This Day in History

Storming of the Bastille

The storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, is a seminal event in the French Revolution, symbolizing the collapse of the ancient régime and the emergence of popular sovereignty. On this historic day, a large crowd of Parisians, frustrated by oppressive government policies and economic hardships, besieged the medieval fortress-prison known as the Bastille. […]

Jerusalem Captured in the First Crusade

On July 14, 1099, the city of Jerusalem was captured by the crusaders of the First Crusade, concluding a grueling five-week siege that began on June 7th. This historic and brutal event marked a pivotal moment in the Crusades, as the Christian forces, driven by religious fervor and the desire to reclaim the Holy Land, […]

#BlackLivesMatter Hashtag First Appears

The hashtag #BlackLivesMatter first emerged on July 13, 2013, in reaction to the acquittal of George Zimmerman, who had been charged with the fatal shooting of African-American teenager Trayvon Martin. This powerful phrase was coined by activists Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors, and Opal Tometi, who aimed to bring attention to the persistent issues of systemic […]

Last Woman Hanged for Murder in Great Britain

On July 13, 1955, Ruth Ellis was executed by hanging in the United Kingdom, marking the end of an era as she became the last woman to be put to death for murder in the country. Her execution took place at Holloway Prison in London, following her conviction for the murder of her lover, David […]

First World Cup

On July 13, 1930, the first FIFA World Cup tournament commenced in Montevideo, Uruguay, marking the beginning of what would grow into the most popular sporting competition in the world. This historic event was organized by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and featured teams from 13 countries, including Argentina, Brazil, France, and the […]

Geraldine Ferraro Named Vice Presidential Candidate

Geraldine Ferraro made history on July 12, 1984, when she was announced as the vice-presidential running mate of Democratic presidential candidate Walter Mondale. This momentous occasion marked the first time a woman had been selected as a vice-presidential candidate for a major U.S. party’s national ticket. Ferraro’s selection was a groundbreaking achievement that shattered one […]

First Marine to Receive Medal of Honor for Action in Vietnam is Killed

On July 12, 1965, Major Malcolm A. Carpenter, a United States Marine, was killed in action during the Vietnam War. Major Carpenter had already distinguished himself through extraordinary acts of bravery and service, earning him the distinction of being the first Marine to receive the Medal of Honor for his valor during the conflict. His […]

First Dymaxion Car Produced

On July 12, 1933, the first Dymaxion car, designed by the visionary inventor Buckminster Fuller, rolled off the production line. This groundbreaking vehicle was a product of Fuller’s inventive spirit and his desire to revolutionize transportation. The Dymaxion car featured a striking teardrop shape and an unconventional three-wheel layout, with two wheels at the front […]

“To Kill a Mockingbird” Published

  Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” was published on July 11, 1960, and quickly became a cornerstone of modern American literature. Set in the Depression-era South, the novel follows the experiences of young Scout Finch, her brother Jem, and their father, Atticus Finch, as they navigate a world steeped in racial injustice and moral […]

Babe Ruth Makes MLB Debut

Babe Ruth, one of baseball’s most iconic figures, made his major league debut on July 11, 1914, pitching for the Boston Red Sox against the Cleveland Naps. This game marked the start of an extraordinary career that would see Ruth transition from a promising pitcher to one of the most formidable hitters in the history […]