1980
Entertainment
John Lennon Assassinated
Former Beatle John Lennon was shot and killed outside his New York City apartment by Mark David Chapman. The murder of the peace icon shocked the world and prompted an outpouring of global grief.
On This Day in History
1941
War & Conflict
US Declares War on Japan
Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, President Roosevelt asked Congress for a declaration of war against Japan. The vote was nearly unanimous, with only one dissenting vote.
1991
Politics
Soviet Union Dissolved
The leaders of Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus signed the Belavezha Accords, declaring that the Soviet Union had ceased to exist. The agreement formally ended the Cold War superpower.
1886
Politics
American Federation of Labor Founded
Samuel Gompers founded the American Federation of Labor, uniting craft unions into a powerful national organization. The AFL became the dominant force in American labor for decades.
1660
Entertainment
First Woman Acts on English Stage
A woman (believed to be Margaret Hughes) appeared on the English stage for the first time, playing Desdemona in Shakespeare's Othello. Previously, all female roles had been played by boys.
1955
Politics
European Flag Adopted
The Council of Europe adopted the flag of twelve golden stars on a blue background. The design was later adopted by the European Union as its official emblem.
1813
Entertainment
Beethoven's 7th Symphony Premieres
Beethoven's Seventh Symphony premiered in Vienna at a charity concert for soldiers wounded at the Battle of Hanau. The work's second movement is one of the most famous pieces in classical music.