363
Ancient
Emperor Julian Dies in Persia
Roman Emperor Julian the Apostate was mortally wounded in battle against the Sasanian Empire. His death ended the last serious attempt to restore paganism in the Roman Empire.
On This Day in History
1483
Politics
Richard III Seizes the English Throne
Richard, Duke of Gloucester, assumed the throne as Richard III, deposing his nephew Edward V. The young king and his brother disappeared in the Tower of London.
1819
Invention
Bicycle Patented
Karl von Drais received a patent for his two-wheeled 'running machine,' the precursor to the modern bicycle. The invention was initially called a velocipede.
1843
War & Conflict
Treaty of Nanking Ratified
The Treaty of Nanking was ratified, ending the First Opium War between China and Britain. China was forced to cede Hong Kong to Britain.
1945
Politics
United Nations Charter Signed
Delegates from 50 nations signed the United Nations Charter in San Francisco. The charter established the UN as the primary international organization for maintaining peace and security.
2015
Civil Rights
Supreme Court Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage Nationwide
In Obergefell v. Hodges, the Supreme Court ruled that same-sex couples have a fundamental right to marry. The 5-4 decision was a landmark victory for LGBTQ+ rights.
2000
Science
Human Genome Project Announces Draft
President Clinton and Prime Minister Blair announced the completion of the first draft of the human genome. The achievement was a milestone in genetics and medicine.