Historical Events on February 17: 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 17, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on February 17 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Formation of the British Labour Party: The British Labour Party was officially established, marking a pivotal moment in British political history. Ramsay MacDonald was appointed as the party's first secretary, laying the groundwork for what would become one of the United Kingdom's major political parties. This event represented a significant shift in the British political landscape, giving formal representation to working-class interests and trade union movements.
1901 William Knapp Thorn's Pioneering Mercedes Race: On February 17, 1901, William Knapp Thorn made automotive history by becoming the first person to drive a Mercedes automobile in a competitive racing event. Thorn, an early automotive enthusiast, entered the race with a recently purchased Daimler vehicle, marking a significant moment in the emerging world of motorsports and automotive innovation.
1902 Uneventful Day in 1902: On February 17, 1902, no major historical events were recorded. This day appears to have been relatively quiet in terms of significant global or local occurrences, representing a typical day in the early 20th century.
1903 Establishment of El Yunque National Forest: On February 17, 1903, the El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico was officially incorporated into the United States National Forest System, initially designated as the Luquillo Forest Reserve. This marked a significant moment in the conservation and management of Puerto Rico's unique tropical rainforest ecosystem, which is one of the oldest protected forests in the Western Hemisphere.
1904 Madama Butterfly Opera Premiere: Giacomo Puccini's iconic opera 'Madama Butterfly' made its world premiere at the prestigious La Scala opera house in Milan, Italy. This groundbreaking performance would go on to become one of the most famous and beloved operas in classical music history.
1905 Assassination of Grand Duke Sergei Alexandrovich: During the tumultuous Russian Revolution of 1905, Grand Duke Sergei Alexandrovich of Russia was assassinated in the Moscow Kremlin by Ivan Kalyayev, a member of the Socialist Revolutionary Party. This politically motivated killing highlighted the growing social unrest and revolutionary tensions in the Russian Empire at the beginning of the 20th century.
1906 Presidential Wedding: Alice Roosevelt Marries Nicholas Longworth: On February 17, 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt's daughter Alice Roosevelt married Nicholas Longworth, a prominent congressman from Ohio, in a lavish White House ceremony. The wedding was a significant social event, drawing national attention and highlighting the Roosevelt family's prominence in early 20th-century American politics.
1907 Death of Henry Steel Olcott: Henry Steel Olcott, an influential American military officer, journalist, and co-founder of the Theosophical Society, passed away on February 17, 1907. Olcott was a pivotal figure in the spiritual and philosophical movements of the late 19th century, playing a significant role in bridging Eastern and Western spiritual traditions. As a key founder of the Theosophical Society alongside Helena Blavatsky, he was instrumental in promoting cross-cultural understanding and introducing Buddhist and Hindu philosophies to Western audiences.
1908 Death of Geronimo, Legendary Apache Leader: Geronimo, the renowned Apache chief and warrior who fiercely resisted Mexican and American expansion, passed away at approximately 79 years old. Known for his strategic resistance and symbolic representation of Native American resilience, Geronimo's life embodied the struggle of indigenous peoples against territorial encroachment.
1909 NAACP Founded: The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is established in New York City, marking a pivotal moment in the American civil rights movement. This organization would become one of the most significant advocacy groups fighting racial discrimination and promoting equality for African Americans.
1910 Birth of Ai Qing, Renowned Chinese Poet: Ai Qing was born on this date, who would later become one of the most influential modern Chinese poets of the 20th century. Known for his profound literary contributions and social commentary, Ai Qing played a significant role in shaping contemporary Chinese poetry and was also the father of famous artist and activist Ai Weiwei.
1911 First Amphibian Flight to and from a Ship: On February 17, 1911, aviation pioneer Glenn Curtiss achieved a groundbreaking milestone in maritime aviation by successfully conducting the first amphibian flight to and from a ship in San Diego, California. This historic event marked a significant advancement in early 20th-century aviation technology, demonstrating the potential for aircraft to operate both on water and land, and to interact with naval vessels.
1912 Death of L. Oates, British Antarctic Explorer: Lawrence 'Titus' Oates, a British polar explorer, passed away. Oates was notably part of Robert Falcon Scott's ill-fated Antarctic expedition, where he famously walked out into the freezing wilderness to improve his companions' chances of survival, sacrificing himself.
1913 Armory Show Introduces Modern European Art to America: The New York Armory Show introduces groundbreaking European artists like Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Marcel Duchamp to the American public, revolutionizing the art scene and challenging traditional artistic conventions.
1914 Albert Westerlinck - Flemish Literary Figure: Albert Westerlinck was a notable Flemish literary figure, recognized for his contributions to Belgian literature in the early 20th century. The reference to [JosT J M Aerts] suggests a potential connection or reference to another literary personality of the time.
1915 First US Combat Fatality in World War I: Edward Stone became the first American combatant to be mortally wounded during World War I, marking a significant moment in early US military involvement in the global conflict. His death symbolized the United States' emerging role in the international war effort, though the country would not officially enter the war until 1917.
1916 Don Tallon: Australian Cricket Legend: Don Tallon was a prominent Australian cricket player renowned for his exceptional skills as a wicket-keeper. He is widely considered one of the greatest wicket-keepers in Australian cricket history, known for his remarkable technique and defensive prowess behind the stumps.
1917 British Parliament Affirms Support for French Territory: The British government formally declared to Parliament its commitment to restoring Alsace and Lorraine to France as part of its World War I war aims. This pledge demonstrated the Allied powers' intention to address long-standing territorial disputes and potentially weaken Germany's territorial holdings.
1918 British Military Mission to North Persia During World War I: General Lionel Dunsterville led a British military expedition that successfully reached Enzeli (modern-day Bandar-e Anzali) in northwestern Persia (Iran) during a critical period of World War I. This mission was part of the British strategic efforts to secure the region and prevent potential German or Ottoman influence in the area.
1919 Harlem Hell Fighters Victory Parade: The African-American 369th Infantry Regiment, famously known as the Harlem Hell Fighters, celebrated their heroic World War I service with a triumphant parade up Fifth Avenue into Harlem. This parade was a powerful moment of recognition for the regiment's extraordinary bravery and contributions, despite facing racial discrimination both at home and abroad.
1920 Anna Anderson Claims to be Anastasia Romanov: On February 17, 1920, Anna Anderson attempted suicide in Berlin and was subsequently admitted to a mental hospital. During her hospitalization, she dramatically claimed to be Grand Duchess Anastasia Romanov, the youngest daughter of the last Russian Tsar Nicholas II. This event marked the beginning of one of the most famous identity controversies of the 20th century, as Anderson would spend decades trying to prove her alleged royal lineage.
1921 Arthur Honegger's Pastorale d'Été Premiere: Arthur Honegger, a prominent Swiss composer of the early 20th century, premiered his evocative short symphonic poem 'Pastorale d'Été' (Summer Pastoral) for chamber orchestra. This composition is a notable work in the early modernist musical landscape, capturing the essence of summer through delicate orchestral textures and innovative musical language.
1922 Ivanoe Bonomi Loses Confidence Vote in Italy: On February 17, 1922, Italian Prime Minister Ivanoe Bonomi suffered a significant political setback when he lost a vote of confidence in the Italian Chamber of Deputies. The vote was decisive, with only 107 members supporting the Prime Minister, signaling a major political crisis in Italy during the tumultuous early years of the 1920s.
1923 Howard Carter Discovers Tutankhamun's Sarcophagus: British Egyptologist Howard Carter made a groundbreaking archaeological discovery by finding the sarcophagus of the young pharaoh Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings. This momentous find provided unprecedented insights into ancient Egyptian burial practices and royal life during the New Kingdom period.
1924 Death of Architect Henry Bacon: Henry Bacon, the renowned American architect famous for designing the iconic Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C., passed away at the age of 57. His architectural legacy includes creating one of the most significant and recognizable monuments in the United States, commemorating President Abraham Lincoln and symbolizing national unity.
1925 Birth of Ron Goodwin, Renowned English Composer and Conductor: Ron Goodwin, a celebrated English composer and conductor known for his film scores and orchestral works, was born in London. Throughout his career, Goodwin would become famous for composing music for numerous films, including classic war movies like '633 Squadron' and 'Where Eagles Dare', as well as creating memorable orchestral arrangements.
1926 Turkey Adopts Secular Civil Code: The Grand National Assembly of Turkey approved a groundbreaking secular civil code, fundamentally transforming the legal framework for personal and family matters. This landmark legislation regulated marriage, inheritance, divorce, and adoption, marking a crucial step in Turkey's modernization and secularization process under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's leadership.
1927 Uneventful Day in 1927: While no specific major historical events were recorded for February 17, 1927, this day represents a typical moment in the interwar period between World War I and World War II. The world was experiencing relative peace and economic recovery, with significant social and technological changes gradually transforming global society during the 'Roaring Twenties'.
1928 Virginia Senate Criminalizes Lynching: The Senate of Virginia passed legislation making lynching a state criminal offense, representing an early legal attempt to address racial violence and provide legal protections against extrajudicial killings.
1929 Formation of League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC): The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) was officially established in Corpus Christi, Texas, through the merger of three major Mexican American organizations. Founded by civil rights advocate Alonso S. Perales in Harlingen, Texas, LULAC would become the oldest and most prominent Latino civil rights organization in the United States, dedicated to advancing the social, political, and economic rights of Hispanic Americans.
1930 Fall of André Tardieu's Government: On February 17, 1930, the French government led by Prime Minister André Tardieu collapsed after being defeated by a narrow margin of six votes in the Chamber of Deputies. This political upheaval reflected the volatile nature of French parliamentary politics during the interwar period, highlighting the challenges of maintaining stable governance in the Third Republic.
1931 Gandhi-Irwin Conference: Mahatma Gandhi engaged in a significant four-hour conference with Lord Irwin, the Viceroy of India. This meeting was likely part of the ongoing negotiations and discussions about India's independence movement during the British colonial period.
1932 Death of Albert Johnson, the 'Mad Trapper of Rat River': Albert Johnson, infamously known as the 'Mad Trapper of Rat River', died on February 17, 1932, after a dramatic manhunt in the remote wilderness of Canada's Northwest Territories. His extraordinary pursuit by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) became one of the most legendary and challenging manhunts in Canadian history. Johnson, an enigmatic and elusive figure, was pursued across the harsh Arctic landscape in winter conditions, leading to a series of confrontations that captured national attention.
1933 Blaine Act Ends Prohibition: The United States Senate accepted the Blaine Act on February 17, 1933, a pivotal legislative move that effectively began the process of ending nationwide alcohol prohibition. This act paved the way for the 21st Amendment, which would formally repeal the 18th Amendment and restore legal alcohol consumption.
1934 European Powers Defend Austrian Independence: In a critical diplomatic moment preceding World War II, Great Britain, France, and Italy issued a joint statement affirming their commitment to preserving Austria's sovereignty. The declaration emphasized maintaining Austria's independence and territorial integrity as defined by the Treaty of Versailles, signaling a collective effort to prevent potential territorial aggression, particularly from Nazi Germany.
1935 Karl Schäfer Wins World Figure Skating Championships: Karl Schäfer, a renowned Austrian figure skater, secured victory in the men's competition of the World Figure Skating Championships held in Budapest, Hungary. His performance demonstrated exceptional skill and technical prowess, solidifying his status as a top athlete in the competitive world of figure skating during the mid-1930s.
1936 The Phantom Comic Strip Debuts: Lee Falk's groundbreaking comic strip 'The Phantom' made its first appearance, introducing the world to what is considered the first costumed superhero in comic book history, predating characters like Superman and Batman.
1937 Golden Gate Bridge Construction Tragedy: On February 17, 1937, a catastrophic scaffolding collapse during the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge resulted in a devastating loss of life. Ten workers plummeted to their deaths when a section of scaffolding gave way, with the falling debris destroying the safety net intended to protect workers. Only two workers miraculously survived the fall, highlighting the extreme dangers faced by construction workers during this era of massive infrastructure projects.
1938 First Public Color Television Demonstration by John Logie Baird: On February 17, 1938, John Logie Baird publicly demonstrated an experimental color television system in London, England. This groundbreaking event marked a significant milestone in television technology, showcasing the potential for transmitting color images through electronic means. Baird, a pioneering Scottish engineer and inventor, had been working on color television technology for years, building upon his earlier achievements in monochrome television transmission.
1939 Nazi Regime Restricts Jewish Professionals: The Nazi Reich issued a discriminatory order prohibiting individuals of Jewish nationality from practicing professional careers in chemistry, veterinary medicine, and dentistry, further escalating the systematic persecution and marginalization of Jewish professionals in Nazi Germany.
1940 Manstein Plan Presentation to Hitler: Erich von Manstein presented a detailed strategic war plan to Adolf Hitler for the invasion of France and the Low Countries. Hitler was deeply impressed by the comprehensive military strategy, which would later become crucial to Germany's early war successes.
1941 Yugoslavia Surrenders to Axis Powers: During World War II, Yugoslavia capitulated to the Axis powers, marking a significant moment in the early stages of the war in the Balkans. This surrender represented a strategic loss for the Allies and demonstrated the expanding military dominance of Nazi Germany and its collaborators in southeastern Europe.
1942 MacArthur Arrives in Australia During World War II: US Army General Douglas MacArthur reaches Australia and takes command of Allied forces in the Pacific Theater, marking a critical moment in the Allied strategic response to Japanese expansion during World War II.
1943 Dutch Churches Protest Jewish Persecution: Dutch churches publicly protest against Seyss-Inquart's Nazi administration, speaking out against the persecution of Jews during the German occupation of the Netherlands.
1944 Battle of Eniwetok Commences: A critical World War II Pacific campaign where U.S. forces initiated an assault on Eniwetok Atoll in the Marshall Islands. The battle concluded on February 22 with a decisive American victory, marking a significant strategic advancement in the U.S. island-hopping campaign against Japanese forces.
1945 British SAS Operation Cold Comfort in Italy: During World War II, the British Special Air Service (SAS) conducted Operation Cold Comfort, a daring strategic mission targeting the critical transportation infrastructure in northern Italy. On February 17, 1945, a specialized SAS team parachuted north of Verona with the ambitious objective of triggering a massive landslide to block the strategically important rail lines passing through the Brenner Pass. Despite meticulous planning and the team's exceptional skills, the operation ultimately failed to achieve its primary goal of disrupting Axis supply and troop movement routes.
1946 British Intercept Refugee Ship Enzo Sereni: British authorities intercepted the ship Enzo Sereni, which was carrying 915 Jewish refugees attempting to immigrate to Palestine. This action was part of the British Mandate's controversial policy of restricting Jewish immigration, reflecting the complex geopolitical tensions in the region during the post-World War II period.
1947 Voice of America Begins Soviet Broadcasts: The Voice of America initiates radio broadcasts into the Soviet Union, marking a significant propaganda and communication effort during the early stages of the Cold War, aimed at countering Soviet information control and providing alternative perspectives to Soviet citizens.
1948 Rómulo Gallegos Elected President of Venezuela: On February 17, 1948, Rómulo Gallegos was democratically elected as the President of Venezuela. A prominent writer and politician, Gallegos represented a significant moment in Venezuelan democratic history, symbolizing the country's transition towards more representative governance.
1949 Chaim Weizmann Becomes First President of Israel: Chaim Weizmann officially begins his term as the first President of Israel, marking a significant milestone in the newly established state's political history.
1950 31 die in a train crash in Rockville Center, New York.
1951 Random Acts of Kindness Day in Canada: On February 17, 1951, Canada observed a special day dedicated to promoting compassion and unexpected generosity among its citizens. This day encouraged people to perform spontaneous, selfless acts that could brighten someone else's day, fostering a sense of community and empathy.
1952 Guillermo Vilas: Tennis Champion: Guillermo Vilas, an Argentine tennis player, was recognized as a significant figure in professional tennis. While the original entry mentions his 1977 US Open achievement, Vilas was actually a prominent clay court specialist who won multiple Grand Slam titles during his career, including the French Open and US Open.
1953 Parliamentary Advocacy for Chelsea Pensioners' Grave Markers: MP Edward Short raised a significant parliamentary complaint about the inadequate grave markers for Chelsea Pensioners at Brookwood Cemetery. His passionate appeal highlighted the lack of individual headstones, describing the current marking system of numbered pegs as a 'shocking disgrace'. As a result of his campaign, the graves were subsequently placed under the care of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, ensuring proper commemoration of these veterans.
1954 Ford Introduces Personal Car at Detroit Auto Show: The Detroit Auto Show opened for press previews in Michigan, where Ford Motor Company unveiled its innovative two-seat convertible, dubbed the 'Fairlane'. This model represented a new concept in personal automotive design, signaling a shift in consumer preferences towards more individualized transportation options.
1955 Tenley Albright Wins Ladies Figure Skating Championship: American figure skater Tenley Albright won the Ladies Figure Skating Championship in Vienna, Austria, showcasing her exceptional skill and representing the United States.
1956 Carol Heiss Wins Ladies Figure Skating Championship: American figure skater Carol Heiss claimed the Ladies Figure Skating Championship in Garmisch, further solidifying her reputation as a leading athlete in the sport during the mid-1950s. This victory was part of her remarkable competitive career that would later include an Olympic gold medal.
1957 Suez Canal Reopens: The Suez Canal reopens following the Suez Crisis, restoring critical maritime trade routes between Europe and Asia and marking a significant geopolitical moment.
1958 Russell Launches Nuclear Disarmament Campaign: Renowned philosopher and peace activist Bertrand Russell initiated the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament in the United Kingdom, a pivotal moment in the global anti-nuclear movement during the Cold War era.
1959 First Navy-NASA Mercury Project Meeting: The first formal meeting of the Navy-NASA Committee on Project Mercury was held, focusing on search and recovery operations and initiating joint recovery exercises for the space program.
1961 Passing of Lütfi Kırdar, Turkish Statesman: Lütfi Kırdar, a prominent Turkish physician and politician who played a significant role in the modernization of Istanbul's infrastructure and healthcare system, died on this date. Kırdar served as the Governor of Istanbul and was known for his contributions to urban development and public health during the mid-20th century.
1962 North Sea Flood of 1962: Devastating North Sea flood struck Germany's North Sea coast, particularly around Hamburg, causing massive destruction. High tides and severe storms led to widespread flooding, resulting in over 300 fatalities and thousands of people losing their homes. This catastrophic event was one of the most significant natural disasters in post-war West Germany.
1963 Turkey Removes US Nuclear Missiles: In a significant Cold War diplomatic moment, Turkey accepted the United States' proposal to remove Jupiter nuclear missiles stationed on its territory. The last of these missiles was scheduled to be withdrawn by the end of the month, marking an important de-escalation in nuclear tensions.
1964 Supreme Court One-Man-One-Vote Ruling: In the landmark case Wesberry v. Sanders, the United States Supreme Court ruled that congressional districts must be approximately equal in population, establishing the critical principle of electoral representation fairness.
1965 Ranger 8 Moon Mission Launch: Project Ranger: The Ranger 8 probe launches on its mission to photograph the Mare Tranquillitatis region of the Moon in preparation for the manned Apollo missions. The 'Sea of Tranquility' would later become the historic landing site for Apollo 11, marking a pivotal moment in human space exploration.
1966 French Satellite Diapason D-1A Launch: On February 17, 1966, France successfully launched the Diapason D-1A satellite into Earth orbit, marking a significant milestone in the country's space exploration and satellite technology program.
1967 The Beatles Release Iconic Double A-Side Single: The Beatles released their groundbreaking double A-side single featuring 'Penny Lane' and 'Strawberry Fields Forever', two psychedelic pop masterpieces that would become landmark tracks in their musical evolution.
1968 Soviet Union Wins Olympic Ice Hockey Gold: The Soviet Union secures its third Olympic ice hockey gold medal at the Grenoble Winter Olympics, decisively defeating Canada 5-0 in the final round, further establishing their dominance in international ice hockey.
1969 Apollo 9 Mission Launch: NASA launches Apollo 9 with astronauts James McDivitt, David Scott, and Rusty Schweickart to test the lunar module, a critical step in the Apollo program's mission to land humans on the moon.
1970 Jeffrey R. MacDonald Murder Charges: United States Army captain Jeffrey R. MacDonald was formally charged with the murder of his pregnant wife and two daughters in a shocking case of domestic violence that would become a notorious criminal investigation.
1971 Nixon White House Oval Office Taping System Installation: A pivotal moment in the Watergate era, the Oval Office taping system was installed, capturing meetings of Secret Service agents and key White House staff, including President Nixon, John D. Ehrlichman, and George P. Shultz. These recordings would later become crucial evidence in the unfolding political scandal.
1972 Nixon's Historic Trip to China: President Richard Nixon departed on a groundbreaking diplomatic mission to China, marking the first formal high-level engagement between the United States and China since the Communist Party's rise to power in 1949. This visit was a pivotal moment in Cold War geopolitics, aimed at normalizing relations and creating a strategic counterbalance to Soviet influence.
1973 Kissinger-Mao Diplomatic Meeting: US National Security Adviser Henry Kissinger met with Chinese leader Mao Zedong in a historic diplomatic encounter. During the meeting, Mao made a humorous remark, offering to send 10 million Chinese women to the United States, which underscored the unique and somewhat lighthearted nature of their diplomatic dialogue during the Cold War era.
1974 Cairo Soccer Stadium Tragedy: A devastating human stampede occurred at a soccer match in Cairo, Egypt, resulting in 49 fatalities. The incident highlighted critical safety concerns in large public sporting events and crowd management failures.
1975 John Lennon Releases 'Rock 'n' Roll' Album: A&M Records released John Lennon's sixth studio album, 'Rock 'n' Roll', a collection of covers paying homage to early rock and roll classics. The album featured Lennon's interpretations of iconic rock songs, showcasing his deep respect for the genre's musical roots.
1976 Rockefeller Commission Established to Investigate CIA Abuses: President Gerald Ford announces the creation of a presidential commission, led by Vice President Nelson Rockefeller, to conduct a comprehensive review of potential intelligence community misconduct, focusing on unauthorized domestic surveillance and mail interception activities.
1977 Sino-Vietnamese Border Conflict Escalates: China launched a military invasion of Vietnam in response to Vietnam's pro-Soviet political stance and increasing tensions along their shared border. This conflict was part of the complex geopolitical dynamics of the Cold War, with China and the Soviet Union competing for regional influence and ideological supremacy.
1978 La Mon Restaurant Bombing: During the period of conflict known as The Troubles, the Provisional IRA carried out a devastating terrorist attack at the La Mon restaurant near Belfast, Northern Ireland. The incendiary bomb detonation resulted in 12 fatalities and seriously injured 30 Protestant civilians, marking one of the most brutal attacks of the sectarian conflict. The bombing exemplified the extreme violence that characterized the conflict between Republican and Loyalist factions during this turbulent period in Northern Irish history.
1979 Sino-Vietnamese War Begins: China launches a large-scale military invasion of Vietnam, with hundreds of thousands of troops crossing the northern border. The conflict, driven by complex geopolitical tensions between the two communist nations, would last nearly a month from February 17 to March 1, 1979. This war represented a significant breakdown in relations between previously aligned communist states.
1980 President's Rule in India: President Neelam Sanjiva Reddy imposed President's Rule in nine of India's 21 states, a significant political maneuver orchestrated by Indira Gandhi in response to the Janata Party's earlier dismissal of Congress state governments in 1977. This action highlighted the complex political tensions and power dynamics in India during this period.
1981 Reagan Issues Executive Order on Regulatory Review: President Ronald Reagan signed Executive Order 12291, a pivotal administrative directive requiring federal agencies to conduct comprehensive cost-benefit analyses for proposed regulations, marking a significant shift in governmental regulatory approach.
1982 Death of Thelonious Monk: Legendary American jazz pianist and composer Thelonious Monk passed away on February 17, 1982. Monk was a revolutionary musician who significantly influenced the development of bebop and modern jazz, leaving an indelible mark on 20th-century music.
1983 Netherlands Constitutional Milestone: The Netherlands formally adopted its constitution, solidifying its democratic governance structure and legal framework.
1984 Frankie Goes To Hollywood Dominates UK Charts: On February 17, 1984, 'Relax' by Frankie Goes To Hollywood was the number 1 song in the United Kingdom, a controversial hit that had been previously banned by the BBC due to its provocative lyrics.
1985 Artificial Heart Recipient Milestone: Murray Haydon becomes the third person in medical history to receive an artificial heart, representing a significant advancement in cardiac transplantation and medical technology.
1986 People Power Revolution in the Philippines: President Ferdinand Marcos is forced into exile in Hawaii after 20 years of authoritarian rule. Corazon Aquino becomes the first Filipino woman president, initially serving as an interim president, with Salvador Laurel as her Vice President. This marks a significant moment in Philippine democratic history, ending decades of Marcos's oppressive regime.
1987 Don Mattingly Wins Record-Breaking Salary Arbitration: New York Yankees' first baseman Don Mattingly won a landmark salary arbitration case, securing $1.975 million, which broke the previous record set by Jack Morris just four days earlier. This event was significant in the ongoing evolution of player compensation in Major League Baseball.
1988 Kidnapping of UN Truce Observer William Higgins: Lebanese terrorists kidnapped United Nations truce observer Lieutenant Colonel William Higgins in southern Lebanon, marking a significant incident in the ongoing regional conflict and UN peacekeeping operations.
1989 Police Raid on Winnie Mandela's Home During Apartheid Era: Following the murder of a 14-year-old in Johannesburg, South African police conducted a raid on anti-apartheid activist Winnie Mandela's home and arrested four of her bodyguards, highlighting the intense political tensions and police suppression during the apartheid period.
1990 Sinead O'Connor's 'Nothing Compares 2 U' Leads UK Charts: On February 17, 1990, Sinead O'Connor's powerful ballad 'Nothing Compares 2 U' (originally written by Prince) topped the UK music charts for the week of February 12th to 18th. The song, with its emotionally charged music video featuring a close-up of O'Connor's face, became an iconic track of the early 1990s.
1991 Cape Verde's First Multiparty Presidential Election: António Mascarenhas Monteiro wins Cape Verde's historic first multiparty presidential election since the country's independence in 1975, marking a significant milestone in the nation's democratic transition.
1992 Jeffrey Dahmer Sentenced to Life in Prison: Serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer was sentenced to life in prison by a court in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for murdering and dismembering at least 17 young men and boys. His horrific crimes shocked the nation and highlighted significant failures in law enforcement's ability to detect and prevent serial killings.
1993 Bill Clinton's First Congressional Address: President Bill Clinton delivered a pivotal address to a Joint Session of Congress, outlining his economic vision for the United States. He advocated for strategic investment over consumption, proposed reducing the federal deficit, and called for government efficiency reforms. Clinton emphasized collaborative efforts to stimulate economic growth and renew the promise of the American dream.
1994 Death of Randy Shilts, AIDS Journalist: Randy Shilts, a pioneering American journalist and author of the groundbreaking book 'And the Band Played On', died of AIDS-related complications at the age of 41. His work was instrumental in raising public awareness about the AIDS epidemic during the 1980s, providing critical reporting on the early years of the health crisis and its social impact.
1995 Colin Ferguson Murder Conviction: Colin Ferguson was convicted of six counts of murder for the tragic Long Island Rail Road mass shooting that occurred in December 1993. The court sentenced him to 25 years for each of the six murders, totaling 150 years in prison. This case highlighted issues of racial tension, gun violence, and mental health in the United States.
1996 Devastating Biak Earthquake and Tsunami in Indonesia: On February 17, 1996, a powerful magnitude 8.2 earthquake struck the Irian Jaya (Papua) region of Indonesia, triggering a massive tsunami. The catastrophic event resulted in at least 164 people killed or missing, 423 injured, and extensive infrastructure damage, with 5,043 houses destroyed or damaged. The tsunami waves reached heights of up to 7 meters, causing widespread destruction along the coastal areas.
1997 Carl Sagan Public Memorial: A public memorial service was held in Pasadena, California to honor and commemorate the life and scientific contributions of renowned astronomer and science communicator Carl Sagan, who had recently passed away.
1998 Kosovo Independence Declaration: Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia, following a complex and violent armed conflict known as the Kosovo War. This declaration marked a significant geopolitical moment in the Balkan region's history.
1999 Death of Sunshine Parker, American Actor: Sunshine Parker, a notable American character actor known for his distinctive roles in mid-20th century cinema, passed away on February 17, 1999. Born in 1927, Parker had a career spanning several decades and was recognized for his character work in various films and television productions. While not a leading Hollywood star, he contributed significantly to the character actor landscape of his era.
2000 Microsoft Windows 2000 Release: Microsoft officially released Windows 2000, a significant operating system for enterprise and professional users. The new OS represented a major advancement in Windows NT technology, offering improved stability, networking capabilities, and enhanced system management tools.
2001 Dale Earnhardt's Fatal Crash: Legendary NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt, Sr. tragically died from injuries sustained during a catastrophic crash in the final lap of the Daytona 500. His death shocked the racing world and led to significant safety improvements in motorsports.
2002 Ward Burton Wins Daytona 500 for Dodge: On February 17, 2002, Ward Burton secured victory at the 44th Daytona 500, marking a significant moment for Dodge in NASCAR racing. His win was particularly notable as it was the first for Dodge since Richard Petty's legendary victory in 1974, representing a 28-year gap in the manufacturer's success at this prestigious racing event.
2003 London Introduces Congestion Charge: London, England, implemented a groundbreaking £5 (US$8) daily charge for driving within an 8 square-mile central zone, aimed at reducing traffic congestion, decreasing pollution, and funding public transportation infrastructure.
2004 CNN Study Reveals Extent of Catholic Priest Sexual Abuse Allegations: A CNN survey found that over 11,000 children alleged sexual abuse by Catholic priests. Approximately 4% of 110,000 priests were implicated, with nearly 3% facing at least 10 allegations during a 52-year period.
2005 Israeli Cabinet Approves Gaza Withdrawal: In a significant political decision, the Israeli Cabinet voted 17-5 to approve Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's plan for withdrawing troops and settlers from the Gaza Strip. The cabinet also approved a new route for the barrier in Palestinian-controlled West Bank areas.
2006 Joseph Kony Escapes Assassination Attempt: Joseph Kony, leader of the Lord's Resistance Army, narrowly survived an assassination attempt by Ugandan troops in Sudan. He escaped to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with several of his bodyguards being shot during the incident.
2007 Barack Obama Announces Presidential Candidacy: Barack Obama officially announces his candidacy for President of the United States, marking the beginning of his historic presidential campaign.
2008 Kosovo Declares Independence from Serbia: Kosovo's parliament officially declared independence from Serbia, a significant geopolitical event that was supported by some countries but opposed by others. The declaration was accompanied by tensions, including two hand grenades being thrown at international community buildings in Kosovska Mitrovica.
2009 Obama Signs American Recovery and Reinvestment Act: President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 in Denver, Colorado, a significant economic stimulus package aimed at addressing the ongoing financial crisis.
2010 Fraudulent Passports in Hamas Commander Assassination: Investigations revealed that fake Irish passports used in the Dubai assassination of a senior Hamas military commander contained valid numbers but mismatched identities, prompting an urgent investigation by the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs.
2011 Arab Spring: Libyan Uprising Begins: On February 17, 2011, widespread protests erupted across Libya against Muammar Gaddafi's long-standing authoritarian regime, marking a critical moment in the Arab Spring revolutionary wave. Demonstrators in multiple cities demanded political reforms, human rights, and an end to Gaddafi's 42-year rule.
2012 Syrian Uprising Escalates: The Syrian opposition warns of an imminent potential massacre in the Bab Amr neighborhood of Homs. The Syrian army has been conducting continuous artillery bombardment for 11 consecutive days, intensifying the conflict and humanitarian crisis.
2013 Car Bombings in Baghdad: A series of coordinated car bombs targeted predominantly Shiite areas in Baghdad, killing at least 37 people and injuring more than 130 others. These attacks highlighted the ongoing sectarian violence and instability in Iraq following the U.S. military withdrawal.
2014 UN Accuses North Korea of Atrocities: The United Nations issued a damning report accusing North Korea of systematic human rights violations, calling for an investigation by the International Criminal Court.
2015 Escalating Tensions in Donbass: The ongoing conflict in Donbass intensified as the Ukrainian President's office called for NATO and EU condemnation of Russian-backed rebels in Debaltseve. Rebel officials disputed the town's inclusion in the ceasefire agreement, signaling continued military tensions.
2016 Germany Calls for Syria No-Fly Zone: Germany demanded a no-fly zone in northern Syria to help end the civil war and reduce refugee flows. Similar requests have been made by Turkey and other countries throughout the five-year conflict. Russia, however, refused to accept this strategy without Syria's explicit permission.
2017 Scott Pruitt Confirmed as EPA Administrator: The U.S. Senate confirmed Scott Pruitt as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency with a 52-46 vote. Pruitt, known for his skeptical stance on climate change, was supported by some Democrats and opposed by Republican Susan Collins.
2018 Death Sentence for Zainab Ansari's Murderer: Imran Ali was sentenced to death by the Anti-Terrorism Court of Lahore, Pakistan, for the rape and murder of 7-year-old Zainab Ansari. The victim's family demanded public execution, reflecting the severe public outrage over the heinous crime.
2019 NBA All-Star Game: Team LeBron Triumphs: The 2019 NBA All-Star Game in Charlotte, North Carolina saw Team LeBron defeat Team Giannis 178-164. Kevin Durant of the Golden State Warriors was named MVP, earning his second All-Star Game MVP award.
2020 China Reports Slower Coronavirus Spread: Chinese health authorities reported approximately 100 new coronavirus deaths, the lowest daily count since February 11. Despite this potential positive trend, Hubei province saw an increase in confirmed infections. Local authorities implemented stringent movement restrictions to contain the outbreak, signaling the early stages of China's pandemic management strategy.
2021 Mass Protests Against Myanmar Military Coup: Unprecedented demonstrations erupted in Myanmar's major cities, including Naypyidaw, Mandalay, and Yangon, following the February 1 military coup. Public and private sector employees, along with civil servants, participated in massive protests despite explicit warnings from the military junta, signaling strong public resistance to the overthrow of democratic governance.
2022 Brittney Griner Detained in Russia: WNBA star Brittney Griner was arrested at a Moscow airport after Russian authorities found cannabis oil vape cartridges in her luggage. Her detention occurred during a period of heightened tensions between the United States and Russia, just prior to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Griner, a professional basketball player for the Phoenix Mercury, was traveling to play for a Russian team during the WNBA off-season when she was apprehended.
2023 Global Armed Conflicts and Attacks on February 17, 2023: On February 17, 2023, multiple armed conflicts and attacks were reported globally. In Ukraine, the ongoing Russian invasion continued with the Battle of Bakhmut, where Russian forces shelled the city with artillery and Grad rockets, resulting in five deaths and nine injuries. In Karachi, Pakistan, Taliban militants attacked a police station, leading to three militants, three police officers, and one civilian being killed. In Syria, Islamic State militants conducted a devastating attack in Al-Sukhnah, Homs Governorate, killing 68 people, including 61 civilians and seven soldiers. In Burkina Faso, a severe ambush by jihadists killed at least 51 soldiers, prompting Médecins Sans Frontières to suspend operations after two aid workers were killed.

What Is special about February 17?

February 17 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 17.