742
Ancient
Charlemagne Is Born
Charles the Great, known as Charlemagne, was born. He would unite much of Western Europe and be crowned the first Holy Roman Emperor in 800 AD.
On This Day in History
1513
Exploration
Ponce de Leon Lands in Florida
Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon landed on the coast of Florida, claiming the territory for Spain. He named it 'La Florida' for the Easter season's Feast of Flowers.
1792
Politics
U.S. Mint Established
Congress passed the Coinage Act, establishing the United States Mint. The act created the dollar as the standard unit of money and authorized the minting of coins.
1865
War & Conflict
Fall of Richmond
Confederate forces evacuated Richmond, Virginia, the capital of the Confederacy. President Jefferson Davis and his cabinet fled south as Union troops entered the burning city.
1917
War & Conflict
Woodrow Wilson Asks Congress to Declare War on Germany
President Wilson addressed Congress asking for a declaration of war against Germany. He declared the world must be 'made safe for democracy.'
1982
War & Conflict
Argentina Invades the Falkland Islands
Argentine military forces invaded the Falkland Islands, a British overseas territory. Britain dispatched a naval task force, and the resulting war ended with British victory in June.
2005
Religion
Pope John Paul II Dies
Pope John Paul II died at age 84 after leading the Catholic Church for 26 years. His pontificate saw the fall of communism in Eastern Europe and unprecedented interfaith dialogue.