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

Events on August 14 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Battle of Peking during Boxer Rebellion: A pivotal moment in the Boxer Rebellion where a 20,000-member multinational force, including Russian, Japanese, American, and British troops, successfully breached Beijing's defenses. Corporal Calvin Pearl Titus, a 20-year-old bugler, heroically scaled the 30-foot Tartar Wall, finding it undefended. Sikh soldiers from the British force were the first to enter Beijing at 2:45 pm, effectively ending the 55-day siege of foreign legations.
1901 Gustave Whitehead's Claimed First Powered Flight: On August 14, 1901, aviation pioneer Gustave Whitehead claimed to have achieved the first powered flight in his experimental aircraft, the Number 21, predating the Wright Brothers' widely recognized first flight.
1902 Wilhelm Normann Patents Hydrogenation Process: German chemist Wilhelm Normann was granted a significant patent for his groundbreaking method of hydrogenating fats, which revolutionized food production. This innovative process allowed for the transformation of liquid vegetable oils into solid or semi-solid fats, enabling the mass production of margarine and vegetable shortening. Normann's invention would have profound implications for the food industry, providing a more stable and cost-effective alternative to animal-based fats and creating new possibilities in food manufacturing and preservation.
1903 Motor Car Act Introduces Driving Licenses in Great Britain: The Motor Car Act of 1903 establishes a legal framework for motor vehicle operation in Great Britain, introducing mandatory driving licenses. The act sets minimum age requirements of 17 years for car drivers and 14 years for motorcycle operators, marking a significant milestone in road safety and vehicle regulation.
1904 Naval Battle off Ulsan during Russo-Japanese War: On August 14, 1904, a significant naval engagement occurred off the coast of Ulsan, Korea, during the Russo-Japanese War. The battle resulted in a decisive victory for the Japanese Imperial Navy, further demonstrating Japan's growing naval power and strategic capabilities in the conflict.
1905 Ngindo Rebellion Against German Colonial Rule: During the period of German colonial occupation in East Africa, the Ngindo people launched a violent rebellion against German colonial authorities. In a tragic incident on August 14, 1905, the rebellion resulted in the killing of five Roman Catholic clergymen, highlighting the intense resistance and conflict between indigenous populations and colonial powers.
1906 Uneventful Day in 1906: While no specific significant historical events were documented for August 14, 1906, this does not mean the day was entirely without merit. During this period, the world was experiencing rapid industrialization, technological advancements, and significant social transformations. The early 20th century was marked by growing tensions in Europe, technological innovations, and emerging global economic shifts.
1907 Ha-Tikva Adopted as Official Zionist Anthem: At the Seventh Zionist Congress in Basel, Switzerland, 'Ha-Tikva' (meaning 'The Hope') was officially adopted as the national anthem of the Zionist movement. This powerful musical symbol would later become the national anthem of the State of Israel, representing the Jewish people's longing for national independence and return to their historical homeland.
1908 Springfield Race Riot of 1908: A significant racial conflict erupted in Springfield, Illinois, where a white mob violently targeted the Black community following accusations against two Black men. The riot involved attacks on Black-owned properties, widespread violence, and destruction of local businesses, reflecting the deep racial tensions and systemic racism prevalent in early 20th-century America.
1909 Death of William Stanley, British Engineer and Inventor: William Stanley, a prominent British engineer, inventor, and author, passed away on August 14, 1909. Stanley was known for his significant contributions to electrical engineering, particularly in transformer design and early electrical technologies. His work was instrumental in advancing electrical power transmission and distribution during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
1910 Brussels World Exhibition Fire Devastates British and French Exhibitions: A significant fire broke out at the 1910 Brussels World Exhibition, causing extensive damage to the British and French national exhibitions. The incident highlighted the vulnerability of large-scale international cultural and technological showcases during the early 20th century.
1911 Death of Henry Rathbone, Lincoln Assassination Witness: Major Henry Reed Rathbone, a significant historical figure who was present during President Abraham Lincoln's assassination and was himself stabbed by John Wilkes Booth, passed away on August 14, 1911. His life was marked by the tragic events of that fateful night at Ford's Theatre.
1912 Early Climate Change Observation: In 1912, scientists began recognizing the potential long-term environmental impact of carbon dioxide emissions from coal burning. At the time, global coal consumption was approximately 2 billion tons annually, which was estimated to add about 7 billion tons of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere each year. This early scientific observation presciently suggested that such emissions could significantly warm the Earth's temperature over centuries.
1913 Uneventful Day in World History: On August 14, 1913, no significant global events were recorded. This was a relatively quiet day during the pre-World War I era, with no major political, scientific, cultural, or social developments noted in historical archives.
1914 Battle of Lorraine in World War I: The Battle of Lorraine was an early engagement during World War I, where French forces launched an unsuccessful offensive against German troops in the Lorraine region. This battle was part of the larger Battle of the Frontiers, a series of critical initial confrontations that shaped the early stages of the war on the Western Front.
1915 Battle of the Frontiers Begins: A critical early engagement of World War I, the Battle of the Frontiers marked a significant moment of confrontation between French and German forces along the eastern borders of France and southern Belgium. This series of battles represented the initial large-scale military clashes of the war, setting the stage for the prolonged and devastating conflict that would follow.
1916 Battle of Halen during World War I: The Battle of Halen was a significant engagement during the Battle of the Frontiers in World War I, taking place on August 14, 1916. This battle was part of the broader military operations on the Western Front, where Belgian and German forces clashed in a strategic confrontation that highlighted the brutal nature of trench warfare and the complex military tactics of the time.
1917 China Enters World War I: On August 14, 1917, the Republic of China officially declared war on the Central Powers during World War I. Notably, China's contribution was primarily through labor support, sending workers to Europe to assist in the war effort rather than deploying combat troops.
1918 Battle of Halen During World War I: The Battle of Halen was a significant engagement during the Battle of the Frontiers in World War I. This battle took place on August 14, 1918, and represented a critical moment in the Belgian defensive strategy against German forces. The battle was characterized by intense infantry and artillery combat, with Belgian troops demonstrating remarkable resilience in the face of German advances. The engagement was part of the broader strategic efforts to halt the German invasion and protect Belgian territorial integrity.
1919 Russian Civil War Counter-Offensive: On August 14, 1919, during the Russian Civil War, the Red Army under Vladimir Yegoryev launched a significant counter-offensive against the White Army. The Bolshevik forces, numbering 144,000 troops, confronted Anton Denikin's White Army of 185,000 men in a critical military engagement.
1920 VII Summer Olympics Open in Antwerp: The 1920 Summer Olympics officially opened in Antwerp, Belgium, marking a significant moment in Olympic history. This Games introduced several historic traditions: the Olympic flag was raised for the first time, and the Olympic oath was taken during the Opening Ceremony. The event symbolized international unity and sportsmanship in the aftermath of World War I.
1921 Establishment of Tuvan People's Republic: On August 14, 1921, the Tuvan People's Republic (initially known as Tannu Uriankhai) was established as an independent nation, with significant political support from Soviet Russia. This small Central Asian state emerged during a period of significant geopolitical transformation following the Russian Revolution, representing a unique example of Soviet-influenced state formation in the early 20th century.
1922 DUPE: London Reparations Conference Fails: On August 14, 1922, the London reparations conference concluded without reaching a mutually acceptable agreement, highlighting the ongoing diplomatic tensions in the aftermath of World War I.
1923 Deadly Coal Mine Explosion in Kemmerer, Wyoming: On August 14, 1923, a catastrophic coal mine explosion occurred at the Kemmerer Coal Company near Kemmerer, Wyoming, resulting in the tragic loss of 99 miners' lives. The incident highlighted the dangerous working conditions in early 20th-century coal mining operations, where workers faced significant risks of accidents, gas leaks, and structural collapses. This disaster was one of the most significant mining accidents in Wyoming's industrial history, drawing national attention to the need for improved safety regulations and worker protections in the mining industry.
1924 Devastating Floods in China: A catastrophic flooding event occurred in the Zhili and Hunan provinces of China, resulting in an estimated 14,000 fatalities. This massive natural disaster caused widespread destruction and significant loss of human life, highlighting the vulnerability of rural populations to extreme environmental events during the early 20th century.
1925 Mount Rushmore First Proposed: On August 14, 1925, sculptor Gutzon Borglum first proposed the creation of the Mount Rushmore National Memorial, a monumental sculpture featuring the faces of four U.S. presidents carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore in South Dakota. This ambitious project would eventually feature George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln, symbolizing the first 150 years of American democracy and expansion.
1926 Birth of René Goscinny: René Goscinny, a renowned French comic-strip author and creator, was born in Paris, France. He would go on to become one of the most influential comic book writers of the 20th century, best known for creating the iconic Asterix series.
1927 U.S. Federal Budget Surplus Announcement: Herbert Lord, Director of the U.S. Bureau of the Budget, officially announced a substantial federal budget surplus of $2,392,909,074.38, highlighting the government's fiscal efficiency during the late 1920s economic period.
1928 Birth of Lina Wertmüller: Lina Wertmüller, a pioneering Italian film director and screenwriter known for her bold and satirical style, was born in Rome. She would later become one of the most influential female directors of the 20th century, being the first woman nominated for a Best Director Academy Award for her film 'Seven Beauties' (1975).
1929 Establishment of the Jewish Agency for Palestine: The Jewish Agency for Palestine was officially formed, serving as a key organization representing Jewish interests and facilitating Jewish immigration and settlement in Palestine during the late British Mandate period. This organization played a crucial role in laying the groundwork for the future State of Israel.
1930 Devastating Tillamook Burn Forest Fire in Oregon: On August 14, 1930, a catastrophic forest fire erupted in the Coast Range of Oregon, initiated by careless logging operations. The fire, which would become known as the first Tillamook Burn, raged for several weeks, ultimately consuming approximately 240,000 acres of pristine forest land. The blaze was finally extinguished on September 5, leaving a significant ecological and economic impact on the region. This event highlighted the critical need for improved forest management and fire prevention practices in the Pacific Northwest.
1931 Cuban Political Unrest: Machado Declares Martial Law: Cuban President Gerardo Machado declared martial law to suppress a growing rebellion, signaling escalating political tensions and potential civil unrest in the country during the early 1930s.
1932 X Olympic Games Close in Los Angeles: The Games of the X Olympiad concluded in Los Angeles, marking the end of a significant international sporting event. The United States demonstrated remarkable athletic prowess during these Olympic Games.
1933 Tillamook Burn Forest Fire of 1933: On August 14, 1933, loggers accidentally caused a devastating forest fire in the Coast Range of Oregon, which became known as the first Tillamook Burn. The massive wildfire raged until September 5, ultimately destroying approximately 240,000 acres (970 square kilometers) of forest land. This catastrophic event marked a significant moment in Oregon's environmental history, highlighting the potential destructive power of human-induced wildfires.
1934 Death of Raymond Hood, Pioneering American Architect: Raymond Hood, a prominent American architect known for his significant contributions to skyscraper design and the Art Deco architectural movement, passed away on August 14, 1934. Hood was a key figure in the development of New York City's iconic skyline during the early 20th century, designing landmark buildings such as the Rockefeller Center, the McGraw-Hill Building, and the American Radiator Building. His innovative approach to urban architecture helped shape the modern architectural landscape of the United States.
1935 Social Security Act Signed into Law: President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act, establishing a comprehensive government pension system that would provide financial support for retired workers, marking a pivotal moment in American social welfare policy.
1936 Battle of Badajoz during Spanish Civil War: Nationalist forces under the command of Juan Yagüe successfully captured the strategically important walled city of Badajoz during the Spanish Civil War, representing a significant military victory for the Nationalist side.
1937 China Declares War on Japan: The Republic of China officially declared war on Imperial Japan, marking a critical escalation in the Second Sino-Japanese War. This declaration signaled the beginning of a brutal conflict that would become part of the larger World War II theater in the Pacific.
1938 Czechoslovakia Declares Martial Law in Sudetenland: The Czechoslovak government imposed martial law in Sudeten districts, reflecting rising tensions with Nazi Germany over the region's ethnic German population. This action was part of the escalating political crisis leading up to the Munich Agreement and potential conflict.
1939 First Night Baseball Game at Comiskey Park: On August 14, 1939, Comiskey Park in Chicago hosted its inaugural night baseball game, marking a significant milestone in baseball history. The Chicago White Sox defeated the Saint Louis Browns 5-2 under the lights, ushering in a new era of baseball entertainment that would transform the sport's viewing experience. Night games allowed working-class fans to attend matches after their workday and dramatically increased stadium attendance and revenue.
1940 US Defense Strategy Expansion During World War II: On August 14, 1940, U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt approved Rainbow No. 4, a comprehensive emergency defense plan designed to protect the entire Western Hemisphere from potential military threats. This strategic initiative was a critical preparatory measure in anticipation of potential global conflict. The plan was ambitious and far-reaching, requiring massive military mobilization that would involve activating the National Guard and Reserves, and introducing mandatory conscription to rapidly build military readiness.
1941 Atlantic Charter Signed at Sea: On August 14, 1941, US President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill signed the Atlantic Charter aboard the HMS Prince of Wales in Placentia Bay, Newfoundland. This pivotal document outlined the Allied powers' vision for the post-World War II world, emphasizing principles of self-determination, territorial integrity, and collective security.
1942 Eisenhower Appointed North Africa Invasion Commander: General Dwight D. Eisenhower was named as the supreme commander responsible for planning and executing the Allied invasion of North Africa during World War II, a critical strategic decision that would significantly impact the war's progression in the Mediterranean theater.
1943 Quadrant Conference in Quebec City: The Quadrant Conference began in Quebec City, bringing together key Allied leaders including Canadian Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, and US President Franklin D. Roosevelt. This strategic meeting was crucial for coordinating Allied war efforts during World War II, discussing military strategy, resource allocation, and post-war planning.
1944 Falaise Pocket Closure Ordered: Allied commanders order the closing of the Falaise Pocket, a critical military maneuver designed to trap and eliminate German forces retreating from Normandy. The Canadian Operation Tractable plays a pivotal role in sealing this strategic escape route.
1945 V-J Day: Japan's Unconditional Surrender in World War II: On August 14, 1945, Japan officially surrendered unconditionally, marking the end of World War II. This momentous event signaled the conclusion of a global conflict that had lasted six years and resulted in unprecedented human casualties and destruction.
1946 Soviet Cultural Suppression: Zhdanov's Campaign Against Intellectuals: In a significant moment of Soviet cultural control, politician Andrei Zhdanov launched a systematic campaign targeting writers and artists perceived as ideologically non-compliant. On August 14, 1946, the Central Committee of the Soviet Communist Party issued a resolution targeting the literary magazines *Zvezda* and *Leningrad*, specifically condemning the works of prominent authors Mikhail Zoshchenko and poet Anna Akhmatova. The resolution marked a severe crackdown on artistic expression, resulting in the immediate replacement of magazine editors and a publishing ban for the targeted writers. This event exemplified the Soviet regime's stringent approach to controlling cultural narrative and suppressing intellectual dissent.
1947 Pakistan's Independence Day: Pakistan gains independence from the British Empire, marking the end of colonial rule and the birth of a new sovereign nation. This historic moment followed the partition of British India and established Pakistan as a separate Muslim-majority state.
1948 1948 Summer Olympics Conclude in London: The XIV Olympic Games officially closed in London, marking a significant post-World War II sporting event that symbolized international unity and athletic excellence. The Games featured remarkable performances from athletes across the globe, with the United States dominating the medal table.
1949 Pakistan's Independence Day: On August 14, 1949, Pakistan celebrated its independence, commemorating the nation's emergence as a sovereign state following the partition of British India. This date marks a crucial moment in the country's history, symbolizing the end of colonial rule and the beginning of a new national identity.
1950 Gary Larson Born: Gary Larson, the renowned American cartoonist famous for his unique and surreal comic strip *The Far Side*, was born in Tacoma, Washington. His innovative and often absurdist humor would go on to revolutionize newspaper comics during his active years from 1980 to 1995.
1951 Death of William Randolph Hearst: William Randolph Hearst, the influential American newspaper publisher, media mogul, and politician, passes away. Known for his massive media empire and significant cultural impact, Hearst was a key figure in the development of yellow journalism and a powerful political and social influencer of the early 20th century. His life and career inspired Orson Welles' classic film 'Citizen Kane'.
1952 West Germany Joins International Financial Institutions: On August 14, 1952, West Germany officially became a member of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, marking a significant milestone in its post-World War II economic rehabilitation and reintegration into the global financial system. This membership symbolized West Germany's economic recovery, international reconciliation, and commitment to multilateral economic cooperation during the early years of the Cold War.
1953 Devastating Ionian Earthquake in Greece: A catastrophic magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck the Ionian Islands, particularly devastating Cephalonia. This natural disaster is considered the worst in Greek history for centuries, causing massive destruction and significant loss of life.
1954 Death of Hugo Eckener: Hugo Eckener, a renowned German engineer and pioneering airship developer who significantly contributed to aviation technology, passed away. Eckener was particularly famous for his work with zeppelins and advancing lighter-than-air aircraft design.
1955 Herbert Putnam, Librarian of Congress, Dies: Herbert Putnam, a prominent librarian who served as the Librarian of Congress from 1899 to 1939, passed away at the age of 94. Putnam was a pioneering figure in library science, known for modernizing library practices and expanding the Library of Congress's collections and services during his four-decade tenure.
1956 Dutch Coaster Hondsrug Sinks off Danish Coast: On August 14, 1956, the Dutch coastal cargo vessel Hondsrug met a tragic fate approximately 10 nautical miles (19 kilometers) north of Fyn, Denmark. During the maritime incident, the ship sank, resulting in the loss of five out of seven crew members. The precise cause of the sinking remains unclear from the available information, highlighting the inherent risks of maritime transportation during the mid-20th century.
1957 Elvis Presley's "(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear" Tops US Charts: On August 14, 1957, Elvis Presley's hit song "(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear" reached the number one position on the Billboard charts in the United States, further solidifying his status as the 'King of Rock and Roll'.
1958 KLM Flight Crash West of Ireland: DUPE
1959 First Earth Orbital Image: Explorer 6 satellite captures and transmits the first photograph of Earth from space, a groundbreaking moment in space exploration and imaging technology.
1960 UN Peacekeeping Mission in Congo: The United Nations deployed peacekeeping troops to the Republic of Congo (now Democratic Republic of Congo) during a period of significant political instability following its independence from Belgium. This mission was crucial in attempting to maintain peace and prevent further escalation of potential conflicts in the newly independent African nation.
1961 Jomo Kenyatta Released from Prison: Jomo Kenyatta, a pivotal leader of the Kenyan independence movement and the Kikuyu Central Association, was released from prison. This event was a significant moment in Kenya's struggle against British colonial rule, signaling a potential shift towards national self-determination.
1962 Mont Blanc Vehicular Tunnel Breakthrough: French and Italian construction workers achieved a significant engineering milestone by breaking through the Mont Blanc Vehicular Tunnel, connecting France and Italy through an ambitious alpine infrastructure project.
1964 Gulf of Tonkin Incident: Johnson Authorizes Retaliation: U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson authorized a retaliatory air strike from the USS Ticonderoga following reported attacks on U.S. Navy ships in the Gulf of Tonkin, a pivotal moment that significantly escalated U.S. military involvement in the Vietnam War.
1965 Beatles Perform on Ed Sullivan Show: The Beatles recorded an appearance for the iconic Ed Sullivan Show, further solidifying their massive cultural influence and popularity in the mid-1960s American entertainment landscape.
1966 First US Lunar Orbiter Enters Lunar Orbit: The United States successfully launched its first lunar orbiter, marking a significant milestone in the Space Race and early lunar exploration. This spacecraft became the first U.S. mission to orbit a celestial body other than Earth, paving the way for future lunar missions and scientific research.
1967 UK Marine Broadcasting Offences Act Takes Effect: The UK Marine Broadcasting Offences Act 1967 came into effect, effectively criminalizing participation in offshore pirate radio stations. This landmark legislation led to the shutdown of most pirate radio stations, with Radio Caroline being the notable exception, marking a significant moment in British media regulation.
1968 Los Angeles Airways Helicopter Crash: A tragic aviation disaster occurred when a Sikorsky S61 helicopter catastrophically broke apart mid-flight, resulting in the complete loss of all 21 passengers and crew members. The incident highlighted significant safety concerns in commercial helicopter transportation during the late 1960s.
1969 The Troubles: British Military Deployment in Northern Ireland: On August 14, 1969, British troops were deployed in Northern Ireland amid escalating political and sectarian violence, marking the beginning of Operation Banner, a 37-year military intervention that would significantly shape the region's history.
1970 CUNY Implements Open Admissions Policy: The City University of New York (CUNY) inaugurates a groundbreaking open admissions policy, dramatically expanding access to higher education for diverse and underserved student populations. This policy allows any high school graduate in New York City to attend college, regardless of traditional academic performance metrics, marking a significant moment in educational equity.
1971 British Internment in Northern Ireland: British military authorities initiated a controversial internment policy in Northern Ireland, arresting and detaining suspected Irish Republican Army (IRA) members without trial, escalating tensions during the Troubles.
1972 Bloody Sunday in Northern Ireland: On August 14, 1972, British soldiers fired into a crowd in Derry, Northern Ireland, killing 13 unarmed civil rights protesters. This event became a pivotal moment in the Northern Ireland conflict, significantly escalating tensions between the British military and the local Catholic community.
1973 Pakistan Adopts New Constitution: The 1973 Constitution of Pakistan officially came into effect, establishing a new framework for governance and marking a significant political transition for the country.
1974 Turkish Invasion of Cyprus: Turkey launched its second military intervention in Cyprus, strategically occupying 37% of the island's territory in response to the ongoing Greek-Cypriot conflict, dramatically altering the geopolitical landscape of the region.
1975 Dmitri Shostakovich Burial: Renowned Soviet composer Dmitri Shostakovich was laid to rest at the historic Novodevichy Cemetery in Moscow, a prestigious burial ground for many notable Russian cultural and political figures.
1976 Women's Peace Demonstration in Belfast: On August 14, 1976, approximately 10,000 women from Northern Ireland gathered in Belfast to demonstrate for peace, highlighting the grassroots efforts to end sectarian violence during the height of the Troubles. This significant public protest showcased women's collective power and their desire to stop the ongoing conflict through peaceful means.
1977 New York Cosmos Dominates Soccer Match: In a spectacular soccer performance, the New York Cosmos defeat the Fort Lauderdale Strikers 8-3 at Giants Stadium, drawing an impressive crowd of 77,691 spectators.
1978 Deadly Bombing in Beirut: A devastating terrorist bombing in Beirut resulted in 121 fatalities, with the attack believed to be carried out by al-Fatah (PLO) targeting the Iraqi-backed Palestine Liberation Front (PLF). This incident highlights the intense political and factional tensions prevalent in Lebanon during the late 1970s.
1979 Release of Apocalypse Now: Francis Ford Coppola's epic war film 'Apocalypse Now' was released, marking a significant moment in cinema history. The film, loosely based on Joseph Conrad's novella 'Heart of Darkness', provided a powerful and surreal portrayal of the Vietnam War, winning numerous awards and becoming a landmark in American filmmaking.
1980 Gdańsk Workers Strike: A massive strike involving 17,000 workers erupted at the Lenin Shipyard in Gdańsk, Poland, marking a pivotal moment in the country's labor movement and resistance against communist rule.
1981 Mike Schmidt Hits 300th Career Home Run: Philadelphia Phillies player Mike Schmidt achieved a significant milestone by hitting his 300th career home run against New York Mets pitcher Mike Scott.
1982 Iran's Ramadan Offensive in Iraq: During the Iran-Iraq War, Iran launched a significant military offensive during the month of Ramadan, escalating the ongoing conflict between the two nations.
1983 Youngest Woman Swims English Channel: Samantha Druce, at just 12 years and 119 days old, becomes the youngest woman to successfully swim across the English Channel, demonstrating extraordinary athletic achievement and endurance.
1984 Space Shuttle Discovery Maiden Voyage: NASA successfully launched the Space Shuttle Discovery on its inaugural mission. As the third space shuttle in the United States fleet, Discovery would go on to complete 39 successful missions before being retired, playing a crucial role in space exploration.
1985 Political Violence Erupts in South Africa: Following the assassination of Victoria Mxenge, a prominent civil rights lawyer and respected activist, political violence broke out among South African youth. Mxenge's funeral became a catalyst for heightened tensions, with the Congress of South African Students playing a significant role in the emerging protests. This event marked a critical moment in the escalating resistance against apartheid, highlighting the growing frustration and militant response of younger generations to systemic oppression.
1986 Benazir Bhutto's Political Arrest: Pakistani opposition leader Benazir Bhutto was arrested, marking a significant moment in Pakistan's political turbulence during the mid-1980s. This arrest highlighted the ongoing tensions between political opposition and the ruling government during a challenging period in the country's democratic development.
1987 Social Security Act Signed: President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act into law, establishing a crucial social welfare program to provide economic security for Americans during the Great Depression.
1988 Birth of Kayla Mueller: Kayla Mueller, an American humanitarian and human rights activist, was born. She would later become known for her courageous work in conflict zones and her tragic death while in captivity.
1989 P.W. Botha Resigns as South African President: On August 14, 1989, President Pieter Willem Botha resigned from his position, marking a significant moment in South African political history during the late apartheid era. His resignation represented a critical transition point in the country's political landscape.
1990 Louis Palonia's Inside-the-Park Grand Slam: On August 14, 1990, Louis Palonia of the California Angels hit an inside-the-park grand slam, becoming the 74th player in Major League Baseball history to achieve this rare feat. Inside-the-park grand slams are extremely uncommon and require exceptional speed, hitting skill, and fielding errors.
1991 Death of Richard A. Snelling, Vermont Governor: Richard A. Snelling, long-serving Governor of Vermont, passed away at the age of 64. He was a prominent political figure known for his leadership in the state during multiple terms.
1992 Georgian-Abkhazian War Erupts: The Georgian-Abkhazian War began on August 14, 1992, marking the start of a brutal conflict that would last until 1993. The war commenced with devastating shelling and helicopter attacks on residential areas in Sukhum, leading to significant violence, territorial disputes, and massive population displacement.
1993 Reggie Jackson Day at Yankee Stadium: The New York Yankees honored baseball legend Reggie Jackson by retiring his iconic number 13 jersey, celebrating his extraordinary contributions to the team.
1994 Capture of Carlos the Jackal: Ilich Ramírez Sánchez, the notorious international terrorist known as 'Carlos the Jackal', was captured in Khartoum, Sudan. This marked the end of a decades-long manhunt for one of the most infamous terrorists of the 20th century, who was responsible for numerous attacks across Europe in the 1970s and 1980s.
1995 Michael Ovitz Appointed Disney President: Michael Ovitz, a prominent talent agent, was appointed president of the Walt Disney Company. His contract included a base salary of US$1 million annually and stock options for 5 million Disney shares, signaling a significant leadership transition in the entertainment industry.
1996 Deadly Fireworks Accident in Arequipa: A catastrophic fireworks display accident occurred in Arequipa, Peru, when a rocket ignited and knocked down a high-tension power cable into a dense crowd, resulting in the electrocution of 35 people. This tragic incident underscored the potential dangers of public entertainment events and the importance of safety protocols.
1997 Timothy McVeigh Sentenced to Death: Timothy McVeigh, the perpetrator of the Oklahoma City bombing, was formally sentenced to death by a federal court. This marked a significant moment in the aftermath of the 1995 terrorist attack that killed 168 people and injured hundreds more.
1998 Gary C. Evans Suicide After Escape: Gary C. Evans, a notorious criminal in New York's Capital Region known for murdering five people, escaped police custody and ultimately took his own life by jumping off a bridge on August 14, 1998.
1999 Øresund Bridge Completed, Connecting Denmark and Sweden: The Øresund Bridge, a groundbreaking infrastructure project, was completed, creating a critical transportation link between Denmark and Sweden. This engineering marvel spans both a bridge and a tunnel, connecting Copenhagen and Malmö, and symbolizing increased regional integration in Scandinavia.
2000 Democratic National Convention Nominates Gore-Lieberman Ticket: During the Democratic National Convention held in Los Angeles, Vice President Al Gore was officially nominated as the presidential candidate, with Senator Joe Lieberman selected as his running mate for the 2000 United States presidential election.
2002 Catastrophic Flooding in Czech Republic and Germany: A 100-year flood devastated the Vltava River region, causing massive disruption across the Czech Republic and extending into Germany. Over 200,000 Czechs were displaced, with city centers like Plzen and Ceske Budejovice submerged. Significant cultural sites, including Dresden's Zwinger Palace, suffered extensive damage.
2003 Northeast Blackout of 2003: A widespread power outage occurred throughout parts of the Northeastern and Midwestern United States, and most parts of the Canadian province of Ontario. The blackout was caused by a software bug in the alarm system at the control room of FirstEnergy, leading to cascading failures in the transmission and generation capability. Approximately 55 million people were affected, with almost 100 deaths reported.
2004 Gatumba Refugee Camp Massacre: In a horrific act of violence, gunmen killed at least 156 Congolese Tutsi refugees in an overnight raid at the Gatumba camp in Burundi, highlighting the ongoing regional conflicts and humanitarian crisis in Central Africa.
2005 Helios Airways Flight 522 Crash: Helios Airways Flight 522 crashed north of Athens, resulting in the tragic loss of all 121 passengers and crew members. The aircraft, en route from Larnaca, Cyprus to Prague, Czech Republic via Athens, experienced a critical decompression issue that led to the fatal accident near Grammatiko, Greece.
2006 UN Ceasefire in Lebanon War: A United Nations-brokered ceasefire takes effect, formally ending hostilities between Lebanon and Israel after a month-long conflict. The ceasefire was approved through United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, marking a significant diplomatic intervention in the regional conflict.
2007 Yazidi Community Massacre in Iraq: Multiple suicide bombings killed 572 people in the Yazidi community in Qahtaniya, northwest Iraq, marking one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in the region's history.
2008 2008 South Ossetia War Developments: Russia declares support for potential referendums in breakaway republics Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Amnesty International reports on the Georgian Army's assault on Tskhinvali, documenting 14 hours of bombardment resulting in significant civilian casualties and infrastructure destruction.
2009 Deadly Gaza Gun Battle: A fierce gun battle in Gaza resulted in at least 13 fatalities and 85 injuries, underscoring the ongoing volatility in the region.
2010 2010 Pakistan Floods: Massive Humanitarian Crisis: An unprecedented monsoon disaster struck Pakistan, causing devastating floods that left approximately 20 million people homeless. The catastrophic event resulted in at least 1,500 fatalities, destroyed hundreds of thousands of homes, and decimated over 700,000 hectares of critical farmland. The scale of the disaster was so significant that it drew international attention and humanitarian aid efforts.
2011 2011 England Riots: Widespread civil unrest and rioting occurred across England, marking a significant period of social upheaval and urban disturbance.
2012 Ecuador Grants Asylum to Julian Assange: Ecuador granted political asylum to WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, who had been seeking refuge in the Ecuadorian embassy in London, marking a significant moment in international diplomatic relations.
2013 Egypt's Violent Crackdown on Pro-Morsi Protesters: On August 14, 2013, Egyptian security forces launched a brutal crackdown on demonstrations supporting former president Mohamed Morsi, resulting in hundreds of civilian casualties. The military-backed government declared a state of emergency and used overwhelming force to disperse protest camps in Cairo, including armored bulldozers, tear gas, snipers, and helicopters.
2014 UN Declares Highest Emergency Level in Iraq amid ISIS Advances: The United Nations declared the most severe state of emergency in Iraq following the advances of the Islamic State. In a related incident, four children were killed in a clash between Sunni militants and the Iraqi Army west of Baghdad. U.S. President Barack Obama announced that American airstrikes had broken the ISIS siege at Mount Sinjar, enabling thousands of Yazidi refugees to escape.
2015 U.S. Reopens Embassy in Cuba: U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry officially reopened the American Embassy in Havana, marking the first time in 54 years. Eight members of Congress were present to support this historic policy change, symbolizing a significant thaw in U.S.-Cuba diplomatic relations.
2016 Usain Bolt's Historic Olympic Achievement: Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt made history by becoming the first athlete to win three consecutive gold medals in the men's 100 meters Olympic event, solidifying his status as the greatest sprinter of his generation.
2017 North Korea Missile Engine Acquisition Report: The International Institute for Strategic Studies reported that North Korea likely acquired a high-performance liquid-propellant missile engine through illegal networks in Russia or Ukraine. Ukraine denied the allegations, adding complexity to the ongoing North Korea missile crisis.
2018 Ponte Morandi Bridge Collapse in Genoa, Italy: On August 14, 2018, the Ponte Morandi viaduct catastrophically collapsed on the A10 motorway in Genoa, Italy, resulting in a massive infrastructure and human tragedy. The disaster involved 35 vehicles and three large trucks, causing 38 confirmed deaths, 16 severe injuries, and 5 missing persons. Additionally, 632 people were displaced, and numerous homes were damaged, making this one of the most significant infrastructure failures in recent Italian history.
2019 US-China Trade Tensions: Tariff Delay: The Trump administration strategically postponed new tariffs on select Chinese imports, indicating potential flexibility in ongoing trade negotiations. This delay suggested a nuanced approach to managing economic tensions between the United States and China.
2020 Belarus Protest Crackdown: Amnesty International reported widespread torture in Belarusian detention centers, with over 6,700 people detained following protests against President Lukashenko's disputed election result.
2021 Haiti Devastating Earthquake: A powerful magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck southwestern Haiti, causing massive destruction and loss of life. The catastrophic event resulted in at least 2,248 confirmed fatalities and triggered a severe humanitarian crisis, overwhelming local infrastructure and emergency response capabilities.
2022 Tragic Church Fire in Giza, Egypt: A devastating fire broke out at the Saint Mercurius Coptic Orthodox Church in Giza, Egypt, resulting in a massive loss of life. The incident claimed 41 lives and left 45 people injured, causing significant shock and mourning within the local community and raising questions about fire safety in public spaces.
2023 Trump Indicted in Georgia Election Interference Case: Former U.S. President Donald Trump was formally charged in Georgia, along with 18 other individuals, for alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results in the state. This marks Trump's fourth criminal indictment in 2023, highlighting the unprecedented legal challenges facing a former president.

What Is special about August 14?

August 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 August 14.