Skeleton of Tyrannosaurus rex Discovered
On August 12, 1990, the skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex, famously known as “Sue,” was discovered in South Dakota’s Hell Creek Formation. This significant paleontological find was made by fossil hunter Sue Hendrickson, whose discovery marked a pivotal moment in the study of dinosaurs. The fossil was named “Sue” in her honor, and it would […]
“The Wizard of Oz” Movie Premieres in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin
On August 10, 1939, the classic film The Wizard of Oz premiered in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, marking the beginning of its journey to becoming one of the most beloved films in cinematic history. Directed by Victor Fleming and produced by MGM, the film was based on L. Frank Baum’s 1900 novel of the same name. The […]
Cleopatra Dies by Suicide
On August 10, 30 B.C., Cleopatra VII, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, died by suicide in Alexandria. Cleopatra’s death marked the end of an era for Egypt and the final chapter in the storied history of the Ptolemaic dynasty. Her demise followed a series of tumultuous events that had led […]
Oscar-Winning Actor Robin Williams Dies at 63
On August 11, 2014, the world lost one of its most beloved and versatile actors, Robin Williams, who passed away at the age of 63. Williams was renowned for his extraordinary talent and range, captivating audiences with his comedic brilliance and emotional depth. Born on July 21, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, Williams began his career […]
The Watts Rebellion Begins
On August 11, 1965, the Watts Rebellion, also known as the Watts Riots, erupted in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. The unrest began after an incident involving the arrest of an African American motorist, Marquette Frye, who was stopped by police for suspected drunk driving. The situation quickly escalated as tensions between the […]
The Establishment of Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary
On August 11, 1934, the first federal prisoners arrived at Alcatraz Island, marking the beginning of the infamous Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary. Located in San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz was chosen for its remote and isolated location, which was deemed ideal for housing some of the most dangerous and high-profile inmates. The island’s natural barriers, including cold, […]
“Red Dawn” Becomes the First PG-13 Movie
On August 10, 1984, Red Dawn was released as the first film to carry the newly introduced PG-13 rating. Directed by John Milius, the film depicted a fictional invasion of the United States by Soviet and Cuban forces, featuring a group of American teenagers who become resistance fighters in their own country. The release of […]
Smithsonian Institution Created
On August 10, 1846, the Smithsonian Institution was established by an act of the United States Congress. The creation of this esteemed institution was made possible by the bequest of James Smithson, a British scientist who left his fortune to the United States for the purpose of founding an establishment dedicated to the increase and […]
The Louvre Museum Opens
On August 10, 1793, the Louvre Museum officially opened its doors to the public. Originally built as a royal palace in Paris, the Louvre was transformed into a museum during the French Revolution, a symbol of the new republic’s commitment to public access to art and culture. The opening of the Louvre marked a significant […]
Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead Dies
On August 9, 1995, Jerry Garcia, the iconic guitarist and lead vocalist of the Grateful Dead, passed away at the age of 53. Garcia’s death marked the end of an era for one of the most influential and enduring bands in rock history. Known for his unique guitar style, charismatic stage presence, and improvisational prowess, […]