1492
Civil Rights
Alhambra Decree Expels Jews from Spain
Ferdinand and Isabella issued the Alhambra Decree, ordering all Jews to leave Spain by July 31. An estimated 200,000 Jews were expelled, devastating Spain's intellectual and economic life.
On This Day in History
1727
Science
Isaac Newton Dies
Sir Isaac Newton died in London at age 84. His Principia Mathematica had established the laws of motion and universal gravitation that dominated scientific thought for over two centuries.
1889
Invention
Eiffel Tower Completed
The Eiffel Tower was completed in Paris for the 1889 World's Fair. Originally criticized as an eyesore, the 984-foot iron tower became the most iconic symbol of France.
1918
Politics
Daylight Saving Time First Used in U.S.
The United States first implemented daylight saving time to conserve energy during World War I. The controversial practice has been debated ever since.
1968
Politics
LBJ Announces He Won't Run for Reelection
President Lyndon Johnson stunned the nation by announcing he would not seek reelection. The Vietnam War and domestic unrest had undermined his presidency.
1991
Politics
Warsaw Pact Dissolved
The Warsaw Pact, the Soviet-led military alliance that had confronted NATO throughout the Cold War, was officially dissolved. The move symbolized the end of the Cold War division of Europe.
1995
Culture
Tejano Singer Selena Killed
Tejano music star Selena Quintanilla-Perez was shot and killed by Yolanda Saldivar, the president of her fan club. Selena's death at age 23 sparked an outpouring of grief and cemented her legacy.