What happened today in history?

What happened
today in history?
[ Feb 9 ]

2021 - WHO Team Investigates COVID-19 Origins in Wuhan

In early 2021, a WHO team investigated the origins of COVID-19 in Wuhan, concluding it was "extremely unlikely" that the virus leaked from a lab, suggesting a natural origin instead. Their findings sparked global debates and emphasized the need for international collaboration in future pandemic responses.

2020 - 2020 Solar Orbiter Launch

On February 10, 2020, the Solar Orbiter probe successfully launched from Cape Canaveral atop an Atlas V rocket, embarking on a mission to explore the Sun's outer atmosphere and gather vital data on solar activity and its impacts on the solar system.

2020 - Tragic Attack in Auno, Nigeria: A Night of Terror

In February 2020, Auno, Nigeria, suffered a tragic militant attack resulting in the deaths of at least 30 people, many killed while sleeping in their cars. The militants also kidnapped women and children, highlighting the ongoing violence and instability in the region.

2020 - Hope Probe Reaches Mars: UAE's Historic Achievement

On February 9, 2021, the UAE succeeded in orbiting the Hope Probe around Mars, marking their significant contribution to space exploration as the fifth entity to do so. This mission aims to study Mars's atmosphere and climate, symbolizing hope for future generations.

2019 - COVID-19 Surpasses SARS Death Toll

In March 2020, COVID-19 deaths surpassed those of the 2003 SARS outbreak, with 813 fatalities reported globally. The pandemic highlighted the virus's rapid spread and overwhelming impact on healthcare systems worldwide.

2015 - The Release of 'Fifty Shades of Grey' in 2015

The 2015 film 'Fifty Shades of Grey' marked a turning point in cinematic depictions of romance and erotica. Based on E. L. James's novel, it starred Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan, and became a cultural phenomenon that sparked discussions around BDSM and relationships.

Actress Dakota Johnson
Actor Jamie Dornan

2014 - 2014 Protests in Bosnia-Herzegovina

In February 2014, protests erupted in Bosnia-Herzegovina, fueled by a staggering 40% unemployment rate. Citizens protested against government corruption and economic despair, leading to significant demonstrations across major cities like Sarajevo.

2013 - Tragic Cessna Plane Crash in Brussels

In May 2013, a devastating Cessna plane crash in Brussels resulted in five fatalities, raising critical discussions regarding aviation safety protocols and investigations following the tragic incident.

1998 - Celebrating Sports Excellence: The 6th ESPY Awards 1998

The 6th ESPY Awards in 1998 celebrated sports excellence, with Ken Griffey Jr. winning Best Male Athlete and Mia Hamm receiving the award for Best Female Athlete. Hosted by Jay Mohr, the ceremony highlighted outstanding performances and significant contributions in the world of athletics.

Baseball Hall of Fame Outfielder Ken Griffey Jr.

1996 - Tragic Collision at Sea: USS Greeneville and Ehime-Maru Incident

In a tragic maritime disaster on February 9, 2001, the USS Greeneville accidentally collided with the Ehime-Maru, a Japanese training vessel, resulting in the sinking of the ship and the loss of nine lives, including four students. This incident raised significant awareness about maritime safety protocols.

1995 - The Premier of Riverdance in 1995

Riverdance premiered in 1995, captivating audiences with Irish music and dance, led by Michael Flatley. This cultural phenomenon redefined Irish heritage on the global stage and continues to inspire generations.

Irish Dancer Michael Flatley

1990 - The Brady Bunch Returns: A 1990 Revival on CBS

The iconic sitcom The Brady Bunch made a nostalgic return to CBS in 1990 with a six-episode revival that reintroduced the beloved family dynamics to a new audience, filled with heartfelt moments and relatable family challenges.

1990 - Galileo's Historic Flyby of Venus

In 1990, NASA's Galileo spacecraft executed a gravity assist flyby of Venus, flying at an altitude of 10,000 miles to gain speed for its mission to study Jupiter, providing valuable data about both planets.

1990 - XXIII Winter Olympics 2018: A Celebration in PyeongChang

The XXIII Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea, marked a vibrant celebration of winter sports, featuring over 2,900 athletes and historic moments of unity between North and South Korea, beautifully highlighted by the opening ceremony led by figure skating champion Yuna Kim.

Snowboarder Chloe Kim

1989 - The Simpsons Record Run: A Historic Milestone

On January 14, 1997, 'The Simpsons' aired its 167th episode, marking its status as the longest-running animated series in television history, influencing countless shows with its unique blend of humor and social commentary.

Fictional TV Character Homer Simpson
Actor Hank Azaria

1986 - The Spectacle of Halley's Comet in 1986

In 1986, Halley's Comet reached its 30th perihelion, captivating the world as it made its closest approach to the Sun. This celestial spectacle drew public interest and sparked significant scientific research into the nature of comets.

1983 - Belgium's Acquisition of F-16s in 1983

In 1983, Belgium made a strategic decision to bolster its military by buying 44 F-16 fighter jets from the U.S. This acquisition aimed to enhance its air defense capabilities during the Cold War, significantly impacting its military operations.

1982 - Nicki Minaj's 'Pink Friday' Reaches Number One

Nicki Minaj's 'Pink Friday' album achieved a remarkable milestone by reaching number one on the Billboard 200 in its eleventh week on the chart. This event underscored her impact and popularity in the music world, marking a significant accomplishment for female artists.

Rapper and Singer Nicki Minaj

1979 - Celebrating Rock Legends: The 1979 ABC Special

On March 3, 1979, ABC aired "Heroes of Rock N Roll", showcasing archival performances of 62 artists who shaped the genre. This special highlighted rock's cultural significance and celebrated legendary musicians, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

1979 - Premiere of 'Hardcore' in New York City (1979)

The 1979 premiere of Paul Schrader's film 'Hardcore' in New York City marked a pivotal moment in cinema. The film explores the dark realities of the adult film industry and features a gripping performance by George C. Scott, drawing both critical acclaim and controversy.

1975 - 1975 Soyuz 17 Returns to Earth: A Historic Space Mission

The Soyuz 17 mission, launched in January 1975, marked a significant milestone in space exploration. The successful return of cosmonauts Oleg Makarov and Viktor Patsayev highlighted the advancements in space technology and international collaboration during the Cold War period.

1974 - The British Miners' Strike of 1974

In January 1974, British miners initiated a strike over wage disputes, leading Prime Minister Edward Heath to declare a state of emergency. This pivotal event reshaped labor relations and resulted in significant political changes in the UK.

British Prime Minister Edward Heath

1972 - The Launch of Ulster Vanguard in 1972

In 1972, William Craig launched the 'Ulster Vanguard' to unify right-wing Unionism in Northern Ireland amidst the escalating Troubles, marking a significant political movement aimed at preserving Unionist identity.

1971 - The Historic Return of Apollo 14

Apollo 14, launched on January 31, 1971, successfully returned to Earth on February 9, 1971. Led by Alan Shepard, the mission achieved significant lunar exploration, including the first golfing on the Moon, marking an important chapter in space history.

1969 - The Launch of KGTO TV Channel 36

In 1969, KGTO TV Channel 36 began broadcasting in Fayetteville, Arkansas, as a dual affiliate of ABC and NBC. This significant launch provided essential local news and entertainment, transforming the media landscape for the community.

1966 - The 1966 Nuclear Reactor Announcement in Scotland

In March 1966, the UK Government announced plans for a nuclear reactor on the North coast of Scotland. This initiative aimed to enhance energy production and promote research in nuclear technologies while addressing safety and public concerns.

1963 - The 1963 Maiden Flight of the Boeing 727

The maiden flight of the Boeing 727 on February 9, 1963, marked a revolutionary moment in aviation, introducing a versatile commercial jet that transformed travel with its innovative tri-engine design and capacity to serve short- and mid-range routes.

1963 - Jens Weißflog's Historic Olympic Victory in 1984

In 1984, Jens Weißflog won his first Olympic gold medal in ski jumping at the Sarajevo Winter Games, becoming a celebrated athlete for East Germany. His remarkable skills secured him a place in sports history, inspiring future generations of competitors.

1960 - The 1960 AFL-NFL No Tampering Pact

In 1960, the AFL and NFL agreed verbally to a no tampering pact to protect player contracts and enhance relationships, eventually leading to a more cooperative football landscape. This agreement laid the groundwork for their merger in 1970.

1956 - The Historic Cold Snap of 1956 in Sicily

In January 1956, Sicily experienced a historic cold snap with temperatures dropping to 5°F (-20.6°C). This unprecedented event devastated agriculture and challenged local communities, leading to remarkable resilience as residents supported each other during the crisis.

1956 - First Broadcast of KHPL TV Channel 6

On December 24, 1956, KHPL TV Channel 6 made its first broadcast in Hayes Center, Nebraska. This historic event marked the beginning of local television broadcasting and paved the way for future programming, becoming an integral part of the community.

1952 - South Africa's Electricity Crisis of 2023

In 2023, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa declared a national state of disaster to address a severe electricity crisis that led to daily blackouts nationwide. This urgent response aims to stabilize the energy supply through collaboration and enhanced energy projects.

Activist and President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa

1946 - The 2021 Impeachment Trial of Donald Trump

The 2021 Impeachment Trial of Donald Trump was a historic event following the Capitol riot, where the former president faced charges of incitement. This unprecedented trial sparked national debate on accountability and constitutional limits on presidential conduct.

45th US President, Businessman and TV Personality Donald Trump

1945 - Destruction of the Ruhr Dams by Germany

On February 10, 1945, in a desperate measure, Germany destroyed the Ruhr dams, a strategic move intended to disrupt advancing Allied forces. This act caused flooding that resulted in significant humanitarian consequences, yet did not change the war's inevitable outcome.

1945 - WAAF Corporal Flies Alongside a Spitfire in 1945

In 1945, a courageous WAAF corporal had the remarkable opportunity to fly along the tail of a Spitfire, symbolizing the significant roles women played in World War II and paving the way for future generations in military aviation.

1944 - Rick Barry: The Pioneer of the 3-Point Shot

On December 31, 1980, Rick Barry made NBA history as the first player to score eight 3-pointers in a game while playing for the Houston Rockets. This achievement not only showcased his shooting prowess but also influenced the future of basketball strategy.

NBA Small Forward Rick Barry

1944 - Al Michaels Joins NBC's Sunday Night Football

In 2006, Al Michaels transitioned to NBC's Sunday Night Football alongside John Madden, marking a significant chapter in sports broadcasting history. Their partnership brought excitement and analysis to fans, reshaping how football was televised.

Television Sportscaster Al Michaels
NFL Coach and Sportscaster John Madden

1942 - Invasion of Makassar: A Significant WWII Event

On March 8, 1942, Japanese troops landed near Makassar, South Celebes, marking a significant event in World War II. This invasion aimed to secure strategic resources and enhance Japan's military presence in the region, impacting local populations and geopolitical dynamics.

1941 - British Troops Conquer El Agheila in 1941

In 1941, British troops successfully conquered El Agheila during World War II, marking a significant victory in the North African Campaign. This strategic maneuver helped shift power dynamics and enabled further advances into Libya.

1941 - Hanumant Singh's Historic Test Debut

In 1964, Hanumant Singh made a remarkable debut for India against England, scoring 105 runs in Delhi. This performance marked a significant milestone in his cricket career and in the history of Indian cricket.

1939 - The Iran-Contra Affair: Robert McFarlane's Public Struggle

In 1987, as the Iran-Contra investigation intensified, former National Security Adviser Robert McFarlane attempted suicide just hours before his expected testimony. This event exposed the deep personal impact of political scandals and raised concerns over mental health among public officials.

National Security Advisor Robert McFarlane

1937 - The 1979 Nigerian Constitution Amendment: A Landmark Change

In 1979, Nigeria introduced a landmark constitution aimed at restoring democracy after years of military rule. Spearheaded by General Olusegun Obasanjo, this constitution sought to establish a federal system while protecting citizens' rights, but it faced challenges that eventually led to another military coup.

1935 - The Rise of 'Daddy What If' by Bobby Bare

In 1974, Bobby Bare released 'Daddy What If,' a charming country tune that peaked at #41 on the charts. The song beautifully captures the innocence of childhood curiosity through a playful dialogue between a child and parent, marking a memorable moment in Bare's musical journey.

1934 - Michigan's Coldest Day: The 1934 Record

On February 9, 1934, Vanderbilt, Michigan set a chilling record with a temperature of -51°F (-46°C), marking it the coldest day ever recorded in the state. This event showcased the extreme winter conditions faced by residents during a historically harsh winter.

1934 - Formation of the 1934 Balkan Entente Alliance

The 1934 Balkan Entente alliance united Yugoslavia, Greece, Turkey, and Romania as a collective effort for regional security amid rising tensions in Europe, aiming to confront external threats and foster cooperation among these nations.

1933 - The Coldest Temperature Recorded in Wyoming

On February 9, 1933, Moran, Wyoming set the record for the lowest temperature in the state at -63°F (-53°C). This extreme event highlighted the area's weather conditions and marked a significant moment in Wyoming's climate history.

1932 - USA's Historic Entry into Olympic Bobsledding

In 1932, the USA made its debut in the Olympic 2-man bobsled competition during the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, marking a significant moment in American sports history and laying the groundwork for future success in winter sports.

1929 - Understanding Litvinov's Pact of 1929

The 1929 Litvinov's Pact marked a significant diplomatic milestone, promoting peace among the USSR, Estonia, Latvia, Poland, and Romania, advocating for the renunciation of war and fostering cooperative international relations.

1927 - Jim Jenson Makes His Mark at WCBS-TV in 1964

In 1964, Jim Jenson debuted on WCBS-TV, marking the start of a legendary career in news broadcasting. His charismatic presence and commitment to journalism resonated with New Yorkers, shaping the local news landscape for decades.

1925 - Patnaik Elected Leader of Opposition in 1973

In 1973, Biranchi Narayan Patnaik was elected as Leader of the Opposition of the Orissa State Assembly by the Pragati Legislature Party, significantly impacting the state's political environment and advocating for social reform.

1924 - The Legacy of James Clavell's Whirlwind

James Clavell's 'Whirlwind' released in 1979 is a powerful exploration of the Iranian Revolution, characterized by strong character arcs and moral dilemmas, which became a mini-series in 1988. It's a reflection on resilience amidst chaos. Explore its themes and legacy here!

Novelist and Screenwriter James Clavell

1923 - The Birth of Civil Aviation in the Soviet Union

In 1923, the Soviet Union established the Civil Air Fleet through a resolution by the Council of Labour and Defence, paving the way for Aeroflot, the world's largest airline today. This event marked a new era in Soviet aviation, enhancing connectivity across the nation.

1922 - The Historic 1922 Snowfall on Mauna Loa, Hawaii

In 1922, a rare snowfall blanketed Mauna Loa, Hawaii's largest volcano, astonishing residents and scientists alike. This unusual weather event highlighted the island's diverse climate and influenced tourism while providing valuable insights into meteorology.

1920 - Svalbard's Sovereignty: The 1920 Treaty

The 1920 Svalbard Treaty marked a pivotal moment in history as it recognized Norway's sovereignty over the Svalbard archipelago, establishing a framework for international cooperation and resource management in the Arctic region.

1920 - 1920 Joint Rules Committee Bans Foreign Substances in Baseball

In 1920, the Joint Rules Committee implemented a game-changing ban on foreign substances and alterations to baseballs, aiming to preserve the integrity of the sport and restore public confidence following scandals. This landmark decision reshaped the landscape of baseball, influencing regulations and player strategies for years to come.

1920 - 1943: The Sale of the Philadelphia Phillies

In 1943, the Philadelphia Phillies faced a crisis as owner Gerry Nugent fell behind in payments, prompting the National League to seek a buyer for the team. This led to a community outcry and set the stage for the team's future.

1919 - Joseph Ileo: Premier of Congo in 1961

The appointment of Joseph Ileo as Premier of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1961 marked a pivotal moment in the country's tumultuous political landscape, as he sought to bring stability and economic development amidst ongoing turmoil.

1918 - The Establishment of the US Army Chaplain School

In 1918, the US Army established the Chaplain School at Fort Monroe, Virginia, to train military chaplains. This initiative highlighted the importance of spiritual support for soldiers during World War I and laid the groundwork for the modern Chaplain Corps.

1916 - 1916 National League Votes on Player Limit Proposal

In 1916, the National League faced a critical decision regarding player limits, with teams like the Giants, Braves, and Cubs proposing an increase while the Reds pushed for a reduction. The vote ultimately denied the increase, shaping team strategies and dynamics for years to come.

1914 - Franz Pfnür's Historic Olympic Gold in 1936

In 1936, at the Garmisch-Partenkirchen Winter Games, Franz Pfnür won the inaugural Olympic men’s combined gold medal, showcasing his skiing prowess ahead of fellow German teammate Gustav Lantschner, who secured silver. This marked a historic moment in Olympic skiing.

1912 - 1912 US Tennis Association Changes Champion Rule

In 1912, the US Tennis Association ended the bye system for defending champions, marking a significant shift in competitive tennis. This decision enhanced fairness and excitement, ensuring all players competed from the start and invigorated the tournament atmosphere.

1906 - 1906 Natal Proclaims State of Siege in Zulu Uprising

In 1906, the Natal government declared a state of siege during the Zulu Uprising, a rebellion against colonial oppression led by Chief Bambatha. This event marked a critical moment in South African history, highlighting the struggle for Zulu rights and freedoms.

1906 - Browns Sign Satchel Paige: A Historic MLB Moment in 1951

In 1951, the St. Louis Browns made history by signing 45-year-old pitcher Satchel Paige, a legendary figure from the Negro Leagues. This pivotal moment not only brought excitement to the Browns but also symbolized the gradual integration of baseball, highlighting Paige's enduring legacy in the sport.

Baseball Hall of Fame Pitcher Satchel Paige

1901 - The Great Escape of Willie Sutton in 1947

In 1947, notorious bank robber Willie Sutton executed a daring prison escape from Philadelphia's 'The Rocks'. Utilizing clever tactics and meticulous planning, he evaded capture, shedding light on both his criminal genius and prison security flaws.

Bank Robber Willie Sutton

1899 - The Fall of the 1939 Belgian Spaak Government

In 1939, the Belgian government led by Prime Minister Paul-Henri Spaak collapsed amidst rising political unrest and external pressures from World War II. This event led to significant instability as Belgium sought new leadership during a time of impending war.

1896 - Oscar Charleston Inducted into Baseball's Hall of Fame (1976)

In 1976, Oscar Charleston, an extraordinary player from the Negro Leagues, was honored with induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to America’s favorite pastime and paving the way for the acknowledgment of African American players' legacies.

1893 - The Premiere of Verdi's 'Falstaff' in 1893

Giuseppe Verdi's final opera, 'Falstaff', premiered in 1893 at La Scala, Milan, showcasing a brilliant comic adaptation of Shakespeare's works. This innovative composition marked a significant milestone in operatic history, blending humor with memorable melodies.

Composer Giuseppe Verdi

1891 - The First Asparagus Shipment to San Francisco (1891)

In 1891, the first shipment of asparagus arrived in San Francisco from Sacramento, marking the start of a significant agricultural milestone. This event not only introduced a new culinary ingredient but also boosted the local economy and shaped California's agricultural identity.

1889 - Establishment of the USDA in 1889

In 1889, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) was established as a Cabinet-level agency. It played a crucial role in shaping American agriculture by providing support, resources, and essential research to farmers, adapting to their growing needs as the nation evolved.

1886 - The Historic Merger of AFL and CIO in 1955

In 1955, the American Federation of Labor (AFL) and the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) decided to merge, marking a crucial moment in labor history aimed at strengthening workers' rights through unity. This agreement required ratification by both groups' executive committees.

1885 - The Premiere of Sacha Guitry's "Deburan" in 1918

In 1918, Sacha Guitry premiered his theatrical play "Deburan" in Paris, captivating audiences with its humor and intricate exploration of love. This event marked a significant moment in French theatre history, showcasing Guitry's talent in reviving cultural life after World War I.

1883 - 1942 Philadelphia Phillies Name Change to 'Phils'

In 1942, the Philadelphia Phillies temporarily changed their nickname to 'Phils' during World War II to connect better with fans. This name change fostered community engagement and affection for the team, which returned to its original name post-war. Fun fact: the affectionate fans still refer to them as the Phils today.

1873 - The Ten Tragic Days of 1913 in Mexico City

The Ten Tragic Days in 1913 marked a violent coup in Mexico City against President Francisco I. Madero's government, leading to approximately 3,000 deaths and significant political upheaval. This event played a crucial role in shaping the course of the Mexican Revolution.

1861 - The Confederate Constitution: A Bold Declaration in 1861

In 1861, the Confederate Provisional Congress declared that all laws under the US Constitution were consistent with their own, attempting to legitimize their governance amidst the Civil War. This decision shaped the Confederacy's legal identity and influenced the war narrative.

Page one of the original copy of the Constitution of the United States

1861 - Tennessee's Crucial Vote Against Secession in 1861

In 1861, Tennessee faced a crucial decision as it voted against secession from the Union amidst the escalating Civil War. This decision highlighted the state's complex loyalties and prelude to its later alignment with the Confederacy, impacting the war dramatically.

1822 - The Formation of the American Indian Society in 1822

In 1822, the American Indian Society was established as a significant movement toward Indigenous unity and advocacy in the face of growing pressures from colonial expansion, driven by leaders like Elias Boudinot. This society laid the foundation for future Indigenous rights movements.

1822 - The Establishment of the National Weather Service

In 1870, President Ulysses S. Grant signed a pivotal law establishing the National Weather Service, originally known as the Division of Telegrams and Reports for the Benefit of Commerce, enhancing weather forecasting to benefit commerce and public safety.

Union General and US President Ulysses S. Grant

1805 - The Fall of De Lesseps: The 1893 Fraud Scandal

In 1893, Ferdinand de Lesseps, the builder of the Suez Canal, faced a significant downfall as he was sentenced to prison for fraud involving the Panama Canal project, exposing large-scale embezzlement and mismanagement that devastated investors' trust.

1776 - Haiti's 1822 Invasion of the Dominican Republic

In 1822, Jean-Pierre Boyer led Haiti to invade and occupy the newly independent Dominican Republic. This military action initiated years of complex and fraught relations between the two nations, influencing their historical paths.

1767 - John Quincy Adams Elected 6th President of the United States

On February 9, 1825, John Quincy Adams was elected as the 6th President of the United States by the House of Representatives, despite losing both the popular and electoral votes to Andrew Jackson. This election highlighted the complexities of early American democracy and set the stage for Adams' impactful presidency.

6th US President John Quincy Adams

1747 - The 1788 Austria-Russia Conflict

In 1788, Austria declared war on Russia amid growing tensions in Eastern Europe, influenced by the Russo-Turkish War. The conflict aimed to challenge Russia's expansion but led to significant battles and eventual diplomatic negotiations, altering the regional power dynamics.

1744 - The Battle at Toulon (1744): A Clash of Naval Powers

The Battle at Toulon in 1744 involved the French and Spanish fleets opposing Admiral Matthews' English fleet. It showcased critical naval strategies and the importance of Toulon as a strategic port, ultimately highlighting the complexities of maritime warfare in the War of Austrian Succession.

1674 - The 1674 English Reconquest of New York from the Netherlands

In 1674, the English reconquered New York from the Netherlands, restoring control after a brief Dutch rule, marking a pivotal moment in colonial history. This event highlighted the ongoing power struggle between European nations in North America and set the stage for New York's future as a major city.

1540 - The First Recorded Race Meet in England

In 1540, the first recorded horse race meet took place at Roodee Fields in Chester, marking a pivotal moment in the history of horse racing in England. This event laid the foundation for the sport's evolution and its cultural significance in British society.

1500 - Pope Paul III Appoints Cardinal Pole to England (1537)

In 1537, Pope Paul III appointed Cardinal Reginald Pole as legate to England, marking a significant moment in the Catholic response to the Protestant Reformation. Pole's mission to restore Catholicism faced many challenges, including King's resistance and societal division.

1499 - The Treaty of 1499: An Alliance Against Milan

In 1499, France and Venice formed a strategic treaty against Milan, altering the balance of power in Renaissance Italy. This alliance under King Louis XII and the Venetian Doges aimed to contain Milan's influence, leading to significant military campaigns.

1287 - The 1287 Storm Impacting the Cinque Ports

In 1287, a massive storm struck southeast England, hitting the Cinque Ports hard. This event drastically realigned the coastline, leaving New Romney port a mile inland and changing the course of maritime history in the region.

11 - The Invasion of Benin City: The Fate of the Benin Pendant Mask

In 1897, British Forces invaded Benin City, leading to the destruction of the Nigerian Kingdom of Benin and the looting of its cultural artifacts, including the famed Pendant Mask. This event ended centuries of regal history and sparked discussions on colonialism and cultural restitution.

Benin mask carved of ivory thought to represent 16th century Edo queen Idia