1493
Politics
Pope Alexander VI Divides the New World
Pope Alexander VI issued the papal bull Inter caetera, dividing the newly discovered lands outside Europe between Spain and Portugal. This led to the Treaty of Tordesillas.
On This Day in History
1626
Exploration
Peter Minuit Arrives in New Amsterdam
Dutch colonial governor Peter Minuit arrived at the southern tip of Manhattan. He would famously 'purchase' Manhattan from the Lenape people for 60 guilders in trade goods.
1886
Civil Rights
Haymarket Affair in Chicago
A bomb exploded during a labor rally at Haymarket Square in Chicago, killing several police officers and civilians. The incident became a pivotal moment in the labor movement.
1904
Invention
U.S. Begins Construction of Panama Canal
The United States took over construction of the Panama Canal from the French. The massive engineering project, completed in 1914, connected the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.
1919
Civil Rights
May Fourth Movement in China
Chinese students protested the Treaty of Versailles and foreign imperialism in Beijing. The May Fourth Movement became a catalyst for Chinese nationalism and cultural modernization.
1970
Civil Rights
Kent State Shooting
Ohio National Guard troops shot and killed four unarmed students during an anti-Vietnam War protest at Kent State University. The shooting intensified anti-war sentiment across America.
1979
Politics
Margaret Thatcher Becomes Prime Minister
Margaret Thatcher became the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Her conservative revolution transformed British politics and economics.