On This Day in History
October 13
Paris Agreement on Climate Change Adopted
The Paris Agreement on Climate Change entered into force, uniting nations in efforts to combat global warming.
First Use of Arial Typeface
The Arial typeface was introduced, becoming one of the most widely used fonts in digital and print media.
Albania Joins the United Nations
Albania was admitted as a member of the United Nations, strengthening its international presence during the Cold War.
First Flight of the Boeing 707 Prototype
The Boeing 367-80, prototype for the Boeing 707, made its first flight, ushering in the jet age of commercial aviation.
Italy Invades Greece in WWII
Italy launched an invasion of Greece during World War II, marking a significant escalation in the Balkans campaign.
Founding of the British Interplanetary Society
The British Interplanetary Society was founded to promote astronautics and space exploration, becoming the world's oldest space advocacy organization.
Birth of Margaret Thatcher
Margaret Thatcher, the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and a pivotal figure in 20th-century politics, was born.
Founding of Whirlpool Corporation
Whirlpool Corporation, destined to become a global leader in home appliances, was founded in Michigan.
First Use of Fingerprints in U.S. Criminal Case
The United States used fingerprint evidence for the first time in a criminal case, revolutionizing forensic science.
First Use of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
The International Meridian Conference established Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) as the global time standard.
Founding of the Mining Company Rio Tinto
The Rio Tinto mining company was founded, growing into one of the world's largest metal and mining corporations.
Garibaldi's Troops Enter Naples
Giuseppe Garibaldi's forces entered Naples, a key event in the unification of Italy.
Uruguay Declares Independence from Brazil
Uruguay declared independence from Brazil, leading to the Cisplatine War and eventual recognition of its sovereignty.
First Metric System Adopted in France
France officially adopted the metric system, setting a global standard for measurement.
Cornerstone of the White House Laid
The cornerstone of the White House, the official residence of U.S. presidents, was laid in Washington, D.C.
Founding of the United States Navy
The Continental Congress established the United States Navy, laying the foundation for one of the world's most powerful naval forces.
First Known Use of the Word 'Computer'
The term 'computer' appeared in print for the first time, referring to a person who performed calculations.
Tamerlane Captures Delhi
Tamerlane's forces captured Delhi, marking a significant moment in the expansion of the Timurid Empire.
The French King Philip IV Orders Arrest of Knights Templar
King Philip IV of France ordered the mass arrest of the Knights Templar, marking the beginning of the end for the powerful medieval order.
The Siege of Jerusalem by Roman Forces Begins
Roman forces under Titus began the siege of Jerusalem, leading to the destruction of the Second Temple and a pivotal moment in Jewish history.