On This Day in History
September 13
Collapse of Lehman Brothers Triggers Global Financial Crisis
Lehman Brothers filed for bankruptcy, marking one of the largest financial collapses in history and triggering a global economic crisis.
Signing of the Oslo Accords Between Israel and PLO
Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) signed the Oslo Accords, marking a historic step towards resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Super Mario Bros. Released by Nintendo
Nintendo released *Super Mario Bros.*, revolutionizing the video game industry and becoming one of the most iconic games in history.
IBM Introduces the First Hard Disk Drive
IBM introduced the IBM 305 RAMAC, the first computer with a hard disk drive, revolutionizing data storage technology.
First Use of the Term 'Cold War' in Public Speech
Journalist Walter Lippmann popularized the term 'Cold War' to describe the growing tensions between the United States and Soviet Union.
First Cannes Film Festival Scheduled (Postponed Due to WWII)
The inaugural Cannes Film Festival was scheduled to begin but was postponed due to the outbreak of World War II.
First Production of Stainless Steel
Harry Brearley produced the first batch of stainless steel in Sheffield, revolutionizing materials science and manufacturing.
First Airplane Flight in South America
The first powered airplane flight in South America was completed by Alberto Santos-Dumont, advancing aviation on the continent.
First Electric Car Race Held
The world’s first electric car race was held in France, showcasing early advancements in electric vehicle technology.
First Patent for a Revolving Door Filed
The first patent for a revolving door was filed by Theophilus Van Kannel, transforming building entrances worldwide.
First Practical Typewriter Sold
The Sholes and Glidden typewriter, the first commercially successful typewriter, was sold in the United States.
First Use of the QWERTY Keyboard Layout
The QWERTY keyboard layout was introduced with the Sholes and Glidden typewriter, becoming the global standard for typing devices.
First Program Written for a Computer by Lady Ada Lovelace
Ada Lovelace published the first algorithm intended for a machine, earning recognition as the world’s first computer programmer.
Treaty of London Signed, Establishing Belgium's Independence
The Treaty of London was signed, formally recognizing Belgium's independence and guaranteeing its neutrality.
First Passenger Train Service Opens in Scotland
Scotland launched its first passenger train service, marking a significant advancement in public transportation.
First Performance of 'The Star-Spangled Banner'
Francis Scott Key wrote 'The Star-Spangled Banner' during the Battle of Baltimore, later becoming the national anthem of the United States.
Battle of the Plains of Abraham
British forces defeated the French at the Battle of the Plains of Abraham, leading to British control of Canada.
First Lighthouse in the Americas Lit
The Boston Light, the first lighthouse in the Americas, was lit to guide ships safely into Boston Harbor.
First Known Use of the Word 'Computer'
The word 'computer' was first recorded in a book by Richard Braithwait, referring to a person who performed calculations.
First Known Mention of Shakespeare's Work in Print
Robert Greene referenced William Shakespeare in print for the first time, marking the rise of one of history's greatest playwrights.