, a loyalist gang responsible for the murder of 19 Catholic civilians in Belfast, were sentenced to life in prison, marking a notorious chapter in the troubled history of Northern Ireland.

1977 - 1977 Daytona 500: A Race to Remember

The 1977 Daytona 500 was historic as Cale Yarborough claimed victory, marking his second win at this prestigious race, while Janet Guthrie made history as the first female driver to compete in the NASCAR Cup Series, finishing 12th.

Auto Racer Cale Yarborough

1975 - The Feud Between the IRA and INLA in 1975

In 1975, a violent feud erupted between the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and the Irish National Liberation Army (INLA), leading to numerous assassinations until the conflict subsided in June of that year.

1975 - Leonard Baichan's Historic Test Debut

In 1975, Leonard Baichan made an unforgettable Test cricket debut in Lahore, scoring 105* against Pakistan, showcasing his talent and resilience as a cricketer. His remarkable performance established him as a notable talent in the sport.

1974 - Steely Dan's 'Pretzel Logic' Album Release

In 1974, Steely Dan released their critically acclaimed album 'Pretzel Logic', featuring the hit single 'Rikki Don't Lose That Number'. This album showcased the band's unique blend of rock and jazz, solidifying their place in music history.

Musician and Record Producer Walter Becker
Singer-Songwriter and Keyboardist Donald Fagen

1971 - The 1971 National Emergency Center Radio Error

In 1971, an error at the National Emergency Center led to a mistaken order for US radio and TV stations to go off-air for 30 minutes, causing confusion and concern across the nation. This incident highlighted the importance of reliable emergency communications.

1971 - 2005 Daytona 500: Jeff Gordon's Triumph

The 2005 Daytona 500 saw Jeff Gordon fend off Kurt Busch and Dale Earnhardt Jr. over three extra laps to clinch his third title at this iconic race. A thrilling event that showcased Gordon's racing prowess and strategic brilliance, it further cemented his legacy in NASCAR history.

Auto Racer Jeff Gordon

1971 - The Kalamazoo Shooting Spree of 2016

On February 20, 2016, Jason Dalton went on a random shooting spree in Kalamazoo, Michigan, killing six people. This tragic event raised significant concerns about gun violence and mental health, leaving the community in mourning and prompting national discussions on the subject.

1970 - Andre Hoffmann's Historic 1500m World Record

In 1988, Andre Hoffmann set a world record in the 1500m speed skating event, clocking an incredible time of 1:52.06, marking a pivotal moment in speed skating history and inspiring future generations of athletes.

1968 - The Establishment of the China Academy of Space Technology

In 1968, the China Academy of Space Technology was established in Beijing, marking a significant advancement in China's space exploration efforts. Over the years, it has played a pivotal role in developing satellite technologies and shaping China's aerospace capabilities.

1968 - 1968 Demonstration at Alcorn A&M: A Turning Point in Civil Rights

In 1968, a demonstration at Alcorn A&M University was violently interrupted when Mississippi State Troopers used tear gas to disperse protestors fighting for civil rights. This event highlighted the struggles faced by African American students and marked a significant moment in the civil rights movement.

1965 - Historic Record at the 1988 Indoor 1000m

On February 6, 1988, Rob Druppers set a world record for the indoor 1000 meters with a time of 2:16.2, marking a significant milestone in the history of indoor athletics and inspiring future generations of athletes.

1958 - The Brothers Karamazov Film Premiere: A Classic Adaptation

The 1958 adaptation of Dostoevsky's 'The Brothers Karamazov' premiered at Radio City Music Hall, featuring Yul Brynner and marking William Shatner's film debut. This profound film explores themes of faith and morality through the Karamazov brothers' stories, capturing audiences with its dramatic depth.

Actor Yul Brynner
Actor William Shatner

1958 - Kelly Hrudy's 5th Shut-out Win Against Hartford

On April 12, 1988, Kelly Hrudy made history by recording his 5th shut-out win as an Islander in a game against the Hartford Whalers, securing a 3-0 victory. This game showcased his talent and solidified his position as a beloved figure in hockey.

1956 - The Birth of Python: A Programming Revolution

The Python programming language, crafted by Guido van Rossum, was released in 1991, revolutionizing software development with its focus on readability and simplicity. Since then, Python has become an essential tool for developers worldwide.

1956 - The 2000 Daytona 500: Dale Jarrett's Triumph

The 2000 Daytona 500 thrilled fans as polesitter Dale Jarrett captured his third title in this legendary race, beating out competitors Jeff Gordon and Bill Elliott. This memorable victory further etched Jarrett's legacy in NASCAR history.

Auto Racer Bill Elliott
Auto Racer Dale Jarrett
Auto Racer Jeff Gordon

1954 - The Victory of General Zahedi in the 1954 Persian Elections

In 1954, General Fazlollah Zahedi rose to power in Persia, winning a contested election following a CIA-backed coup. His leadership marked a significant shift in Iranian politics, coupling authoritarian governance with Western alignment while deepening national discontent.

1953 - The 1953 Ruling: Baseball as a Sport

In a landmark 1953 ruling, the US Court of Appeals classified Organized Baseball as a sport, reinforcing a 1922 Supreme Court decision and shaping the legal landscape of the game in America.

1953 - Jeb Bush Suspends His 2016 Presidential Campaign

On February 20, 2016, Jeb Bush announced he was suspending his presidential campaign after struggling in the early primaries. His campaign marked a significant moment in the 2016 election cycle and the evolution of the Republican Party.

Governor of Florida Jeb Bush

1952 - The Release of The African Queen (1952)

In 1952, the adventure film 'The African Queen,' directed by John Huston and starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn, captivated audiences with its story of an unlikely duo navigating war-torn Africa. The film remains a classic, winning numerous accolades.

Actor Humphrey Bogart
Actress Katharine Hepburn

1952 - Roger Stone Sentenced: A 2020 Controversy

In 2020, Roger Stone, a close Trump associate, was sentenced to 40 months in prison for obstructing a congressional investigation related to the 2016 election. His case highlighted significant political tensions surrounding accountability and justice in America.

1951 - James Sanford Shatters Indoor World Record in 1981

In 1981, James Sanford made history by breaking the 50 meters indoor world record with a remarkable time of 5.61 seconds. This achievement not only highlighted his sprinting capabilities but also set a standard in indoor athletics for years to come.

1949 - The 1st International Pancake Race: A Delicious Tradition

The first International Pancake Race, held in Liberal, Kansas in 1949, brought together participants to flip pancakes in a spirited community event inspired by a similar race in Olney, England. This quirky competition has since become a cherished tradition celebrating pancakes and community involvement.

1949 - 1989 Oklahoma Football Team Reunion Canceled

In April 1989, the members of the 1949 Oklahoma football team canceled their reunion in protest against the poor conduct of contemporary players. This decision underscored the importance of maintaining integrity and sportsmanship in college athletics.

1946 - Call Sign Swap: WOL-AM and WWDC in 1950

In 1950, WOL-AM and WWDC in Washington, D.C. swapped call signs, marking a significant milestone in local broadcasting. This change reshaped their identities and programming, impacting their audience engagement and cultural significance.

1944 - The Birth of Batman & Robin Comic Strips in 1944

The Batman & Robin comic strip premiered on April 25, 1944, bringing the iconic duo from comic books to newspapers. This pivotal moment expanded their reach and impact, solidifying their place in popular culture and media history.

1943 - The 1943 Occupation of Kasserine Pass by Allied Troops

The 1943 occupation of Kasserine Pass was a pivotal battle in WWII, marking the first major clash between American forces and German troops in Tunisia. Despite challenges, this event led to critical lessons for the Allies as they adapted strategies for future engagements.

1943 - Censorship in Hollywood: The 1943 Movie Studio Agreement

In 1943, American movie studios agreed to let the Office of War Information censor films, marking a key collaboration between Hollywood and wartime propaganda. This development significantly affected film production and artistic expression during World War II.

1942 - Phil Esposito's Historic 50 Goals in 1971

In the 1970-71 NHL season, Phil Esposito made history by becoming the fastest player to score 50 goals in a season, cementing his legacy as one of hockey's all-time greats and inspiring future generations.

NHL Star Phil Esposito

1942 - Ali's Dominant Victory Over Coopman in 1976

Muhammad Ali faced Jean Pierre Coopman on March 3, 1976, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, winning by a fifth-round knockout. The match showcased Ali's dominance and speed, often regarded as a one-sided bout in favor of the boxing legend.

Heavyweight Boxing Champion Muhammad Ali

1942 - The 1987 Bombing Linked to the Unabomber in Salt Lake City

In 1987, a bomb attributed to the Unabomber exploded near a computer store in Salt Lake City, injuring several. This incident heightened fears of domestic terrorism and expanded the FBI's pursuit of Theodore Kaczynski, the infamous bomber behind multiple attacks during that era.

1942 - Joe Biden's Surprise Visit to Kyiv, Ukraine in 2023

In a groundbreaking moment on February 20, 2023, President Joe Biden made a surprise visit to Kyiv, Ukraine, reiterating U.S. support amid the ongoing conflict. This visit highlighted critical military support and strengthened diplomatic ties between the two nations.

1941 - 1941: Polish Jews Barred from Public Transport

In 1941, Nazi Germany barred Polish Jews from using public transportation, marking a dire step in their oppressive regime that isolated the community and laid groundwork for future atrocities. This article explores the implications of such measures on everyday life.

1935 - David Hartman Leaves Good Morning America

David Hartman's departure from ABC's 'Good Morning America' in 1987 marked a significant shift in morning television, ending an era for the beloved host after over a decade of captivating viewers with his engaging style.

1934 - The Broadway Opening of 'Four Saints in Three Acts'

Explore the groundbreaking premiere of 'Four Saints in Three Acts' on Broadway in 1934, a unique collaboration between composer Virgil Thomson and writer Gertrude Stein that transformed the opera landscape with its abstract narrative and innovative musical style.

1932 - 1932 Japanese Troops Occupy Tunhua, China

In 1932, Japanese troops occupied Tunhua, China, as part of their broader imperial ambitions in Asia. This event led to significant local resistance and marked a critical point in the lead-up to World War II.

1931 - Willie Mays Signs Record Contract in 1963

In 1963, baseball legend Willie Mays signed a groundbreaking $100,000 contract with the San Francisco Giants, becoming MLB's highest-paid player. This milestone marked a significant moment in sports history, paving the way for fair player compensation.

MLB Legend Willie Mays

1928 - The Banishment of Valery Tarsis in 1966

In 1966, author Valery Tarsis was banished from the USSR, symbolizing the struggle between artistic freedom and oppressive government censorship. His exile marked a crucial moment in the history of Soviet literature as he became a voice for the repressed.

1926 - Historic 0-0 Tie: A Memorable NHL Clash in 1926

The 1926 NHL game between the Montreal Maroons and Ottawa Senators ended in a rare 0-0 tie, marked by stellar performances from goalies Clint Benedict and Alex Connell. This historic match showcased the importance of defensively strong gameplay.

1926 - Queen Elizabeth II Tests Positive for COVID-19

On February 20, 2022, Queen Elizabeth II, at 95 years old, tested positive for COVID-19. This significant event highlighted the ongoing impact of the pandemic and showcased the Queen's resilience and commitment to her royal duties, while the public rallied in support.

1922 - Historic Bowling Performance by Hughie Tayfield

In 1957, South African bowler Hughie Tayfield achieved an incredible feat by taking 9 wickets for 113 runs against England, contributing to a total of 13 wickets in the match. This performance has become a significant highlight in cricket history, showcasing his remarkable spin bowling abilities.

1921 - John Glenn's Historic Orbital Flight in 1962

In 1962, John Glenn became the first American to orbit Earth aboard Friendship 7, marking a significant milestone in the space race and generating immense national pride while showcasing human capability in space travel.

John Glenn, the first American to orbit the Earth, getting into his spacecraft Friendship 7 in 1962

1918 - Egypt Withdraws Diplomats from Cyprus in 1978

In 1978, Egypt announced the withdrawal of its diplomats from Cyprus, influenced by regional tensions and the ongoing conflict between Greek and Turkish Cypriots. This decision marked a pivotal moment in Egypt's foreign policy under President Anwar Sadat.

1917 - The Rise and Fall of the Toronto Arenas: A 1919 NHL Legacy

In 1919, the Toronto Arenas were permitted to cease operations due to financial troubles, marking the end of a significant era in NHL history. The franchise later transformed into the Toronto St. Patricks, and ultimately became the iconic Toronto Maple Leafs, a story of resilience and reinvention.

1916 - Eddie Arcaro's Milestone: 4,000th Career Win

In 1958, legendary jockey Eddie Arcaro achieved his 4,000th career win on Riding Ban at Santa Anita, marking a historic moment in horse racing. His exceptional skills and contributions to the sport have made him a celebrated figure in American racing history.

Racing Hall of Fame Jockey Eddie Arcaro

1914 - O'Hare's Heroic Feat: America's First WWII Ace

On February 20, 1942, Lt. Edward H. O'Hare courageously shot down five Japanese bombers, becoming America's first flying ace of World War II. His extraordinary bravery marked a significant moment in naval aviation history.

1914 - Emmett Ashford: Breaking Barriers in Baseball Umpiring

In 1952, Emmett Ashford became the first African American umpire certified in organized baseball, facing challenges and waiting until 1966 for his MLB debut, ultimately paving the way for future generations. His story is one of perseverance and breaking racial barriers in sports.

1912 - Argentina's Historic Cricket Victory in 1912

In 1912, Argentina achieved a historic victory against the MCC in their first-class cricket debut at Buenos Aires Cricket Club, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's sports history, followed by two losses in subsequent matches.

1909 - The Founding of Hudson Motor Car Company

In 1909, Joseph L. Hudson founded the Hudson Motor Car Company in Detroit, Michigan, aiming to revolutionize the automobile market with innovative designs and affordable vehicles, leading to the introduction of iconic models like the Hudson Super Six.

1908 - Sicco Mansholt: A Pioneer of European Integration

In 1972, Sicco Mansholt became chairman of the European Committee, a significant event in European history that propelled agricultural reforms. His visionary leadership laid the groundwork for key policies that shaped the EU's agricultural landscape.

1895 - The Authorization of the Denver Mint in 1895

In 1895, the U.S. Congress authorized the establishment of the Denver Mint, a crucial institution for producing currency that supported the economic growth in the western territories during the prosperous Gold Rush era.

1891 - The Premiere of Sidney Howard's 'Alien Corn' in 1933

In 1933, Sidney Howard's poignant play 'Alien Corn' premiered in New York City, exploring themes of identity and cultural conflict amidst the backdrop of the Great Depression. Its rich narrative connected deeply with audiences, solidifying Howard's reputation in American theatre.

1889 - Germany Supports Japan in 1938

In 1938, Adolf Hitler announced Germany's support for Japan during the Sino-Japanese War, reinforcing the alliance between the two nations. This pivotal moment shaped international relations prior to World War II, highlighting the aggressive ambitions of the Axis powers.

Dictator of Nazi Germany Adolf Hitler

1887 - The Great Amsterdam Theater Fire of 1890

On January 17, 1890, the Amsterdam Theater was destroyed by a catastrophic fire shortly after a performance. The event led to significant loss of life and initiated important changes in fire safety regulations. This tragedy highlighted the need for improved safety in public venues.

1883 - The Downfall of Laval's Government in 1932

In 1932, Pierre Laval's government in France fell amidst economic turmoil and political dissent. His pro-business policies failed to stabilize the economy, leading to a loss of support and a vote of no confidence, marking a significant moment in French politics.

Prime Minister of France and Head of Vichy France Pierre Laval

1882 - 1941 Romania Breaks Relations with the Netherlands

In 1941, amidst World War II, Romania severed diplomatic relations with the Netherlands under Prime Minister Ion Antonescu's regime, aligning more closely with Axis powers like Germany, impacting the country's geopolitical stance for years to come.

1880 - Christy Mathewson's Acquisition of the Boston Braves

In 1923, baseball legend Christy Mathewson became the President and owner of the Boston Braves, purchasing the team for $300,000. Partnering with Judge Emil Fuchs and James McDonough, Mathewson aimed to revitalize the franchise with his extensive baseball experience and leadership qualities.

1873 - The Birth of Medical Education in California

In 1873, the University of California, San Francisco established its first Medical School, led by Dr. William S. S. Maclise, marking a pivotal moment in California's medical education and healthcare advancement.

1872 - The Birth of New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art opened on April 13, 1872, aiming to make art accessible to the American public. Over the years, it grew into one of the largest art museums globally, enriching the cultural landscape of New York City and beyond.

1856 - The Tragic Sinking of the John Rutledge

In 1856, the steam packet-ship John Rutledge collided with an iceberg en route from Liverpool to New York, resulting in the deaths of 120 passengers and 19 crew members. Only Thomas Nye survived to share this tragic tale of maritime disaster.

1841 - Clemenceau Wounded in Assassination Attempt

On January 24, 1919, French Prime Minister Georges Clémenceau was wounded in an assassination attempt by Vincenzo Peruggia, reflecting the volatile political landscape of post-World War I France. Clémenceau's resilience only strengthened his legacy as a key figure in the Treaty of Versailles negotiations.

Prime Minister of France Georges Clémenceau

1835 - The Devastating 1835 Earthquake in Concepcion, Chile

In 1835, Concepcion, Chile was ravaged by a powerful earthquake that resulted in around 5,000 deaths, drastically altering the city and profoundly impacting its community. This article explores the event's immediate effects and the long journey of recovery that followed.

1829 - The Invention of the Paper Bag

In 1872, Luther Crowell patented a groundbreaking machine that manufactured paper bags, revolutionizing packaging and retail, and paving the way for sustainable alternatives to plastic bags that continue to be relevant today.

1824 - The Premiere of Bruckner's Symphony No. 4

On December 20, 1881, Anton Bruckner's 'Symphony No. 4' premiered in Vienna under conductor Hans Richter, marking a significant milestone in classical music that would influence generations. The symphony, known for its grandeur, reflects Bruckner's deep musical philosophy.

Composer Anton Bruckner

1821 - The Invention of the Hydraulic Electric Elevator

In 1872, Cyrus Baldwin patented the hydraulic electric elevator, revolutionizing vertical transportation and enabling the rise of skyscrapers. This key innovation enhanced safety and efficiency in elevators, changing urban architecture forever.

1820 - The 1869 Martial Law Declaration During the Ku Klux Klan Crisis

In 1869, Governor W.C. Brownlow declared martial law in Tennessee to combat the threats posed by the Ku Klux Klan, underscoring the state's commitment to protecting African Americans during Reconstruction. This bold move was crucial in addressing the violent racial tensions of the time.

1792 - The Premiere of 'The Barber of Seville'

The premiere of 'The Barber of Seville' in 1816 marked a milestone in opera history. Composed by Gioachino Rossini, this comic masterpiece captivated audiences with its witty characters and vibrant music, establishing itself as a beloved classic. Explore the legacy and charm of this iconic work.

Composer Gioachino Rossini