Historical Events on April 10: Significant Moments in History

Throughout history, certain dates stand out for the remarkable events that unfolded on them. From turning points in politics to cultural breakthroughs, these days often carry significance that echoes through time. Explore the most important events that occurred on April 10, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on April 10 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 British Defeat in Second Boer War: During the Second Boer War, British forces suffered a significant military setback near Brandfort, South Africa. In a fierce engagement, approximately 600 British troops were killed or wounded, with an additional 800 soldiers captured by Boer forces. This battle highlighted the tactical prowess of the Boer commandos and the challenges faced by the British imperial army in the challenging terrain of the South African veldt.
1901 Peace Negotiations in South African War: General Louis Botha initiated renewed peace negotiations between the South African Republic and the United Kingdom during the Second Boer War, seeking to find a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing conflict.
1902 Second Boer War Surrender: On April 10, 1902, the South African Boers formally accepted British terms of surrender, effectively ending the Second Boer War. This pivotal moment marked the conclusion of a brutal conflict between the British Empire and the Boer republics of the Transvaal and Orange Free State. The surrender came after years of intense guerrilla warfare and signaled the complete British colonial dominance in South Africa.
1903 Joseph Pulitzer's Groundbreaking Journalism School Donation: In a landmark philanthropic gesture, Joseph Pulitzer, the renowned newspaper publisher and media mogul, donated $2 million to Columbia University to establish the world's first professional school of journalism. This transformative gift not only created an academic institution dedicated to training professional journalists but also established provisions for literary prizes that would later become the prestigious Pulitzer Prizes. Pulitzer's vision was to elevate journalism as a respected profession with rigorous academic standards and ethical principles.
1904 Aleister Crowley Completes The Book of the Law: British occultist Aleister Crowley transcribed the third and final chapter of 'The Book of the Law' (Liber Al vel Legis), a foundational text of Thelema, a spiritual and philosophical system he developed. This mystical work was reportedly received through supernatural dictation during his time in Cairo, Egypt, and is considered a pivotal moment in modern esoteric literature.
1905 Last Legal Lingchi Execution in China: On April 10, 1905, the final legal execution by Lingchi (known as 'death by a thousand cuts') was performed in Beijing. This brutal method of capital punishment involved systematically and gradually severing parts of a condemned prisoner's body, in this case, a Mongol individual. The execution marked the end of a centuries-old practice of extreme judicial torture, reflecting the transitional period in Chinese legal and cultural norms as the country moved towards modernization.
1906 Einstein's Theory of Relativity Emerges: Albert Einstein introduces early concepts of his groundbreaking Theory of Relativity, laying the foundation for a revolutionary understanding of space, time, and gravitational physics that would transform scientific thought.
1907 Birth of Marcel Deviq: Marcel Deviq, a notable French Algerian engineer, businessman, and politician, was born on April 10, 1907. As a multifaceted professional, he likely played significant roles in the development of French colonial Algeria during the early to mid-20th century.
1908 Chicago Cubs Win 1908 World Series: In a historic baseball championship, the Chicago Cubs defeated the Detroit Tigers in the 1908 World Series, marking a significant moment in Major League Baseball history. This victory would become particularly notable as the Cubs would not win another World Series until 2016, creating one of the longest championship droughts in professional sports history.
1909 Tragic Death of Professor Ross G. Marvin during Arctic Expedition: On April 10, 1909, Professor Ross G. Marvin from Cornell University tragically drowned in the Arctic Ocean while returning from Robert Peary's historic North Pole expedition. Marvin was a member of Peary's crew and his death marked a somber moment in the early 20th-century era of polar exploration, underscoring the extreme risks faced by researchers and adventurers in their quest to reach Earth's most challenging geographical frontiers.
1910 Interstate Commerce Commission Ruling on Pullman Car Pricing: The American Interstate Commerce Commission made a significant ruling regarding train travel pricing, mandating that upper berths on Pullman cars should be sold at a lower rate compared to lower berths. This decision aimed to address pricing fairness and passenger comfort in long-distance rail transportation.
1911 Paul Langevin Proposes Twin Paradox in Physics: French physicist Paul Langevin introduced the groundbreaking 'twin paradox' concept, a thought experiment in special relativity that explores time dilation and the effects of high-speed travel on aging. This theoretical proposal would become a fundamental thought experiment in understanding Einstein's theories of relativity.
1912 RMS Titanic Departs Southampton: The RMS Titanic, a massive ocean liner considered the pinnacle of maritime engineering in 1912, departed Southampton, England on her maiden voyage. This historic journey would tragically become her only voyage, marking the beginning of one of the most infamous maritime disasters in history.
1913 Walter Johnson's Historic Pitching Streak: Legendary pitcher Walter Johnson of the Washington Senators began an extraordinary pitching performance, initiating a remarkable streak of 56 consecutive scoreless innings, showcasing his exceptional skill and dominance on the baseball field.
1914 E A V "Foffie" Williams: West Indies Cricket All-Rounder: E A V "Foffie" Williams was a versatile cricket player from the West Indies who made significant contributions as an all-rounder between 1939 and 1948. His career spanned a critical period in cricket history, including the challenging years of World War II.
1915 Establishment of Knights of Saint Columbanus: The Knights of Saint Columbanus, a Catholic fraternal organization, was formally established in Belfast with the primary mission of providing charitable services to Irish citizens. The organization quickly expanded its reach, establishing 38 councils throughout Ireland, demonstrating its commitment to community welfare and social support.
1916 Professional Golfers Association of America Founded: The Professional Golfers Association of America (PGA) was officially established in New York City, marking a pivotal moment in the organization of professional golf in the United States. On this day, 82 charter members gathered to create a formal association that would represent and advance the interests of professional golfers nationwide.
1917 Canadian Forces Capture Thélus: In a significant World War I engagement, Canadian forces captured the French village of Thélus during the Battle of Vimy Ridge. This action forced German divisions to evacuate most of Vimy Ridge, leaving only a defensive position on the hill known as 'The Pimple'.
1918 British Military Service Act Extended: The British government significantly expanded its military conscription policy by raising the upper age limit to 50 and extending mandatory service to Ireland. This legislative change reflected the increasing manpower demands of World War I and the government's commitment to sustaining its war effort.
1919 Assassination of Emiliano Zapata: Mexican Revolution leader Emiliano Zapata was ambushed and shot dead by government forces in Morelos, marking a significant turning point in the Mexican Revolution and ending the life of a key revolutionary figure.
1920 Sonora's Attempted Secession from Mexico: On April 10, 1920, the legislature of the Mexican state of Sonora took a dramatic and unprecedented step by voting to potentially secede from the United Mexican States. In a tense, closed-door session held in Hermosillo, state legislators resolved to resist President Venustiano Carranza's attempt to send federal troops into Sonora. Governor Adolfo de la Huerta escalated the confrontation by ordering the seizure of Southern Pacific Railroad lines within Sonoran territory, effectively declaring regional autonomy. By the following day, de la Huerta was reportedly positioning himself as the 'supreme power in the Republic of Sonora', signaling a direct challenge to the federal government's authority.
1921 Birth of Chuck Connors, Television Actor: Chuck Connors was born in Brooklyn, New York, a versatile actor who would become widely known for his iconic roles in television westerns, most notably as Lucas McCain in 'The Rifleman'. He was also a professional basketball and baseball player before establishing his successful acting career.
1922 Genoa Conference of 1922: The historic Genoa Conference commenced, bringing together representatives from 34 countries to discuss critical monetary economics and financial reconstruction in the aftermath of World War I. The conference aimed to address the severe economic challenges facing European nations, including war reparations, international trade, and monetary stabilization.
1923 Hitler's Inflammatory Speech in Berlin: On April 10, 1923, Adolf Hitler delivered a provocative speech in Berlin, explicitly calling for increased 'hatred' as part of his rising Nazi political rhetoric. This speech was a significant moment in the early stages of his political movement, demonstrating his inflammatory oratory style and nascent extremist ideology.
1924 Chanel No. 5 Distribution Rights Secured by Galeries Lafayette: Galeries Lafayette department store in Paris negotiated with fashion designer Coco Chanel and acquired the exclusive worldwide distribution rights for Chanel No. 5, a perfume that would become one of the most iconic fragrances in fashion history.
1925 Publication of The Great Gatsby: F. Scott Fitzgerald's seminal novel 'The Great Gatsby' was first published in New York by Charles Scribner's Sons, marking a significant moment in American literary history. The book would later become a classic exploration of the American Dream, wealth, and social dynamics in the Roaring Twenties.
1926 King Fuad Inaugurates Egyptian Parliament: On April 10, 1926, King Fuad I of Egypt officially inaugurated the new Egyptian Parliament, marking a significant moment in the country's political development during the constitutional monarchy period. This event symbolized the ongoing process of modernization and constitutional governance in Egypt during the early 20th century.
1927 Kellogg-Briand Pact Proposal: On the tenth anniversary of America's entry into World War I, French Foreign Minister Aristide Briand proposed an international treaty aimed at 'outlawing war'. This significant diplomatic initiative would later become the Kellogg-Briand Pact, a landmark attempt to prevent future global conflicts through legal means.
1928 Pineapple Primary: Political Violence in Chicago: The 1928 Republican Party primary elections in Chicago were marred by extreme political violence, characterized by assassinations, bombings, and widespread intimidation tactics. Two prominent politicians, Octavius C. Granady and Giuseppe Esposito, were killed during this tumultuous period, highlighting the brutal nature of Chicago's political landscape in the late 1920s.
1929 Birth of Duje Bonačić, Croatian Rower: Duje Bonačić was born on April 10, 1929, in Croatia. He would later become a notable athlete in the rowing discipline, representing his country in competitive sports during the mid-20th century. While specific details of his rowing career are limited in this record, his birth marks an important moment in Croatian sports history.
1930 British Colonial Police Raid Congress Headquarters: In a politically charged move, British colonial police conducted a raid on the Indian National Congress headquarters in Bombay, arresting two individuals. This action reflects the growing tension between the Indian independence movement and British colonial authorities during the early 20th century.
1931 Death of Kahlil Gibran, Influential Lebanese Poet and Writer: Kahlil Gibran, a renowned Lebanese-American poet, philosopher, and artist, passed away in New York City from tuberculosis. Known for his profound philosophical work 'The Prophet', Gibran was a pivotal figure in Arabic literature and a key contributor to the Mahjar literary movement, which bridged Arabic and Western literary traditions.
1932 Paul von Hindenburg Re-elected as German President: In a significant political moment, Paul von Hindenburg was re-elected as the President of Germany in a contentious presidential election. The election was marked by political tension and violence, with hundreds of individuals arrested on election day. Hindenburg secured a majority of votes, extending his presidential term by another seven years.
1933 Nazi Book Burning Campaign Announced: The Nazi regime's Main Office for Press and Propaganda of the German Student Union officially launches a nationwide campaign to burn books deemed 'un-German', marking a significant moment of cultural suppression and ideological censorship in Nazi Germany.
1934 Primo de Rivera Assassination Attempt: Spanish Falangist leader José Antonio Primo de Rivera narrowly escapes an assassination attempt. Four assailants threw bombs at his car and fired bullets, but Primo de Rivera emerged unharmed, highlighting the political tensions in pre-Civil War Spain.
1935 Birth of Peter Hollingworth, Australian Governor General: Peter Hollingworth was born on April 10, 1935, in Australia. He would later become the 23rd Governor-General of Australia, serving in a significant leadership role that represents the British monarch in the Australian governmental system. As an Anglican bishop, Hollingworth brought a unique background of religious and public service to his prominent national position.
1936 Notable Births on April 10, 1936: Multiple significant personalities were born on this date: John Madden, the legendary American football player, coach, and sports commentator who would become an iconic figure in NFL history; John Howell, an Olympic long jumper; and Bobby Smith, an R&B singer from Detroit.
1937 Birth of Bella Akhmadulina: Bella Akhmadulina, a prominent Soviet and Russian poet and short story writer, was born on this day. She would become a significant figure in 20th-century Russian literature, known for her lyrical poetry and contributions to the literary scene during the Soviet era.
1938 Anschluss Plebiscite in Austria: A highly controlled plebiscite is conducted in Austria following Hitler's invasion, with an overwhelmingly manipulated result of 99.7% approval for the political unification with Germany, demonstrating the Nazi regime's propaganda and coercion tactics.
1939 Border Mobilization in Response to Albanian Invasion: Tensions rise as countries mobilize troops in response to Italy's invasion of Albania, signaling increasing geopolitical instability in Europe preceding World War II.
1940 First Battle of Narvik: A crucial naval engagement during the German invasion of Norway, where both German and British naval forces suffered significant losses. The battle involved the sinking of German destroyers Z22 Anton Schmitt and Z21 Wilhelm Heidkamp, and British destroyers HMS Hardy and Hunter.
1941 Establishment of Independent State of Croatia: The Axis powers formally established the Independent State of Croatia (NDH), a puppet state under Nazi and Fascist influence, marking a significant reorganization of the Balkan region during World War II.
1942 Bataan Death March Begins: During World War II, the Bataan Death March began as Japanese forces brutally forced approximately 76,000 American and Filipino prisoners of war to march 60 miles under extreme conditions from the Bataan airfield to a camp near Cabanatuan. The prisoners endured scorching heat, severe dehydration, and lack of food, resulting in the tragic death of over 5,000 American soldiers. This event became a symbol of Japanese wartime atrocities and human rights violations.
1943 Operation FLAX: Allied Air Interception: Allied air planners executed Operation FLAX, using P-38s, P-40s, and Supermarine Spitfires to intercept and shoot down Axis aircraft attempting low-level transport operations between Marsala and Cape Bon, critically disrupting German Afrika Korps' airlift capabilities.
1944 Escape from Birkenau Death Camp: Rudolf Vrba and Alfred Wetzler made a daring escape from the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, providing crucial first-hand evidence of the Holocaust's atrocities. Their detailed report helped expose the systematic murder of Jews in Nazi death camps.
1945 Liberation of Buchenwald Concentration Camp: Allied forces liberated the Buchenwald concentration camp, revealing the horrific conditions and atrocities committed by Nazi Germany during World War II. This marked a significant moment in exposing the Holocaust and bringing an end to the systematic persecution of millions.
1946 Women's Suffrage in Post-War Japan: In a landmark moment for Japanese democracy, women participated in national elections for the first time, voting in the elections for the House of Representatives of the 90th Imperial Diet. This historic event marked a significant step towards gender equality in Japan's political landscape, following the democratic reforms implemented by the Allied occupation after World War II.
1947 Jackie Robinson Breaks Baseball Color Barrier: Jackie Robinson made history by becoming the first African-American player to break the color barrier in Major League Baseball, signing with the Brooklyn Dodgers and challenging long-standing racial segregation in professional sports.
1948 Einsatzgruppen Trial Concludes in Nuremberg: The Nuremberg trial of Nazi Einsatzgruppen (mobile killing units) concluded, marking a significant moment in post-World War II justice. Of the 24 defendants, 14 were sentenced to death for their roles in mass killings during the Holocaust, while the remaining defendants received varying prison sentences, highlighting the international community's commitment to prosecuting war crimes.
1949 Sam Snead Wins 13th Masters Golf Championship: Sam Snead secured victory at the prestigious Masters Tournament, shooting an impressive 282 total and demonstrating exceptional skill on the golf course. This year marked a significant milestone as the iconic green jacket tradition was introduced, symbolizing the championship's prestige and creating a lasting tradition in professional golf.
1950 Dag Hammarskjöld Becomes UN Secretary-General: Dag Hammarskjöld officially begins his term as the Secretary-General of the United Nations, a pivotal diplomatic role during the early years of the Cold War. Hammarskjöld would go on to become one of the most influential UN leaders, known for his diplomatic skills and commitment to international peace.
1951 Steven Seagal Born: Steven Seagal, an American actor known for his martial arts action films, was born on April 10, 1951, in Michigan. He later became famous for his roles in movies like 'Above the Law', 'Under Siege', and 'Hard to Kill', and is also recognized for his background in martial arts.
1952 I Love Lucy Sets Television Viewership Record: On April 10, 1952, the 'The Marriage License' episode of 'I Love Lucy' made television history by becoming the first TV show to be simultaneously viewed in approximately 10 million homes. This milestone represented a significant moment in broadcast media, demonstrating the growing popularity and reach of television in mid-20th century America.
1953 Eisenhower's 'Chance for Peace' Speech: President Dwight D. Eisenhower delivered his influential 'Chance for Peace' speech to the National Association of Newspaper Editors, addressing Cold War tensions and potential diplomatic solutions.
1954 Bell Labs Breakthrough in Solar Cell Technology: Bell Laboratories announced the groundbreaking invention of the first practical silicon solar cell, marking a significant milestone in renewable energy technology. These early solar cells demonstrated approximately 6% energy conversion efficiency, laying the foundation for future photovoltaic developments.
1955 Dr. Jonas Salk Successfully Tests Polio Vaccine: Dr. Jonas Salk conducts groundbreaking medical research by successfully testing the first effective polio vaccine, marking a pivotal moment in medical history that would help prevent a devastating childhood disease which had caused widespread paralysis and death.
1956 Racist Attack Interrupts Nat King Cole Concert: During a performance in Birmingham, Alabama, legendary musician Nat King Cole was violently interrupted by three Ku Klux Klan members who physically pushed him from his piano stool. The perpetrators were subsequently tried and convicted, but the traumatic incident led Cole to never perform in his home state again, highlighting the pervasive racism of the era.
1957 Suez Canal Reopening: The Suez Canal was reopened for international maritime traffic after being closed for three months, restoring a critical global shipping route.
1958 Birth of Music Producer Kenneth 'Babyface' Edmonds: Kenneth 'Babyface' Edmonds, a renowned American music producer, musician, and film producer, was born on this date. He would go on to become a highly influential figure in R&B and pop music, winning multiple Grammy Awards and producing for numerous top artists.
1959 Imperial Wedding of Crown Prince Akihito and Michiko Shoda: Crown Prince Akihito of Japan marries Michiko Shoda, marking a historic moment as she becomes the first commoner to marry into the Japanese Imperial Family. This marriage represents a significant social shift in Japanese royal traditions, breaking centuries of strict aristocratic marriage protocols.
1960 US Senate Passes Civil Rights Bill: The US Senate passed a landmark Civil Rights Bill, a significant step in the ongoing struggle for racial equality and civil liberties in the United States during the tumultuous 1960s civil rights era.
1961 Adolf Eichmann War Crimes Trial Begins in Israel: Nazi SS officer Adolf Eichmann, a key architect of the Holocaust, goes on trial in Jerusalem for his role in organizing the systematic deportation and murder of millions of Jews during World War II. This landmark trial would become a pivotal moment in Holocaust documentation and international criminal justice.
1962 Mickey Mantle's 375th Home Run: New York Yankees legendary slugger Mickey Mantle hit his 375th home run, further cementing his status as one of baseball's most iconic players during the early 1960s.
1963 USS Thresher Submarine Disaster: The USS Thresher, a nuclear-powered submarine, tragically sank during deep-diving sea trials approximately 220 miles east of Boston, Massachusetts. The catastrophic incident resulted in the loss of all 129 personnel on board, including 112 U.S. Navy personnel and 17 civilian technicians. This event is considered one of the most significant submarine disasters in U.S. naval history, leading to major changes in submarine safety protocols and design.
1964 Tragic Maritime Disaster in Persian Gulf: A devastating maritime accident occurred in the Persian Gulf when an Iranian motor launch caught fire and subsequently sank, resulting in the tragic loss of 113 lives. The incident highlights the significant maritime risks and safety challenges in the region during this period.
1965 Devastating Thunderstorms and Hail Impact in Clark County: On April 10, 1965, a severe thunderstorm system swept through Clark County, causing significant meteorological and ecological disruption. The afternoon and early evening were marked by intense storm activity, with hailstones reaching up to 2.00 inches in diameter. A particularly notable incident occurred approximately 30 miles northeast of Huron around 2:40 PM, where large hail was documented. In a tragic event around 6:30 PM near Garden City, hailstones measuring 0.75 inches in diameter struck a flock of wild geese in mid-flight, resulting in the immediate death of 25 birds. This event highlights the destructive potential of severe weather and its unexpected ecological consequences.
1966 Artists and Writers Targeted During China's Cultural Revolution: During the Cultural Revolution, the Chinese government launched a widespread campaign targeting artists and writers, systematically labeling them as criminal suspects. This was part of a broader effort to suppress intellectual freedom, control cultural expression, and enforce ideological conformity under Mao Zedong's leadership. Many intellectuals faced persecution, public humiliation, imprisonment, and forced labor as part of this campaign.
1967 Landmark Civil Rights Supreme Court Case: Loving v. Virginia: Oral arguments began in the landmark Supreme Court case 'Loving v. Virginia', challenging state laws that prohibited interracial marriage, a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement.
1968 Civil Rights Act of 1968 Signed: U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson signs the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1968, a critical piece of legislation that prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, religion, national origin, and sex. This act was a significant expansion of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, further advancing racial equality and fair housing practices in the United States.
1970 The Beatles Break Up Announcement: Paul McCartney officially announces the dissolution of The Beatles, marking the end of one of the most influential rock bands in music history.
1971 Ping Pong Diplomacy: US Table Tennis Team Visits China: In a groundbreaking diplomatic initiative, the People's Republic of China hosts the U.S. table tennis team for a historic weeklong visit, symbolizing an unprecedented attempt to improve relations between the United States and China during the Cold War era.
1972 Biological Weapons Convention Signed: The United States, Soviet Union, and 70 other nations signed a landmark international agreement to ban biological weapons, marking a significant milestone in global disarmament efforts and international cooperation during the Cold War era.
1973 Israeli Commando Raid in Beirut: Israeli commandos conducted a targeted operation in Beirut, assassinating three leaders of the Palestinian Resistance Movement. The Lebanese army's lack of response to the incident led to the immediate resignation of Prime Minister Saib Salam, a Sunni Muslim, highlighting the complex geopolitical tensions in the region.
1974 Yitzhak Rabin Succeeds Golda Meir: Yitzhak Rabin replaced Golda Meir as the Prime Minister of Israel, signaling a significant leadership transition in Israeli politics during a complex geopolitical period.
1975 Lee Elder Breaks Racial Barrier at Masters Tournament: Lee Elder became the first African-American golfer to play in the prestigious Masters' Tournament, marking a significant milestone in sports desegregation and civil rights.
1976 Cleveland Cavaliers First NBA Central Division Title: The Cleveland Cavaliers achieved a significant milestone by winning their first NBA Central Division title on April 10, 1976, marking a pivotal moment in the franchise's early history.
1977 Assassination of Yemeni Political Leader in London: Former North Yemen Prime Minister Kadhi Abdullah al-Hagri and his wife were tragically assassinated in London, marking a significant political incident with potential regional implications.
1978 Volkswagen Establishes First Manufacturing Plant in the United States: Volkswagen became the first non-American automobile manufacturer to build cars in the United States, opening a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. The facility was initially dedicated to producing the Rabbit economy car, and later expanded to manufacture the Golf and Jetta models. The plant operated until its closure in July 1988, marking a significant milestone in international automotive manufacturing and foreign direct investment in the U.S. automotive industry.
1979 Red River Valley Tornado Outbreak: A devastating series of 26 tornadoes swept across Texas, causing massive destruction and loss of life. 58 people were killed across four communities, with 44 fatalities in Wichita Falls alone. The weather system also produced additional thunderstorms and tornadoes on April 11, particularly in Arkansas, and intense rainfall over Mississippi and Alabama that led to the 1979 Easter flood - the worst disaster to hit Jackson, Mississippi in over a century.
1980 Terry Fox Marathon of Hope Begins: Terry Fox, a courageous Canadian amputee, commences his legendary cross-Canada run from St. John's, Newfoundland to raise awareness and funds for cancer research, embodying extraordinary human resilience and humanitarian spirit.
1981 Bobby Sands Elected to British Parliament: Imprisoned Irish Republican Army (IRA) hunger striker Bobby Sands was elected to the British Parliament in a historic by-election for the Fermanagh and South Tyrone constituency. This election was a significant moment in the Northern Ireland conflict, highlighting the political tensions and the growing international attention on the IRA's struggle.
1982 LA Kings Epic Overtime Victory Against Edmonton Oilers: In a remarkable NHL playoff game, the Los Angeles Kings staged an extraordinary comeback against the Edmonton Oilers. After trailing 5-0 in the third period, the Kings mounted an incredible rally to win the game 6-5 in overtime, demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination.
1983 Jordan Halts PLO Negotiations: King Hussein of Jordan officially ceased negotiations with the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), marking a significant diplomatic tension in Middle Eastern relations.
1984 Solar Max Satellite Rescue Mission: The Space Shuttle Challenger successfully captured and retrieved the damaged Solar Max satellite, demonstrating NASA's innovative satellite repair capabilities in space.
1985 Challenger Shuttle Preparation for STS 51-B Mission: The Space Shuttle Challenger was transported to Vandenberg Air Force Base in preparation for the upcoming STS 51-B space mission, marking an important step in NASA's space exploration efforts.
1986 Benazir Bhutto Returns to Pakistan: Benazir Bhutto, a prominent Pakistani political leader, returned to Pakistan after years of exile. This marked a significant moment in Pakistani political history, as she would later become the first female Prime Minister of a Muslim-majority nation.
1987 Prince's 'Sign 'O' The Times' Leads R&B Charts: Prince's innovative and socially conscious track 'Sign 'O' The Times' reached number one on the R&B charts, showcasing his musical genius and ability to blend social commentary with compelling musical arrangements.
1988 Ojhri Camp Explosion in Pakistan: A catastrophic explosion at the Ojhri Camp military depot in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan, results in over 1,000 casualties, marking one of the most significant military-related disasters in Pakistani history.
1989 Intel Launches 80486 Microprocessor: Intel Corporation announces the groundbreaking 25 MHz i486 microprocessor, a significant advancement in computer technology. This chip integrates the 386 processor and 387 math coprocessor, featuring an innovative 8 kB primary cache. Utilizing 1-micron technology, the processor contains 1.2 million transistors and delivers a processing speed of 20 MIPS. Initially priced at US$900, this microprocessor represents a major leap in computing performance and complexity.
1990 Curtly Ambrose's Historic Cricket Performance: West Indian fast bowler Curtly Ambrose delivered an extraordinary bowling performance against England at Bridgetown, Barbados, taking an impressive 8 wickets for just 45 runs. This remarkable achievement highlighted Ambrose's exceptional skill and dominance in cricket during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
1991 Moby Prince Ferry Disaster: A tragic maritime accident occurred when the Italian ferry 'Moby Prince' collided with an oil tanker in dense fog off Livorno, Italy, resulting in the death of 140 people. This was one of the worst maritime disasters in Italian history.
1992 Maraghar Massacre: During the Nagorno-Karabakh War, Azerbaijani troops committed a horrific atrocity by killing ethnic Armenian civilians in the village of Maraghar, representing a significant moment of ethnic violence in the conflict.
1993 Assassination of Chris Hani: African National Congress activist Chris Hani was assassinated in South Africa, marking a significant moment in the country's political transition and anti-apartheid struggle. Hani was a prominent leader in the ANC and the South African Communist Party, whose murder heightened tensions during the critical period of negotiations to end apartheid.
1994 Rwandan Genocide Escalates in Kigali: The Rwandan Genocide continues with the Presidential Guard systematically targeting and killing moderate politicians and public figures in Kigali, including Prime Minister Agathe Uwilingiyimana. This marks a critical phase of the ethnic violence that would ultimately result in the deaths of approximately 800,000 Tutsi and moderate Hutu people.
1995 Death of Chen Yun, Chinese Political Leader: Chen Yun, a prominent Chinese Communist Party leader who served as Vice-Premier of China during critical periods from 1949-1975 and 1979-1980, passed away. He was a key figure in shaping China's economic policies during its early decades of communist rule.
1996 Record-Breaking Wind Speed on Barrow Island: On April 10, 1996, the most extreme wind speed ever recorded outside of a tornado was documented during Tropical Cyclone Olivia on Barrow Island, Australia. The phenomenal wind speed reached an astonishing 408 kilometers per hour (253 miles per hour), which represents an unprecedented meteorological event. This measurement was officially verified and stands as a remarkable testament to the potential intensity of tropical cyclones in the region.
1997 Death of Michael Dorris, Native American Author and Activist: Michael Dorris, a prominent American author, scholar, and Native American advocate, passed away on April 10, 1997. Known for his groundbreaking works exploring Native American experiences and adoption, Dorris was a respected writer who co-authored several books with his wife Louise Erdrich and wrote critically acclaimed works like 'A Yellow Raft in Blue Water'. His contributions to Native American literature and his advocacy for indigenous rights made him a significant cultural figure.
1998 Good Friday Agreement Signed: On April 10, 1998, after intense negotiations and just one hour past the official talks deadline, the Belfast Agreement (also known as the Good Friday Agreement) was signed. This landmark peace accord was negotiated between the Irish and British governments and most Northern Ireland political parties, with the notable exception of the Democratic Unionist Party. The agreement aimed to end the 30-year violent conflict known as 'The Troubles' and establish a framework for peaceful political resolution of Northern Ireland's constitutional status.
1999 Unremarkable Day in 1999: While no significant global historical events were prominently recorded for April 10, 1999, this day represents a moment in the late 20th century during the final year before the millennium's turn. The world was experiencing technological anticipation related to the upcoming Y2K transition, ongoing geopolitical shifts following the Cold War, and the continued digital revolution.
2000 Lama Deshin Shekpa Visits Ming Dynasty Capital: The Tibetan Buddhist lama Deshin Shekpa travels to Nanjing, the capital of the Ming Dynasty, where he is ceremonially honored with the prestigious title 'Great Treasure Prince of Dharma'. This event represents an important diplomatic and cultural exchange between Tibetan Buddhist leadership and the Ming imperial court.
2002 Notable Deaths: Several notable individuals passed away on this date, including astronomer Yuji Hyakutake, Ed Fleming, Aleksandr Dmitrievič Kuročkin, and Haim Cohn.
2003 Tragic Boarding School Fire in Makhachkala: A devastating fire at a boarding school for deaf children in Makhachkala, Russia, resulted in the tragic deaths of 28 children between 8-14 years old. An additional 100 children suffered burns and smoke inhalation, with 39 in serious condition, highlighting significant safety concerns in educational institutions.
2004 9/11 Pre-Attack Intelligence Briefing: The White House declassified a critical Presidential Daily Brief from August 2001, which presciently warned of potential al-Qaeda activities and planned hijackings within the United States, revealing significant pre-9/11 intelligence insights.
2005 Tiger Woods Wins Fourth Masters: Tiger Woods clinched his fourth Masters title at the 69th US Masters Tournament, defeating Chris DiMarco in a playoff, further solidifying his legendary status in golf.
2006 Nationwide Immigrants' Rights Protests: Massive demonstrations occur across over 100 U.S. cities, with hundreds of thousands of immigrants' rights activists protesting proposed anti-immigrant legislation (H.R. 4437) that would criminalize undocumented immigrants.
2007 Intense Baghdad Fighting: United States and Iraqi forces, supported by attack helicopters, engaged in the most intense urban combat in Baghdad since the February 2007 security crackdown.
2008 European Parliament Considers Beijing Olympics Boycott: The European Parliament voted in favor of a potential boycott of the Beijing Olympics opening ceremonies, highlighting international concerns about human rights in China.
2009 Deadly Suicide Bombing in Mosul, Iraq: A suicide bomb in Mosul, Iraq killed 5 U.S. soldiers and 2 Iraqis, marking the deadliest attack against the American military in Iraq in 13 months.
2010 Polish Presidential Plane Crash in Smolensk: The Polish presidential Tupolev Tu-154 aircraft crashed in thick fog while attempting to land in Smolensk, Russia, resulting in the tragic death of all 96 passengers, including President Lech Kaczynski, his wife Maria, and numerous high-ranking Polish officials. The crash occurred during a commemorative flight marking the 70th anniversary of the Katyn massacre, a significant historical event in Polish-Russian relations.
2011 African Union Mediates Libya Civil War: An African Union diplomatic mission arrived in Libya to broker a potential settlement in the ongoing civil war between Muammar Gaddafi's regime and its opponents.
2012 Breivik Psychiatric Assessment: A second psychiatric evaluation determined Anders Behring Breivik was mentally fit to stand trial for the 2011 Norway attacks, with potential imprisonment if convicted.
2013 Death of Margaret Thatcher: Margaret Thatcher, the influential former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, passed away, marking the end of an era in British political history. Her death prompted a special parliamentary session to discuss her significant legacy and impact on British politics.
2014 Council of Europe Suspends Russia's Voting Rights: The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe suspended Russia's voting rights and election observation participation in response to its controversial annexation of Crimea, signaling international diplomatic disapproval.
2015 Hillary Clinton Announces 2016 Presidential Campaign: Multiple sources reported that Hillary Clinton, former U.S. Secretary of State, would announce her candidacy for the 2016 United States Presidential Election.
2016 Kollam Temple Fire: A catastrophic fire at a Hindu temple in the Kollam district of Kerala, India, resulted in at least 102 deaths and numerous injuries, marking one of the deadliest temple accidents in recent Indian history.
2017 Great Barrier Reef Coral Bleaching Crisis: The Australian Research Council reported that two-thirds of Great Barrier Reef corals have experienced severe bleaching for the second consecutive year, highlighting the critical impact of climate change on marine ecosystems.
2018 Syria Chemical Attack International Response Preparations: Anonymous U.S. officials revealed potential plans for a multilateral military response to Syrian government forces following the Douma chemical attack. Experts suggested potential involvement from France, the United Kingdom, and Middle Eastern allies. Eurocontrol simultaneously warned airlines about potential airstrikes in the Mediterranean region.
2019 First Image of a Black Hole Revealed: Scientists from the Event Horizon Telescope project announce the groundbreaking first-ever image of a black hole, located in the center of the M87 galaxy. This historic scientific achievement provides visual confirmation of a cosmic phenomenon previously only theorized.
2020 COVID-19 Pandemic Global Update: Comprehensive overview of the COVID-19 pandemic's global impact on April 10, 2020, highlighting challenges in the United States, Europe, and international response efforts. Key developments include legal disputes over pandemic restrictions, economic disruptions, healthcare challenges, and international cooperation in managing the crisis.
2021 Supreme Court Blocks COVID-19 Restrictions on Religious Gatherings: On April 10, 2021, the United States Supreme Court issued a significant ruling in a 5-4 decision, blocking state-imposed COVID-19 restrictions that were deemed to infringe upon religious freedoms. The decision highlighted the ongoing tension between public health measures and constitutional rights during the pandemic, emphasizing the Court's commitment to protecting First Amendment religious liberty protections even during extraordinary circumstances.
2022 Siblings Day: A special day celebrating the unique bond between siblings, recognizing the importance of family relationships and encouraging appreciation for brothers and sisters.
2023 Chinese Activists Sentenced in Crackdown on Dissent: Prominent human rights activists Xu Zhiyong and Ding Jiaxi were sentenced to 14 and 12 years in prison, respectively, for subverting state power in a significant blow to civil liberties in China.

What Is special about April 10?

April 10 is notable for a variety of important historical, cultural, and significant events, including famous birthdays and deaths, holidays and more. Find out everything about April 10.