1707
Politics
Acts of Union Create Kingdom of Great Britain
The Acts of Union between England and Scotland took effect, creating the Kingdom of Great Britain. The Scottish Parliament was dissolved and Scottish MPs joined Westminster.
On This Day in History
1776
Culture
Illuminati Founded in Bavaria
Adam Weishaupt founded the Order of the Illuminati at the University of Ingolstadt. The secret society promoted Enlightenment ideals but was suppressed within a decade.
1840
Invention
Penny Black Stamp Issued
Great Britain issued the Penny Black, the world's first adhesive postage stamp. The innovation revolutionized mail delivery by prepaying postage.
1851
Culture
Great Exhibition Opens in London
Queen Victoria opened the Great Exhibition in the Crystal Palace in London's Hyde Park. The first World's Fair showcased industrial achievements from around the world.
1898
War & Conflict
Battle of Manila Bay
Commodore George Dewey's Asiatic Squadron destroyed the Spanish fleet in Manila Bay, Philippines. The decisive victory took only hours and established U.S. power in the Pacific.
1931
Invention
Empire State Building Opens
The Empire State Building opened in New York City as the world's tallest building at 1,454 feet. It held the record for nearly 40 years.
1960
War & Conflict
U-2 Spy Plane Shot Down Over Soviet Union
An American U-2 reconnaissance plane piloted by Francis Gary Powers was shot down over the Soviet Union. The incident derailed a planned summit between Eisenhower and Khrushchev.