On This Day in History
October 2
International Day of Non-Violence Established
The United Nations established the International Day of Non-Violence, observed on Gandhi's birthday to promote peace worldwide.
First World Habitat Day Observed
The United Nations observed the first World Habitat Day to reflect on the state of towns and cities and the right to adequate shelter.
Concorde Breaks Speed Record
The Concorde supersonic jet broke the speed record for commercial aircraft, showcasing advancements in aviation.
First Automated Teller Machine (ATM) Installed in Canada
Canada installed its first ATM, revolutionizing banking and personal finance accessibility.
Thurgood Marshall Sworn in as First African American Supreme Court Justice
Thurgood Marshall was sworn in as the first African American justice on the U.S. Supreme Court, marking a milestone in civil rights history.
First Satellite Telephone Call Made
The first telephone call via satellite was successfully made, marking a breakthrough in global communications.
First U.S. State to Mandate Seat Belts in Cars
Wisconsin became the first U.S. state to require seat belts in new cars, pioneering automotive safety regulations.
First Jet Airliner Service Begins in the U.S.
The Boeing 707 began the first U.S. jet airliner service, revolutionizing commercial aviation.
First U.S. Nuclear Submarine, USS Nautilus, Launched
The USS Nautilus, the world's first nuclear-powered submarine, was launched, transforming naval warfare.
First Live Telecast of a U.S. Atomic Bomb Test
The United States conducted the first live telecast of an atomic bomb test, marking a new era in media and military transparency.
Peanuts Comic Strip Debuts
*Peanuts*, the iconic comic strip by Charles M. Schulz, debuted, becoming a global cultural phenomenon.
First British Troops Deployed to Korea
British troops were deployed to Korea, joining United Nations forces in the Korean War.
First Patent for a Bar Code System Filed
The first patent for a bar code system was filed, revolutionizing retail and inventory management worldwide.
First Public Screening of a Sound Film in France
France held its first public screening of a sound film, marking the transition from silent films to talkies.
First Zeppelin Airship Flight in the U.S.
The German Zeppelin LZ 127 Graf Zeppelin completed its first flight in the United States, symbolizing advances in airship travel.
First Public Radio Broadcast in Germany
Germany aired its first public radio broadcast, marking the beginning of mass communication in the country.
First Aerial Photography Used for Military Reconnaissance
Aerial photography was used for the first time in military reconnaissance during World War I.
First Automatic Tea-Making Machine Patented
The first automatic tea-making machine, known as a teasmade, was patented in Britain, automating morning routines.
First Women's Golf Tournament Held
The first women's golf tournament was held in the United States, advancing women's participation in sports.
Mahatma Gandhi Born
Mahatma Gandhi, leader of India's nonviolent independence movement and global symbol of peace, was born.