98
Ancient
Trajan Becomes Roman Emperor
Trajan became Emperor of Rome. Under his rule, the Roman Empire reached its greatest territorial extent, stretching from Britain to Mesopotamia.
On This Day in History
1756
Culture
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Is Born
Mozart was born in Salzburg, Austria. A child prodigy who began composing at age five, he produced over 600 works and is regarded as one of the greatest composers.
1880
Invention
Thomas Edison Receives Light Bulb Patent
Thomas Edison received his patent for the improved electric lamp. His practical incandescent light bulb would usher in the age of electric illumination.
1944
War & Conflict
Siege of Leningrad Ends After 872 Days
The Soviet Union announced the complete lifting of the Siege of Leningrad. An estimated 1.5 million people died during the nearly 900-day blockade.
1945
War & Conflict
Auschwitz Liberated by Soviet Forces
Soviet troops liberated the Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland. They found 7,000 survivors and evidence of the murder of over 1.1 million people, mostly Jews.
1967
Space
Apollo 1 Fire Kills Three Astronauts
A flash fire swept through the Apollo 1 command module, killing astronauts Grissom, White, and Chaffee. The tragedy led to major spacecraft redesigns.
1973
War & Conflict
Vietnam War Ceasefire Signed
The Paris Peace Accords were signed, establishing a ceasefire in the Vietnam War. The agreement ended direct American military involvement after over a decade.