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

Events on August 28 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Eight-Nation Alliance Celebrates Victory in Boxer Rebellion: The armies of the Eight-Nation Alliance (including forces from Japan, Russia, Britain, France, United States, Germany, Italy, and Austria-Hungary) held a triumphant parade in Beijing's Tiananmen Square, marking their collective victory in the Boxer Rebellion. This event symbolized the imperial powers' military dominance over China and highlighted the complex geopolitical tensions of the era.
1901 Founding of Silliman University: Silliman University was established on August 28, 1901, in Dumaguete City, Philippines. As the first American private school in the country, it represented a significant moment in the Philippine educational landscape during the early American colonial period. The university was named after Dr. Horace Silliman, an American philanthropist who provided the initial funding, and it began as a primary school before evolving into a comprehensive higher education institution.
1902 Aswan Low Dam Inauguration: The first Aswan Low Dam was officially opened by Khedive Abbas II of Egypt, marking a significant milestone in Egypt's infrastructure and water management development. This dam, located on the Nile River, was crucial for controlling flooding, storing water, and supporting agricultural irrigation in the region.
1903 Ilinden–Preobrazhenie Uprising Against Ottoman Rule: The Ilinden–Preobrazhenie Uprising, a significant rebellion organized by the Secret Macedonian-Adrianople Revolutionary Organization, erupted in the Ottoman provinces of Macedonia and Adrianople. This uprising was a critical moment in the struggle for independence and national liberation against Ottoman imperial control.
1904 First Automobile Speeding Conviction in the United States: On August 28, 1904, Newport, Rhode Island made legal history by issuing the first jail sentence for speeding in an automobile. This landmark event marked a critical moment in the early regulation of motor vehicle traffic, highlighting the emerging challenges of automotive transportation in the early 20th century. As automobiles became more prevalent, local authorities began to recognize the need for traffic laws to ensure public safety.
1905 Birth of Sam Levene: Sam Levene, originally named Scholem Lewin, was born on August 28, 1905, in Russia. He would go on to become a prominent stage and film actor in the United States, contributing significantly to American theater and cinema during the mid-20th century.
1906 Sir John Betjeman: Early Life and Recognition: On August 28, 1906, John Betjeman was born in London, who would later become a celebrated British poet, writer, and broadcaster. Though the reference to 'Mt Zion' seems unusual and potentially erroneous, Betjeman would go on to become Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1972 until his death in 1984, known for his nostalgic and architectural writings that celebrated British culture and landscape.
1907 United Parcel Service (UPS) Founded: James E. Casey established the United Parcel Service (UPS) in Seattle, Washington, marking the beginning of what would become a global logistics and package delivery powerhouse. Initially a small messenger company, UPS would grow to revolutionize shipping and package delivery across the United States and eventually worldwide.
1908 UPS Predecessor Founded: The American Messenger Company is established in Seattle, Washington, which would later evolve into the global logistics and package delivery giant United Parcel Service (UPS). This small local messenger service marks the humble beginnings of one of the world's largest shipping and logistics corporations.
1909 Freud and Jung's American Journey: On August 28, 1909, two pioneering psychologists, Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung, embarked on a historic transatlantic voyage. Departing from Bremen, Germany, aboard the liner *George Washington*, they were set to travel to the United States, a journey that would significantly influence the development and international recognition of psychoanalysis.
1910 Montenegro Becomes an Independent Kingdom: On August 28, 1910, Montenegro was officially proclaimed an independent kingdom under the leadership of Nicholas I, marking a significant milestone in the nation's political evolution. This proclamation solidified Montenegro's sovereignty and ended its previous status as a principality, establishing a new era of self-governance and national identity.
1911 Record-Breaking Rainfall in Georgia: On August 28, 1911, St. George, Georgia experienced an extraordinary meteorological event with a staggering 45.7 cm (approximately 18 inches) of rainfall in a single day. This unprecedented precipitation set a state record for the most rainfall recorded in Georgia, highlighting the region's potential for extreme weather conditions.
1912 Georgy Brusilov's Ill-Fated Arctic Expedition: On August 28, 1912, Russian explorer Georgy Brusilov embarked on a perilous expedition to chart the Northern Sea Route, departing from the port city of Arkhangelsk. The expedition, aboard the ship Saint Anna, aimed to navigate the treacherous Arctic waters and establish a viable maritime passage along Russia's northern coast. Unfortunately, the journey would become one of the most tragic polar exploration missions in history, with the ship becoming trapped in Arctic ice and leading to the ultimate disappearance of most of the crew.
1913 Opening of the Peace Palace in The Hague: Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands officially inaugurated the Peace Palace (Vredespaleis) in The Hague, a landmark international judicial institution designed to promote peaceful resolution of global conflicts. The palace would later become the home of the Permanent Court of Arbitration and the International Court of Justice, symbolizing the Netherlands' commitment to international diplomacy and conflict resolution.
1914 Battle of Tannenberg: Intense German-Russian Combat: On the third day of the Battle of Tannenberg, violent and strategic military engagements occurred between German and Russian forces, marking a critical moment in the early stages of World War I.
1916 Germany Declares War on Romania: As part of the complex diplomatic and military maneuvers of World War I, Germany formally declared war on Romania, further escalating the conflict and drawing another nation into the global confrontation.
1917 Silent Sentinels Arrested During White House Suffrage Protest: On August 28, 1917, ten members of the Silent Sentinels, a dedicated group of women's suffrage activists, were arrested while peacefully picketing outside the White House to demand voting rights for women in the United States. This event was part of a larger, persistent protest campaign aimed at pressuring President Woodrow Wilson and the federal government to support women's suffrage.
1918 Battle of the Scarpe: Canadian Forces Advance: During World War I, Canadian forces successfully captured a portion of the strategic Fresnes-Rouvroy defense line in France, achieving this tactical objective at a significant cost of 254 officers. This engagement was part of the broader Allied offensive aimed at pushing back German forces during the final months of the war.
1919 John Smuts Becomes Premier of South Africa: General Jan Christiaan Smuts assumed the role of Prime Minister of the Union of South Africa, marking a significant moment in the country's political transition following the end of World War I and the establishment of the Union in 1910.
1920 Warren G. Harding's Pivotal Campaign Speech on Post-World War I America: In a significant campaign address, President Warren G. Harding articulated his vision for America's global role following World War I. He criticized the potential internationalist approach and expressed skepticism about joining the League of Nations. Harding emphasized national sovereignty and argued that the United States should chart its own diplomatic course, rejecting external institutional constraints. The speech reflected the isolationist sentiment prevalent in American politics during the early 1920s.
1921 Battle of Blair Mountain: Miners' Uprising in West Virginia: Armed coal miners from the Kanawha Valley and southern West Virginia counties marched to Logan and Mingo counties to protest the imprisonment and mistreatment of union miners. This confrontation escalated into the Battle of Blair Mountain, a significant labor conflict that resulted in multiple deaths and required federal intervention, symbolizing the intense struggle for workers' rights during the early 20th century.
1922 German Hyperinflation Reaches Critical Point: The value of the German Papiermark dramatically plummeted, with the exchange rate reaching 1,000 marks to the dollar, illustrating the severe economic instability in post-World War I Germany.
1923 Germany Seeks End to Ruhr Resistance Campaign: On August 28, 1923, the German government proposed terminating its passive resistance campaign in the Ruhr region, contingent upon the release of deportees. This diplomatic overture was part of the complex aftermath of the French and Belgian occupation of the Ruhr valley, which had been triggered by Germany's inability to pay World War I reparations. The passive resistance strategy, which involved workers and civil servants refusing to cooperate with the occupying forces, had been economically and politically costly for Germany.
1924 Dawes Plan Agreement: The Allied Powers reached a preliminary agreement on the Dawes Plan and extended an invitation to Germany to participate in the London conference. This marked a crucial diplomatic effort to address Germany's reparation payments and stabilize the post-World War I economic landscape.
1925 Establishment of Banco de Mexico: The Mexican state bank, Banco de Mexico, was officially founded, marking a significant milestone in the country's financial infrastructure and economic development.
1926 Historic Doubleheader Pitching Achievement: Dutch Levsen of the Cleveland Indians became the last pitcher in major league baseball history to start and win both games of a doubleheader, defeating the Boston Red Sox 6-1 and 5–1. This remarkable feat demonstrated exceptional endurance and skill, marking a unique moment in baseball history that would never be repeated.
1927 Cremation of Sacco and Vanzetti: The remains of Italian-born anarchists Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti were cremated following their controversial execution, a measure taken to prevent their burial site from becoming a political shrine or memorial for their supporters. Their trial and execution had been widely seen as a miscarriage of justice, symbolizing the anti-immigrant and anti-radical sentiments of 1920s America.
1928 Kellogg–Briand Pact Signed in Paris: Representatives from 15 nations gathered in Paris to sign the landmark Kellogg–Briand Pact, a groundbreaking international agreement that sought to renounce war as a means of resolving international disputes. This pivotal diplomatic effort aimed to promote peaceful conflict resolution and prevent future global conflicts in the aftermath of World War I.
1929 Frank Woolley Cricket Milestone: Frank Woolley, a prominent English cricketer, achieved a significant personal milestone by scoring his 100th first-class century, demonstrating exceptional skill and consistency in the sport.
1930 Marx Brothers' 'Animal Crackers' Premieres in New York: On August 28, 1930, the iconic comedy film 'Animal Crackers' starring the legendary Marx Brothers made its debut at the historic Rialto Theatre in New York City. The film, featuring the comedic genius of Groucho, Chico, Harpo, and Zeppo Marx, would go on to become a classic of early Hollywood comedy, showcasing the troupe's unique brand of slapstick humor and witty wordplay.
1931 British Labour Party Leadership Change: In a significant internal political development, the Labour Party's Members of Parliament voted to remove Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald from his leadership position. Arthur Henderson, a prominent political figure who previously served as Foreign Secretary, was subsequently elected as the new party leader, marking a notable transition in British political leadership.
1932 Von Papen's Economic Recovery Plan: On August 28, 1932, German Chancellor Franz von Papen delivered a significant economic speech in Münster, presenting a comprehensive 12-month economic recovery plan. This address came during a critical period of economic instability in Germany, following the devastating impacts of the Great Depression and preceding the rise of Nazi economic policies. Von Papen's plan aimed to address the severe economic challenges facing the Weimar Republic at a time of profound national uncertainty.
1933 Roosevelt's Gold Ownership Executive Order: On August 28, 1933, U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued Executive Order 6260, which strategically modified the government's strict gold ownership policies. The order provided nuanced exemptions to the previous comprehensive gold ownership ban, specifically allowing individuals to: 1. Retain up to $100 in gold currency 2. Keep gold coins with recognized numismatic collector value This executive order was part of Roosevelt's broader economic strategy during the Great Depression, aimed at stabilizing the national monetary system and preventing gold hoarding.
1934 Upton Sinclair's California Governor Nomination: Upton Sinclair, a renowned muckraking author and progressive activist, secured the Democratic Party nomination for Governor of California. This marked a significant moment in California's political history, as Sinclair's 'End Poverty in California' (EPIC) platform challenged traditional political narratives.
1935 Pope Condemns Abyssinian Invasion: Pope Pius XI issued a strong moral condemnation of Italy's invasion of Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia), describing the military action as fundamentally 'unjust' and 'unthinkable'. This papal statement highlighted the growing international tension surrounding Italy's imperial ambitions under Mussolini's fascist regime, and represented a significant moral rebuke of colonial aggression.
1936 Nazi Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses Begins: Nazi Germany initiated a systematic campaign of mass arrests targeting Jehovah's Witnesses, forcibly interning them in concentration camps as part of their broader strategy of religious and ideological persecution.
1937 Toyota Motors Established as Independent Company: On August 28, 1937, Toyota Motor Corporation officially became an independent company, marking a significant milestone in Japanese automotive industry history. This transition represented a crucial moment for the organization, separating it from its previous corporate structure and setting the stage for its future global expansion.
1938 British Diplomatic Efforts to Prevent War with Nazi Germany: Lord Runciman's diplomatic mission to resolve the Sudetenland crisis begins to deteriorate. British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain recalls Ambassador Nevile Henderson from Berlin to arrange a personal meeting with Adolf Hitler, in a last-ditch attempt to prevent escalating tensions that would eventually lead to World War II.
1939 German Troop Buildup Observed on Polish Border: British journalist Clare Hollingworth (corrected name spelling) makes a critical observation of massive German military preparations, witnessing 'hundreds of tanks, armored cars, and field guns' positioned along the Polish border, signaling imminent invasion.
1940 RAF Bombing Raid on Berlin: The Royal Air Force conducted its second bombing raid on Berlin in four nights, undertaking a challenging 1,200-mile round trip that required flying in total darkness for approximately 7-8 hours. This raid was part of the strategic bombing campaign against Nazi Germany.
1941 Soviet Destruction of Dnieper Dam during World War II: During World War II, Soviet forces strategically destroyed the massive Dnieper River dam at Zaporozhye to prevent its capture and potential strategic use by advancing German forces. This scorched earth tactic was a significant military decision aimed at denying infrastructure to the enemy.
1942 Operation Ironclad: British Invasion of Madagascar: British military forces launch 'Operation Ironclad', a strategic invasion of Madagascar to prevent potential Japanese occupation during World War II. This operation was crucial in maintaining Allied control of the strategic Indian Ocean island.
1943 Danish Resistance: Universal Strike Against Nazi Occupation: On August 28, 1943, the Danish population launched a widespread general strike in direct defiance of Nazi German occupation forces. This act of civil resistance represented a significant moment of national solidarity against the German military presence, demonstrating the Danish people's commitment to opposing Nazi control.
1944 German Surrender in Marseille: The last German troops in Marseille surrendered, marking a significant moment in the liberation of southern France during World War II. The city of Toulon was completely cleared of German forces, signaling a decisive Allied victory in the region.
1945 US Occupation Forces Land in Japan: On August 28, 1945, a contingent of 150 United States military personnel landed at Atsugi Air Base in Kanagawa Prefecture, marking the beginning of the American occupation of Japan following World War II. This strategic arrival represented a pivotal moment in post-war history, signaling the transition of Japan from a wartime imperial power to a demilitarized and democratically-oriented nation under Allied supervision.
1946 Founding of the Workers' Party of North Korea: On August 28, 1946, the Workers' Party of North Korea was established during a pivotal congress in Pyongyang. This political organization would later evolve into the ruling Workers' Party of Korea, becoming the primary political entity guiding North Korea's governance and ideology throughout the second half of the 20th century.
1948 House Un-American Activities Committee Alleges Communist Infiltration: The House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) released an interim report asserting widespread Communist espionage networks had penetrated various sectors of the United States government and society. This report was part of the broader McCarthy-era anti-communist hysteria, which sought to identify and root out perceived communist sympathizers and potential security threats during the early years of the Cold War.
1949 Soviet Union Conducts First Atomic Bomb Test: The Soviet Union successfully tested its first atomic bomb, codenamed 'Joe 1', which was designed based on the plutonium bomb dropped on Nagasaki in 1945. This event marked a critical moment in the early Cold War nuclear arms race.
1950 U.S. Immigration Law Expansion: On August 28, 1950, U.S. President Harry S. Truman signed a significant immigration bill that dramatically expanded immigration opportunities for self-employed businesspersons, domestic servants, and farm workers. This legislation opened pathways for approximately 10 million individuals to potentially immigrate to the United States, representing a substantial shift in the country's post-World War II immigration policy.
1951 US-Philippines Mutual Defense Pact: On August 28, 1951, the United States and the Philippines signed a significant mutual defense pact, strengthening their strategic alliance during the early Cold War period and solidifying their military cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.
1952 Germany-Israel Reparations Negotiations Conclude: Reparation negotiations between West Germany and Israel conclude in Luxembourg, with Germany agreeing to pay 3 billion Deutsche Marks as compensation for Holocaust damages. This landmark agreement represents a significant diplomatic and moral resolution in post-war international relations.
1953 Al-Bureij Refugee Camp Massacre: A tragic and controversial military operation led by Ariel Sharon resulted in the killing of approximately 50 civilians during a nighttime attack on the Al-Bureij Refugee Camp, highlighting the ongoing tensions and human cost of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
1954 Belgian Cargo Ship Runs Aground in Niger Delta: On 28 August 1954, the Belgian cargo ship Prince de Liege encountered navigational difficulties and ran aground in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. After being stranded for several weeks, the vessel was successfully refloated on 13 October with critical assistance from the Dutch tugboat Poolzee. This maritime incident highlights the challenging navigation conditions in the Niger Delta during the mid-20th century.
1955 Murder of Emmett Till: Emmett Till, a 14-year-old African-American teenager, was brutally murdered in Mississippi after being falsely accused of whistling at and flirting with a white woman. This horrific hate crime became a pivotal moment in the early Civil Rights Movement, exposing the brutal racism and systemic violence against Black Americans in the mid-1950s.
1957 Strom Thurmond's Historic Civil Rights Act Filibuster: On August 28, 1957, U.S. Senator Strom Thurmond of South Carolina conducted the longest single-senator filibuster in United States Senate history, speaking continuously for 24 hours and 18 minutes to obstruct the Civil Rights Act of 1957. During his marathon speech, Thurmond read from various documents, including state election laws and the Constitution, in an attempt to prevent the passage of legislation aimed at protecting African Americans' voting rights.
1958 Deadly Coal Mine Explosion in Poland: A catastrophic mining disaster occurred at the Makoszowy Colliery near Zabrze, Poland, resulting in the tragic loss of 56 coal miners' lives due to an explosion and subsequent fire. This incident highlights the dangerous working conditions in mid-20th century coal mining operations and the significant human cost of industrial labor.
1959 Indonesia's Currency Redenomination: Indonesia implemented a major currency reform, replacing 1,000 old Indonesian rupiahs with 100 'new' rupiahs to combat severe hyperinflation. This monetary policy was designed to stabilize the national economy and restore confidence in the Indonesian currency.
1960 Declaration of San José Condemns International Intervention: During a significant diplomatic meeting in San José, Costa Rica, Ministers of Foreign Affairs from multiple nations signed the Declaration of San José, which strongly condemned external interference in the sovereign internal affairs of independent states. This declaration represented an important moment in inter-American diplomatic relations, emphasizing principles of national sovereignty and non-intervention.
1961 March on Washington for Civil Rights: On August 28, 1961, approximately 250,000 civil rights activists gathered in Washington, D.C., in a massive demonstration to advocate for comprehensive civil rights legislation pending before Congress. This peaceful assembly was a powerful display of solidarity and a critical moment in the Civil Rights Movement, applying significant public pressure for legal and social reforms to address racial inequality.
1962 Gemini Project Launch Date Revision: The Gemini Project Office and McDonnell Aircraft Corporation adjusted the projected launch date for Gemini 1, the first Gemini space mission, moving it from August 1963.
1963 Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'I Have a Dream' Speech: During the March on Washington, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic 'I Have a Dream' speech. The speech emphasized the need for racial equality and justice, with King expressing his hope for a future where people would not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.
1964 Philadelphia Race Riot of 1964: A significant racial disturbance erupted in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, highlighting the deep-seated racial tensions and social unrest prevalent in mid-1960s urban America. The riot exposed systemic racial inequalities and the strained relationship between African American communities and local law enforcement.
1965 First Subway Restaurant Established: The first Subway sandwich shop opens in Bridgeport, Connecticut, founded by Fred DeLuca and Peter Buck. Initially called 'Pete's Super Submarines', the restaurant would later be renamed Subway and grow to become one of the largest fast-food franchises globally.
1966 Soviet Union Training North Vietnamese Pilots: During the Vietnam War, the Soviet Union officially announced its involvement in training North Vietnamese Air Force pilots, demonstrating its strategic support for North Vietnam against the United States.
1967 Milwaukee NAACP Youth Council Civil Rights March: On August 28, 1967, over 200 members of the Milwaukee Youth Council of the NAACP, led by Father James E. Groppi, conducted a significant civil rights demonstration for fair housing. The peaceful march crossed the 16th Street viaduct from the predominantly African American north side to the nearly all-white south side of Milwaukee, challenging racial segregation and housing discrimination. The marchers carried hand-lettered signs with slogans like 'We Need Fair Housing', symbolizing the ongoing struggle for racial equality during the Civil Rights Movement.
1968 Police and anti-war demonstrators clash at Chicago's Democratic National Convention.
1969 Final US Nuclear Rocket Engine Test: The United States conducted its 31st and final nuclear rocket engine test at the Nevada Test Site. This experiment marked the conclusion of a significant period of nuclear propulsion research during the Cold War era, exploring potential applications for space and military technologies.
1970 The Jackson 5 Release 'I'll Be There': On August 28, 1970, The Jackson 5 released their iconic single 'I'll Be There', which would later be recognized as the Billboard Song of the Year. The track, featuring Michael Jackson's remarkable vocals, became a significant milestone in the group's musical career and in the broader landscape of 1970s pop music.
1971 US Dollar Floats Against Japanese Yen: On August 28, 1971, the United States allowed the US dollar to float freely against the Japanese yen, marking a significant moment in international monetary policy. This decision was part of the broader economic reforms initiated by President Richard Nixon, which fundamentally changed the post-World War II Bretton Woods fixed exchange rate system.
1972 Mark Spitz Wins First Olympic Gold Medal: During the 1972 Munich Olympic Games, legendary American swimmer Mark Spitz achieved a historic milestone by winning his first of seven gold medals in swimming events, setting a remarkable record for individual Olympic performance.
1973 Devastating Veracruz Earthquake: A powerful magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck Veracruz, Mexico, causing widespread destruction. The seismic event resulted in over 600 fatalities and thousands of injuries. The states of Morelos, Puebla, and Veracruz experienced heavy damage, leaving thousands homeless. Mexico City also strongly felt the tremors, highlighting the earthquake's significant regional impact.
1974 President Ford's First Press Conference Post-Watergate: President Gerald Ford held his inaugural press conference as the newly appointed President of the United States, addressing numerous lingering questions and concerns related to the Watergate scandal that had recently led to Richard Nixon's resignation.
1975 March on Washington for Civil Rights: On August 28, 1963, approximately 200,000 civil rights activists gathered in Washington, D.C. for the historic March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. This pivotal event became a defining moment of the American Civil Rights Movement, most famously remembered for Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic 'I Have a Dream' speech, which called for racial equality and an end to discrimination.
1976 USSR Nuclear Test at Semipalatinsk: The Soviet Union conducted a nuclear test at the Semipalatinsk Test Site in northeast Kazakhstan, continuing the ongoing nuclear arms race during the Cold War era. This test was part of the USSR's strategic nuclear weapons development program.
1977 Ron Guidry's Exceptional Pitching Performance: New York Yankees pitcher Ron Guidry delivered an extraordinary performance, facing only 28 batters and securing a 1-0 victory against the Texas Rangers, highlighting his exceptional control and efficiency on the mound.
1978 Political Leadership Change in Iran: Ja'afar Sharif-Emami was appointed as the premier of Iran during a period of significant political transition, marking a notable moment in the country's pre-revolutionary political landscape.
1979 IRA Bombing in Brussels: An IRA bomb exploded in the Great Market (Grand-Place) of Brussels, targeting a British Army band concert. The attack resulted in multiple casualties, including the death of Doreen Knatchbull, Baroness Brabourne, who succumbed to her injuries the following day.
1980 World's First MRI Scan Performed: Scientists at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland successfully conducted the world's first Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan, marking a revolutionary breakthrough in medical diagnostic technology. This groundbreaking achievement would transform medical imaging, allowing non-invasive, detailed visualization of internal body structures without using harmful radiation.
1981 First Major AIDS Symptom Recognition: The National Centers for Disease Control announce a high incidence of Pneumocystis and Kaposi's sarcoma in gay men, marking the first significant medical observation of what would later be recognized as AIDS symptoms.
1982 USSR Conducts Underground Nuclear Test: The Soviet Union performed an underground nuclear test, continuing its nuclear weapons development program during the Cold War era, which contributed to the ongoing geopolitical tensions between global superpowers.
1983 First African-American Astronaut in Space: Guion Bluford makes history as the first African-American astronaut to travel to space, launching aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger and breaking significant racial barriers in space exploration.
1984 Josef Fritzl Heinous Incest and Imprisonment Crime: On August 28, 1984, Josef Fritzl committed a horrific criminal act by drugging and imprisoning his daughter Elisabeth in a secret basement in Amstetten, Austria. Over the course of 24 years, he systematically sexually abused her, fathering seven children from the incestuous relationship. Some of these children were raised upstairs with Fritzl's wife, while others remained in the basement with Elisabeth. The case shocked the world when it was finally uncovered in 2008, revealing the extreme psychological and physical trauma inflicted on the victim.
1986 US Navy Officer Convicted of Espionage: Jerry A. Whitworth, a United States Navy officer, was sentenced to 365 years in prison for extensive espionage activities on behalf of the Soviet Union during the Cold War era, marking a significant counterintelligence case.
1987 Michael Jackson Releases 'Bad' Album: Michael Jackson released his groundbreaking album 'Bad', his first studio album since the record-breaking 'Thriller'. The album was highly anticipated and would go on to become another massive commercial and critical success, further cementing Jackson's status as the 'King of Pop'.
1988 Ramstein Air Base Disaster: At Germany's Ramstein Air Base, three jets from the Italian air demonstration team Frecce Tricolori collided during an airshow, causing one aircraft to crash into the crowd of spectators. This catastrophic event resulted in 75 fatalities and 346 serious injuries, marking one of the most devastating airshow disasters in modern history.
1989 Historic MLB Pitchers' Duel: Cy Young Award Winners Matchup: On August 28, 1989, the first regular-season matchup between two defending Cy Young Award winners took place, featuring Frank Viola of the New York Mets and Orel Hershiser of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The game was a remarkable pitching performance, with Viola and the Mets ultimately winning a tight 1-0 contest.
1990 Iraq Annexes Kuwait: During the Gulf War, Iraq officially declares Kuwait as its newest province, escalating international tensions and setting the stage for military intervention.
1991 Ukraine Declares Independence from Soviet Union: On August 28, 1991, Ukraine officially declared its independence from the Soviet Union, marking a pivotal moment in the dissolution of the USSR and the emergence of a new geopolitical landscape in Eastern Europe.
1992 Hurricane Andrew Devastates Florida and Louisiana: Hurricane Andrew, a Category 5 hurricane, made landfall in Florida on August 24, 1992, and continued to cause widespread destruction as it moved through the southeastern United States. By August 28, the storm had dissipated over the Tennessee Valley, leaving behind a trail of unprecedented damage. The hurricane caused massive infrastructure destruction, particularly in south Florida and Louisiana, with entire communities reduced to rubble and significant loss of life.
1993 Singapore's First Popularly Elected President: Ong Teng Cheong becomes Singapore's first president elected by popular vote, marking a significant milestone in the nation's democratic process. However, the election was notably constrained, with only two government-approved candidates participating, raising questions about true electoral competition.
1994 Tiger Woods Wins US Golf Amateur Championship: Tiger Woods won the 94th US Golf Amateur Championship, an early indication of his extraordinary golfing talent. This victory was a pivotal moment in his young career, foreshadowing his future dominance in professional golf.
1995 Sarajevo Market Mortar Attack: On August 28, 1995, during the Bosnian War, a devastating mortar shell struck a crowded market area in Sarajevo, killing 38 civilians and causing widespread terror and destruction. This tragic incident was part of the ongoing siege of Sarajevo by Bosnian Serb forces and highlighted the brutal nature of the conflict.
1996 Prince Charles and Diana Divorce Finalized: The divorce of Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales, was officially concluded at the High Court of Justice in London. Following the divorce, Diana was restyled as 'Diana, Princess of Wales' by the Queen's letters patent issued a week prior.
1997 Amusement Park Ride Malfunction in Belgium: On August 28, 1997, visitors at a Belgian amusement park experienced a harrowing incident when they were trapped upside down on a ride for approximately 90 minutes. The prolonged suspension caused significant distress and raised serious safety concerns about the park's ride maintenance and emergency protocols.
1998 Second Congo War: Defensive Action in Kinshasa: During the Second Congo War, loyalist troops, supported by Angolan and Zimbabwean military forces, successfully repelled an offensive launched by the Rally for Congolese Democracy (RCD) and Rwandan forces targeting the capital city of Kinshasa. This strategic defense was a critical moment in the complex and multi-sided conflict that engulfed the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
1999 Mir Space Station: End of an Era: The Russian space mission Soyuz TM-29 successfully completed its mission, marking the conclusion of nearly 10 years of continuous human occupation on the Mir space station. This milestone signaled the impending retirement of the pioneering orbital platform, which had been a symbol of human space exploration and international cooperation throughout the 1990s.
2000 On August 28, religious and spiritual leaders from the various faith traditions of the world gathered in New York to discuss ways to build a partnership with the United Nations. Religious Summit UN Millennium Peace Summit
2003 9/11 Emergency Call Transcripts Released: Nearly two decades after the September 11th attacks, transcripts from emergency calls made during the World Trade Center tragedy were publicly released. These recordings provided a deeply emotional and historical record of victims' experiences during the terrorist attacks.
2004 Pope Returns Sacred Icon to Russian Orthodox Church: In a significant gesture of interfaith goodwill, a Roman Catholic Cardinal returned an 18th-century copy of the revered Our Lady of Kazan icon to the Kremlin's Cathedral of the Assumption. This symbolic act represented an important moment of reconciliation between the Catholic and Russian Orthodox Churches.
2005 Hurricane Katrina Mandatory Evacuation Order in New Orleans: New Orleans, Louisiana mayor Ray Nagin and Louisiana governor Kathleen Blanco issued a mandatory evacuation order as Hurricane Katrina approached the Louisiana coast, signaling the imminent threat to the city.
2006 Federal Judge Declares NSA Wiretapping Program Unconstitutional: Federal Judge Anna Diggs Taylor rules that the National Security Agency's warrantless overseas communication surveillance program violates constitutional protections, marking a significant legal challenge to post-9/11 surveillance practices.
2007 Steven Truscott Exonerated: Steven Truscott was found not guilty of the 1959 murder of Lynne Harrer. The Ontario Court of Appeal declared the original trial, which had sentenced Truscott to death at age 14, a miscarriage of justice.
2008 Barack Obama's Historic Presidential Nomination: Illinois Senator Barack Obama becomes the first African American to be nominated for President by a major political party, accepting the Democratic Party's nomination at INVESCO Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado, in a groundbreaking moment for U.S. political history.
2009 Michael Jackson Death Ruled Homicide: The Los Angeles County coroner officially ruled Michael Jackson's death a homicide caused by acute propofol intoxication, bringing closure to the pop icon's mysterious death.
2010 Taliban Attack on Coalition Bases in Afghanistan: Taliban insurgents launched attacks on two coalition-allied military bases in eastern Afghanistan. Coalition forces successfully repelled both attacks, neutralizing 24 militants without suffering any casualties.
2011 Anna Hazare Ends Anti-Corruption Hunger Strike: Following the passage of strong anti-corruption legislation by the Indian Parliament, social activist Anna Hazare concluded her hunger strike, marking a significant moment in India's anti-corruption movement.
2012 Mitt Romney Nominated as Republican Presidential Candidate: At the National Convention in Tampa, Florida, the United States Republican Party officially nominated Mitt Romney as its presidential candidate for the 2012 election.
2013 UN Weapons Inspectors Investigate Chemical Attack in Syria: United Nations weapons inspectors crossed into rebel territory for a second investigation of an alleged poison-gas attack. The U.S. claims to have evidence, reportedly an intercepted phone call between Syrian commanders, proving Syrian forces were responsible for the attack that killed hundreds of civilians. The Obama administration and allies are preparing potential missile strikes.
2014 NATO Confirms Russian Troop Presence in Ukraine: NATO officials alleged that over 1,000 Russian troops were operating in Ukraine, with continued military equipment supply to pro-Russian rebels, including advanced air-defense systems, artillery, tanks, and armored personnel carriers.
2015 India-Pakistan Border Conflict in Kashmir: Intense cross-border gunfire between Indian and Pakistani border guards in the disputed Kashmir region led to nine civilian casualties and 63 injuries, highlighting the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the two nations.
2016 Central Italy Earthquake Devastation: Officials reported at least 290 deaths and 10 missing persons in the devastating Central Italy earthquake, marking one of the most significant natural disasters of 2016.
2017 Hurricane Harvey Devastates Texas: Hurricane Harvey caused significant destruction in Texas, resulting in eight confirmed fatalities and forcing approximately 30,000 Houston residents to seek temporary emergency shelter.
2018 Scientific Breakthrough in Particle Physics: Scientists observe the Higgs Boson decaying into bottom quarks for the first time, confirming a prediction in the Standard Model of particle physics.
2019 Massive Pro-Democracy Protest in Hong Kong: 1.7 million people, representing a quarter of Hong Kong's population, participated in a peaceful pro-democracy protest, demonstrating massive public opposition to increasing Chinese government control.
2020 March Against Police Violence in Washington, D.C.: 50,000 people gathered in Washington, D.C. for the 'Commitment March: Get Your Knee Off Our Necks', commemorating the 1963 civil rights march and protesting police violence. Families of George Floyd, Jacob Blake, Breonna Taylor, and Eric Garner spoke alongside civil rights leaders.
2021 U.S. Military Retaliatory Airstrike in Afghanistan: Following a devastating suicide bomb attack at Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport that killed nearly 200 Afghan civilians and 13 American service members, the U.S. military conducted a targeted airstrike in Nangarhar province. The strike was aimed at an unnamed Islamic State extremist leader believed to be involved in planning the airport bombing and potential future attacks.
2022 Pakistan Floods Humanitarian Crisis: Pakistan issued an urgent appeal for international humanitarian assistance as the devastating monsoon rains and subsequent floods claimed over 1,000 lives. The catastrophic event underscored the severe impact of extreme weather events and the critical need for global climate resilience and support.
2023 Ongoing Armed Conflicts in Eastern Europe: On August 28, 2023, the geopolitical landscape remained tense with the continued Russian invasion of Ukraine, which had been ongoing since February 2022. The conflict involved significant military operations, territorial disputes, and international diplomatic tensions. Simultaneously, the western regions of Russia experienced attacks, further escalating the regional instability and humanitarian crisis.

What Is special about August 28?

August 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 August 28.