South Sudan officially declared independence from Sudan, becoming the world's newest country after decades of civil war. The move was widely recognized and celebrated internationally.
đź“Ť Juba, South Sudan
Mary Leakey, famed for her discoveries of early human ancestors in Africa—including the Laetoli footprints—died at 83. Her work was foundational in the study of human evolution.
đź“Ť Nairobi, Kenya
The U.S. Navy lifted its ban on women serving on combat ships, a major milestone in gender equality in the military and a precedent for further policy reforms in armed forces globally.
đź“Ť Washington, D.C., United States
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) was formally established by the Baghdad Agreement to coordinate petroleum policies and stabilize oil markets worldwide.
đź“Ť Baghdad, Iraq
Dean Koontz, American author known for suspense thrillers blending horror, fantasy, and science fiction, was born. He would go on to publish over 100 novels read by millions worldwide.
đź“Ť Everett, Pennsylvania, United States
The infamous American outlaw couple Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow began their series of bank robberies, capturing media attention during the Great Depression and becoming criminal legends.
đź“Ť Dallas, Texas, United States
Suffragist Alice Paul and fellow activists were arrested while picketing outside the White House, demanding women’s right to vote. Their imprisonment drew national attention to the suffrage cause.
đź“Ť Washington, D.C., United States
Willis Carrier received a patent for the modern air conditioning system, revolutionizing industrial processes, architecture, and eventually residential comfort around the world.
đź“Ť Buffalo, New York, United States
The British Parliament passed the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act, paving the way for Australia’s federation and self-governance starting January 1, 1901.
đź“Ť London, United Kingdom
The first Wimbledon tennis tournament began at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in London. It is now the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament in the world.
đź“Ť London, United Kingdom
The 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, granting citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the U.S. and guaranteeing equal protection under the law — a cornerstone of civil rights.
đź“Ť Washington, D.C., United States
Stephen Foster, one of America’s most famous 19th-century composers, died in New York. His music, including 'Oh! Susanna' and 'Camptown Races,' became deeply embedded in American folk culture.
đź“Ť New York City, United States
Facing the financial strain of the Civil War, the U.S. government issued its first official paper currency in $5, $10, and $20 denominations, transforming the national financial system.
đź“Ť Washington, D.C., United States
The Qing dynasty ratified the Treaty of Tientsin, ending the Second Opium War. The treaty expanded trade, opened ports, and allowed foreign legations in Beijing, marking deeper Western influence in China.
đź“Ť Tianjin, China
Zachary Taylor, 12th President of the United States, died unexpectedly after just 16 months in office. His death led to the presidency of Millard Fillmore during a turbulent pre-Civil War era.
đź“Ť Washington, D.C., United States
Elias Howe, the American inventor of the first practical sewing machine, was born. His design revolutionized the textile industry and enabled the mass production of clothing.
đź“Ť Spencer, Massachusetts, United States
Argentina formally declared its independence from Spain during the Congress of Tucumán. This pivotal moment marked the birth of the United Provinces of South America, a precursor to the modern Argentine nation.
📍 San Miguel de Tucumán, Argentina
The British Museum was founded by an Act of Parliament, becoming the first national public museum in the world. Its collection would grow to include millions of artifacts from across the globe.
đź“Ť London, United Kingdom
Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama set sail on his second voyage to India, strengthening the spice trade routes and establishing Portugal’s colonial foothold in Asia.
đź“Ť Lisbon, Portugal
King Edward I of England, known for his conquests in Wales and campaigns in Scotland, died. His reign significantly shaped English legal institutions and military expansion.
đź“Ť Burgh by Sands, Cumberland, England