1877
Technology
Edison Announces Phonograph
Thomas Edison announced his invention of the phonograph, the first device to record and reproduce sound. The invention amazed the world and Edison became known as the 'Wizard of Menlo Park.'
On This Day in History
1620
Politics
Mayflower Compact Signed
Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower signed the Mayflower Compact while anchored in Provincetown Harbor. The document established a democratic form of self-governance for Plymouth Colony.
1783
Science
First Manned Balloon Flight
Jean-François Pilâtre de Rozier and the Marquis d'Arlandes made the first untethered manned hot air balloon flight over Paris. They flew for 25 minutes, reaching an altitude of 3,000 feet.
1694
Culture
Voltaire Born
François-Marie Arouet, who would become known as Voltaire, was born in Paris. His advocacy of civil liberties, freedom of religion, and free trade made him a leading figure of the Enlightenment.
1916
Disaster
HMHS Britannic Sinks
The RMS Titanic's sister ship, serving as a hospital ship, sank in the Aegean Sea after hitting a mine. Only 30 of the 1,066 people aboard died, thanks to improved safety measures post-Titanic.
164
Religion
Maccabees Rededicate the Temple
Judah Maccabee and his followers rededicated the Second Temple in Jerusalem after their revolt against the Seleucid Empire. This event is commemorated in the Jewish festival of Hanukkah.
1990
Politics
Cold War Formally Ends
Leaders of 34 nations signed the Charter of Paris, formally ending the Cold War and declaring a 'new era of democracy, peace, and unity' in Europe.