Civil War Begins, Fire on Fort Sumter
On April 12, 1861, the American Civil War erupts as Confederate forces under General P.G.T. Beauregard fire on Fort Sumter in South Carolina, initiating the first military engagement of the conflict. This pivotal event marks the beginning of a bloody and transformative chapter in American history, as North and South are plunged into a devastating […]
Apollo 13 Launches to the Moon
On April 11, 1970, the Apollo 13 mission launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida with the goal of landing astronauts on the moon. However, the mission encountered a life-threatening crisis when an oxygen tank exploded two days later, forcing the crew to abort their lunar landing and undertake a perilous journey back to Earth. […]
First Live Sporting Event Broadcast on Radio
In 1921, history was made as the first live sporting event was broadcast on radio, revolutionizing how audiences experienced sports. The broadcast, featuring a boxing match between Johnny Ray and Johnny Dundee, paved the way for the widespread coverage of sports events and the development of sports broadcasting as a major industry.
Napoleon Bonaparte Abdicates the Throne
On this day in history, Napoleon Bonaparte abdicates the throne of France following his defeat in the War of the Sixth Coalition, and is subsequently exiled to the island of Elba. This marked the end of his rule as Emperor of the French and the beginning of his first exile, though he would later return […]
Croatia Declares Independence
In 1941, Croatia declares independence, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s history as it seeks autonomy from Yugoslavia amid the tumult of World War II. This declaration sets the stage for Croatia’s subsequent struggle for sovereignty and its eventual emergence as an independent nation-state, shaping the course of Balkan politics and identity in the […]
Revolutionary Leader Emiliano Zapata is Assassinated
On this day in 1919, revolutionary leader Emiliano Zapata is assassinated in Mexico, bringing an end to his efforts to champion the rights of indigenous peasants and land reform in the midst of the Mexican Revolution. Zapata’s legacy lives on as a symbol of resistance and social justice, inspiring generations of activists and revolutionaries in […]
ASPCA is Founded
On April 10, 1866, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is founded in New York City, marking a significant milestone in animal welfare advocacy and inspiring similar organizations worldwide. This pioneering institution remains dedicated to preventing cruelty to animals and promoting their well-being through education, rescue efforts, and legislative action.
Royal Wedding of Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles
Prince Charles, the heir to the British throne, marries Camilla Parker Bowles in a civil ceremony at Windsor Guildhall, following years of public scrutiny and speculation about their relationship. The wedding, attended by close family and friends, marks a personal milestone for the couple and signals a new chapter in their public roles within the […]
Baghdad Falls to U.S. Forces
On April 9, 2003, Baghdad, the capital city of Iraq, falls to United States forces during the Iraq War, marking a significant milestone in the toppling of Saddam Hussein’s regime. The capture of Baghdad by coalition forces leads to widespread jubilation among Iraqis and signals the beginning of a new chapter in the nation’s history, […]
Robert E. Lee Surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant
Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the American Civil War. Lee’s surrender symbolizes the collapse of the Confederacy and paves the way for the reunification of the United States after years of conflict and division.