618
Ancient
Li Yuan Becomes Tang Dynasty Emperor
Li Yuan proclaimed himself Emperor Gaozu of Tang, founding the Tang Dynasty. The Tang Dynasty would become one of the greatest periods in Chinese history.
On This Day in History
1178
Science
Five Canterbury Monks See Lunar Impact
Five monks at Canterbury Cathedral reported seeing what appeared to be an explosion on the Moon. Modern scientists believe they may have witnessed the impact that created the Giordano Bruno crater.
1778
War & Conflict
British Evacuate Philadelphia
British forces evacuated Philadelphia as the Continental Army under George Washington moved to pursue them. The evacuation followed France's entry into the war on the American side.
1812
War & Conflict
War of 1812 Declared
The United States declared war on Great Britain, beginning the War of 1812. Causes included British impressment of American sailors and support for Native American resistance.
1815
War & Conflict
Battle of Waterloo
The Duke of Wellington's Allied forces and Prussian troops defeated Napoleon Bonaparte at Waterloo in Belgium. The battle ended Napoleon's rule and reshaped European politics for a century.
1940
War & Conflict
Churchill's 'Finest Hour' Speech
Winston Churchill told Parliament that 'the Battle of France is over' and 'the Battle of Britain is about to begin.' He concluded that this would be Britain's 'finest hour.'
1983
Space
Sally Ride Becomes First American Woman in Space
Astronaut Sally Ride became the first American woman in space aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger. She was the youngest American astronaut at age 32.