1920
Politics
Women Win the Vote
The 19th Amendment to the US Constitution was officially certified, granting American women the right to vote. The amendment was the culmination of over 70 years of activism by the women's suffrage movement.
On This Day in History
1789
Politics
Declaration of Rights of Man
The French National Constituent Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen. Inspired by Enlightenment philosophy, it became a foundational document of human rights.
1883
Disaster
Krakatoa Erupts
The volcanic island of Krakatoa in Indonesia erupted with one of the most powerful explosions in recorded history. The eruption killed over 36,000 people and lowered global temperatures for years.
55
War & Conflict
Julius Caesar Invades Britain
Julius Caesar led the first Roman military expedition to Britain with two legions. Though the invasion was brief, it opened the way for the permanent Roman conquest of Britain a century later.
1346
War & Conflict
Battle of Crécy
English forces under Edward III defeated a much larger French army using longbowmen and defensive tactics. The battle marked the beginning of the end of mounted knight warfare in medieval Europe.
1978
Religion
Pope John Paul I Elected
Albino Luciani was elected Pope, taking the name John Paul I and becoming the first pope to choose a double name. His papacy lasted only 33 days before his sudden and mysterious death.
2003
Science
Mars Closest Approach in 60,000 Years
Mars made its closest approach to Earth in nearly 60,000 years, coming within 34.6 million miles. The event attracted unprecedented public interest in amateur astronomy.