On This Day in History
September 28
First Passenger Service on the TGV High-Speed Train
France launched the first passenger service of the TGV, setting a new standard for high-speed rail travel.
First Flight of the Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk
The Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk, the world’s first operational stealth aircraft, made its maiden flight.
First Commercial Flight of Boeing 747
The Boeing 747, known as the 'Jumbo Jet', began its first commercial flight, revolutionizing air travel.
Germany and France Sign Treaty of Friendship
Germany and France signed a treaty of friendship, strengthening post-war European unity and cooperation.
First Photographs of the Far Side of the Moon
Soviet spacecraft Luna 3 transmitted the first images of the far side of the Moon, a milestone in space exploration.
First Nuclear Submarine USS Nautilus Commissioned
The USS Nautilus, the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine, was commissioned by the U.S. Navy.
First Televised Presidential Address in U.S.
President Harry S. Truman delivered the first-ever televised presidential address from the White House.
Italy Declared a Republic
Italy officially became a republic following a referendum, ending the monarchy after World War II.
First Airmail Delivery by Autogyro
The U.S. Post Office completed the first airmail delivery using an autogyro, advancing short-distance air transport.
First Voyage of RMS Queen Mary
The RMS Queen Mary was launched, becoming one of the most famous ocean liners in history.
Penicillin Discovered by Alexander Fleming
Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin, leading to the development of antibiotics and revolutionizing medicine.
First Airport Opens in the United States
The first airport in the United States, Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, officially opened to the public.
First Modern Automobile Show Opens in Paris
The world's first auto show, the Paris Motor Show, opened to showcase the latest advancements in automobile technology.
First Patent for a Ballpoint Pen Granted
John J. Loud received the first patent for the ballpoint pen, revolutionizing writing instruments.
Yellow River Flood Kills Thousands in China
The Yellow River flood in China became one of the deadliest natural disasters in history, killing hundreds of thousands.
First Use of Artificial Lighting in a Sporting Event
Artificial lighting was used for the first time in a baseball game, paving the way for night sports events.
First Use of Printing Press in North America
The first printing press in North America began operation in Cambridge, Massachusetts, transforming communication in the colonies.
Ferdinand Magellan Completes First Circumnavigation of the Earth
The expedition led by Ferdinand Magellan completed the first circumnavigation of the Earth, proving the world was round.
William the Conqueror Invades England
William the Conqueror landed in England, beginning the Norman Conquest which would reshape English history.
Confucius Born in China
Confucius, the influential Chinese philosopher and teacher, was born, laying the foundation for Confucianism.