1430
War & Conflict
Joan of Arc Captured by Burgundians
Joan of Arc was captured by Burgundian forces at Compiegne, France. She was subsequently sold to the English and put on trial for heresy.
On This Day in History
1533
Religion
Henry VIII's Marriage to Catherine of Aragon Annulled
Archbishop Thomas Cranmer declared that King Henry VIII's marriage to Catherine of Aragon was null and void. This act cemented England's break with Rome.
1701
Crime
Captain Kidd Hanged for Piracy
Scottish privateer Captain William Kidd was hanged in London for piracy and murder. The rope broke on the first attempt, and he was hanged a second time.
1873
Politics
Royal Canadian Mounted Police Founded
The North-West Mounted Police, forerunner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, was established by an Act of Parliament. The 'Mounties' became an iconic symbol of Canada.
1911
Culture
New York Public Library Dedicated
The New York Public Library's main building on Fifth Avenue was dedicated by President Taft. The Beaux-Arts masterpiece became one of the most iconic libraries in the world.
1934
Crime
Bonnie and Clyde Killed
Notorious outlaws Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow were ambushed and killed by law enforcement officers in Bienville Parish, Louisiana. Their two-year crime spree had captivated the nation.
2008
Space
Phoenix Mars Lander Touches Down
NASA's Phoenix Mars Lander successfully touched down near Mars's north polar cap. The mission confirmed the presence of water ice in the Martian soil.