October 27 has seen cities dedicated, presidents born, and pivotal moments in arts and politics.
The first New York City subway line opened, running from City Hall to 145th Street. The subway transformed New York's development, enabling the growth of the outer boroughs and making the city truly metropolitan.
The 26th President of the United States was born in New York City. Roosevelt's energetic presidency transformed American politics, conservation, and foreign policy, and he became the youngest president in history.
According to tradition, Emperor Constantine saw a cross in the sky before the Battle of the Milvian Bridge, with the words 'In this sign, conquer.' His subsequent victory and conversion transformed the Roman Empire.
William Penn founded the city of Philadelphia as the capital of his Quaker colony of Pennsylvania. The 'City of Brotherly Love' became the birthplace of American democracy and independence.
The Cuban Missile Crisis reached its most dangerous point as a Soviet submarine almost launched a nuclear torpedo at US ships. One dissenting officer's vote prevented what could have started nuclear war.
The legendary British navigator was born in Marton, England. Cook's three voyages of discovery explored more of the Earth's surface than any other explorer.
Turkmenistan declared independence from the Soviet Union as the USSR dissolved. The Central Asian nation became one of the world's most isolated and authoritarian states.