1773
Politics
Boston Tea Party
American colonists, disguised as Mohawk Indians, dumped 342 chests of British tea into Boston Harbor to protest taxation without representation. The act of defiance was a catalyst for the American Revolution.
On This Day in History
1944
War & Conflict
Battle of the Bulge Begins
Germany launched its last major offensive of World War II through the Ardennes forest, catching the Allies by surprise. The month-long battle was the largest fought by the US Army in World War II.
1770
Entertainment
Beethoven Born
Ludwig van Beethoven was baptized in Bonn, Germany (his exact birth date is uncertain). He became one of the greatest composers in history, continuing to create masterworks even after going deaf.
1838
War & Conflict
Battle of Blood River
Boer settlers defeated a Zulu army at the Ncome River in South Africa. The battle became a foundational event in Afrikaner national mythology.
1653
Politics
Oliver Cromwell Becomes Lord Protector
Oliver Cromwell was installed as Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland. His rule represented the only period when England was not governed by a monarch.
1985
Culture
Paul Castellano Assassinated
Gambino crime family boss Paul Castellano was gunned down outside a Manhattan steakhouse. His assassination, ordered by John Gotti, marked one of the most brazen Mafia killings in American history.
1971
War & Conflict
Bangladesh Liberation War Ends
Pakistani forces surrendered to India and Bangladesh liberation forces, ending the Bangladesh Liberation War. The surrender created the independent nation of Bangladesh.