February 16 has seen the birth of republics, decisive battles, and moments of cultural significance.
According to tradition, Pope Gregory I ordered that 'God bless you' be said to a sneezing person, as sneezing was believed to be a sign of plague. The custom has persisted for over 1,400 years.
Lieutenant Stephen Decatur led a daring raid into Tripoli harbor to burn the captured USS Philadelphia. British Admiral Horatio Nelson reportedly called it 'the most bold and daring act of the age.'
Union forces under Ulysses S. Grant captured Fort Donelson in Tennessee, securing a critical victory in the Western Theater. Grant's demand for 'unconditional surrender' earned him a famous nickname.
Archaeologist Howard Carter opened the sealed burial chamber of King Tutankhamun's tomb in Egypt's Valley of the Kings. The discovery of the intact pharaoh's tomb captivated the world.
DuPont chemist Wallace Carothers received a patent for nylon, the world's first synthetic fiber. Nylon would revolutionize the textile industry and find countless applications.
Fidel Castro was sworn in as Prime Minister of Cuba, formalizing his power after overthrowing the Batista regime. He would rule Cuba for nearly five decades.
The first 911 emergency telephone call was made in Haleyville, Alabama. The universal emergency number system would eventually be adopted across the United States.