Leap Day, occurring only once every four years, has witnessed unique events in politics, exploration, and culture.
Christopher Columbus, stranded in Jamaica, used his knowledge of an upcoming lunar eclipse to convince indigenous people to provide food. When the moon darkened as predicted, they were awestruck.
The first warrants were issued in the Salem witch trials in Massachusetts. Over the next several months, more than 200 people would be accused and 20 executed.
French and Native American forces attacked the frontier settlement of Deerfield, Massachusetts, killing 56 colonists and taking 112 captive. The raid was part of the ongoing colonial wars.
Hattie McDaniel became the first African American to win an Academy Award, receiving Best Supporting Actress for her role in 'Gone with the Wind.' She was forced to sit at a segregated table at the ceremony.
A powerful earthquake struck the Moroccan city of Agadir, killing an estimated 15,000 people and destroying most of the city. It remains one of the deadliest earthquakes in African history.
Haitian President Jean-Bertrand Aristide was forced from power amid an armed rebellion. He claimed he was kidnapped by U.S. forces, while the U.S. said he resigned voluntarily.
Construction was completed on the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in the world at 2,080 feet. The broadcasting and observation tower became a new landmark for Tokyo.