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 […]
1975 Viking 1 Launched to Mars
On August 20, 1975, NASA’s Viking 1 spacecraft was launched towards Mars, marking a significant milestone in space exploration. Viking 1 was the first spacecraft to be part of the Viking program, which aimed to explore and investigate Mars, including its surface, atmosphere, and potential for past or present life. The launch was carried out […]
17-Year-Old Becomes Youngest to Hit an MLB Home Run
On August 20, 1945, 17-year-old Joe Nuxhall made history by becoming the youngest player ever to hit a home run in Major League Baseball (MLB). This remarkable achievement occurred during a game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Philadelphia Phillies. Nuxhall, who was making only his second appearance in the major leagues, hit the home […]
First Enslaved Africans Arrive in Jamestown, Setting the Stage for Slavery in North America
On August 20, 1619, the first recorded arrival of enslaved Africans in English North America occurred at Jamestown, Virginia. This event marked a significant and tragic milestone in American history. The Africans were brought to Jamestown by a Dutch ship, which had captured them from a Portuguese vessel engaged in the transatlantic slave trade. This […]
“West Memphis Three” Released from Prison After 18 Years
On August 19, 2011, the “West Memphis Three” were released from prison after serving 18 years for a crime they maintained they did not commit. The case involved three teenage boys—Damien Echols, Jason Baldwin, and Jessie Misskelley Jr.—who were convicted in 1994 of the murders of three eight-year-old boys in West Memphis, Arkansas. The case […]