The Completion of the Transcontinental Railroad
On May 10, 1869, the United States celebrated the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad, marked by the ceremonial driving of the “Golden Spike” at Promontory Summit, Utah. This monumental project connected the eastern U.S. rail network with California, revolutionizing transportation and commerce across the nation. The railroad not only facilitated westward expansion and economic growth […]
The Tragic End of Aldo Moro
Former Italian Prime Minister Aldo Moro, after being kidnapped by the Red Brigades—a far-left terrorist group—was found dead on May 9, 1978. Moro’s abduction and subsequent murder shocked Italy and the world, exposing the extreme political tensions in Italy during the “Years of Lead.” His death not only had a profound impact on Italian politics […]
The FDA Approves the Birth Control Pill
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the birth control pill on May 9, 1960, heralding a monumental shift in reproductive rights and women’s health. As the first commercially available oral contraceptive, the pill gave women unprecedented control over their fertility, contributing to profound social changes, including the women’s liberation movement, changes in marital […]
West Germany Joins NATO
On May 9, 1955, West Germany was admitted into the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), just ten years after the end of World War II. This significant event marked a crucial step in the integration of Germany into the Western defense alliance against the Soviet bloc, symbolizing a dramatic shift from its recent past as […]
Betty White Breaks New Ground on SNL
On May 8, 2010, Betty White hosted “Saturday Night Live” at the age of 88, becoming the oldest person to host the show. Her appearance, prompted by a fan-driven Facebook campaign, was met with critical acclaim and showcased her timeless comedic talent and widespread appeal. White’s hosting gig not only set a record but also […]
V-E Day Celebrations
Victory in Europe (V-E) Day was celebrated on May 8, 1945, marking the formal acceptance by the Allies of World War II of Nazi Germany’s unconditional surrender of its armed forces. This day signaled the end of World War II in Europe, bringing jubilation to America and Britain, with massive crowds gathering to celebrate peace […]
Harry Truman is Born
Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States, was born on May 8, 1884, in Lamar, Missouri. Rising from a modest upbringing to the highest office in the land, Truman’s presidency is noted for its critical decisions during tumultuous times, including the ending of World War II and the beginning of the Cold […]
The Return of “The Scream”
The Edvard Munch’s iconic painting “The Scream” was recovered on May 7, 1994, after having been stolen from the National Gallery in Oslo, Norway, during the 1994 Winter Olympics. The painting’s theft and subsequent recovery captivated the world, highlighting issues of art security and the enduring value and vulnerability of cultural artifacts. “The Scream,” emblematic […]
The Sinking of the Lusitania
The German submarine U-20 sank the RMS Lusitania on May 7, 1915, a British ocean liner, resulting in the tragic loss of 1,198 lives, including 128 Americans. This event dramatically escalated tensions between Germany and the Allied powers, particularly influencing the United States’ public opinion and hastening its entry into World War I two years […]
A New Chapter Begins for Japanese Immigrants
On this day in 1843, the first Japanese immigrant, a fisherman displaced by a storm, arrived in the United States, marking the beginning of Japanese immigration to America. His arrival predates the more substantial migration flows that would follow decades later, contributing to the rich tapestry of cultural diversity in the U.S. This event symbolizes […]