1395
War & Conflict
Tatar Invasion of Moscow
Tokhtamysh and his Tatar forces sacked Moscow, burning much of the city. The attack demonstrated the continuing vulnerability of Russian cities to nomadic invasions.
On This Day in History
1620
Culture
First Merry-Go-Round Appears at a Fair
The earliest known merry-go-round appeared at a fair in Philippopolis (Plovdiv, Bulgaria). The rides would eventually become a staple of amusement parks worldwide.
1792
Invention
New York Stock Exchange Founded
Twenty-four stockbrokers signed the Buttonwood Agreement under a buttonwood tree on Wall Street, establishing what would become the New York Stock Exchange.
1875
Sports
First Kentucky Derby Run
The first Kentucky Derby was run at Churchill Downs in Louisville, with Aristides winning. The race became the most famous horse race in America, known as 'the most exciting two minutes in sports.'
1954
Civil Rights
Brown v. Board of Education Decided
The U.S. Supreme Court unanimously ruled in Brown v. Board of Education that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. The landmark decision overturned the 'separate but equal' doctrine.
1969
Space
Venera 6 Transmits Data from Venus
The Soviet probe Venera 6 transmitted atmospheric data from Venus before being crushed by the planet's extreme pressure. The mission provided valuable information about Venus's atmosphere.
2004
Civil Rights
Massachusetts Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage
Massachusetts became the first U.S. state to legalize same-sex marriage, following a court ruling. Couples lined up at city halls across the state to obtain marriage licenses.