1461
War & Conflict
Battle of Towton
The Battle of Towton, fought in a snowstorm in Yorkshire, was the bloodiest battle ever fought on English soil. The Yorkist victory secured the throne for Edward IV during the Wars of the Roses.
On This Day in History
1638
Exploration
Swedish Colony Founded in Delaware
Swedish settlers established the colony of New Sweden in present-day Delaware, building Fort Christina. It was the only Swedish colony in the Americas.
1790
Politics
John Tyler, 10th President, Is Born
John Tyler was born in Charles City County, Virginia. He would become the first vice president to assume the presidency upon the death of a president.
1882
Religion
Knights of Columbus Founded
The Knights of Columbus was founded in New Haven, Connecticut, by Father Michael J. McGivney. It grew into the world's largest Catholic fraternal organization.
1951
Crime
Julius and Ethel Rosenberg Convicted of Espionage
Julius and Ethel Rosenberg were convicted of conspiracy to commit espionage for passing nuclear secrets to the Soviet Union. They were executed in 1953.
1973
War & Conflict
Last U.S. Troops Leave Vietnam
The last American combat troops departed South Vietnam, ending direct U.S. military involvement in the Vietnam War. The war would continue for two more years.
2017
Politics
United Kingdom Triggers Article 50
British Prime Minister Theresa May formally triggered Article 50, beginning the UK's withdrawal from the European Union. The Brexit process had been set in motion by the 2016 referendum.