334
Ancient
Alexander the Great Wins Battle of Granicus
Alexander the Great won his first major battle against the Persian Empire at the Granicus River. The victory opened Asia Minor to Macedonian conquest.
On This Day in History
1455
War & Conflict
Battle of St Albans Begins Wars of the Roses
The First Battle of St Albans launched the Wars of the Roses between the Houses of York and Lancaster. The Yorkists won this initial confrontation.
1761
Invention
First Life Insurance Policy in America
The first life insurance company in America, the Corporation for Relief of Poor and Distressed Presbyterian Ministers, issued its first policy in Philadelphia.
1807
Crime
Aaron Burr Trial Begins
The treason trial of former Vice President Aaron Burr began in Richmond, Virginia. Chief Justice John Marshall presided over the case, which ended in acquittal.
1906
Invention
Wright Brothers Receive Patent for Flying Machine
Wilbur and Orville Wright received U.S. Patent 821,393 for their 'Flying Machine.' The patent covered the wing-warping system that made controlled flight possible.
1960
Disaster
Great Chilean Earthquake
The most powerful earthquake ever recorded, magnitude 9.5, struck southern Chile. The earthquake and resulting tsunami killed thousands and caused damage as far away as Japan and Hawaii.
2017
Crime
Manchester Arena Bombing
A suicide bomber killed 22 people and injured 116 at an Ariana Grande concert at the Manchester Arena in England. It was the deadliest terrorist attack in Britain since the 2005 London bombings.