Baghdad Falls to U.S. Forces
On April 9, 2003, Baghdad, the capital city of Iraq, falls to United States forces during the Iraq War, marking a significant milestone in the toppling of Saddam Hussein’s regime. The capture of Baghdad by coalition forces leads to widespread jubilation among Iraqis and signals the beginning of a new chapter in the nation’s history, […]
Invasion of Iraq Begins
On March 20th, 2003, the United States, along with coalition forces, launched Operation Iraqi Freedom, initiating the invasion of Iraq. The invasion marked the beginning of a long and contentious conflict that would reshape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East and have far-reaching consequences.
Space Shuttle Columbia Breaks Apart During Reentry
A tragic event unfolded on February 1st, 2003, as the Space Shuttle Columbia disintegrated during reentry, leading to the loss of seven astronauts and prompting a reevaluation of space shuttle safety.
The Space Shuttle Columbia Launches on its Final Mission
January 16th, 2003, marked the launch of the Space Shuttle Columbia on its final mission. Tragically, the spacecraft would disintegrate upon re-entry, leading to the loss of the crew.
Saddam Hussein, Former Iraqi Dictator, is Captured
On this day in 2003, former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was captured by U.S. forces near his hometown of Tikrit. His arrest marked a significant moment in the aftermath of the Iraq War.
Arnold Schwarzenegger Sworn in as Governor of California
On November 17th, 2003, Hollywood icon Arnold Schwarzenegger was sworn in as the Governor of California, bringing a unique blend of celebrity and politics to the Golden State.
The Concorde’s Final Flight
The supersonic airliner Concorde made its last commercial flight on October 24th, 2003, marking the end of an era in aviation. Known for its incredible speed and luxury, the Concorde symbolized the pinnacle of technological achievement, capturing the world’s imagination with its breathtaking flights.
Shenzhou 5
China launched the Shenzhou 5 spacecraft, carrying astronaut Yang Liwei, who became the country’s first astronaut to travel in space.
Governor Gray Davis
California voters remove Democratic governor Gray Davis from office in the state’s first successful recall of a sitting governor (only the second successful recall of a governor in US history); a Republican candidate, bodybuilder/actor Arnold Schwarzenegger wins the election to replace Davis 17 days later.
Spacecraft Intentionally Crashed into Jupiter
Galileo changed the way we look at our solar system. When the spacecraft plunged into Jupiter’s crushing atmosphere on Sept. 21, 2003, it was being deliberately destroyed to protect one of its own discoveries—a possible ocean beneath the icy crust of the moon Europa.