1536
Politics
Anne Boleyn Executed
Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII, was executed at the Tower of London on charges of adultery, incest, and treason. Most historians believe the charges were fabricated.
On This Day in History
1588
War & Conflict
Spanish Armada Sets Sail
The Spanish Armada departed Lisbon with 130 ships to invade England. The fleet would be defeated by the English navy and scattered by storms in one of history's most famous naval campaigns.
1643
War & Conflict
Battle of Rocroi
The French army defeated the Spanish at the Battle of Rocroi, ending the myth of Spanish military invincibility. The victory marked the rise of France as the dominant European power.
1848
Politics
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo Ratified by Mexico
Mexico ratified the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, formally ceding California and the Southwest to the United States. The vast territorial loss reshaped both nations.
1921
Politics
Emergency Quota Act Signed
President Harding signed the Emergency Quota Act, severely restricting immigration to the United States. The law established national-origin quotas that favored Northern and Western Europeans.
1962
Culture
Marilyn Monroe Sings 'Happy Birthday' to JFK
Marilyn Monroe sang a sultry version of 'Happy Birthday' to President Kennedy at Madison Square Garden. The iconic performance became one of the most famous moments in American pop culture.
1999
Culture
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace Opens
Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace premiered in theaters, the first Star Wars film in 16 years. It earned $64 million in its opening weekend.