1176
War & Conflict
Battle of Legnano
The Lombard League defeated Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa at the Battle of Legnano. The victory secured the independence of the northern Italian city-states.
On This Day in History
1453
War & Conflict
Constantinople Falls to Ottoman Turks
Sultan Mehmed II entered Constantinople after the city's fall, transforming the Hagia Sophia into a mosque. The city was renamed Istanbul and became the capital of the Ottoman Empire.
1660
Politics
Charles II Restored to English Throne
Charles II entered London to assume the throne, restoring the English monarchy after 11 years of republican rule. The Restoration brought back theaters, art, and cultural life.
1765
Politics
Patrick Henry's Stamp Act Resolves
Patrick Henry introduced seven resolutions against the Stamp Act in the Virginia House of Burgesses. His passionate opposition to British taxation helped spark the American Revolution.
1848
Politics
Wisconsin Becomes the 30th State
Wisconsin was admitted to the Union as the 30th state. The territory had attracted settlers with its abundant natural resources and fertile farmland.
1953
Exploration
Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Summit Everest
New Zealand mountaineer Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay became the first climbers confirmed to have reached the summit of Mount Everest. The achievement was announced on the day of Queen Elizabeth's coronation.
1999
Space
Space Shuttle Discovery Docks with ISS
The Space Shuttle Discovery completed the first docking with the International Space Station. The mission delivered supplies for the station's future crews.