585
Science
First Recorded Solar Eclipse Predicted
According to Herodotus, Thales of Miletus predicted a solar eclipse that halted a battle between the Lydians and Medes. It was one of the first successful astronomical predictions.
On This Day in History
1453
War & Conflict
Fall of Constantinople
Ottoman forces under Sultan Mehmed II captured Constantinople, ending the Byzantine Empire. The fall of the thousand-year empire sent shockwaves through Christendom and marked the end of the medieval era.
1533
Religion
Archbishop Cranmer Validates Henry VIII's Marriage to Anne Boleyn
Archbishop Thomas Cranmer declared Henry VIII's marriage to Anne Boleyn valid, just five days after annulling his marriage to Catherine of Aragon.
1830
Civil Rights
Indian Removal Act Signed
President Andrew Jackson signed the Indian Removal Act, authorizing the forced relocation of Native American tribes from the Southeast. The resulting 'Trail of Tears' caused thousands of deaths.
1934
Culture
Dionne Quintuplets Born
The Dionne quintuplets were born near Callander, Ontario, becoming the first quintuplets known to survive infancy. They became a media sensation and tourist attraction.
1937
Invention
Volkswagen Founded
The German Labour Front established the Volkswagen company to produce the 'People's Car' designed by Ferdinand Porsche. The Beetle would become the best-selling car in automotive history.
1961
Civil Rights
Amnesty International Founded
British lawyer Peter Benenson founded Amnesty International after reading about two Portuguese students imprisoned for raising a toast to freedom. The organization has campaigned for human rights worldwide.