1963
Politics
I Have a Dream Speech
Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic 'I Have a Dream' speech to over 250,000 people at the March on Washington. The speech became the defining moment of the American civil rights movement.
On This Day in History
1609
Exploration
Henry Hudson Discovers Delaware Bay
English explorer Henry Hudson, sailing for the Dutch, discovered Delaware Bay during his search for a northwest passage. He would later explore the river that bears his name.
1749
Culture
Goethe Born
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who would become Germany's greatest literary figure, was born in Frankfurt. His masterwork Faust is considered one of the greatest works of German and world literature.
1845
Science
Scientific American First Published
The first issue of Scientific American was published, making it the longest continuously published magazine in the United States. It became the premier publication for communicating science to the public.
475
Politics
Romulus Augustulus Becomes Last Western Roman Emperor
The teenager Romulus Augustulus was proclaimed Western Roman Emperor. His deposition the following year is traditionally considered the fall of the Western Roman Empire.
1996
Culture
Prince Charles and Diana Divorce
The divorce of Prince Charles and Princess Diana was finalized, ending one of the most scrutinized marriages in history. Diana's tragic death the following year further shook the British monarchy.
1955
Politics
Emmett Till Murdered
14-year-old Emmett Till was brutally murdered in Mississippi after being accused of whistling at a white woman. His mother's decision to hold an open-casket funeral galvanized the civil rights movement.