Historical Events on April 14: 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 14, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

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Events on April 14 - Key Moments Throughout History

  • 1900 Paris World Exhibition Opens: The Paris World Exhibition commenced, a grand international event that celebrated technological innovation, cultural exchange, and global achievements of the era.
  • 1901 Uneventful Day in Global History: While no specific major historical events were recorded for April 14, 1901, this date falls during the early years of the 20th century, a period of significant global transformation. The world was experiencing rapid industrialization, colonial expansions, and technological advancements. The turn of the century marked a transitional period between the Victorian era and the modern age, with emerging global powers reshaping international dynamics.
  • 1902 Discovery of Radium by Marie and Pierre Curie: Marie and Pierre Curie successfully isolated the radioactive element radium, a groundbreaking scientific achievement that would revolutionize understanding of atomic structure and radiation. This discovery was pivotal in the field of nuclear physics and would later have profound implications for medical research and treatment.
  • 1903 Typhoid Vaccine Discovery: Dr. Harry Plotz, a pioneering medical researcher in New York City, successfully developed a vaccine against typhoid fever, a significant breakthrough in preventing a deadly infectious disease that had caused numerous fatalities worldwide.
  • 1904 Multiple Notable Births: Several significant individuals were born on this date: Gerhard Adler (German analytical psychologist), Federico Gentile (Italian publisher), John Gielgud (English actor), and Elizabeth Irving (British actress).
  • 1905 Erik Gustaf Boström Resigns as Swedish Prime Minister: Erik Gustaf Boström resigned as Prime Minister of Sweden, marking a significant political moment in the context of the ongoing tensions in the Swedish-Norwegian Union. His resignation was directly related to the complex diplomatic and constitutional challenges facing the union at the time.
  • 1906 Azusa Street Revival Begins: The first meeting of the Azusa Street Revival, led by William J. Seymour, takes place in Los Angeles, marking the birth of the modern Pentecostal movement. This religious event would profoundly influence global Christianity, emphasizing spiritual gifts, divine healing, and speaking in tongues.
  • 1907 Birth of François Duvalier: François Duvalier, a prominent Haitian politician who would later become a controversial dictator, was born on this date. Known as 'Papa Doc', he would rule Haiti from 1957 to 1971, establishing a brutal and oppressive regime characterized by political repression and the notorious Tonton Macoute paramilitary force.
  • 1908 Hauser Dam Catastrophic Failure: On April 14, 1908, the Hauser Dam, a steel dam located on the Missouri River in Montana, catastrophically failed. The dam's collapse unleashed a massive surge of water between 25 to 30 feet (7.6 to 9.1 meters) high, causing significant downstream flooding and destruction. This event highlighted the engineering challenges and potential risks associated with early 20th-century dam construction.
  • 1909 Formation of Anglo-Persian Oil Company: The Anglo-Persian Oil Company was officially incorporated in London, marking a significant moment in the history of global petroleum exploration and colonial economic interests. This company would later play a crucial role in the development of Iran's oil industry and British imperial economic strategy.
  • 1910 RMS Titanic Launched in Belfast: The RMS Titanic, a massive ocean liner and pinnacle of early 20th-century maritime engineering, was launched from the Harland and Wolff shipyard in Belfast, Northern Ireland. This momentous event marked the beginning of what would become one of the most famous and tragic maritime stories in history.
  • 1911 Taft's Diplomatic Warning to Mexico: U.S. President William Howard Taft issued a diplomatic warning to the Mexican government and insurgent leaders during the Mexican Revolution, cautioning them to prevent military confrontations near the United States-Mexico border and to avoid escalating regional tensions. This intervention reflected the U.S. government's concern about potential spillover effects of the ongoing Mexican political instability.
  • 1912 RMS Titanic Disaster: The British ocean liner RMS Titanic struck an iceberg in the North Atlantic during its maiden voyage, leading to a catastrophic sinking that resulted in the tragic loss of over 1,500 lives. The ship hit the iceberg at 11:40 PM ship time on April 14, 1912, and ultimately plunged beneath the waves at approximately 2:20 AM on April 15, 1912. This maritime tragedy became one of the most infamous shipwrecks in modern history, highlighting significant maritime safety failures and leading to major reforms in maritime regulations.
  • 1913 Belgian General Strike for Voting Rights: On April 14, 1913, Belgium experienced a significant labor movement as workers nationwide initiated a general strike demanding electoral reforms. The strike was a powerful demonstration against the existing 'plural vote' system, which disproportionately favored wealthy and educated citizens by granting them multiple votes.
  • 1914 First International Criminal Police Congress: The inaugural International Criminal Police Congress is held in Monaco, with 24 countries represented from Asia, Europe, and the Americas. This groundbreaking event laid the foundation for international law enforcement cooperation and collaboration.
  • 1915 Battle of Shaiba: British Forces Corner Ottoman Troops: In a significant engagement during World War I, British infantry successfully cornered the remaining Ottoman forces in a wooded area outside the Iraqi city of Basra, demonstrating the strategic military operations in the Middle Eastern theater.
  • 1916 Imperial German Army Establishes Coastal Defence High Command: During World War I, the Imperial German Army created a specialized High Command of Coastal Defence to strategically protect Germany's vulnerable northern coastline from potential maritime attacks. This organizational restructuring reflected the strategic importance of coastal defense during the ongoing global conflict.
  • 1917 US Government Establishes Committee on Public Information: President Woodrow Wilson established the Committee on Public Information (CPI), a significant propaganda and public relations organization, and appointed George Creel as its head. The CPI played a crucial role in shaping public opinion during World War I, using various media channels to generate support for the war effort and promote American war aims.
  • 1918 General Foch Appointed Allied Commander-in-Chief: On April 14, 1918, during the critical final stages of World War I, General Ferdinand Foch was appointed as the Supreme Allied Commander-in-Chief of the Allied Armies in France. This strategic appointment unified the Allied command structure and was crucial in coordinating the final offensive that would ultimately lead to the defeat of Germany.
  • 1919 Emperor Charles I of Austria Goes into Exile: Emperor Charles I of Austria-Hungary was forced into exile, leaving his throne and moving to Switzerland after the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire following World War I. This marked a significant moment in the dissolution of the Habsburg monarchy and the geopolitical restructuring of Central Europe.
  • 1920 President Wilson Returns to Cabinet After Stroke: U.S. President Woodrow Wilson met with his Cabinet for the first time since September 2, 1920, after recovering from a debilitating stroke that had incapacitated him for over six months.
  • 1921 Greco-Turkish Conflict Engagement: Greek forces capture 6,000 Turkish soldiers after repelling a Turkish counterattack near the Afiun-Kharahissar base, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the aftermath of World War I and the Greco-Turkish War.
  • 1922 Irish Republican Forces Occupy Dublin Four Courts: On April 14, 1922, Republican rebels seized control of four government courts in Dublin, marking a significant escalation in the Irish Civil War tensions. This strategic occupation represented a direct challenge to the newly established Irish Free State government and highlighted the deep divisions within the Irish independence movement following the Anglo-Irish Treaty.
  • 1923 Women Voters Reject League of Nations Endorsement: The National League of Women Voters declined to endorse the League of Nations in its current form. However, they advocated for U.S. cooperation with international bodies to prevent future conflicts, reflecting the complex post-World War I diplomatic landscape.
  • 1924 Death of Louis Sullivan, Pioneer of Modern Architecture: Louis Sullivan, renowned as the 'father of skyscrapers', passed away at the age of 67. A pivotal figure in American architectural history, Sullivan was instrumental in developing the modern skyscraper and pioneering the principle that 'form follows function'. His innovative designs significantly influenced the urban landscape of early 20th-century America, particularly in Chicago, where he helped establish the Chicago School of architecture. Sullivan mentored Frank Lloyd Wright and was a key contributor to the development of steel-frame construction that would revolutionize urban building design.
  • 1925 First Chicago Cubs Radio Broadcast: The first regular-season Chicago Cubs game was broadcast on radio by announcer Quin Ryan. The Cubs defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates with a score of 8-2, marking a significant milestone in sports media broadcasting.
  • 1926 Birth of Frank Daniel, Czech Filmmaker and Educator: Frank Daniel, a prominent Czech-born filmmaker, writer, producer, director, and film education pioneer, was born on April 14, 1926. Throughout his career, he made significant contributions to cinema and film education, influencing generations of filmmakers and storytellers.
  • 1927 Volvo Launches First Production Car - The Jakob: In Göteborg, Sweden, Volvo produces its first production line car, the Jakob. This pioneering vehicle features a 28-horsepower 4-cylinder engine and was priced at 4,800 kronor. Approximately 200 units were manufactured. The company name 'Volvo' was strategically chosen because it means 'I roll' in Latin, symbolizing the company's automotive ambitions.
  • 1928 First East-to-West Transatlantic Flight: The Bremen, a German Junkers W 33 type aircraft, successfully completed the first transatlantic flight from east to west, landing at Greenly Island, Canada. This historic aviation achievement marked a significant milestone in early 20th-century aviation technology and international travel.
  • 1929 First India to UK Air Mail Delivery: A historic milestone in international postal communication is achieved with the first air mail delivery from India to the United Kingdom. The flight arrives at Croydon Aerodrome, carrying approximately 15,000 letters, symbolizing the growing interconnectedness of the British Empire and advancements in aviation technology.
  • 1930 Nehru's Arrest During Salt Law Protest: Indian independence leader Jawaharlal Nehru was arrested and charged with violating the salt law, a pivotal moment in India's civil disobedience movement against British colonial rule. This arrest was part of Mahatma Gandhi's broader Salt March campaign, which challenged the British monopoly on salt production and symbolized resistance to unjust colonial taxation.
  • 1931 Spanish Cortes Deposes King Alfonso XIII: The Spanish Cortes (parliament) officially deposed King Alfonso XIII, marking a pivotal moment in Spanish political history. This legislative action effectively ended the Spanish monarchy and paved the way for democratic governance through the Second Spanish Republic.
  • 1932 First Artificial Nuclear Disintegration: John Cockcroft and Ernest Walton successfully split the nucleus of lithium using a focused proton beam, marking a groundbreaking moment in nuclear physics. This experiment demonstrated the ability to artificially transmute atomic nuclei, paving the way for future nuclear research and understanding of atomic structure.
  • 1933 Uneventful Day in 1933: While no specific major historical events were recorded for April 14, 1933, this period was during the early years of Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency and the Great Depression era. The United States was in the midst of implementing New Deal policies to address economic challenges following the stock market crash of 1929.
  • 1934 Philippines Independence Act Signed: The Tydings-McDuffie Act was signed, marking a significant milestone in Philippine-American relations by establishing a framework for the Philippines to transition towards independence from the United States. The act provided a 10-year period for the Philippines to prepare for full self-governance, ultimately leading to their independence in 1946.
  • 1935 Works Progress Administration Established: The Works Progress Administration (WPA) is established in the United States as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal, a critical economic recovery program during the Great Depression aimed at providing employment and economic stimulus.
  • 1936 Orson Welles' Groundbreaking Macbeth Premiere: Orson Welles directed and premiered an innovative production of William Shakespeare's *Macbeth* at the Lafayette Theatre in Harlem, known as the 'Voodoo Macbeth'. This adaptation was notable for its all-Black cast and unique cultural interpretation of the classic play.
  • 1937 Black Sunday Dust Storm: The catastrophic Black Sunday Dust Storm devastated Oklahoma during the Dust Bowl era, a severe environmental and agricultural crisis that dramatically impacted the American Great Plains. This massive dust storm symbolized the ecological and economic challenges faced by farmers during the 1930s.
  • 1938 Roosevelt's Fireside Chat on Economic Conditions: President Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered one of his renowned fireside radio addresses, discussing the ongoing economic challenges facing the United States during the late Great Depression era.
  • 1939 French Diplomatic Efforts to Prevent War: In a critical diplomatic meeting in Paris, French Foreign Minister Georges Bonnet discusses with Soviet Ambassador Jakob Suritz the potential formation of a 'peace front' involving France, Soviet Union, Great Britain, Poland, and Romania. This diplomatic initiative aimed to create a united diplomatic and potentially military deterrent against potential German aggression, reflecting the growing tensions in Europe just months before the outbreak of World War II.
  • 1940 British and Allied Troops Land in Norway During World War II: British and Allied troops initiated a strategic landing operation in Norway, targeting key locations near Trondheim and Narvik. This military maneuver was part of the broader Allied efforts to counter German expansion during the early stages of World War II.
  • 1941 German Raid in Paris: Mass Jewish Roundup: During World War II, the Nazi regime conducted a massive raid in Paris, France, resulting in the roundup of 3,600 Jewish citizens, marking a significant escalation of anti-Semitic persecution.
  • 1942 US Navy Destroyer Roper Sinks German U-Boat U-85: During World War II, the US Navy destroyer USS Roper successfully engaged and sank the German submarine U-85 off the eastern coast of the United States, marking a significant moment in the Battle of the Atlantic and demonstrating the US Navy's growing effectiveness against German naval operations.
  • 1943 Casablanca Conference Begins: The Casablanca Conference of Allied leaders begins, bringing together key strategic minds including Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt. During this critical World War II summit, leaders discuss pivotal war strategies such as the eventual invasion of mainland Europe, the impending invasion of Sicily and Italy, and the controversial principle of 'unconditional surrender' which would shape the conflict's endgame.
  • 1944 Eisenhower Appointed Allied Air Fleet Commander: US General Dwight D. Eisenhower was appointed as the head commander of the Allied air fleet, a critical strategic leadership role during World War II that would significantly impact the Allied military operations.
  • 1945 American Bombing of Tokyo: American planes conducted a bombing raid on Tokyo, causing damage to the Imperial Palace during the final stages of the Pacific War.
  • 1946 Jewish Avengers Attempt to Poison SS Prisoners: Members of Sh'erit ha-Pletah, a group known as the 'Jewish Avengers', attempted to poison former SS prisoners at Stalag XIII-D by contaminating bread with arsenic. This act was a form of retributive justice in the aftermath of the Holocaust.
  • 1947 Landmark School Desegregation Case: Mendez v. Westminster: The United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit ruled in Mendez v. Westminster, affirming a district court decision that declared the segregation of Mexican and Mexican American students in Orange County, California, unconstitutional. This case was a significant precursor to the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision.
  • 1948 US Nuclear Testing at Enwetak: The United States conducted an atmospheric nuclear test at the Enwetak Atoll in the Pacific Ocean, continuing its post-war nuclear weapons development program.
  • 1949 US Response to Soviet Charges at UN: The United States Representative (Austin) delivered a statement at the United Nations General Assembly plenary session, responding to Soviet charges regarding the North Atlantic Treaty. This event highlights the diplomatic tensions of the early Cold War period.
  • 1950 NSC-68 Revision Presented to Truman: The National Security Council presented a revised version of NSC-68 to President Harry Truman. This document was a crucial Cold War strategic policy paper that outlined the United States' containment strategy against Soviet communist expansion, significantly influencing American foreign policy in the early 1950s.
  • 1951 Birth of Julian Lloyd Webber: Julian Lloyd Webber was born on 14 April 1951 in London, England. He is a renowned cellist and composer from a highly musical family, with his brother Andrew Lloyd Webber being a famous musical theatre composer. Julian has established himself as one of the most prominent classical cellists of his generation, known for his exceptional technical skill and passionate performances.
  • 1953 Australian Flags Act Implementation: The Flags Act of 1953 officially came into force, legally defining and establishing the Australian National Flag and Australian Red Ensign as official national symbols.
  • 1954 Soviet Diplomat Vladimir Petrov Defects to Australia: Soviet diplomat Vladimir Petrov dramatically requested political asylum in Canberra, Australia, marking a significant Cold War incident involving a high-ranking Soviet official seeking refuge in the West.
  • 1955 Elston Howard Breaks MLB Color Barrier with Yankees: 26-year-old Elston Howard becomes the first African-American player to wear a New York Yankees uniform, marking a significant milestone in baseball's integration. In his debut game against the Boston Red Sox, he recorded a single with one RBI.
  • 1956 First Commercial Videotape Recorder Demonstration: On April 14, 1956, a groundbreaking technological milestone occurred at the National Association of Radio and Television Broadcasters (NARTB) convention in Chicago, Illinois. Ampex Corporation publicly demonstrated the first practical and commercially successful videotape recording format, the 2" Quadruplex videotape recorder. This revolutionary technology would fundamentally transform television broadcasting, allowing for the recording, preservation, and rebroadcast of television content.
  • 1957 Wiffi Smith Wins LPGA Dallas Golf Open: Professional golfer Wiffi Smith emerged victorious at the LPGA Dallas Golf Open, showcasing her golfing prowess in a competitive tournament.
  • 1958 Van Cliburn's Landmark Moscow Competition Victory: American pianist Van Cliburn wins the International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow, achieving a remarkable diplomatic breakthrough during the height of the Cold War. His victory symbolized cultural exchange and mutual respect between the United States and Soviet Union through the universal language of music.
  • 1959 Taft Memorial Bell Tower Dedication: The Robert A. Taft Memorial Bell Tower, a carillon featuring 27 bells, was officially dedicated in Washington, D.C. The ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries, including President Dwight D. Eisenhower and former President Herbert Hoover, who both delivered speeches honoring Senator Robert A. Taft's legacy.
  • 1960 First Underwater Polaris Missile Launch: The United States Navy successfully conducted the first underwater launching of a Polaris submarine-launched ballistic missile, marking a significant technological and strategic advancement in naval warfare and nuclear deterrence capabilities during the Cold War era.
  • 1961 Cuban-American Invasion Force Departs Nicaragua: On April 14, 1961, the CIA-trained force of Cuban exiles departed Nicaragua, preparing for the imminent Bay of Pigs invasion. This event was a critical moment in Cold War tensions and covert operations, signaling the United States' attempts to overthrow Fidel Castro's regime in Cuba.
  • 1962 Georges Pompidou Becomes Prime Minister of France: Georges Pompidou was appointed as Prime Minister of France, marking a significant moment in French political leadership during the early 1960s under President Charles de Gaulle's Fifth Republic.
  • 1963 George Harrison's Musical Discovery: On April 14, 1963, George Harrison expressed his admiration for the then-unsigned rock band, the Rolling Stones. This moment highlights the emerging music scene and the interconnectedness of musicians during the early 1960s British rock revolution.
  • 1964 Ford Mustang Unveiled in the United States: The iconic Ford Mustang was officially unveiled to the public, marking a pivotal moment in American automotive history. This groundbreaking sports car would become a symbol of freedom, youth culture, and automotive design, revolutionizing the muscle car segment.
  • 1965 First Commercial Video Tape Recorder: Ampex Company made technological history by demonstrating the first commercial magnetic video tape recorder, a pivotal moment in media and broadcasting technology that would revolutionize television production and content recording.
  • 1966 The South Vietnamese government promises free elections in 3–5 months.
  • 1967 US Bombing of Haiphong in Vietnam War: During the Vietnam War, United States military aircraft conduct their first bombing raid on the strategic port city of Haiphong, escalating the conflict with North Vietnam.
  • 1968 Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.: Civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. His tragic murder sparked widespread riots in over 100 cities across the United States, marking a pivotal and traumatic moment in the American civil rights movement.
  • 1969 Deadly Tornado in East Pakistan: A catastrophic tornado struck Dacca (now Dhaka), East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), resulting in a devastating loss of 540 lives. This natural disaster highlighted the region's vulnerability to extreme weather events.
  • 1970 Apollo 13 Mission Crisis: One of Apollo 13's oxygen tanks explodes during the mission, causing a critical emergency that forces NASA to abort the planned lunar landing. The explosion occurred on April 13th across different time zones, putting the lives of astronauts Jim Lovell, Jack Swigert, and Fred Haise at significant risk. The crew's survival and subsequent safe return became a testament to NASA's problem-solving capabilities and human resilience.
  • 1971 Nixon Ends China Trade Blockade: President Richard Nixon officially terminated the long-standing trade blockade against the People's Republic of China, signaling a significant diplomatic breakthrough and the beginning of normalized relations between the United States and China.
  • 1972 Provisional IRA Bombing Campaign in Northern Ireland: On April 14, 1972, the Provisional Irish Republican Army (PIRA) conducted a coordinated bombing campaign across Northern Ireland, setting off 24 bombs in various towns and cities. The attacks were a violent commemoration of the 14 victims of the 'Bloody Sunday Massacre'. Within an 80-minute period, most explosions occurred within a 30-minute window, resulting in nine fatalities. This event was part of the broader conflict known as 'The Troubles', a period of intense sectarian violence in Northern Ireland.
  • 1973 FBI Director L. Patrick Gray Resigns in Watergate Scandal: Acting FBI Director L. Patrick Gray resigned after publicly admitting to destroying evidence related to the Watergate scandal, marking a significant moment in the unfolding political crisis that would ultimately lead to President Richard Nixon's resignation.
  • 1974 Elton John's 'Bennie and the Jets' Tops US Charts: Elton John's hit song 'Bennie and the Jets' from his album 'Goodbye Yellow Brick Road' reached the number one position on the US Billboard charts on April 14, 1974.
  • 1975 Sikkim Votes to Merge with India: In a historic referendum, voters in the Himalayan kingdom of Sikkim overwhelmingly approved the abolition of its monarchy and integration with India. This momentous decision fundamentally transformed Sikkim's political status, effectively ending its centuries-old monarchical system and becoming an Indian state.
  • 1976 Manson Family Members Sentenced in Federal Court: Sandra Good and Susan Murphy, notorious members of the Charles Manson cult, were sentenced in the Federal Court in Sacramento, California. Sandra Good received a 15-year federal prison sentence, while Susan Murphy was sentenced to five years for conspiracy to mail death threats, continuing the legal aftermath of the Manson Family's criminal activities.
  • 1977 Spain Legalizes Communist Party: In a significant political milestone, the Spanish government officially legalized the Partido Comunista de España (PCE), ending 38 years of prohibition and marking a crucial step towards democratic reforms following the Franco era.
  • 1978 Korean Air Lines Boeing 707 Shot Down by Soviets: A Korean Air Lines Boeing 707 was fired upon by Soviet forces and subsequently crashed in Russian territory, marking a significant international incident during the Cold War tensions between the Soviet Union and other nations.
  • 1979 Liberian Rice Price Protest Turns Deadly: The Progressive Alliance of Liberia organized a protest against a government-proposed rice price increase. The unpermitted demonstration escalated into violent clashes between protesters and police, resulting in over 70 fatalities and more than 500 injuries. This event highlighted the significant economic tensions and public discontent with government policies in Liberia during the late 1970s.
  • 1980 Mariel Boatlift Begins: The first Cuban refugees of the Mariel boatlift set sail for Florida, marking a significant moment in Cuban-American immigration history. This mass exodus would eventually bring over 125,000 Cubans to the United States.
  • 1981 First Space Shuttle Columbia Returns to Earth: The Space Shuttle Columbia completed its inaugural mission, successfully returning to Earth after a groundbreaking test flight. This historic mission marked a pivotal moment in human spaceflight, demonstrating the capabilities of NASA's new reusable spacecraft technology.
  • 1982 Uneventful Day in Global History: On April 14, 1982, no major historical events were documented or reported in available sources. This serves as a reminder that not every day in history is marked by significant occurrences, and some days pass without notable global or regional developments.
  • 1983 Social Security Rescue Act of 1983: US President Ronald Reagan signed a landmark $165 billion legislation to rescue the Social Security system from potential financial collapse, implementing critical reforms to ensure the long-term solvency of the social welfare program.
  • 1984 Doe Maar Farewell Concert: The legendary Dutch pop-ska band Doe Maar held their final concert at Maasport in Den Bosch, marking the end of an influential musical era in the Netherlands. This significant event was a poignant moment for Dutch music fans, symbolizing the conclusion of a beloved band's journey.
  • 1985 Medical Milestone: Permanent Artificial Heart: Jack C. Burcham becomes the fifth person to receive the groundbreaking Jarvik 7 permanent artificial heart, representing a significant advancement in medical technology and cardiac treatment.
  • 1986 Desmond Tutu's Episcopal Appointment: Desmond Tutu was elected as the Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town, South Africa, a significant moment in the country's religious and social landscape during the apartheid era.
  • 1987 Turkey's Application to European Economic Community: On April 14, 1987, Turkey formally submitted an official application to join the European Economic Community (EEC), marking a significant diplomatic milestone in its quest for European integration. This application represented Turkey's strategic ambition to strengthen its economic and political ties with Western European nations.
  • 1988 Soviet Union Signs Afghanistan Withdrawal Treaty: In a landmark diplomatic agreement, the USSR, US, Pakistan, and Afghanistan signed the Geneva Accords, with the Soviet Union committing to withdraw its 115,000 troops from Afghanistan. This treaty marked a significant step towards ending the Soviet-Afghan War and represented a major geopolitical shift during the late Cold War period.
  • 1989 Death of Hu Yaobang Sparks Tiananmen Square Protests: The death of Hu Yaobang, a reformist Communist Party leader, triggered the beginning of the historic Tiananmen Square protests of 1989, a pivotal moment in modern Chinese political history.
  • 1990 Michael Milken Pleads Guilty to Securities Fraud: Michael Milken, a prominent Wall Street financier known for pioneering the junk bond market in the 1980s, pleaded guilty to multiple securities fraud charges. His guilty plea marked a significant moment in financial regulatory history, signaling the end of an era of aggressive financial speculation and corporate raiding that characterized the 1980s. Milken, once dubbed the 'King of Junk Bonds', admitted to six felony counts related to securities and tax violations, which ultimately led to a substantial fine and prison sentence.
  • 1991 Georgia Introduces Presidential System: Following its declaration of independence from the Soviet Union, the Republic of Georgia established the presidential political system, signaling a major political transformation in the post-Soviet era.
  • 1992 Apple vs Microsoft Lawsuit Dismissed: A significant legal battle concluded as the court dismissed Apple Computer's lawsuit against Microsoft, marking an important moment in the early personal computer industry's intellectual property disputes.
  • 1993 David Koresh Promises Surrender: Branch Davidian cult leader David Koresh pledges to surrender to authorities after completing his Seven Seals manuscript, a significant moment during the Waco siege in Texas.
  • 1994 US Military Friendly Fire Incident in Iraq: A tragic friendly fire incident occurred when a US F-15 accidentally shot down two US Army helicopters over Iraq, resulting in 26 fatalities during Operation Provide Comfort.
  • 1995 Oklahoma City Bombing: On April 19, 1995, a devastating domestic terrorist attack occurred when Timothy McVeigh detonated a truck bomb at the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City. The bombing killed 168 people and injured hundreds more, marking one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in U.S. history prior to 9/11. McVeigh's accomplice, Terry Nichols, was also implicated in the planning and execution of this tragic event.
  • 1996 Nick Faldo Wins Masters Tournament: English golfer Nick Faldo wins his third Masters and sixth and final major title, decisively defeating Greg Norman of Australia by 5 strokes at the 60th US Masters Tournament.
  • 1997 Nazi War Criminal Erich Priebke Retried: Former SS Captain Erich Priebke was retried for war crimes, and on July 22, he was sentenced to 5 years in prison, representing a continued pursuit of justice for Nazi atrocities.
  • 1998 Medication Adverse Reactions Causing Significant Hospital Mortality: A comprehensive medical research study revealed that over 100,000 people die annually in American hospitals due to adverse drug reactions. This finding highlights a critical patient safety issue, indicating that medication-related complications are a substantial and often overlooked cause of mortality in healthcare settings.
  • 1999 German Government Relocation to Berlin: The historic transfer of the German federal government from Bonn to Berlin begins, marking a symbolic reunification milestone. The first trucks carrying official documents from the ministries of interior and economics depart Bonn, signaling the start of a major administrative transition.
  • 2000 Metallica Sues Napster in Landmark Digital Piracy Case: Metallica, a prominent heavy metal band, filed a groundbreaking lawsuit against Napster, a pioneering peer-to-peer file-sharing service, challenging the emerging digital music distribution model and raising critical questions about copyright infringement in the digital age.
  • 2001 Russian State Takes Control of NTV Network: In a significant media and political development, Russian television workers surrendered control of the independent NTV network to Gazprom, the state-dominated gas monopoly. This event marked a critical moment in the erosion of media independence in Russia during Vladimir Putin's early presidency, signaling increased state control over media narratives.
  • 2002 Venezuelan Presidential Restoration: Hugo Chávez Returns to Power: Venezuelan president Hugo Chávez dramatically returned to office on April 14, 2002, just two days after being ousted and arrested by the country's military in a short-lived coup attempt. This event marked a significant moment in Venezuelan political history, demonstrating Chávez's resilience and popular support.
  • 2003 Human Genome Project Successfully Completed: The Human Genome Project was successfully completed, with 99 percent of the human genome sequenced to an exceptional accuracy of 99.99%. This groundbreaking scientific endeavor, which began in October 1990, involved thousands of scientists from dozens of governments, companies, and universities worldwide, representing a monumental achievement in genetic research.
  • 2004 Bush Supports Sharon's Gaza Withdrawal Plan: U.S. President George W. Bush endorsed Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's plan to withdraw from the Gaza Strip. He also stated that Palestinian refugees must return to a Palestinian state, not Israel, and that returning to 1949 armistice lines was unrealistic.
  • 2005 Angola Combats Marburg Virus Through Funeral Practice Restrictions: Angola's government implemented emergency measures to prevent Marburg virus transmission by prohibiting traditional funeral practices involving physical contact with the deceased, amid a severe outbreak that has already claimed over 210 lives.
  • 2006 Ahmadinejad's Inflammatory Rhetoric Against Israel: Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad delivered a provocative speech at a conference primarily attended by Palestinian Hamas officials, harshly criticizing Israel and describing the Israeli state as a 'rotten and dried tree that will be destroyed by one storm'.
  • 2007 North Korea Nuclear Reactor Deadline Prediction: U.S. special representative Bill Richardson predicted that North Korea would likely miss the Six-Party Talks deadline for shutting down its nuclear reactor, but would eventually comply within days.
  • 2008 World Bank Addresses Global Food Price Crisis: The World Bank announces emergency measures to address the dramatic rise in basic food prices, which has triggered civil unrest in numerous developing countries, signaling a global economic and humanitarian challenge.
  • 2009 L'Aquila Earthquake in Italy: A devastating 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck near L'Aquila, Italy, resulting in at least 253 fatalities. The earthquake caused significant destruction and became a major humanitarian crisis.
  • 2010 Devastating Qinghai Earthquake in Tibet: A powerful magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck the remote mountainous Tibetan Plateau in Qinghai Province, southwest China, causing massive destruction. The earthquake resulted in at least 1,900 fatalities and over 12,000 injuries, highlighting the region's vulnerability to seismic activity.
  • 2011 Japan Earthquake Recovery Efforts: Japanese police continued search and rescue operations following the 2011 Tohoku earthquake, tsunami, and Fukushima I Nuclear Power Plant disaster. This marked the first time radiation levels had begun to decline since the catastrophic event.
  • 2012 International Negotiations on Iran's Nuclear Program: Diplomatic talks commenced between Iran and major world powers, including Russia, China, and the United States, to discuss and potentially resolve concerns about Iran's nuclear capabilities.
  • 2013 North Korea Tensions: Escalating tensions on the Korean peninsula continued as North Korea rejected South Korea's offer of dialogue. Simultaneously, Professor Craig Calhoun of the London School of Economics called for the BBC to cancel a 'North Korea Undercover' documentary, citing potential risks to the journalists and students involved.
  • 2014 Chibok Girls Kidnapping: Boko Haram abducted 276 schoolgirls from a secondary school in Chibok, Nigeria, in a shocking act of mass kidnapping that drew international condemnation and sparked global awareness about the terrorist group's atrocities.
  • 2015 Mediterranean Migrant Shipwreck: A tragic maritime disaster occurred in the Mediterranean Sea, with approximately 400 migrants losing their lives in a boat accident between Libya and Italy, highlighting the ongoing refugee crisis.
  • 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake: A magnitude 6.4 earthquake strikes near Kumamoto, Japan, causing significant structural damage. At least 4 people are killed and over 400 injured. No tsunami warning was issued, and local nuclear power stations reported no immediate issues.
  • 2017 Shadow Brokers NSA Data Leak: The Shadow Brokers group released alleged NSA files revealing attempts to monitor financial transactions through SWIFT and containing exploits targeting Microsoft Windows systems. Microsoft announced that most, but not all, of these vulnerabilities had been patched.
  • 2018 US, France, and UK Missile Strikes in Syria: On Saturday morning, the United States, France, and Britain launched coordinated missile strikes against chemical weapons sites and military facilities in Syria. This was a direct response to the chemical attack in Douma. Russia immediately called for an emergency meeting at the United Nations Security Council to discuss potential retaliatory measures, including plans to supply S-300 missile systems to Syria.
  • 2019 Pete Buttigieg Launches Presidential Campaign: On April 14, 2019, South Bend mayor Pete Buttigieg officially announced his presidential campaign in Indiana, making history as the first openly gay candidate to run for President of the United States. His campaign aimed to represent a new generation of political leadership.
  • 2020 U.S. Halts WHO Funding During COVID-19 Pandemic: During the escalating COVID-19 pandemic, President Donald Trump announced at a White House press briefing that the United States would suspend its financial contributions to the World Health Organization (WHO). This unprecedented decision came at a critical moment when most U.S. states were experiencing widespread coronavirus transmission. The move shocked the global public health community and raised significant concerns about international cooperation in combating the pandemic.
  • 2021 U.S. Announces Complete Troop Withdrawal from Afghanistan: U.S. President Joe Biden formally announced the complete withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan, setting September 11, 2021, as the deadline for ending the nearly two-decade-long military presence in the country. This historic decision marked a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy and military engagement in the region.
  • 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine: The Russian warship sinks.
  • 2023 Russian Missile Strike in Ukraine: A devastating Russian missile strike on Sloviansk in the Donetsk Oblast resulted in the tragic deaths of at least eight civilians and injured 21 others, further escalating the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region during the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

What Is special about April 14?

April 14 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 14.