This Day in History

The Stars and Stripes Flies in Battle for the First Time

On September 3, 1777, during the American Revolutionary War, the Continental Army under General George Washington witnessed the debut of the Stars and Stripes, the flag that would become the symbol of the United States. This historic event took place at the Battle of Cooch’s Bridge in Delaware, making it the first time the flag […]

First U.S. ATM Opens for Business

On September 2, 1969, the first automated teller machine (ATM) in the United States was put into operation at a branch of Chemical Bank in Rockville Centre, New York. This groundbreaking innovation marked the beginning of a new era in banking, transforming the way people access their finances and conduct transactions. The introduction of the […]

Vietnam Declares Independence from France

On September 2, 1945, Ho Chi Minh, leader of the Viet Minh, declared Vietnam’s independence from French colonial rule. This declaration marked a significant moment in Vietnam’s struggle for sovereignty and set the stage for the country’s future political landscape. The proclamation came at the end of World War II and was a pivotal moment […]

Great Fire of London Begins

On September 2, 1666, one of the most devastating urban fires in history began in London. Known as the Great Fire of London, this catastrophic blaze swept through the city over the course of four days, ultimately destroying a significant portion of the city and profoundly impacting its residents. The fire’s origins and subsequent impact […]

First Muslim Holiday U.S. Postage Stamp is Issued

On September 1, 2001, the United States Postal Service (USPS) issued its first-ever postage stamp commemorating a Muslim holiday, marking a significant milestone in the recognition and inclusion of diverse cultural and religious traditions in American society. The stamp, featuring an image celebrating the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Fitr, symbolized a broader acceptance and understanding […]

Bobby Fischer Becomes the First American to Win the World Chess Championship

On September 1, 1972, Bobby Fischer achieved a historic milestone in the world of chess by becoming the first American to win the World Chess Championship. His victory over Boris Spassky of the Soviet Union in Reykjavik, Iceland, marked a significant moment in chess history and was a key event in the Cold War era, […]

Japan’s Great Kanto Earthquake

On September 1, 1923, Japan was struck by the devastating Great Kanto Earthquake, one of the most catastrophic natural disasters in the country’s history. The earthquake, which hit the Kanto region, including Tokyo and Yokohama, resulted in the deaths of over 140,000 people and caused widespread destruction. The event remains a significant moment in Japan’s […]

Princess Diana Dies in a Car Crash

TDIH

On August 31, 1997, the world was shocked by the tragic death of Princess Diana in a car crash in Paris. The beloved Princess of Wales, known for her humanitarian work and captivating presence, was involved in a high-speed collision in the Pont de l’Alma tunnel. The accident claimed her life at the age of […]

Polish Government Signs Accord with Gdansk Shipyard Workers

TDIH

On August 31, 1980, a significant historical event unfolded as the Polish government signed a groundbreaking accord with striking workers at the Gdansk Shipyard. This agreement marked a pivotal moment in the history of labor movements and political reform in Poland, leading to profound changes in the country’s political landscape and contributing to the eventual […]

William Cobb Demonstrates First Solar-Powered Car

TDIH

On August 31, 1955, inventor William Cobb made history by demonstrating the world’s first solar-powered car. The vehicle, known as the “Solar Vehicle,” represented a significant leap forward in automotive technology and showcased the potential of solar energy as a viable alternative to fossil fuels. Cobb’s demonstration was a groundbreaking event that highlighted the future […]