Historical Events on February 15: 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 February 15, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on February 15 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Lifting of the Siege of Kimberley: During the Second Boer War, the strategic siege of Kimberley was finally lifted on February 15, 1900, after four months of intense resistance by British forces and local inhabitants against Boer attackers. General French's relief operation successfully broke the siege, marking a significant turning point in the conflict and providing a crucial morale boost to British colonial forces.
1901 Boxer Rebellion Leaders Executed in Beijing: Chi-hsui and Hsu-cheng-yu, prominent leaders of the Boxer Rebellion, were publicly executed by beheading in Beijing. The execution took place in front of a large crowd of approximately 10,000 spectators, serving as a dramatic demonstration of imperial power during the tumultuous period of anti-foreign resistance in China.
1902 Berlin U-Bahn Underground Railway Inauguration: On February 15, 1902, Berlin inaugurated its first underground railway system (U-Bahn), marking a significant milestone in urban transportation infrastructure. This revolutionary transit network would transform urban mobility, connecting different parts of the rapidly growing German capital and setting a new standard for public transportation in Europe.
1903 First Teddy Bear Introduced in America: Morris and Rose Michtom created the first teddy bear in the United States, inspired by a popular story involving President Theodore Roosevelt. The bear was named after Roosevelt, who had famously refused to shoot a captured bear during a hunting trip, which became a widely publicized cartoon. This moment marked the birth of the iconic stuffed animal that would become a beloved children's toy worldwide.
1904 Death of Mark Hanna, Influential U.S. Senator: Mark Hanna, a prominent United States Senator from Ohio and powerful political strategist, passed away at the age of 66 due to typhoid fever. Known for his significant role in Republican Party politics and his close association with President William McKinley, Hanna was a key figure in late 19th-century American political machinery. His death marked the end of an era for Republican Party leadership and political machine politics.
1905 Thwarted Assassination Attempt in Moscow: Russian terrorists from the Combat Organization abandoned a planned assassination of Moscow's Governor General, Grand Duke Sergei, after observing he was accompanied by his wife and two children, demonstrating a rare moment of moral hesitation during a turbulent period in Russian history.
1906 Founding of the British Labour Party: On February 15, 1906, the British Labour Party was officially organized, marking a significant milestone in the political landscape of the United Kingdom. The party emerged from the growing trade union movement and represented the political aspirations of working-class people, seeking to advance labor rights, social welfare, and economic justice. This founding moment would eventually transform British politics by providing a dedicated political platform for workers and progressive social reforms.
1907 French Warship Jean Bart Sinks off Moroccan Coast: On February 15, 1907, the French naval vessel *Jean Bart* sank off the coast of Morocco under mysterious circumstances. This maritime incident occurred during a period of significant French colonial presence and naval activity in North Africa. The precise details of the sinking, including potential causes such as navigational error, mechanical failure, or external conflict, remain historically ambiguous.
1908 Uneventful Day in 1908: While no specific significant historical events were recorded for February 15, 1908, this date represents a typical day during the early 20th century. The year 1908 was part of the Edwardian era, a period characterized by significant technological, social, and political transformations preceding World War I.
1909 Flores Theater Fire in Acapulco: On February 15, 1909, a devastating fire broke out at the Flores Theater in Acapulco, Mexico, resulting in a tragic loss of life. During a moving picture exhibition, a film ignited, quickly spreading flames and causing widespread panic. With only three narrow exits available, approximately 1,000 audience members were trapped. The catastrophic incident claimed the lives of 250 people, who were either burned or trampled in the desperate attempt to escape. This event highlighted the significant safety risks in early cinema venues and the importance of proper fire prevention and emergency exit strategies.
1910 International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union Strike Concludes: The International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union (ILGWU) strike against New York's shirtwaist factories concluded after a prolonged labor dispute lasting nearly three months. This significant labor action highlighted the challenging working conditions and workers' rights in the early 20th-century garment industry, marking an important moment in the American labor movement.
1911 Jess Willard's Professional Boxing Debut: Jess Willard, a future heavyweight boxing champion, fought his first professional boxing match. Despite losing in the 10th round due to a foul, this event marked the beginning of his notable boxing career. Willard would later become famous for defeating Jack Johnson in 1915 and becoming the world heavyweight champion.
1912 Jim Thorpe's Olympic Triumph: American athlete Jim Thorpe made history by winning both the pentathlon and decathlon at the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm, Sweden. His extraordinary performance is considered one of the most remarkable individual achievements in Olympic history, showcasing exceptional athletic versatility and skill.
1913 Delaware Ratifies Federal Income Tax Amendment: Delaware became the 36th state to approve the Sixteenth Amendment, a pivotal moment in U.S. fiscal policy that granted Congress the constitutional authority to implement a federal income tax system.
1914 Oscar Mathisen Wins Fifth World Speed Skating Championship: Norwegian speed skater Oscar Mathisen achieved a remarkable milestone by winning his fifth World Allround Speed Skating Championship at Frogner Stadium in Oslo, Norway. This victory further solidified his status as a dominant athlete in the sport during the early 20th century.
1915 Unremarkable Day in World History: February 15, 1915, appears to be a day without significant documented historical events. During this period, World War I was ongoing, with major conflicts and geopolitical tensions shaping the global landscape. While no specific event was recorded for this exact date, the broader context of the early 20th century was marked by significant transformations in international relations, technology, and societal structures.
1916 Yankees Acquire Frank Baker in Significant Baseball Transaction: The New York Yankees purchased star third baseman Frank "Home Run" Baker from the Philadelphia Athletics for $37,500, marking a significant player transfer during the early 20th century baseball era. Baker, known for his powerful hitting and defensive skills, was a key player in the Athletics' dynasty and would become an important addition to the Yankees' roster.
1917 German Resumption of Unrestricted Submarine Warfare: Germany officially resumed unrestricted submarine warfare, a critical military strategy during World War I that would ultimately provoke the United States' entry into the conflict. This decision violated previous international maritime agreements and heightened tensions between Germany and neutral nations.
1918 US Army Troop Ship Sunk During World War I: On February 15, 1918, during World War I, a United States Army troop transport ship was torpedoed and sunk by a German submarine off the coast of Ireland. This incident represented a significant escalation of naval warfare and highlighted the dangerous conditions faced by American military personnel during maritime operations in the Atlantic.
1919 American Legion Founded in Paris: The American Legion, a major United States veterans' organization, was officially organized in Paris, France, in the aftermath of World War I. This organization would go on to become one of the largest veterans' service organizations in the United States, advocating for veterans' rights and providing community service.
1920 Richard O'Brien Appointed CEO of Manpower Services Commission: Richard O'Brien was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of the Manpower Services Commission, a significant administrative role in workforce and employment services during the early 20th century.
1921 National Women's Party Convention in Washington, D.C.: The National Women's Party held a significant convention in Washington, D.C., strategizing future campaigns to advance women's legal, social, and economic rights both in the United States and globally.
1922 Permanent Court of International Justice Inaugurated: The Permanent Court of International Justice (PCIJ), a crucial international judicial body, held its inaugural session in The Hague, Netherlands, establishing a formal mechanism for resolving international disputes.
1923 Tutankhamun's Burial Chamber Unsealed: On February 15, 1923, British archaeologist Howard Carter made a groundbreaking archaeological discovery by unsealing the burial chamber of King Tutankhamun in Egypt's Valley of the Kings. This momentous event revealed the remarkably preserved sarcophagus of the young pharaoh, marking one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century and providing unprecedented insights into ancient Egyptian royal burial practices.
1924 Senator Frank L. Greene Shot During Prohibition-Era Shootout: On February 15, 1924, U.S. Senator Frank L. Greene of Vermont was seriously wounded by a stray bullet during a violent confrontation between bootleggers and Prohibition enforcement agents. The incident occurred on Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C., where Greene was walking with his wife when he was unexpectedly struck in the head. This dramatic event highlighted the dangerous and volatile nature of law enforcement during the Prohibition era, when tensions between illegal alcohol traders and government agents frequently erupted into violent encounters.
1925 Serum Run to Nome: Life-Saving Mission in Alaska: During the critical 1925 serum run to Nome, Alaska, the second delivery of diphtheria antitoxin arrived, helping to halt a potentially devastating epidemic in the remote Alaskan town. This heroic relay of dog sled teams across harsh winter conditions saved countless lives and became a legendary example of human endurance and community solidarity.
1926 United States Launches Contract Air Mail Service: The United States government initiated its first contract air mail service, marking a significant milestone in the development of commercial aviation and postal transportation infrastructure.
1927 Clara Bow Stars in Groundbreaking Silent Film 'It': On February 15, 1927, Paramount Pictures released the silent romantic comedy 'It', starring Clara Bow, which would become a landmark film of the Jazz Age. Based on a story by Elinor Glyn, the movie popularized the concept of the 'It Girl' - a charismatic and sexually confident young woman. Clara Bow, with her vibrant screen presence, embodied this new archetype of modern femininity, making the film a significant cultural touchstone of the 1920s.
1928 Death of H. H. Asquith, British Liberal Prime Minister: Herbert Henry Asquith, a prominent British Liberal Party statesman who served as Prime Minister from 1908 to 1916, passed away at the age of 75. Asquith was a key political figure during a transformative period in British history, leading the country through the early years of World War I and implementing significant social reforms.
1930 Death of Giulio Douhet, Air Power Pioneer: Giulio Douhet, a seminal Italian general and influential air power theorist who significantly shaped modern military aviation strategy, passed away at the age of 60. His groundbreaking theories on aerial warfare would profoundly impact military doctrine in the decades to follow.
1931 First Dracula Movie Released: The first cinematic adaptation of Bram Stoker's classic novel 'Dracula' was released, marking a pivotal moment in horror film history and establishing a template for vampire movies to come.
1932 III Olympic Winter Games Conclude in Lake Placid: The Third Winter Olympic Games officially closed in Lake Placid, New York, marking the end of a significant international sporting event during the early 1930s.
1933 Assassination Attempt on FDR in Miami: In Miami, Florida, Giuseppe Zangara attempted to assassinate President-elect Franklin D. Roosevelt. Instead, he shot and fatally wounded Chicago Mayor Anton J. Cermak, who died of his wounds on March 6, 1933. The assassination attempt occurred shortly after Roosevelt delivered a speech at Bayfront Park, with Zangara firing multiple shots and injuring four other people.
1934 Austrian Civil War: Fatherland Front Consolidates Power: In February 1934, the Fatherland Front, led by Chancellor Engelbert Dollfuß, suppressed socialist opposition through a series of violent confrontations across Austria. This conflict marked a critical moment in Austrian history, effectively ending democratic processes and establishing an authoritarian, corporatist state. The civil war resulted in significant casualties and fundamentally altered Austria's political landscape, paving the way for the eventual Anschluss with Nazi Germany in 1938.
1935 First Broadly Effective Antibacterial Drug Prontosil Documented: Gerhard Domagk published groundbreaking research in the Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift detailing the discovery and clinical development of Prontosil, a revolutionary antibacterial drug that marked a significant milestone in medical treatment. This sulfanilamide-based medication represented a major breakthrough in combating bacterial infections, potentially saving countless lives by providing the first widely effective antibacterial treatment.
1936 Hitler Announces Volkswagen Production: Adolf Hitler officially announces the plan to build Volkswagen automobiles in Germany, marking a significant moment in the nation's automotive industry and economic development.
1937 USS Maine Explosion in Havana Harbor: On February 15, 1898, a catastrophic explosion sank the United States battleship USS Maine in Havana harbor, killing 260 American sailors. This tragic incident became a pivotal moment in American history, serving as the immediate catalyst for the Spanish-American War. The explosion, whose exact cause remains historically debated, was widely attributed to Spanish sabotage at the time, fueling American public sentiment for military intervention. The incident was a critical turning point in the Cuban struggle for independence from Spanish colonial rule, ultimately leading to a conflict that would dramatically reshape geopolitical dynamics in the Caribbean and establish the United States as an emerging global power.
1938 Austrian Government Restructuring under Nazi Influence: On February 15, 1938, the Austrian government underwent a significant reorganization as part of the Berchtesgaden Agreement. Kurt Schuschnigg remained the head of government, but the cabinet was strategically altered to accommodate Nazi demands. The most pivotal change was the appointment of Arthur Seyss-Inquart as Minister of the Interior and Security, which effectively gave him control of the police force. A broad amnesty was implemented, covering not only Nazi sympathizers but also Communists and revolutionary Socialists, signaling a complex political maneuver designed to destabilize existing political structures and create potential internal divisions.
1939 Launch of the Bismarck Battleship: The German battleship Bismarck was launched in Hamburg, Germany. Named after Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, this warship would become one of the most famous naval vessels of World War II, symbolizing Germany's naval power and ambitions.
1940 Mass Deportation of Jews from Stettin: In a tragic event during the Holocaust, more than 1,100 Jews were forcibly deported from the German city of Stettin (now Szczecin, Poland) to the Lublin region of the General Government, representing another horrific instance of Nazi persecution.
1941 British Forces Attack Italian Positions at Keren: British and Indian forces initiate a significant battle against Italian strongholds around Keren in Eritrea during World War II. The 11th Indian Brigade successfully captures Cameron Ridge but faces strong Italian counterattacks, marking an intense phase of the East African Campaign.
1942 Fall of Singapore: Massive British Surrender: On February 15, 1942, a pivotal moment in World War II occurred when 130,000 British, Indian, and Australian troops surrendered to 35,000 Japanese forces in Singapore. Japanese General Tomoyuki Yamashita accepted the surrender from British Lieutenant General A.E. Percival, marking the greatest mass capitulation in British military history. This defeat represented a catastrophic blow to British imperial prestige in the Pacific theater.
1943 Rommel's Operation Morgenluft in North Africa: German Field Marshal Erwin Rommel, known as the 'Desert Fox', launched Operation Morgenluft, a strategic military offensive targeting Allied positions in Tunisia. His assault focused on capturing key locations including Gafsa, Feriana, and Thelepte, demonstrating his tactical prowess during the North African campaign of World War II.
1944 Controversial Destruction of Monte Cassino Monastery: Allied B-17s, B-25s, and B-26s bombed the historic Benedictine monastery at Monte Cassino, completely reducing the ancient structure to rubble. The devastating attack resulted in the tragic deaths of approximately 115 civilian refugees sheltering in the monastery, while German forces camped on the mountain remained unharmed. Two monks miraculously survived the bombardment.
1945 Dresden Bombing Campaign during World War II: During World War II, the Allied forces conducted a massive aerial bombardment of Dresden, a historic city in Germany. On February 15, 1945, this was the third consecutive day of intense bombing raids. The strategic bombing campaign targeted the city's infrastructure, industrial areas, and civilian population, causing widespread destruction and significant loss of life. The raids involved dropping thousands of tons of high-explosive bombs and incendiary devices, which created devastating firestorms that consumed large parts of the city.
1946 ENIAC Computer Dedication: The ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer), considered the first electronic general-purpose computer, was formally dedicated at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, marking a pivotal moment in computing history.
1947 Avianca Flight Disaster in Colombia: A tragic aviation accident occurred when an Avianca Douglas DC-4 crashed into Mt. El Tablazo near Bogotá, Colombia, resulting in the loss of all 53 passengers and crew on board. This incident highlighted the challenges of aviation safety in the mid-20th century.
1948 Mao Zedong's Army Occupies Yenan: Communist forces led by Mao Zedong completed the occupation of Yenan, a significant strategic and symbolic location in the Chinese Civil War. This marked a crucial moment in the Communist Party's military campaign against the Nationalist forces.
1949 Discovery of Dead Sea Scrolls Excavation Begins: Gerald Lankester Harding and Roland de Vaux commenced archaeological excavations at Cave 1 of the Qumran Caves, marking the beginning of a groundbreaking exploration that would lead to the discovery of the first seven Dead Sea Scrolls. These ancient manuscripts, dating back to around 250 BCE to 68 CE, would provide unprecedented insights into Jewish religious texts and historical context during the Second Temple period.
1950 Soviet-China Mutual Defense Treaty Signed: The Soviet Union and the People's Republic of China formalize a strategic mutual defense treaty, marking a significant moment in Cold War-era geopolitical relations and communist bloc solidarity.
1951 New Zealand Waterfront Dispute of 1951: A significant labor conflict erupted on the New Zealand waterfront, marking one of the most prolonged industrial disputes in the country's history. The strike, involving maritime workers and port employees, lasted 151 days and had substantial economic and social implications for New Zealand. The dispute highlighted tensions between labor unions and government policies during the post-World War II era, reflecting broader challenges in industrial relations and workers' rights.
1952 Funeral of King George VI: King George VI, who passed away on February 6th, 1952, was laid to rest in a solemn ceremony at St George's Chapel within Windsor Castle. The funeral marked the end of his reign and the transition of the British monarchy to his daughter, Queen Elizabeth II. The event was a significant moment of national mourning, reflecting the deep respect and affection the British people held for the monarch who led the United Kingdom through World War II.
1953 South Korean Currency Reform: South Korea implemented a significant monetary policy change by replacing the devalued South Korean Won with a new currency, the Hwan, signaling economic restructuring.
1954 Matt Groening Birth: Matt Groening, the influential American cartoonist and creator of iconic animated series *The Simpsons* and *Futurama*, was born in Portland, Oregon. His work would go on to revolutionize animated television comedy and popular culture.
1955 US Military Advisors Deployed to South Vietnam: President Dwight D. Eisenhower authorized the initial deployment of US military advisors to South Vietnam, tasked with training the army of President Ngo Dinh Diem. This strategic move would later be seen as a critical early step in America's escalating involvement in Vietnam, ultimately leading to the Vietnam War.
1956 Racial Segregation in Baseball Exhibition Game: The Pittsburgh Pirates and Kansas City Athletics canceled an exhibition baseball game in Birmingham, Alabama, due to a local ordinance prohibiting blacks from playing against whites. This incident highlighted the pervasive racial discrimination in sports during the mid-1950s.
1957 Bergman's Cinematic Masterpiece Debuts: Ingmar Bergman's iconic philosophical film 'The Seventh Seal' opens in Sweden, introducing a groundbreaking work of art that would significantly influence world cinema.
1958 Formation of United Arab Republic: Egypt and Syria announced their political union, creating the United Arab Republic, with Syrian President Quwatli and Egyptian President Nasser signing the unification pact at the Koubba Palace in Cairo, marking a significant moment of pan-Arab nationalism.
1959 First Weather Satellite Launched: The United States launched Vanguard 2, the pioneering weather satellite, at 10:55 a.m. from Cape Canaveral. This groundbreaking mission was designed to measure cloud cover for the United States Navy, marking a significant milestone in meteorological and space exploration technology.
1960 Near Conflict Between Egypt and Israel in 1960: In February 1960, tensions escalated between Egypt and Israel after President Nasser received inaccurate intelligence suggesting Israeli troops were massing at Syria's border. In response, Egypt deployed a significant portion of its army to the Israeli border, and Israel initiated Operation Rottem. Fortunately, both nations discovered the intelligence was erroneous and de-escalated, standing down by March 1st, narrowly avoiding a potential military confrontation.
1961 Sabena Flight 548 Tragedy: Sabena Flight 548 crashes near Brussels, Belgium, resulting in a devastating loss of 73 lives, including the entire United States figure skating team, their coaches, and family members. The crash occurred during the team's journey to the World Figure Skating Championships, marking one of the most tragic moments in sports history.
1962 United States Nuclear Test in Nevada: The United States conducted a nuclear weapons test at the Nevada Test Site, continuing its Cold War-era nuclear weapons development and testing program. These tests were part of ongoing efforts to advance nuclear technology and maintain strategic military capabilities during the height of the Cold War tensions.
1963 First Lennon-McCartney Song Recorded by Another Artist: Ken Lynch recorded 'Misery', becoming the first artist outside of The Beatles to record a Lennon-McCartney composition, signaling the growing commercial appeal of the songwriting duo.
1964 The Beatles' "Meet the Beatles!" Album Tops Charts: The Beatles' groundbreaking album "Meet the Beatles!" reaches #1 on the music charts and maintains its top position for an impressive 11 consecutive weeks, signaling the band's explosive rise to international fame during the early stages of the British Invasion.
1965 Canada Adopts the Maple Leaf Flag: On February 15, 1965, Canada officially replaced its previous flag, the Canadian Red Ensign, with the new red-and-white maple leaf design. This momentous event symbolized Canada's growing national identity and independence from its colonial past. The flag was first raised on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, marking a significant milestone in Canadian history.
1966 Kees Verkerk Wins World All-Round Speed Skating Championship: Kees Verkerk, a Dutch speed skater, achieved a significant victory by becoming the world champion in all-round speed skating, demonstrating exceptional skill and performance across multiple skating distances.
1967 Soviet Troop Movement Near Chinese Border: The Soviet Union publicly announced the positioning of troops near the Chinese border, heightening tensions during the Sino-Soviet split.
1968 Biathlon 4x7.5k Relay Debuts at Grenoble Winter Olympics: The biathlon 4 x 7.5k relay event made its historic debut at the 1968 Grenoble Winter Olympics, marking a significant milestone in winter sports competition. This event combined cross-country skiing and rifle shooting, showcasing athletes' endurance and precision in a challenging winter sport discipline.
1970 Dominicana Airlines DC-9 Crash in Caribbean Sea: A tragic aviation disaster occurred when a Dominicana Airlines DC-9 crashed into the Caribbean Sea shortly after takeoff from Santo Domingo, resulting in the death of all 102 passengers and crew. The crash was caused by catastrophic engine failures, later determined to be due to water contamination in the aviation fuel. Notable victims included the entire Puerto Rican women's volleyball team and Carlos Cruz, the first Dominican world champion boxer.
1971 OPEC Oil Embargo Measures: OPEC member states adopt the 'XXII Conference Resolution', establishing an oil embargo against 22 oil companies that fail to accept a 55% tax, with oil shipment cutoff scheduled for February 21.
1972 Ecuador Presidential Overthrow: President Jose Maria Velasco Ibarra was deposed by the military for the fourth time, highlighting the political instability in Ecuador during this period.
1973 US-Cuba Hijacking Prevention Agreement: The United States and Cuba signed a bilateral agreement to prevent the hijacking of airplanes, aiming to reduce tensions and improve air travel safety.
1974 Seattle Slew Born: Seattle Slew, a legendary American racehorse who would go on to become one of the most celebrated thoroughbreds in racing history, was born. He would later win the Triple Crown in 1977 and be inducted into the Racing Hall of Fame.
1976 Cuba Adopts New Constitution: The Cuban national referendum approved a new constitution, signaling an important moment in the country's political development and solidifying the governmental structure established by the revolutionary regime.
1977 Space Shuttle Enterprise First Test Flight: NASA conducted the first test taxi flight of the Space Shuttle Enterprise, a critical milestone in the Space Shuttle program that would revolutionize space exploration and scientific research.
1978 Leon Spinks Defeats Muhammad Ali: In a stunning upset, Leon Spinks, a 10-to-1 underdog, defeated Muhammad Ali in a 15-round decision to win the world heavyweight boxing championship. This unexpected victory shocked the boxing world and marked a pivotal moment in heavyweight boxing history.
1979 Warsaw Bank Explosion Tragedy: A devastating suspected gas explosion in a Warsaw bank resulted in the tragic loss of 49 lives, causing significant shock and mourning in Poland.
1980 Eric Heiden Sets Olympic Speed Skating Record: American speed skater Eric Heiden achieved an extraordinary Olympic performance by setting a record in the 500-meter speed skating event with a time of 38.03 seconds during the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York.
1981 Richard Petty Wins 23rd Daytona 500: Racing legend Richard Petty achieved a historic milestone by winning his record 7th Daytona 500 title, narrowly beating Bobby Allison by 3.5 seconds in an intense and memorable race.
1982 Ocean Ranger Maritime Disaster: The semi-submersible oil drilling rig Ocean Ranger sank during a severe storm off the coast of Newfoundland, resulting in the tragic loss of 84 rig workers. This catastrophic event is considered Canada's worst marine disaster since World War II, highlighting the extreme dangers faced by offshore oil workers in harsh maritime conditions.
1983 Meera Jasmine Birth: Meera Jasmine, a prominent National Award-winning Indian actress, was born on this date. She would go on to become a notable performer in Malayalam and Tamil cinema, known for her versatile acting skills and critically acclaimed roles.
1984 Iran-Iraq War Military Movement: 500,000 Iranian soldiers moved into Iraq, escalating the ongoing Iran-Iraq War, a significant conflict that would continue until 1988 and result in massive casualties on both sides.
1985 World Chess Championship Match Abandoned: The intense World Chess Championship match between Anatoly Karpov and Garry Kasparov was abandoned after a grueling series of games, with Karpov leading 25 to Kasparov's 23 games. This dramatic interruption highlighted the psychological and competitive nature of high-level chess during the mid-1980s.
1986 Marcos Wins Disputed Presidential Election: Ferdinand Marcos claimed victory in a presidential election widely considered to be rigged and undemocratic, marking a critical moment in Philippine political history.
1987 ABC-TV Broadcasts Amerika Mini-Series: ABC Television network begins broadcasting the controversial mini-series 'Amerika', a fictional narrative exploring a hypothetical Soviet invasion and occupation of the United States.
1988 Death of Richard Feynman, Nobel Prize-Winning Physicist: Richard Feynman, a renowned American theoretical physicist and Nobel Prize laureate, passed away at 10:34 p.m. at UCLA Medical Center. Known for his groundbreaking work in quantum mechanics, contributions to the Manhattan Project, and exceptional ability to explain complex scientific concepts, Feynman was a pivotal figure in 20th-century physics.
1989 Soviet Withdrawal from Afghanistan: The Soviet Union officially announces the complete withdrawal of its troops from Afghanistan, marking the end of a decade-long military occupation. During this prolonged conflict, approximately 15,000 Soviet soldiers lost their lives, signaling a significant geopolitical and military defeat for the Soviet Union.
1990 IBM Launches RS/6000 RISC Workstation: IBM unveiled its innovative RS/6000 workstation line, featuring a groundbreaking RISC-based architecture. Developed under the code names 'America' for chip research and 'RIOS' for systems, the POWER (Performance Optimization With Enhanced RISC) architecture represented a significant advancement in computer technology.
1991 Visegrad Agreement Signed: The Visegrad Agreement was signed by the leaders of Czechoslovakia, Hungary, and Poland, establishing a cooperative framework to transition towards free-market economic systems. This landmark agreement represented a significant step in the post-Cold War economic and political transformation of Central European countries.
1992 Jeffrey Dahmer Sentenced to Life in Prison: Serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer was sentenced in Milwaukee to 15 consecutive life terms for his horrific murders, effectively ensuring he would never be released from prison.
1993 Mafia Drug Lord Bombings in Bogotá: A series of coordinated bombings by Colombian drug lords in Bogotá resulted in the deaths of 14 people, highlighting the extreme violence of the drug cartels during the early 1990s.
1994 Devastating Earthquake in Southern Sumatra, Indonesia: A powerful magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck Southern Sumatra, Indonesia, causing massive destruction in Lampung Province. The catastrophic event resulted in 207 confirmed fatalities, over 2,000 injuries, and left approximately 75,000 people homeless. The disaster triggered extensive damage through landslides, mudslides, and fires, with total economic losses estimated at US$169 million.
1995 China Reaches 1.2 Billion Population Milestone: The People's Republic of China officially reaches a population of 1.2 billion, highlighting the country's massive demographic growth and global significance.
1996 Long March 3 Rocket Disaster in China: A Long March 3 rocket at the Xichang launch site in China catastrophically crashed into a rural village shortly after liftoff, resulting in a significant loss of life. The accident occurred during the launch of an Intelsat 708 satellite, highlighting serious safety and technological failures in the Chinese space program.
1997 Tara Lipinski Wins US Figure Skating Championship: On February 15, 1997, Tara Lipinski secured her victory at the US Female Figure Skating Championship, showcasing her exceptional skating skills and establishing herself as a rising star in the competitive world of figure skating. At just 14 years old, Lipinski was known for her dynamic performances and technical prowess.
1998 Dale Earnhardt Wins Daytona 500: In Daytona Beach, Florida, Dale Earnhardt finally wins the Daytona 500 in his 20th attempt, ending a long-standing personal challenge and breaking a 59-race winless streak.
1999 Arrest of Abdullah Öcalan: Abdullah Öcalan, the controversial leader of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), was arrested in Kenya by Turkish agents. This high-profile capture marked a significant moment in the ongoing conflict between Turkey and the PKK.
2000 NEAR Shoemaker Spacecraft Enters Asteroid Orbit: NASA's NEAR Shoemaker spacecraft successfully became the first human-made object to enter orbit around an asteroid, specifically the near-Earth asteroid 433 Eros. This historic mission represented a significant milestone in space exploration, demonstrating humanity's ability to navigate and study small celestial bodies.
2001 The first draft of the complete human genome is published in Nature.
2002 Tri-State Crematory Scandal Exposed: A shocking investigation at the Tri-State Crematory in La Fayette, Georgia, revealed a massive abuse of funeral service practices. Investigators discovered numerous uncremated bodies callously disposed of in woods and buildings, marking one of the most egregious incidents in funeral industry history.
2003 Global Anti-War Protests Against Iraq Invasion: On February 15, 2003, an unprecedented global peace demonstration took place, with more than ten million people protesting in over 600 cities worldwide against the impending Iraq War. This massive, coordinated protest represented a significant moment of global civic engagement and opposition to military intervention.
2004 Iran's Nuclear Fuel Offer: Iran proposed selling nuclear fuel on international markets under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency, a significant diplomatic gesture amid ongoing nuclear tensions.
2005 YouTube Launch: The revolutionary video-sharing platform YouTube was officially launched, marking a significant milestone in internet media and user-generated content. This platform would go on to transform digital communication and entertainment globally.
2006 SBS Broadcasts New Abu Ghraib Torture Evidence: Australian television network SBS broadcast previously unpublished video and photographic evidence of prisoner abuse by US military personnel at Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq, reigniting international controversy surrounding the 2003 human rights violations.
2007 Madrid Train Bombings Trial Begins: The trial of 29 suspects connected to the 2004 Madrid train bombings commences in Madrid, Spain, marking a significant moment in the pursuit of justice for the terrorist attack.
2008 Steve Fossett Legally Declared Dead: After five months of uncertainty following his plane's disappearance in Nevada, adventurer Steve Fossett was officially declared legally dead by the Cook County Circuit Court in Chicago, Illinois.
2009 Venezuela Constitutional Referendum Approves Presidential Term Limit Removal: A constitutional referendum was approved by 54% of Venezuelan voters, eliminating term limits for elected offices, including the presidency. This significant political change would allow Hugo Chávez to potentially remain in power indefinitely.
2010 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver: The 2010 Winter Olympic Games were held in Vancouver, Canada, featuring international athletic competitions across various winter sports disciplines.
2011 2011 Bahraini Protests: Massive demonstrations erupted in Bahrain as thousands of protesters demanded political reforms and challenged the ruling monarchy. After a protester was killed during a funeral, tensions escalated dramatically, leading to widespread civil unrest.
2012 Syrian Army Offensive in Hama and Homs: The Syrian Army escalated military operations by launching an offensive against Hama and continuing bombardment of Homs, intensifying the ongoing Syrian civil war. The attack resulted in significant civilian casualties, with 25 people killed by security forces, primarily in Homs and Idlib regions.
2013 Chelyabinsk Meteor Explosion: A small asteroid approximately 65 feet (20 meters) in diameter entered Earth's atmosphere over the southern Ural region of Russia, causing a powerful explosion that shattered windows and damaged buildings across six Russian cities. The unprecedented event resulted in 1,491 indirect injuries and over $33 million in property damage, marking a rare and significant meteorological incident.
2014 Virginia Same-Sex Marriage Ban Overturned: A U.S. federal court struck down Virginia's ban on same-sex marriage, representing a significant legal victory for LGBTQ+ rights and marriage equality.
2015 Islamic State Execution of Coptic Christians: The Islamic State released a video purporting to show the execution of 21 Coptic Christians kidnapped in Sirte, Libya. In response, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi announced a seven-day mourning period and called for a high-level security meeting.
2016 Hospital Destroyed in Syria Air Strike: Médecins Sans Frontières reported an air strike that destroyed a hospital in northwest Syria's Idlib Governorate, resulting in seven deaths and eight people missing, underscoring the humanitarian crisis in the Syrian conflict.
2017 ISRO Sets World Record for Satellite Launch: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a remarkable milestone by launching a record number of satellites in a single mission, demonstrating India's advanced space technology capabilities.
2018 Parkland School Shooting: A tragic mass shooting occurred at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in South Florida, where a 19-year-old ex-student, Nikolas Cruz, killed 17 people and wounded at least 16 others using an AR-15 semiautomatic rifle.
2019 Trump Declares National Emergency for Border Wall: U.S. President Donald Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border to divert funds for constructing a border wall. This controversial decision was immediately challenged by the American Civil Liberties Union and Public Citizen, who announced plans to file lawsuits against the emergency declaration.
2020 Beijing Implements Strict COVID-19 Quarantine Measures: In response to the emerging COVID-19 pandemic, Beijing municipal authorities mandated a mandatory 14-day self-quarantine for all individuals returning to the city after the Lunar New Year holiday. This proactive public health measure was designed to mitigate the potential widespread transmission of the coronavirus during a period of high population mobility. Returnees were required to isolate themselves at home or in designated facilities, marking an early and significant intervention in China's pandemic response strategy.
2021 Severe Winter Storm Devastates United States: A catastrophic winter storm swept across the United States from Texas to Maine, causing widespread power outages affecting over 3 million people in Texas. The extreme weather event resulted in 210 fatalities, making it one of the most destructive winter storms in recent U.S. history.
2022 Russia Moves to Recognize Separatist Ukrainian Regions: The State Duma of Russia passes legislation to officially recognize the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics in Eastern Ukraine as independent states. The bill has been forwarded to President Vladimir Putin for final presidential approval, signaling a significant escalation in the ongoing territorial dispute.
2023 Thwaites Glacier Climate Warning: Scientists issued a critical warning about the Thwaites Glacier in Antarctica, nicknamed the 'Doomsday Glacier', which is experiencing significant structural weakening. The glacier, comparable in size to Florida, poses a substantial threat to global sea levels, with potential rise estimates of up to 1.6 meters. This development could have profound implications for coastal regions worldwide, signaling an urgent need for climate change mitigation strategies.

What Is special about February 15?

February 15 is notable for a variety of important historical, cultural, and significant events, including famous birthdays and deaths, holidays and more. Find out everything about February 15.