879
Politics
Louis III Crowned King of France
Louis III was crowned King of the Western Franks at Compiegne. He shared the throne with his brother Carloman II during a turbulent period of Viking invasions.
On This Day in History
1710
Culture
Statute of Anne Becomes Law
The Statute of Anne, the first modern copyright law, took effect in Great Britain. It established the concept of authorial ownership and limited-term copyright protection.
1849
Invention
Safety Pin Patented
Walter Hunt patented the safety pin in New York. He sold the patent for $400 to pay a debt, missing out on the fortunes the simple device would generate.
1866
Culture
ASPCA Founded
Henry Bergh founded the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in New York City. It was the first animal welfare organization in the Western Hemisphere.
1912
Disaster
RMS Titanic Sets Sail
The RMS Titanic departed Southampton, England, on her maiden voyage to New York. The 'unsinkable' ship would strike an iceberg and sink five days later.
1970
Culture
Paul McCartney Announces Beatles Breakup
Paul McCartney announced his departure from The Beatles, confirming the breakup of the world's most popular band. The news shocked fans worldwide.
2019
Science
First Image of a Black Hole Released
The Event Horizon Telescope collaboration released the first direct image of a black hole, located in the galaxy M87. The achievement was a landmark in astrophysics.