August 22 has seen international humanitarian law established, battles that shaped empires, and cultural milestones.
Twelve nations signed the first Geneva Convention, establishing rules for the treatment of wounded soldiers and the protection of medical personnel. The treaty founded modern international humanitarian law.
Henry Tudor defeated King Richard III at Bosworth Field, ending the Wars of the Roses. Richard was the last English king killed in battle, and Henry became Henry VII, founding the Tudor dynasty.
Henry Leland founded the Cadillac Automobile Company in Detroit, named after the French explorer who founded the city. Cadillac became synonymous with American luxury automobiles.
King Charles I raised his standard at Nottingham, formally beginning the English Civil War against Parliament. The conflict would lead to the king's execution and Oliver Cromwell's Commonwealth.
Texas Rangers pitcher Nolan Ryan became the first major league pitcher to record 5,000 career strikeouts. Ryan's record of 5,714 strikeouts remains unbroken and is considered one of baseball's most untouchable records.
French President Charles de Gaulle narrowly survived an assassination attempt when his car was sprayed with machine gun fire. The attack was carried out by opponents of Algerian independence.
Saint Columba reportedly encountered a water beast in the River Ness in Scotland. This account is considered the first recorded sighting of what became the legendary Loch Ness Monster.