Historical Events on April 28: 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 28, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on April 28 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Uneventful Day in History: While no major historical events were recorded on this specific date, April 28, 1900 represents a typical day during the transition from the 19th to the 20th century. This period was characterized by significant global transformations, including technological advancements, imperial expansions, and emerging social movements.
1901 First International Soccer Match Between Belgium and Netherlands: A historic soccer encounter took place between Belgium and the Netherlands, with Belgium emerging victorious with an overwhelming 8-0 score. This match represents an early milestone in the international soccer rivalry between these two neighboring European nations.
1902 USS Chicago Officers Jailed in Venice: On April 28, 1902, four U.S. Navy officers from the USS Chicago were sentenced to short jail terms in Venice, Italy, after creating a public disturbance. The incident highlighted the potential tensions that could arise between military personnel and local authorities during international naval deployments in the early 20th century.
1903 Birth of Johan Borgen, Norwegian Literary Figure: Johan Borgen was a prominent Norwegian author and literary figure who made significant contributions to 20th-century Scandinavian literature. Born in Oslo, he would become known for his novels, short stories, and essays that often explored complex psychological themes and social dynamics in Norwegian society.
1904 Uneventful Day in 1904: While no significant historical events were documented for April 28, 1904, this does not necessarily mean nothing of importance occurred. Many days in history pass without major recorded incidents, yet local, personal, or unreported events may have transpired.
1905 U.S. Ambassador Herbert W. Bowen Removed from Office: On April 28, 1905, Herbert W. Bowen, the United States Ambassador to Venezuela, was abruptly removed from his diplomatic post. He was ordered to return to the United States to address serious charges leveled against him by Assistant Secretary of State Francis B. Loomis, signaling potential diplomatic tensions and internal conflicts within the State Department.
1906 San Francisco Earthquake and Fires: The devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake struck on April 18, with its catastrophic aftermath continuing through late April. The earthquake, estimated at 7.8 magnitude, triggered massive fires that raged through the city, destroying approximately 80% of San Francisco. By April 28, firefighting efforts were still ongoing, highlighting the immense destruction and challenges faced by the city in the earthquake's wake.
1907 Marion Coulon: Belgian Social Theorist: Marion Coulon was a Belgian social theorist associated with the intellectual movement 'Jeunesse à la Dérive' (Youth Adrift), which explored social dynamics and youth culture in the early 20th century. Her theoretical work likely examined social marginalization and youth movements during the progressive era of European intellectual thought.
1908 Birth of Oskar Schindler, Holocaust Hero: Oskar Schindler was born in Zwittau, Moravia (now Czech Republic), an Austrian businessman who would later become renowned for saving the lives of 1,200 Jews during the Holocaust by employing them in his factories, effectively protecting them from Nazi extermination. During World War II, Schindler used his connections and wealth to rescue Jewish workers, risking his own life in an extraordinary act of moral courage.
1909 Deposition of Sultan Abdul Hamid II: On April 28, 1909, Sultan Abdul Hamid II, the once-absolute ruler of the Ottoman Empire, was deposed and exiled to Salonika (modern-day Thessaloniki, Greece). Following a counter-revolution by the Young Turks, the Sultan was forcibly removed from power and sent into exile by train from Constantinople (Istanbul).
1910 London to Manchester Air Race: French aviator Louis Paulhan won the historic 1910 London to Manchester air race, which was the first long-distance aeroplane race in the United Kingdom, demonstrating the emerging capabilities of early aviation technology.
1911 Uneventful Day in 1911: While no specific major historical events were recorded for April 28, 1911, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. During this period, the world was experiencing significant transformations, including technological advancements, colonial expansions, and social changes leading up to World War I. The early 20th century was a time of rapid industrialization, scientific discovery, and geopolitical shifts.
1912 Birth of Odette Sansom, World War II Resistance Hero: Odette Sansom was born on April 28, 1912, in France. She would later become a renowned heroine of the French Resistance during World War II, known for her extraordinary courage and critical intelligence work against Nazi occupation. Sansom worked as a Special Operations Executive (SOE) agent, risking her life to support Allied efforts in occupied France, and became one of the most celebrated female agents of the war.
1913 Uneventful Day in 1913: While no specific major historical events were recorded for April 28, 1913, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. Many historical moments go undocumented, especially for seemingly ordinary days. The year 1913 was a period of significant global transitions, with rising tensions in Europe preceding World War I and ongoing technological and social transformations.
1914 Willis Carrier Patents Air Conditioning: Willis Haviland Carrier successfully patents the modern air conditioning system, a groundbreaking invention that would revolutionize indoor comfort, industrial processes, and architectural design in the 20th century. This innovation allows precise temperature and humidity control, enabling technological and economic advancements in multiple sectors.
1915 Battle of Shaiba during World War I: Ottoman commander Süleyman Askerî led a significant military operation, assembling 4,000 regular Ottoman troops and 14,000 irregular Arab and Kurdish fighters in an attempt to recapture the strategic city of Basra from British forces. The battle involved approximately 6,000 British troops and represented an important engagement in the Mesopotamian Campaign of World War I.
1916 Easter Rising: Battle of Ashbourne: During the Easter Rising of 1916, the Fingal Battalion of the Irish Volunteers launched a significant engagement against the Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC) barracks in Ashbourne, County Meath. The battle was a fierce confrontation that lasted several hours, involving initial attacks on the barracks and subsequent reinforcements. The intense conflict resulted in eight RIC members and two Irish Volunteers being killed, highlighting the violent struggle for Irish independence during this pivotal moment in Irish history.
1917 Battle of Arras: British and Canadian Offensive: During the First World War, British and Canadian forces launched a strategic military operation against German-occupied positions in the French village of Arleux-en-Gohelle, situated along the strategically important Souchez River. This battle was part of the larger Battle of Arras, a significant Allied offensive aimed at breaking through German defensive lines on the Western Front.
1918 U.S. Forces Triumph in Battle of Cantigny During World War I: On April 28, 1918, American Expeditionary Forces achieved a significant milestone in World War I by successfully capturing the French village of Cantigny from German forces. Approximately 4,000 U.S. troops from the 1st Infantry Division, under the command of Major General Robert Lee Bullard, launched a meticulously planned assault that marked the first independent American offensive operation of the war. The victory demonstrated the combat readiness and tactical capabilities of American soldiers on the Western Front, boosting Allied morale and signaling the United States' emerging role as a critical military power in the conflict.
1919 First Successful Rip-Cord Parachute Jump by U.S. Army Air Corps: On April 28, 1919, Les Irvin made aviation history by performing the first successful jump using a rip-cord type parachute with the U.S. Army Air Corps. This groundbreaking moment significantly advanced aerial safety technology, providing pilots with a reliable method of emergency escape during flight.
1920 Azerbaijan Joins Soviet Union: On April 28, 1920, the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic (Azerbaijan SSR) was formally incorporated into the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), marking a significant moment in the region's political transformation. This event represented the Bolshevik takeover of Azerbaijan and the beginning of Soviet control over the Caucasus region.
1921 José Raúl Capablanca Becomes World Chess Champion: In a historic match held in Havana, Cuba, José Raúl Capablanca defeated the reigning German world chess champion Emanuel Lasker, becoming the third world chess champion in the sport's history. Capablanca, a Cuban prodigy known for his exceptional strategic skills and near-perfect playing style, demonstrated remarkable prowess by decisively defeating Lasker, who had been the world champion since 1894. This victory marked a significant moment in chess history, highlighting the emergence of Latin American talent in the international chess arena.
1922 First Licensed Educational Radio Station in the United States: WOI, located in Ames, Iowa, became the country's first licensed educational radio station, marking a significant milestone in the development of educational broadcasting in the United States. This pioneering station would help pave the way for future educational media and distance learning technologies.
1923 Wembley Stadium Opens: Wembley Stadium was officially inaugurated on April 28, 1923, initially named the Empire Stadium. This iconic venue would become one of the most famous sports stadiums in the world, symbolizing British sporting heritage. The stadium was designed to be a grand architectural marvel and a centerpiece for national sporting events.
1924 Benwood Coal Mine Disaster: On April 28, 1924, a devastating coal mine disaster occurred in Benwood, West Virginia, resulting in the tragic loss of 119 lives. The majority of the victims were recent European immigrants working in the dangerous coal mining industry, highlighting the precarious working conditions and significant risks faced by miners during the early 20th century.
1925 Churchill's Budget Speech on Gold Standard: As Chancellor of the Exchequer, Winston Churchill delivered a pivotal budget speech announcing Britain's return to the international gold standard at its pre-war parity, a significant economic policy decision with far-reaching implications.
1926 Mel Ott's Major League Baseball Debut: Seventeen-year-old Mel Ott made his historic major league debut for the New York Giants, marking the beginning of what would become an extraordinary baseball career. Despite striking out in his first pinch-hitting appearance, this moment launched the career of one of baseball's most talented players who would later be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
1928 Notable Births on April 28, 1928: Three significant individuals were born on this date: Richard Baer, a writer and screenwriter from New York City (who would pass away in 2008); Yves Klein, an influential artist from Nice, France (who would die in 1962); and Eugene Merle Shoemaker, a pioneering geologist from Los Angeles (who would pass away in 1997).
1929 World War I Memorial Dedication in Steenstrate: On the fourteenth anniversary of the first poison gas attack during World War I, a solemn ceremony was held in Steenstrate, Belgium. Approximately 10,000 war veterans from Belgium, Britain, and France gathered to dedicate a memorial commemorating the tragic events of chemical warfare that occurred in this Flanders village during the conflict. The monument serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the devastating impact of chemical weapons.
1930 First Night Baseball Game in Organized Baseball: On April 28, 1930, the Independence Producers of the Class C Western Association hosted the first regular season night game in organized baseball history. The visiting Muskogee Chiefs defeated the home team under the lights with a score of 13–3, drawing a crowd of 1,000 spectators in Independence, Kansas.
1931 Women's Olympic Track and Field Events Expanded: The International Olympic Committee (IOC) approved a groundbreaking program for women athletes, expanding their participation in track and field events for the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics. This decision represented a significant milestone in gender equality in sports, providing more opportunities for female athletes to compete at the highest international level.
1932 Yellow Fever Vaccine Breakthrough: Scientists at the Rockefeller Foundation announced a groundbreaking vaccine for yellow fever, marking a significant milestone in medical research and public health. This vaccine would help prevent a deadly tropical disease that had caused numerous epidemics and significant mortality rates in regions like Africa and South America.
1933 First Female US Mint Director Appointed: On April 28, 1933, the United States Senate approved Nellie Tayloe Ross as the director of the United States Mint, marking a significant milestone for women in government leadership roles. Ross was not only the first woman to serve in this position but also a pioneering figure in breaking gender barriers in federal administrative roles during the early 20th century.
1934 Home Owners Loan Act Signed by FDR: President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Home Owners Loan Act, a critical piece of New Deal legislation designed to help homeowners during the Great Depression by refinancing mortgages and preventing foreclosures.
1935 Roosevelt's Fireside Chat on Works Relief Program: President Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered a fireside chat discussing the Works Relief Program, a key component of the New Deal aimed at providing employment during the Great Depression. Additionally, Alfred I. du Pont, a prominent American industrialist and philanthropist, passed away at the age of 70.
1936 Death of King Fuad I of Egypt: King Fuad I of Egypt, who ruled from 1922 to 1936, passed away on this date, marking the end of his 14-year reign and the transition of power to his son, King Farouk.
1937 First Commercial Transpacific Flight: Pan American Airways successfully completed the first commercial passenger flight across the Pacific Ocean, with the Martin M-130 'China Clipper' traveling from San Francisco to Hong Kong. The historic journey began on April 21, 1937, and made strategic stops at Hawaii, Midway Island, Wake Island, Guam, Manila, and Macau before arriving in Hong Kong on April 28, 1937.
1938 German General Beck Opposes Hitler's Czechoslovakia Plan: General Ludwig Beck, Chief of the German Army's General Staff, submitted a critical memorandum to Hitler opposing 'Fall Grün' (Case Green), the plan for war with Czechoslovakia, arguing that Germany was not prepared for the potential global conflict.
1939 Hitler's Aggressive Reichstag Speech Denouncing International Agreements: On April 28, 1939, Adolf Hitler delivered a provocative speech at the Kroll Opera House in Berlin, Germany. In this significant address to the Reichstag, Hitler formally denounced the ten-year non-aggression pact with Poland, originally signed in January 1934, and the Anglo-German Naval Agreement from June 1935. He characterized the Anglo-Polish Agreement as a direct threat to Germany and dramatically demanded the return of Danzig (now Gdańsk) to German control. This speech was a critical diplomatic moment that signaled increasing tensions in Europe and foreshadowed the impending World War II.
1940 Establishment of Auschwitz Concentration Camp: Heinrich Himmler officially orders the establishment of Auschwitz Concentration Camp, a decision that would lead to one of the most notorious sites of human suffering in modern history.
1941 Ustaše Massacre in Gudovac: The Ustaše, a Croatian fascist movement, committed a horrific massacre of nearly 200 Serbs in the village of Gudovac, marking the beginning of their systematic genocidal campaign against Serbs in the Independent State of Croatia during World War II.
1942 Brazil Severs Diplomatic Ties with Axis Powers: Brazil officially broke diplomatic relations with the Axis powers on April 28, 1942, marking a significant shift in its World War II stance and signaling its eventual alignment with the Allied forces.
1943 Execution of Benito Mussolini and Clara Petacci: On April 28, 1943, Italian dictator Benito Mussolini and his mistress Clara Petacci were arrested near Lake Como by Italian partisans. They were subsequently executed and their bodies were publicly displayed, hanging upside down at the Piazzale Loreto in Milan, symbolizing the dramatic end of the Fascist regime in Italy.
1944 Detailed Account of Exercise Tiger: A comprehensive description of the Exercise Tiger disaster, detailing the attack by nine German E-boats on a convoy of eight LSTs in Lyme Bay. The incident resulted in significant casualties and underscored the dangerous preparations for the Normandy invasion.
1945 Holocaust Atrocity at Mauthausen: Nazi Germany carried out its final use of gas chambers to execute 33 Upper Austrian socialist and communist leaders in Mauthausen concentration camp, marking a brutal culmination of the Nazi regime's systematic political persecution.
1946 Tojo Hideki Indicted as War Criminal: The International Military Tribunal for the Far East formally indicted Japanese war minister Tojo Hideki as a war criminal. He was charged with 55 counts related to Japan's actions during World War II, marking a significant moment in post-war international justice and accountability for wartime atrocities.
1947 Kon-Tiki Expedition: Proving Ancient Migration Theories: Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl and five crew members embarked on a groundbreaking anthropological and maritime expedition aboard the Kon-Tiki, a hand-built balsa wood raft. Their ambitious journey aimed to demonstrate that pre-Columbian South Americans could have potentially navigated and settled Polynesian islands using primitive maritime technologies. The expedition challenged prevailing archaeological and anthropological assumptions about ancient transoceanic migrations.
1948 Jerusalem Truce Negotiation: Arab and Jewish representatives reached a critical agreement in the UN Trusteeship Council to observe a truce in the Old City of Jerusalem, representing a diplomatic effort to reduce tensions during the early stages of the Arab-Israeli conflict.
1949 Assassination of Aurora Quezon: The Hukbalahap rebels assassinated former First Lady of the Philippines Aurora Quezon while she was en route to dedicate a hospital in memory of her late husband. In this tragic attack, Quezon, her daughter, and ten other individuals were killed, marking a significant moment of political violence in post-war Philippines.
1950 Royal Wedding of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit: King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand married Queen Sirikit in a significant royal ceremony, following their engagement in Lausanne, Switzerland on July 19, 1949. Their union was a pivotal moment in Thai royal history, marking the beginning of a long and influential reign that would profoundly shape modern Thailand.
1951 Mosaddegh Becomes Premier of Iran: Mohammad Mosaddegh is chosen as the premier of Persia (Iran), marking a significant moment in Iranian political history. His appointment would later lead to tensions with Western powers, particularly over oil nationalization, ultimately resulting in a CIA-backed coup in 1953.
1952 Treaty of San Francisco Takes Effect: The Treaty of San Francisco officially restored Japanese sovereignty and concluded the state of war between Japan and most Allied powers of World War II, marking a significant milestone in post-war international relations.
1953 Significant Tornado Outbreak in Kansas and Southeastern United States: On April 28, 1953, a severe tornado outbreak originated southwest of Greensburg, Kansas, and subsequently swept through a substantial portion of the Southeastern United States. This meteorological event caused significant destruction and likely resulted in considerable damage to communities in its path. Tornado outbreaks of this magnitude are rare and can have devastating consequences for local populations, infrastructure, and agricultural regions.
1954 Dulles Accuses China of Intervention in Indochina: U.S. Secretary of State John Foster Dulles formally accused Communist China of sending combat troops to Indo-China to train and support Viet Minh guerrillas, escalating tensions during the early stages of the Cold War and the French colonial conflict in Vietnam.
1955 WBIQ TV Channel Launch: WBIQ, a Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) television station, began broadcasting in Birmingham, Alabama. This marked an important moment in expanding public television access in the southeastern United States, providing educational and cultural programming to local audiences.
1956 French Military Withdrawal from Vietnam: France completed its military withdrawal from Vietnam, marking the end of its colonial presence in Indochina. This significant geopolitical event signaled the conclusion of French colonial rule and set the stage for the subsequent Vietnam War.
1957 Patty Berg Wins LPGA Western Golf Open: Professional golfer Patty Berg secured victory at the LPGA Western Golf Open, further solidifying her reputation as a prominent female athlete in the competitive golf landscape of the 1950s. Berg was a pioneering figure in women's professional golf, helping to elevate the sport's visibility and prestige.
1958 Nixon's Latin American Goodwill Tour: Vice President Richard Nixon embarked on a diplomatic goodwill tour of Latin America, aiming to strengthen diplomatic relations and promote U.S. interests in the region during the Cold War era.
1959 KPLR TV Channel 11 Debuts in Saint Louis, Missouri: KPLR TV, an independent television station, commenced broadcasting in Saint Louis, Missouri. As an independent channel, it would provide alternative programming not tied to a specific network, offering viewers more diverse entertainment options.
1960 Shea Stadium Construction Approved: The New York City Board of Estimate approved the construction of Shea Stadium in Flushing, Queens, with a decisive 20-2 vote. This landmark decision would pave the way for a significant sports venue that would become home to the New York Mets baseball team and host numerous historic events.
1961 Warren Spahn's Historic No-Hitter: Baseball legend Warren Spahn achieves an extraordinary feat by pitching his second career no-hitter at the remarkable age of 41, defeating the San Francisco Giants with a 1-0 victory, showcasing his exceptional skill and endurance in professional baseball.
1963 17th Tony Awards Celebrate Broadway Excellence: The 17th Tony Awards honored outstanding achievements in theater, with notable wins for 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' and 'A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum'.
1964 Death of L'Wren Scott: L'Wren Scott, an accomplished American fashion designer and stylist known professionally by her stage name, tragically died by suicide in Salt Lake City. She was a prominent figure in the fashion industry, known for her elegant designs and work with high-profile celebrities.
1965 US Intervention in Dominican Republic: The United States initiates military intervention in the Dominican Republic, landing troops to prevent potential Communist establishment and protect US citizens during the Dominican Civil War, reflecting Cold War geopolitical tensions.
1966 Rhodesian Conflict Escalation: Security forces in Rhodesia killed seven ZANLA (Zimbabwe African National Liberation Army) combatants, marking the beginning of the 'Chimurenga' rebellion, a significant moment in Zimbabwe's struggle for independence.
1967 Muhammad Ali Refuses Military Draft: During the Vietnam War, heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali refused induction into the United States Army, citing religious and moral objections to the war. As a result, he was stripped of his boxing title and faced potential legal consequences for his stance.
1968 Broadway Musical 'Hair' Opens: The groundbreaking rock musical 'Hair' premiered at the Biltmore Theater in New York City, marking a significant cultural moment of the 1960s. The production would run for 1,750 performances, becoming a landmark of counterculture theater.
1969 Charles de Gaulle Resigns as President of France: Charles de Gaulle resigned as president of France after suffering defeat in a referendum, abiding by his previous commitment to step down if the referendum did not pass. This marked a significant moment in French political history, ending de Gaulle's influential presidency.
1970 Nixon Authorizes Cambodia Invasion: On April 28, 1970, U.S. President Richard M. Nixon formally authorized American combat troops to engage communist sanctuaries in Cambodia. This strategic military decision aimed to disrupt North Vietnamese supply lines and combat bases, expanding the Vietnam War's geographical scope. The move was controversial, triggering significant domestic protests and raising tensions in Southeast Asia.
1971 First African American Admiral in US Navy: Samuel Lee Gravely Jr. made history by becoming the first African American admiral in the United States Navy, breaking significant racial barriers in the military's leadership ranks.
1972 Potential Discovery of Tenth Planet: An astronomer from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory announced a potential breakthrough in planetary science, suggesting the possible existence of a tenth planet in our solar system, which would significantly expand our understanding of celestial bodies beyond the known nine planets.
1973 Tragic Shooting of Clifford Glover: Clifford Glover, a 10-year-old African American boy, was fatally shot by an undercover New York City Police Department officer, sparking widespread outrage and highlighting systemic racial tensions in law enforcement.
1974 Mário Soares Returns to Portugal: Mário Soares, the exiled leader of Portugal's banned Socialist Party, dramatically returned to Lisbon by train after years of political exile in Paris. His return was a significant moment in Portugal's transition from dictatorship to democracy, symbolizing the end of the oppressive Estado Novo regime.
1975 South Vietnam's Last President Sworn In: General Duong Van Minh was sworn in as the final president of South Vietnam, just days before the fall of Saigon and the end of the Vietnam War. His brief presidency marked the last moments of the South Vietnamese government before the North Vietnamese victory.
1977 Section 504 Regulations Signed: U.S. Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare Joseph Califano signed the Section 504 regulations without changes, following a historic sit-in by disability rights activists at the San Francisco federal building. This was a landmark moment in disability rights, ensuring non-discrimination protections for individuals with disabilities.
1978 Communist Coup in Afghanistan: On April 28, 1978, a significant political upheaval occurred in Afghanistan when pro-communist rebels led by the People's Democratic Party of Afghanistan (PDPA) overthrew and assassinated President Mohammed Daoud Khan. This event, known as the Saur Revolution, marked a critical turning point in Afghan history, ending the republic and paving the way for a communist government aligned with the Soviet Union.
1979 President's Rule Imposed in Goa: On April 28, 1979, the Indian state of Goa, then a union territory of Goa, Daman and Diu, was placed under President's rule. This administrative action typically indicates a breakdown of constitutional machinery in the state, requiring direct governance from the central government of India.
1980 Iranian Embassy Siege in London: Six Iranian-born terrorists take over the Iranian embassy in London, UK. The Special Air Service (SAS) dramatically retakes the Embassy on May 5, with only one terrorist surviving the operation. This event became a significant moment in counter-terrorism history, showcasing the elite SAS's capabilities.
1981 Reagan Presents Economic Recovery Program to Congress: President Ronald Reagan delivered a pivotal address to the United States Congress, outlining his comprehensive Program for Economic Recovery, which would later become known as 'Reaganomics'.
1982 The Rolling Stones Announce European Tour: Mick Jagger held a press conference at the La Beat Route Club in London's Soho district to announce The Rolling Stones' first European Tour in six years. The tour was scheduled to commence in Rotterdam on June 4th, 1982.
1983 Argentine Government Acknowledges Disappeared Persons: The Argentine government officially declared all 15,000-30,000 missing persons from the Dirty War period as deceased, a significant moment in addressing human rights violations.
1984 La Tragédie de Carmen Concludes Broadway Run: Peter Brook's innovative operatic adaptation of Bizet's 'Carmen', titled 'La Tragédie de Carmen', completed its successful run at the Beaumont Theater in New York City after 187 performances. This groundbreaking production, known for its minimalist staging and unique interpretation of the classic opera, was a significant theatrical event of the mid-1980s.
1985 Fernando Valenzuela Sets Scoreless Innings Record: Pitcher Fernando Valenzuela achieved a remarkable feat by setting a record of 41 consecutive scoreless innings at the start of the baseball season, demonstrating exceptional pitching skill.
1986 Chernobyl Radiation Detected in Sweden: High levels of radiation from the catastrophic Chernobyl nuclear disaster were detected at a nuclear power plant in Sweden. This international detection forced Soviet authorities to publicly acknowledge the accident, marking a significant moment in the global understanding of the Chernobyl nuclear incident. The radiation detection highlighted the far-reaching environmental and health implications of the nuclear accident.
1987 Ben Linder Killed in Nicaragua: American engineer Ben Linder was tragically killed in an ambush by U.S.-funded Contras in northern Nicaragua. Linder, who was working on humanitarian projects in the region, became a victim of the complex and violent political conflict that characterized Nicaragua during the 1980s. His death highlighted the brutal nature of the Contra insurgency and raised international attention to the ongoing civil strife in Central America.
1988 Aloha Airlines Flight 243 Structural Failure: On April 28, 1988, Aloha Airlines Flight 243 experienced a catastrophic mid-flight structural failure. During a short flight from Hilo to Honolulu, a section of the Boeing 737's hull ruptured, causing explosive decompression and tearing away a large portion of the aircraft's roof. Captain Robert Schornsteimer demonstrated extraordinary skill by successfully landing the severely damaged plane. The incident resulted in one fatality (flight attendant Clarabelle Lansing) and 65 injuries. Subsequent investigations revealed metal fatigue as the primary cause, leading to significant changes in aircraft maintenance and inspection protocols.
1989 First Major Crack in the Iron Curtain: Hungary began dismantling sections of barbed wire fencing along its border with Austria, symbolizing a significant moment in the eventual collapse of the Cold War division between Eastern and Western Europe.
1990 A Chorus Line Closes on Broadway: The iconic Broadway musical A Chorus Line concludes its legendary run at the Shubert Theater in New York City after an impressive 6,137 performances spanning 15 years, cementing its place in theatrical history.
1991 Maradona Legal Troubles: Argentine soccer legend Diego Maradona was released on $20,000 bail after being charged with drug possession and distribution. This event highlighted the ongoing legal and personal challenges faced by the famous footballer.
1992 Los Angeles Riots Eruption: Widespread riots broke out in Los Angeles following the controversial acquittal of four white Los Angeles police officers in the Rodney King beating trial. This event highlighted significant racial tensions and systemic issues within law enforcement and sparked national discussions about police brutality and racial injustice.
1993 Cesar Chavez Funeral: The funeral mass for legendary labor leader and civil rights activist Cesar Chavez is held at the United Farm Workers' Forty Acres compound in Delano, California, marking the end of a transformative life dedicated to social justice.
1994 South Africa's First Multi-Racial Democratic Election: The historic first multi-racial democratic election in South Africa concludes after three days of voting, marking a pivotal moment in the country's transition from apartheid to a democratic society. This election would ultimately lead to Nelson Mandela becoming the nation's first Black president.
1995 Jacques Chirac Elected President of France: Jacques Chirac was elected as the President of France, succeeding François Mitterrand and representing a shift in French political leadership during the mid-1990s.
1996 Port Arthur Massacre: On April 28, 1996, Martin Bryant conducted one of the deadliest mass shootings in modern Australian history at the Port Arthur historic site in Tasmania. Bryant killed 35 people and wounded 23 others in a horrific rampage that shocked the nation and led to significant gun control reforms in Australia.
1997 Chemical Weapons Convention Takes Effect: The 1993 Chemical Weapons Convention officially went into effect, marking a significant international effort to prohibit the development, production, acquisition, stockpiling, retention, transfer, or use of chemical weapons. Notable nations such as Russia, Iraq, and North Korea had not ratified the treaty at this time, highlighting the ongoing challenges in global disarmament efforts.
1998 US Presidential Leadership: Bill Clinton was serving as the 42nd President of the United States, during a period of economic prosperity and technological advancement in the late 1990s.
1999 President Clinton's Kosovo Remarks: On April 28, 1999, during the Kosovo War, President Bill Clinton delivered critical remarks addressing the ongoing conflict, highlighting the United States' diplomatic and military stance in the Balkan region during the NATO intervention against Serbia.
2001 First American Space Tourist Launches to ISS: Soyuz TM-32 spacecraft successfully launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, carrying Dennis Tito, marking a historic milestone as the world's first private space tourist. Tito, a 60-year-old American millionaire and former NASA engineer, paid approximately $20 million to spend nearly eight days aboard the International Space Station.
2002 Ruth Handler: Barbie Doll Creator Dies: Ruth Handler, the pioneering American toy manufacturer and inventor of the iconic Barbie doll, passed away. As co-founder of Mattel, Inc., Handler revolutionized the toy industry by creating a fashion doll that became a global cultural phenomenon. Her innovative design transformed children's play and representations of female identity in toys.
2003 WHO Announces SARS Peak in Most Countries: The World Health Organization declared that SARS had reached its peak in most affected countries, including Canada, Singapore, Vietnam, and Hong Kong, with the exception of China. This announcement was a critical milestone in understanding the global spread of the SARS epidemic.
2004 Abu Ghraib Prisoner Abuse Scandal Exposed: CBS News released comprehensive photographic evidence documenting systematic torture and prisoner abuse by American troops against Iraqi detainees at Abu Ghraib prison. The photographs revealed deeply disturbing instances of human rights violations, including sexual abuse and physical mistreatment of prisoners.
2005 First Elected Government in Iraq: Three months after legislative elections, Iraq's National Assembly votes overwhelmingly for a Shi'a-led Cabinet, marking a historic moment as the country's first democratically elected government. Despite this milestone, challenges remain with unfilled deputy prime minister positions and temporary management of key ministries.
2006 NSA Surveillance Lawsuit: The Bush administration invoked the State Secrets Privilege to attempt blocking a lawsuit by the Electronic Frontier Foundation against AT&T and NSA. The lawsuit alleged the existence of secret computer rooms used for illegal surveillance of U.S. citizens, highlighting tensions between national security and civil liberties.
2007 Deadly Mosque Bombing in Karbala: A devastating bombing at a mosque in Karbala, Iraq, resulted in 55 fatalities, underscoring the ongoing sectarian violence in the region.
2008 Crude Oil Prices Approach Historic High: Crude oil prices briefly surpassed $100 per barrel, approaching the inflation-adjusted record of $102.81 set in April 1980. The White House indicated that the Strategic Petroleum Reserve would not be utilized to mitigate pricing pressures.
2009 South Korea Achieves First Transgenic Fluorescent Dog Cloning: Scientists in South Korea successfully cloned the first transgenic, fluorescent dog, marking a significant breakthrough in genetic engineering and biotechnology research.
2010 Russia Reveals Katyn Massacre Documents: Russia publicly posted previously classified documents related to the Katyn massacre, a significant historical event involving the mass execution of Polish military officers and intellectuals during World War II.
2011 Arab Spring Protests: The Arab Spring continued to unfold, with widespread protests and political upheaval across multiple Middle Eastern countries, challenging long-standing authoritarian regimes and demanding democratic reforms.
2012 Syrian Civil War Escalates: The 2011 Syrian uprising continues to intensify, with multiple violent incidents reported across the country, highlighting the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis.
2013 Taliban Attack on Election Candidates in Pakistan: In a violent assault targeting election candidates, the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan launched attacks in Kohat and Peshawar, resulting in at least 8 fatalities and numerous injuries.
2014 Mass Death Sentence for Muslim Brotherhood Supporters: An Egyptian court controversially sentenced 638 Muslim Brotherhood supporters to death, including their top leader Mohamed Badie, following significant political unrest after the military coup.
2015 Nepal Earthquake Devastation: The April 2015 Nepal earthquake continues to cause massive destruction, with the official death toll exceeding 5,000. The United Nations estimates 1.4 million people urgently need emergency food assistance. In a particularly tragic development, at least 250 people are reported missing following a mudslide in Ghodatabela, a remote village near the earthquake's epicenter.
2016 Devastating Airstrike on Aleppo, Syria: A catastrophic airstrike on Aleppo, Syria killed at least 61 people, including children. Médecins Sans Frontières reported that 14 patients and doctors were among the victims of a hospital strike. Turkish military sources claimed they responded by killing 11 ISIL militants after their artillery was targeted near Karkamis.
2017 Brazil General Strike: Brazil experienced its first general strike in 20 years, signaling significant labor and social unrest in the country.
2018 Israeli Airstrikes in Gaza: Israel launched retaliatory airstrikes against Hamas targets in Gaza, including ships in the harbor and a building in Deir al Balah, in response to ongoing and sometimes violent protests.
2019 Hong Kong Protests Against Extradition Law: The largest demonstrations in Hong Kong since 2014 erupted over proposed legal changes that would allow suspects to be extradited to mainland China for trial, signaling significant public resistance to potential erosion of the region's judicial independence.
2020 United States COVID-19 Cases Exceed 1 Million: The United States reaches a grim milestone as confirmed COVID-19 cases surpass 1 million, with the death toll of 58,365 exceeding the number of US soldiers killed during the Vietnam War, according to Johns Hopkins University tracking.
2021 India's COVID-19 Vaccination Expansion and Record Infection Rates: India launched COVID-19 vaccine registration for individuals over 18 years old while simultaneously reporting a global record of 360,960 new cases, bringing the nationwide total to 17.9 million infections.
2022 Transnistria Conflict and Russian Missile Strikes in Ukraine: On April 28, 2022, tensions escalated in the Transnistria region of Moldova, prompting Bulgaria to advise its citizens to immediately leave the country. Simultaneously, the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War saw Russia conducting missile strikes in Kyiv, resulting in at least ten civilian injuries and the tragic death of a Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty journalist.
2023 Russian Missile Strikes on Ukraine: A significant escalation in the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine occurred, with at least 25 civilians killed and numerous others injured during a widespread cruise missile attack. Notably, the capital city Kyiv was targeted for the first time in 51 days, marking a renewed intensity in the conflict.

What Is special about April 28?

April 28 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 28.