421
Ancient
Venice Founded (Traditional Date)
According to tradition, the city of Venice was founded at noon on March 25, 421 AD. The city would grow into one of the greatest maritime powers of the medieval world.
On This Day in History
1634
Politics
Maryland Colony Founded
The first English settlers arrived in Maryland, a colony founded by Cecil Calvert as a haven for Catholics. It was one of the earliest examples of religious tolerance in the American colonies.
1807
Civil Rights
British Parliament Abolishes Slave Trade
The British Parliament passed the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act, making it illegal to engage in the slave trade throughout the British Empire. Full emancipation would follow in 1833.
1911
Disaster
Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire
A fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in New York City killed 146 garment workers, mostly young immigrant women. The tragedy led to sweeping reforms in workplace safety and labor laws.
1957
Politics
Treaty of Rome Signed
Six European nations signed the Treaty of Rome, establishing the European Economic Community. This was a foundational step toward the creation of the European Union.
1975
Politics
King Faisal of Saudi Arabia Assassinated
King Faisal of Saudi Arabia was shot and killed by his nephew during a reception. Faisal had been a modernizing influence while maintaining conservative Islamic values.
2017
Politics
Rome Treaty 60th Anniversary
European leaders gathered in Rome to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome. The summit came amid challenges to European unity from Brexit and rising nationalism.