Mount Vesuvius Erupts
On August 24, 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted in one of the most catastrophic volcanic events in recorded history. The eruption buried the Roman cities of Pompeii, Herculaneum, Oplontis, and Stabiae under a thick blanket of volcanic ash and pumice. The eruption released a lethal cloud of stones, ashes, and fumes to a height of […]
FDA Fully Approves Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine
On August 23, 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted full approval to the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for use in individuals 16 years of age and older. This landmark decision marked a significant milestone in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, as it was the first COVID-19 vaccine to receive full regulatory approval […]
First “Survivor” Finale Airs
On August 23, 2000, the finale of the inaugural season of the reality television show Survivor aired on CBS, marking a significant moment in the history of reality TV. Created by Mark Burnett, Survivor introduced audiences to a new genre of television entertainment, combining elements of competition, strategy, and social dynamics. The show featured a […]
Sacco and Vanzetti Executed
On August 23, 1927, Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti were executed in the electric chair at Charlestown State Prison in Massachusetts. The execution of these two Italian-American anarchists, who had been convicted of murder and robbery, was the culmination of a highly controversial legal case that had drawn widespread attention and sparked intense debate. Sacco […]
Althea Gibson Becomes First African American on U.S. Tennis Tour
On August 22, 1950, Althea Gibson made history by becoming the first African American to participate in the U.S. National Championships, now known as the U.S. Open. This landmark achievement marked a significant moment in the history of tennis and was a testament to Gibson’s exceptional talent and perseverance. Her entry into the tournament not […]
International Red Cross Founded
On August 22, 1864, the International Red Cross was officially founded, marking a seminal moment in the history of humanitarian aid and international cooperation. The foundation of the Red Cross was initiated by the Geneva Convention, which aimed to provide a framework for the protection and care of wounded soldiers and civilians during armed conflicts. […]
Battle of Bosworth Field
On August 22, 1485, the Battle of Bosworth Field marked a decisive turning point in English history. This pivotal battle took place near the village of Bosworth in Leicestershire and was the culmination of a series of conflicts known as the Wars of the Roses, which pitted the rival houses of Lancaster and York against […]
Michael Phelps Wins Eighth Medal
On August 21, 2004, American swimmer Michael Phelps made history at the Athens Summer Olympics by winning his eighth medal of the Games, a feat that solidified his status as one of the greatest swimmers of all time. This remarkable achievement occurred during a time when Phelps was on a record-breaking spree, showcasing his exceptional […]
PETA is Founded
On August 21, 1980, the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) was founded by Ingrid Newkirk and Alex Pacheco. The organization was established with the aim of promoting animal rights and advocating for ethical treatment of animals across various industries, including food, clothing, and entertainment. PETA was conceived in response to growing concerns […]
Hawaii Becomes the 50th State
On August 21, 1959, Hawaii officially became the 50th state of the United States. The journey to statehood for Hawaii was a complex process influenced by its unique geographic, cultural, and historical context. The push for statehood began in earnest during the early 20th century, with growing local support for greater political integration and representation […]