Historical Events on February 24: 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 24, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

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Events on February 24 - Key Moments Throughout History

  • 1900 Uneventful Day in History: On February 24, 1900, no significant historical events were recorded. This day appears to have been relatively quiet in terms of global or local historical developments. While not every day marks a momentous occasion, such periods of apparent calm are also part of the broader historical narrative.
  • 1901 Uneventful Day in Early 20th Century: While no major global events were recorded on February 24, 1901, this day represents a typical moment in the early years of the 20th century. Such seemingly unremarkable dates are important in understanding the continuity and everyday life of historical periods.
  • 1902 Tomás Estrada Palma Becomes First Cuban President: Tomás Estrada Palma was formally selected as the first President of Cuba by the Cuban Electoral College. Simultaneously, Luis Estévez was approved as the first Vice President, marking a significant milestone in Cuba's path to independence and self-governance following the Spanish-American War.
  • 1903 United States Acquires Guantanamo Bay Naval Station: On February 24, 1903, the United States signed a landmark agreement with Cuba to establish a permanent naval station at Guantanamo Bay. This lease agreement, part of the Cuban-American Treaty, granted the U.S. perpetual rights to the naval base in exchange for an annual payment. The strategic location of Guantanamo Bay would become critically important for U.S. maritime operations in the Caribbean region.
  • 1904 Schiller Building Fire in Chicago: On February 24, 1904, a significant fire broke out in the upper stories of the 16-story Schiller Building in Chicago, causing damage to the structure and the renowned Garrick Theater located within. The blaze affected the top four floors of this prominent downtown building, highlighting the fire safety challenges of early 20th-century high-rise construction.
  • 1905 Simplon Tunnel Completed in Switzerland: The Simplon railroad tunnel, a remarkable engineering achievement, was completed after years of challenging construction through the Swiss Alps. This tunnel represented a significant milestone in transportation infrastructure, connecting Switzerland and Italy through a critical mountain passage.
  • 1908 DUPE: Japan-US Emigration Agreement: Japan officially agrees to restrict emigration to the United States, marking a significant diplomatic arrangement that would impact immigration patterns and international relations between the two countries in the early 20th century.
  • 1909 Balkan Diplomatic Tension Escalates: An international diplomatic crisis emerged when the Kingdom of Serbia publicly challenged Austria-Hungary's annexation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This event heightened tensions in the Balkan region, setting the stage for future conflicts and ultimately contributing to the complex geopolitical landscape that would lead to World War I.
  • 1910 Founding of Malmö FF Soccer Club: On February 24, 1910, Malmö FF was established in the southern Swedish city of Malmö. This soccer club would go on to become one of the most successful football teams in Swedish history, ultimately winning a record 20 Allsvenskan league titles. The club's founding marked a significant moment in Swedish sports history, representing the growing popularity of organized football in the early 20th century.
  • 1911 Uneventful Day in 1911: While no specific significant historical events were recorded for February 24, 1911, this date represents a typical day during the early 20th century. The year 1911 was marked by significant global developments, including technological advancements, political shifts, and social changes. Though this particular date might seem unremarkable, it was part of a dynamic period of human history.
  • 1912 Lawrence Textile Strike: Child Labor Protest: During the Lawrence Textile Strike of 1912, a significant incident occurred when police attempted to prevent children from leaving the protest area. This confrontation resulted in injuries and the arrest of both mothers and children. The event gained national prominence when Lawrence children marched in New York City, drawing widespread attention to the harsh working conditions and child labor issues of the era.
  • 1913 First Radio Transmission from Antarctica: On February 24, 1913, Douglas Mawson, leader of the Australasian Antarctic Expedition, successfully sent the first radio transmission from the Antarctic continent. This groundbreaking communication marked a significant technological achievement in polar exploration, demonstrating the potential of wireless communication in one of the world's most remote and challenging environments. Mawson's transmission not only represented a milestone in communication technology but also highlighted the scientific advancements of early 20th-century polar expeditions.
  • 1914 Pancho Villa's Controversial Action: Mexican revolutionary leader Pancho Villa escalates tensions with the British Empire by refusing to return the body of William S. Benton, a British rancher killed during a raid. This incident highlights the volatile political and diplomatic climate of revolutionary Mexico, potentially straining international relations.
  • 1915 German Capture of Zhytomyr During World War I: During the Eastern Front campaign of World War I, German Imperial forces successfully captured the strategically important city of Zhytomyr in Ukraine on February 24, 1915. This military action was part of the broader German offensive against Russian Imperial forces, demonstrating the complex territorial struggles of the conflict.
  • 1916 Establishment of Sorokdo Leprosy Clinic in Korea: On February 24, 1916, the Governor-General of Korea established a specialized medical facility on Sorokdo Island dedicated to the segregation and treatment of patients with Hansen's disease (leprosy). This action reflected the colonial administration's approach to managing infectious diseases through isolation, which was a common medical practice during the early 20th century.
  • 1917 Russian Revolution Begins: The Russian Revolution commences, marking the beginning of a transformative period in Russian history that would ultimately lead to the collapse of the Tsarist regime and set the stage for the formation of the Soviet Union.
  • 1918 Estonia's Declaration of Independence: On February 24, 1918, Estonia officially declared its independence from the Russian Empire after seven centuries of foreign domination. This historic moment marked the end of prolonged foreign rule and the beginning of Estonia's journey as a sovereign nation. Simultaneously, other Caucasian regions like Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia also declared independence, forming the Transcaucasian Democratic Federative Republic.
  • 1919 American Relief Administration Established: The United States Congress established the American Relief Administration (ARA) with an initial budget of $100 million. This organization was crucial in providing humanitarian aid and economic relief to European countries devastated by World War I, particularly in regions suffering from food shortages and economic collapse.
  • 1920 Nazi Party Founded: The Nazi Party (NSDAP) was officially founded by Adolf Hitler in the Hofbräuhaus beer hall in Munich, Germany, marking the beginning of a political movement that would dramatically reshape European history in the coming decades.
  • 1921 Soviet Invasion of Georgia: General Giorgi Kvinitadze and the Georgian Army were forced to retreat from Tbilisi as the Soviet 11th and 9th Armies approached. This event marked a critical moment in the Soviet invasion of Georgia, signaling the Red Army's strategic military campaign to incorporate Georgia into the Soviet Union.
  • 1922 Political Meeting in Italian Royal Court: Luigi Facta, a prominent Italian politician who previously served as Minister of Justice and Finance, held an important meeting with King Victor Emmanuel III. This meeting likely involved discussions of political strategy during a complex period in Italian governance.
  • 1923 Major US Mafia Crackdown: Law enforcement agencies across the United States conduct widespread arrests targeting organized crime networks, specifically focusing on Mafia members. This coordinated operation represents a significant effort to disrupt criminal activities and challenge the growing influence of organized crime syndicates during the early 1920s.
  • 1924 Mahatma Gandhi Released from Prison: Mahatma Gandhi was released from prison after serving less than two years of a six-year sentence for sedition. Due to ill-health, he was granted early release and chose to focus on writing and advocating for improvements in India, temporarily stepping back from direct political action.
  • 1925 Birth of Medal of Honor Recipient Bud Day: George Everett 'Bud' Day, a remarkable U.S. Air Force pilot, was born on February 24, 1925. He would later become a distinguished military figure, earning both the Medal of Honor and the Air Force Cross. Day's extraordinary service included enduring over five years as a prisoner of war, embodying exceptional courage and resilience.
  • 1926 Impeachment of President Andrew Johnson: On February 24, 1868, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 126–47 to impeach President Andrew Johnson, marking a pivotal moment in post-Civil War Reconstruction. Johnson's lenient policies toward the Southern states and his resistance to Radical Republican efforts to ensure civil rights for freed slaves led to this historic political confrontation. This was the first presidential impeachment in United States history and highlighted the intense political tensions following the Civil War.
  • 1927 John Golden Theatre Opens in New York City: The historic John Golden Theatre, originally known as the Theatre Masque, was inaugurated on February 24, 1927, in the heart of Manhattan's vibrant Theater District. Located at 252 West 45th Street, this iconic Broadway venue would go on to become a significant cultural landmark in New York City's theatrical landscape. Designed during the golden age of Broadway, the theater has since hosted numerous acclaimed productions and remains an important part of the city's performing arts heritage.
  • 1928 Martyrdom of Saint Toribio Romo: Saint Toribio Romo, a 27-year-old Mexican Catholic priest, died during the Cristero War, a significant religious conflict in Mexico. He was later canonized as a martyr, symbolizing the religious persecution of the era.
  • 1929 Franco-Belgian Military Accord Revealed: The Utrecht-based newspaper Dagblad published a groundbreaking article revealing the previously confidential details of the Franco-Belgian military accord. This secret treaty, negotiated between France and Belgium, represented a significant diplomatic and strategic development in the interwar period, highlighting the ongoing tensions and mutual defense considerations in Europe following World War I.
  • 1930 Charles Evans Hughes Confirmed as Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court: On February 24, 1930, Charles Evans Hughes was confirmed by the United States Senate as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, receiving 52 votes in favor and 26 votes against. Hughes, a prominent legal and political figure, brought significant judicial experience to the role, having previously served as Governor of New York, Secretary of State, and an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. His confirmation marked an important moment in the judicial leadership of the United States during the early 20th century.
  • 1931 Assassination Attempt on Cuban President Gerardo Machado: On February 24, 1931, Cuban President Gerardo Machado narrowly survived his second assassination attempt within 24 hours. Police quickly intervened and apprehended a young assailant who had attempted to take the president's life. This incident highlighted the political instability and growing opposition to Machado's increasingly authoritarian regime during this tumultuous period in Cuban history.
  • 1932 Brazil Grants Women's Suffrage: On February 24, 1932, Brazil made a pivotal advancement in women's political rights by officially granting women the right to vote. This landmark legislation was a crucial step towards gender equality in Brazilian democratic processes, allowing women to participate fully in the nation's political landscape.
  • 1933 German Communist Party's Final Public Demonstration: In a pivotal moment of political tension, the German Communist Party held its final public demonstration in Berlin. This event symbolized the increasing political suppression and the rising power of the Nazi regime, which was systematically eliminating opposition parties.
  • 1934 Nazi Party Program Anniversary Speech: On this date, Nazi Germany commemorated the fourteenth anniversary of the National Socialist Program. Adolf Hitler delivered a speech in the same Munich beer hall where he originally announced the party's program in 1920, symbolically reinforcing the Nazi Party's ideological roots and growing political power.
  • 1935 Hitler Commemorates Nazi Party Anniversary with Provocative Speech: Adolf Hitler marked the 15th anniversary of the founding of the Nazi Party with a significant speech in Munich. In this address, he served notice to the world that Germany would not sign any document that would compromise the country's perceived honor and national equality, signaling growing tensions in pre-World War II Europe.
  • 1936 Nazi Germany Restricts Jewish Doctors: On February 24, 1936, the Nazi regime, under the direction of Gerhard Wagner, implemented a discriminatory decree that severely limited the professional opportunities for Jewish medical practitioners. The regulation mandated that the number of Jewish doctors in Germany could not proportionally exceed the percentage of Jews in the overall population, effectively institutionalizing antisemitic policies within the medical profession.
  • 1937 First Group Hospital-Medical Cooperative Established in Washington DC: On February 24, 1937, a groundbreaking moment in American healthcare occurred when the first group hospital-medical cooperative was officially authorized in Washington DC. This innovative model represented an early precursor to modern health maintenance organizations (HMOs), aiming to provide more affordable and accessible healthcare services to members through a cooperative structure.
  • 1938 Oil Discovery in Saudi Arabia: A pivotal moment in Middle Eastern economic history occurs with the discovery of oil in Saudi Arabia, which would fundamentally transform the country's geopolitical and economic landscape. This discovery would later establish Saudi Arabia as a major global oil producer.
  • 1939 Hungary Joins the Anti-Comintern Pact: On February 24, 1939, Hungary officially signed the Anti-Comintern Pact, aligning itself with Germany, Italy, and Japan in a strategic diplomatic agreement aimed at countering the spread of communism. This move signaled Hungary's increasing alignment with Axis powers in the lead-up to World War II, reflecting the growing geopolitical tensions in Europe during the late 1930s.
  • 1940 Assassination of Ahmed Maher Pasha: In a dramatic moment of political turmoil, Ahmed Maher Pasha, the Prime Minister of Egypt, was assassinated on the floor of parliament immediately after declaring war against Japan and Nazi Germany during World War II. This event marked a significant turning point in Egypt's involvement in the global conflict.
  • 1941 HMS Dainty Sunk by German Bombers: British destroyer HMS Dainty was sunk by German bombers off the coast of Tobruk, Libya, during World War II's North African Campaign, representing a significant naval engagement.
  • 1942 MV Struma Tragedy: A devastating maritime disaster occurred when the MV Struma, carrying 791 Romanian Jewish refugees attempting to escape Nazi persecution, was torpedoed by a Soviet submarine in the Black Sea. Only one 19-year-old survivor emerged from this tragic event, which represents one of the largest exclusively civilian naval disasters of World War II.
  • 1943 Birth of George Harrison: George Harrison, legendary British musician and member of the iconic band The Beatles, was born. He would go on to become one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, known for his innovative guitar work and spiritual contributions to music.
  • 1944 Big Week: Strategic Allied Air Campaign Against German Industry: During the 'Big Week' strategic bombing campaign, the Allies deployed 3,800 bombers to strike German war production facilities, delivering a significant blow to the German aircraft manufacturing industry and contributing to the Allied war effort.
  • 1945 Liberation of Manila: Manila was freed from Japanese occupation, marking a crucial victory for Allied forces in the Pacific Theater during World War II and signaling the beginning of the end of Japanese imperial expansion.
  • 1946 Colonel Juan Perón, founder of the political movement that became known as Peronism, is elected to his first term as President of Argentina.
  • 1947 Franz von Papen Sentenced for Nazi Collaboration: Franz von Papen, a prominent German political figure, was sentenced to eight years in a labor camp for his significant role in facilitating Adolf Hitler's rise to power and maintaining close associations with the Nazi regime. As part of his sentencing, he was also ordered to forfeit his entire personal fortune and was assigned labor appropriate to his physical capabilities.
  • 1948 Communist Takeover of Czechoslovakia: On February 24, 1948, the Communist Party, backed by Soviet support, executed a strategic coup d'état in Czechoslovakia, effectively seizing complete control of the government. President Edvard Beneš ultimately capitulated to Communist demands, approving a new cabinet dominated by Communist Party members and their political allies. This pivotal event marked a significant turning point in Czechoslovakian political history, transforming the nation's governance and aligning it closely with Soviet geopolitical interests during the early Cold War period.
  • 1949 Arab-Israeli War Armistice Agreements: The Armistice Agreements were signed to formally conclude the hostilities of the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, marking a critical diplomatic milestone in resolving the regional conflict and establishing preliminary peace terms between Israel and its neighboring Arab states.
  • 1950 US Military Seeks Hydrogen Bomb Development: The Joint Chiefs of Staff formally requested presidential approval for comprehensive hydrogen bomb development, marking a significant escalation in Cold War-era nuclear weapons technology and strategic military capabilities.
  • 1951 Political Negotiation in Liberia: The U.S. Ambassador to Liberia, Dudley, met with President Tubman on February 24, 1951, and informed him that he would not oppose Tubman in the upcoming presidential election, signaling a diplomatic understanding.
  • 1952 LPGA Orlando Mixed Golf Tournament Won by Betty MacKinnon and Sam Snead: In a notable mixed golf tournament held in Orlando, professional golfers Betty MacKinnon and Sam Snead emerged victorious. This event highlighted the collaborative nature of golf competitions during the early 1950s, where male and female players could compete together. Sam Snead, already a legendary golfer known for his smooth swing, partnered with Betty MacKinnon, demonstrating the inclusive spirit of the sport during this era.
  • 1953 Death of Gerd von Rundstedt, German Field Marshal: Gerd von Rundstedt, a prominent German field marshal who played significant roles during World War II, particularly in the Normandy and Ardennes campaigns, passed away at the age of 77. As one of Nazi Germany's most senior military commanders, von Rundstedt was a key strategic leader on the Western Front, known for his tactical expertise and military experience.
  • 1955 Steve Jobs Birth: Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple Inc., is born in San Francisco, California. Jobs would go on to become a pioneering entrepreneur who revolutionized personal computing, mobile technology, and digital media through Apple's groundbreaking products like the Macintosh, iPod, iPhone, and iPad.
  • 1956 Formation of the General Union of Algerian Workers: On February 24, 1956, the General Union of Algerian Workers (UGTA) was established in Algeria. This labor organization played a significant role during the Algerian War of Independence, representing workers' rights and contributing to the social and political movements of the time.
  • 1957 Uneventful Day in 1957: While no specific major historical events were recorded for February 24, 1957, this does not mean the day was entirely without significance. During this period, the world was in the midst of the Cold War, with ongoing technological, political, and cultural developments happening globally. The mid-1950s were a time of significant social and technological transformation, particularly in the United States and the Soviet Union.
  • 1958 Radio Rebelde Begins Broadcasting in Cuba: Fidel Castro's revolutionary radio station, Radio Rebelde, begins broadcasting from the Sierra Maestra mountains, serving as a critical communication tool for the Cuban Revolution and spreading revolutionary propaganda against the Batista regime.
  • 1959 Tragic Grandstand Collapse in San Luis, Mexico: During a school festival in San Luis, Mexico, a packed grandstand suddenly collapsed, resulting in the devastating deaths of seven children and injuries to 23 other people. The incident highlighted critical safety concerns in public event infrastructure and the vulnerability of large crowd gatherings.
  • 1960 Czechoslovakian Rescue Teams Respond to East German Mine Disaster: Following a tragic explosion at the Karl Marx coal mine that claimed 123 miners' lives, Czechoslovakian mine rescue teams were dispatched to Zwickau, East Germany, to provide critical assistance and support in the aftermath of the catastrophic incident.
  • 1961 Explorer (10) fails to reach Earth orbit
  • 1962 First Satellite Communication Transmission: The United States government achieved a groundbreaking milestone by successfully transmitting telephone and television signals via satellite, using the Echo 1 satellite to bounce signals, marking a significant advancement in global communication technology.
  • 1964 Cassius Clay Defeats Sonny Liston for Heavyweight Boxing Title: In a historic boxing match, Cassius Clay (later known as Muhammad Ali) defeated Sonny Liston, claiming the world heavyweight boxing championship. This fight was a pivotal moment in sports history, marking the rise of one of the most iconic and influential athletes of the 20th century. Clay's unexpected victory over the formidable Liston shocked the boxing world and launched his legendary career.
  • 1965 The Beatles Begin Filming 'Help' in the Bahamas: The Beatles started filming their second feature film 'Help!' in the picturesque Bahamas, continuing their successful venture into cinema following their debut film 'A Hard Day's Night'. The movie would feature the band in exotic locations and showcase their musical and comedic talents.
  • 1966 Military Coup in Ghana: Overthrow of Kwame Nkrumah: On February 24, 1966, a military coup led by General Joseph Arthur Ankrah and Major Akwasi Afrifa successfully overthrew President Kwame Nkrumah while he was on a state visit to Beijing, China. The coup resulted in the immediate removal of Nkrumah from power and the release of over 2,000 political detainees who had been imprisoned without trial for up to five or six years.
  • 1967 Boston Strangler Albert DeSalvo Escapes: Albert DeSalvo, infamous for confessing to the murders of 13 women known as the 'Boston Strangler', escaped from Bridgewater State Hospital, causing significant public alarm and a manhunt.
  • 1968 First Pulsar Discovery: Jocelyn Bell Burnell, a graduate student at Cambridge University, discovers the first pulsar (CP 1919), a significant breakthrough in astrophysics that would revolutionize our understanding of neutron stars and stellar evolution.
  • 1969 Tinker v. Des Moines: Student Free Speech Landmark Case: The United States Supreme Court issued a landmark decision affirming that students do not lose their constitutional rights to free speech when they enter school. The ruling established that students have the right to express opinions, even when those opinions might conflict with official government or school perspectives, marking a significant moment in civil liberties and educational rights.
  • 1970 49th Street Elementary School Shooting: Tyrone Mitchell commits a tragic school shooting in Los Angeles, killing two children and injuring 12 more, marking an early and horrific instance of school violence in the United States.
  • 1971 Algeria Nationalizes French Oil Companies: In a significant economic and political move, the Algerian government seized majority control (51 percent) of stock ownership in French oil companies, effectively nationalizing these strategic assets. This action represented a bold assertion of economic sovereignty and marked a pivotal moment in post-colonial Algeria's relationship with its former colonial power, France.
  • 1972 North Vietnamese Negotiators Exit Paris Peace Talks: North Vietnamese negotiators dramatically withdrew from the Paris Peace Talks, citing strong objections to ongoing U.S. air raids in Vietnam. This action further escalated tensions during the Vietnam War and highlighted the diplomatic challenges in resolving the conflict.
  • 1973 Oscar de la Hoya Born: Oscar de la Hoya, a legendary professional boxer who would become known as the 'Golden Boy', was born. He would go on to win Olympic gold in 1992 and become a world champion in multiple weight classes, later transitioning to a successful boxing promotion career.
  • 1974 Pakistan Recognizes Bangladesh: In a diplomatic milestone, Pakistan officially recognizes Bangladesh as an independent nation, formally acknowledging the sovereignty established after the 1971 Liberation War.
  • 1975 Led Zeppelin Releases Iconic Double Album Physical Graffiti: The legendary hard rock band Led Zeppelin released their groundbreaking double album 'Physical Graffiti', a landmark recording that showcased the band's musical versatility and innovative approach to rock music. The album, featuring tracks like 'Kashmir' and 'In My Time of Dying', became a critical and commercial success, further solidifying Led Zeppelin's status as one of the most influential rock bands of the 1970s.
  • 1976 Ford Establishes CIA Oversight Commission: President Gerald Ford announces the creation of the presidential 'Rockefeller Commission' to investigate potential abuses by the Central Intelligence Agency, focusing on domestic surveillance and unauthorized intelligence gathering activities.
  • 1977 Carter's Human Rights Foreign Aid Policy: US President Jimmy Carter announced a groundbreaking foreign policy directive that would make human rights considerations a key factor in determining US foreign aid allocations. This marked a significant shift in American diplomatic strategy, emphasizing moral and ethical considerations alongside geopolitical interests.
  • 1978 Waverly Railroad Tanker Explosion Tragedy: A catastrophic railroad tanker car explosion occurred in Waverly, Tennessee on February 24, 1978, resulting in 16 fatalities and 43 injuries. The incident underscored the potential dangers of hazardous material transportation and prompted subsequent safety reviews in the railroad industry.
  • 1979 North Yemen-South Yemen War Erupts: A significant conflict breaks out between North Yemen and South Yemen, marking a critical moment in the regional geopolitical landscape of the Arabian Peninsula. The war highlights the complex political tensions and territorial disputes between the two Yemeni states during the late 1970s.
  • 1980 USA Olympic Hockey Team Wins Gold Medal: The United States Olympic Hockey Team defeated Finland 4-2 to win the gold medal at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York, completing their legendary 'Miracle on Ice' tournament run.
  • 1981 Devastating Athens-Corinth Earthquake: A severe magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck the Athens-Corinth region in Greece, resulting in 16 fatalities, over 400 injuries, and extensive structural damage across multiple towns.
  • 1982 Wayne Gretzky Breaks NHL Goal Record: Wayne Gretzky of the Edmonton Oilers scored his 77th goal of the season, breaking the previous NHL goal-scoring record of 76, demonstrating his extraordinary hockey prowess.
  • 1983 Congressional Commission Condemns Japanese American Internment: A special commission of the United States Congress officially condemned the Japanese American internment during World War II, acknowledging the historical injustice and violation of civil rights.
  • 1984 Iraq-Iran Air Conflict: Iraq resumed its air attacks on Iran, continuing the ongoing Iran-Iraq War that had been raging since 1980. This escalation represented another intense moment in the prolonged and brutal conflict between the two nations.
  • 1985 Coronation of King Birendra of Nepal: Birendra, Bir Bikram Shah Dev was officially crowned as the King of Nepal, marking a significant moment in the country's monarchical history. As the eleventh monarch of the Shah dynasty, his coronation represented a continuation of Nepal's traditional royal lineage.
  • 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution Intensifies: A critical day in the Philippine People Power Revolution where massive civilian and military resistance against President Ferdinand Marcos reached a dramatic turning point. With international pressure mounting, particularly from the United States, and widespread public demonstrations, the revolution was approaching its climax. Tensions escalated with potential military confrontations, strategic communications, and growing international diplomatic intervention.
  • 1987 Supernova 1987A Discovery: Astronomers discover Supernova 1987A in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a significant astronomical event that provides unprecedented insights into stellar evolution and cosmic phenomena.
  • 1988 Supreme Court Protects Satirical Speech in Landmark Hustler Case: The United States Supreme Court unanimously ruled in favor of Hustler Magazine, establishing a critical precedent for First Amendment protections of satirical speech, specifically in a case involving Jerry Falwell and a controversial parody.
  • 1989 Emperor Hirohito's State Funeral: Japan holds the state funeral for Emperor Hirohito, marking the end of the Shōwa era. The formal ceremony is attended by numerous world leaders, including U.S. President George H.W. Bush, symbolizing Japan's international significance.
  • 1990 German Reunification Agreement: A two-stage plan was reached to reunite Germany, setting the stage for the formal reunification of East and West Germany later that year.
  • 1991 Ground Phase of Gulf War Begins: On February 24, 1991, ground troops from the United States and its allied coalition forces crossed the Saudi Arabian border and entered Iraq, initiating the ground phase of the Gulf War. This marked a critical turning point in the military operation to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation.
  • 1992 Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love Wedding: Kurt Cobain, lead singer of the iconic grunge band Nirvana, married Courtney Love, lead singer of the alternative rock band Hole, in a ceremony that symbolized the union of two influential figures in the 1990s alternative music scene. Their marriage was a significant moment in rock music history, representing the cultural zeitgeist of the early 1990s.
  • 1993 Canadian Political Transition: Prime Minister Brian Mulroney resigns after a challenging period of political and economic challenges, marking a significant moment in Canadian political history. His resignation leads to Kim Campbell becoming Canada's first female Prime Minister, breaking a historic gender barrier in Canadian federal leadership.
  • 1994 First Hubble Image of Pluto and Charon: NASA's Hubble Space Telescope captures and reveals the first detailed photographic image of Pluto and its moon Charon, marking a significant milestone in astronomical observation and planetary exploration.
  • 1995 Corona Reconnaissance Satellite Program Declassified: The United States government officially declassified the Corona reconnaissance satellite program, revealing details of a top-secret Cold War-era intelligence gathering initiative that operated from 1959 to 1972. This groundbreaking program was crucial for gathering aerial intelligence about Soviet military capabilities during the height of the Cold War.
  • 1996 Cuban Air Force Shoots Down Brothers to the Rescue Planes: On February 24, 1996, two civilian airplanes operated by the Miami-based humanitarian group Brothers to the Rescue were shot down by Cuban fighter jets in international waters, escalating tensions between Cuba and the United States. The incident occurred near Cuban airspace, with Cuban officials claiming the planes violated their territorial boundaries and that they acted in self-defense.
  • 1997 Death and Cremation of Deng Xiaoping: Deng Xiaoping, the influential former paramount leader of China, was cremated five days after his passing on February 19th, 1997. A pivotal figure in modern Chinese history, Deng was instrumental in implementing economic reforms that transformed China's economic landscape and opened the country to global markets.
  • 1998 Elton John Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II: Elton John was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace in London, recognizing his significant contributions to music and extensive charitable work. This honor celebrated his remarkable career as a global music icon and philanthropist.
  • 1999 LaGrand Brothers Execution Case: The controversial execution of Karl LaGrand, a German national, by the State of Arizona sparked international legal tensions. His brother Walter was also executed a week later, despite Germany's attempts to intervene through the International Court of Justice, highlighting complex issues of international law and capital punishment.
  • 2000 China-EU Trade Negotiations Stall: Diplomatic tensions escalated as China and the European Union failed to reach a consensus regarding China's application to enter the World Trade Organization (WTO). The breakdown in negotiations highlighted complex trade barriers and differing economic perspectives between the two global powers.
  • 2001 Historic Milestone: First African American U.S. Senator: On this day, Hiram Rhodes Revels made history by being sworn in as the first African American to serve in the United States Senate. Representing Mississippi during the Reconstruction era, Revels broke a significant racial barrier in American political representation, paving the way for future generations of African American legislators.
  • 2002 55th British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs): The 55th British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs) celebrated outstanding achievements in cinema. 'The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring' was awarded Best Film, while Peter Jackson was recognized as Best Director, highlighting the film's critical acclaim and artistic excellence.
  • 2003 Invasion of Iraq Begins: The United States and its coalition partners initiated the military invasion of Iraq on February 24, 2003, marking a significant geopolitical event in the early 21st century.
  • 2004 Pakistani Scientist Admits Nuclear Technology Proliferation: Abdul Qadeer Khan, a prominent Pakistani scientist, publicly admitted to selling nuclear weapons designs and technology to countries including North Korea, Iran, and Libya, causing international diplomatic tension.
  • 2005 Bratislava Initiative on Nuclear Non-Proliferation: Presidents Bush and Putin announced the Bratislava Initiative, a strategic effort aimed at reducing the global threat of nuclear proliferation and enhancing international security.
  • 2006 Muhammad Cartoon Controversy: Jussi Vilkuna, editor of Finnish publication Kaltio, was fired for refusing to remove a controversial Muhammad cartoon depicting a westerner with a masked Muhammad and Finnish politicians burning Danish flags, further escalating the international Jyllands-Posten cartoon controversy.
  • 2007 Deadly Mosque Bombing in Iraq: A devastating car bomb explosion at Habbaniya's mosque resulted in at least 39 fatalities and 61 injuries, highlighting the ongoing violence during the Iraq War.
  • 2008 Fidel Castro Retires from Cuban Presidency: After 32 years of leadership, Fidel Castro retires as the President of Cuba and the Council of Ministers, though he remains head of the Communist Party for three more years.
  • 2009 After receiving government assistance, teachers in Zimbabwe will cease their strike action.
  • 2010 Toyota President Apologizes to US Congress: Toyota President Akio Toyoda formally apologized to the United States Congress regarding serious safety issues that resulted in multiple deaths and global vehicle recalls, addressing a major automotive crisis.
  • 2011 2011 Libyan Civil War: A major uprising against Muammar Gaddafi's regime, involving widespread protests, military defections, and international intervention that ultimately led to the overthrow of the long-standing dictator.
  • 2012 Friends of Syria Conference in Tunisia: Leaders from the U.S., Europe, and Arab countries convened in Tunisia to discuss the Syrian crisis, presenting a 72-hour ultimatum to President Bashar al-Assad. The ultimatum demanded he step down, cease violence, and allow foreign humanitarian aid. U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton warned that diplomatic pressure would escalate if Assad did not comply.
  • 2013 Afghanistan Security Tensions: A series of suicide bombings kill two Afghan police officers and two guards in eastern Afghanistan. President Hamid Karzai orders US forces to leave Wardak province due to alleged torture by special forces, escalating tensions between Afghanistan and the United States.
  • 2014 2014 Ukrainian Revolution Developments: The European Commission recognized Oleksandr Turchynov as Ukraine's legitimate interim President. Stepan Kubiv was appointed as the new governor of Ukraine's National Bank. An arrest warrant was issued for former President Viktor Yanukovych and other officials in connection with the alleged killing of protesters during the revolution.
  • 2015 Yemen's President Resigns: President Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi resigned after fleeing from the Houthis, marking a critical moment in the ongoing Yemeni Crisis and signaling further political instability in the region.
  • 2016 UN Security Council Sanctions Against North Korea: The United States and China reach an agreement on a draft resolution to increase sanctions against North Korea in response to its recent nuclear test, with the full UN Security Council expected to approve the draft.
  • 2017 Kim Jong-nam Assassination Investigation: Malaysian police confirmed that Kim Jong-nam, half-brother of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, was killed using VX nerve agent, a toxin almost exclusively used in chemical warfare, suggesting a state-sponsored assassination.
  • 2018 UN Security Council Syria Ceasefire Resolution: The United Nations Security Council unanimously approved a resolution calling for a 30-day ceasefire in Syria, aiming to provide humanitarian relief and potentially create an opportunity for diplomatic negotiations in the ongoing Syrian Civil War.
  • 2019 Brexit Developments: British Prime Minister Theresa May announced that Members of Parliament would vote on the latest Brexit agreement by March 12, continuing the complex process of the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union.
  • 2020 Scientists Discover Oxygen-Independent Animal: In a groundbreaking scientific discovery, researchers identified the first known animal that can survive without oxygen—a tiny parasite living in salmon tissue. This finding, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), challenges previous understanding of biological survival mechanisms.
  • 2021 COVAX Begins Global COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution: The COVAX initiative, a global collaboration led by the World Health Organization (WHO), GAVI, and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), successfully launched its first vaccine delivery to developing nations. On February 24, 2021, Ghana became the first country to receive COVID-19 vaccines through this groundbreaking program, marking a significant milestone in the global effort to ensure equitable vaccine access for middle and low-income countries during the pandemic.
  • 2022 Russian Invasion of Ukraine Begins: Russian President Vladimir Putin orders a full-scale military invasion of Ukraine, following the recognition of Donetsk and Luhansk as independent states. This marks a significant escalation of the Russo-Ukrainian conflict and represents the largest conventional military attack in Europe since World War II.
  • 2023 Devastating Turkey-Syria Earthquake Tragedy: The catastrophic earthquake in Turkey and Syria has resulted in a staggering death toll exceeding 50,000 people, marking one of the most significant humanitarian disasters in recent history. The massive seismic event caused widespread destruction, displacing millions and creating a complex humanitarian crisis requiring international emergency response.

What Is special about February 24?

February 24 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 24.