James Watson and Francis Crick Discover the Structure of DNA
On February 28th, 1953, scientists James Watson and Francis Crick made a groundbreaking discovery at the Cavendish Laboratory in Cambridge, England. They unveiled the double-helix structure of DNA, laying the foundation for modern molecular biology and revolutionizing our understanding of genetics.
John Wesleyan Establishes First Methodist Church
On February 28, John Wesleyan, a prominent figure in the Methodist movement, founded the first Methodist church in the United States, marking a significant milestone in the spread of Methodism to North America. This establishment laid the foundation for the Methodist denomination’s growth and influence across the country
Members of the American Indian Movement Occupy Wounded Knee
On this day in 1973, members of the American Indian Movement (AIM) occupied the town of Wounded Knee on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. The 71-day standoff, sparked by grievances over tribal governance and treaty rights, brought attention to Indigenous issues and sparked a national dialogue on Native American rights.
Italian Government Seeks Solutions for Leaning Tower of Pisa
On February 27, 1964, the Italian government initiated a call for suggestions to address the structural issues of the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. Engineers and experts worldwide were invited to propose innovative solutions to stabilize and preserve this historical landmark.
The First Mardi Gras Parade is Held in New Orleans
A festive tradition was born on February 27th, 1827, as the first recorded Mardi Gras parade took place in New Orleans, Louisiana. Rooted in French Catholic heritage, Mardi Gras has evolved into a vibrant celebration of culture, music, and revelry that attracts visitors from around the world.
World Trade Center Bombing Shakes New York City
Tragedy struck the heart of New York City on February 26th, 1993, when a truck bomb exploded in the parking garage beneath the North Tower of the World Trade Center. The bombing, orchestrated by terrorists, killed six people and injured over a thousand others, foreshadowing the events of September 11th, 2001.
The Luftwaffe is Established as the German Air Force
On February 26th, 1935, Nazi Germany’s leader Adolf Hitler ordered the formation of the Luftwaffe, the German Air Force. This marked a significant step in the militarization of Germany and laid the groundwork for the air campaigns of World War II.
Grand Canyon National Park is Established
A natural wonder of unparalleled beauty received official protection on February 26th, 1919, as Grand Canyon National Park was established in Arizona, United States. Spanning over 1.2 million acres, the park showcases the awe-inspiring landscapes carved by the Colorado River over millions of years.
Nikita Khrushchev Denounces Stalin’s Cult of Personality
A seismic shift in Soviet politics occurred on February 25th, 1956, as Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev delivered a speech denouncing the cult of personality surrounding former leader Joseph Stalin. Khrushchev’s “Secret Speech” marked the beginning of de-Stalinization and ushered in a period of political reform in the Soviet Union.
Hiram Rhodes Revels Becomes the First African American U.S. Senator
A milestone in American history occurred on February 25th, 1870, as Hiram Rhodes Revels, a minister and educator, became the first African American to serve in the United States Senate. Revels’s appointment symbolized progress towards racial equality during the Reconstruction era.