Historical Events on February 26: 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 26, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on February 26 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 German Naval Strategy Meeting with Kaiser Wilhelm: Rear Admiral Otto von Diederichs conducted a strategic meeting with Kaiser Wilhelm II to discuss and outline preliminary contingency plans for a potential military conflict with the United States. This meeting represented an early stage of German military strategic planning in the context of emerging global tensions at the turn of the 20th century.
1901 Public Execution of Boxer Rebellion Leaders: During the tumultuous period of the Boxer Rebellion, two prominent leaders, Chi-hsui and Hsu-cheng-yu, were publicly executed by beheading in Beijing. The execution took place in front of a massive crowd of approximately 10,000 spectators, symbolizing the Qing Dynasty's harsh suppression of the anti-foreign and anti-Christian uprising. This event marked a significant moment in the complex power struggle between Chinese nationalist movements and foreign imperial powers.
1902 Victor Hugo Centennial Celebration: France commemorated the 100th anniversary of Victor Hugo's birth with a grand monument dedication ceremony in Besançon, his hometown. Hugo, a renowned poet, novelist, and playwright, was celebrated as one of the most important literary figures of the 19th century, known for masterpieces like 'Les Misérables' and 'The Hunchback of Notre-Dame'.
1903 Birth of Giulio Natta: Giulio Natta, a pioneering Italian chemist who would later win the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, was born in Imperia, Italy. His groundbreaking work in polymer chemistry and stereospecific catalysis would revolutionize industrial chemical processes in the mid-20th century.
1904 United States and Panama Canal Treaty Signed: On February 26, 1904, the United States and Panama formally proclaimed a pivotal treaty that granted the U.S. rights to construct the Panama Canal. This agreement was a crucial moment in international diplomacy and infrastructure development, enabling the creation of a strategic maritime passage that would dramatically reduce shipping times between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The treaty established the legal framework for what would become one of the most significant engineering projects of the early 20th century.
1905 U.S. Panama Canal Commission Recommends Sea-Level Canal Construction: The U.S. Panama Canal Commission unanimously recommended constructing a sea-level canal across the Isthmus of Panama. The commission estimated the project would take 12 years to complete, with a projected cost of $230,500,000. This recommendation was a significant step towards what would become one of the most important engineering projects of the early 20th century, dramatically reducing maritime travel times between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
1906 Publication of The Jungle by Upton Sinclair: Upton Sinclair publishes 'The Jungle', a groundbreaking novel that exposes the harsh and unsanitary conditions in Chicago's meatpacking industry. The book provides a vivid and disturbing portrayal of immigrant workers' struggles, revealing systemic labor exploitation and dangerous food processing practices. This influential work sparked public outrage and significantly contributed to the passage of the Pure Food and Drug Act and the Meat Inspection Act in 1906, marking a pivotal moment in American progressive reform.
1907 Roosevelt Appoints Goethals for Panama Canal Project: President Theodore Roosevelt appointed Colonel George Washington Goethals as the chief engineer of the Panama Canal project, a critical infrastructure development that would revolutionize global maritime trade. Goethals, a skilled Army Corps of Engineers officer, would play a pivotal role in completing this monumental engineering feat.
1908 Birth of Tex Avery, Legendary Cartoon Director: Frederick Bean 'Tex' Avery was born, a pioneering animator and director who revolutionized cartoon comedy at Warner Bros. and MGM. Known for his wildly exaggerated animation style and iconic characters like Bugs Bunny, Avery significantly influenced the golden age of American animation. His famous catchphrase 'What's up, Doc?' became a cultural touchstone, and his innovative techniques transformed cartoon storytelling.
1909 First Public Demonstration of Kinemacolor: Kinemacolor, a groundbreaking color motion picture process, was first publicly demonstrated at the Palace Theatre in London. This innovative technology represented a significant milestone in the evolution of cinematography, allowing audiences to experience motion pictures in color for the first time.
1910 Founding of Boy Scouts of America: On February 26, 1910, William Boyce officially established the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) in Washington, D.C. Inspired by the British Boy Scouts movement, Boyce sought to create a youth organization that would promote character development, citizenship training, and personal fitness for young men. The organization was founded with the vision of helping boys develop leadership skills, outdoor competence, and strong moral values through structured activities, community service, and wilderness training.
1911 Launch of HMS Thunderer, British Super-Dreadnought: The British Royal Navy launched the HMS Thunderer, a powerful super-dreadnought battleship, symbolizing the naval arms race and technological advancement of the early 20th century. This vessel represented the cutting-edge maritime military technology of its time.
1912 British Coal Miners' Strike of 1912: A significant labor dispute erupted in the United Kingdom, with coal miners across multiple regions walking out on strike. The strike began in Derbyshire, specifically at the Alfretor coal pits, and quickly spread throughout the country. Workers were demanding better working conditions, fair wages, and improved safety standards in the coal mining industry. After several days of industrial action, the strike was settled on March 1st, marking a pivotal moment in British labor history.
1913 Federico Luna Peralta Becomes Prime Minister of Peru: Federico Luna Peralta assumed the role of Prime Minister of Peru, marking a significant political transition in the country's governance during the early 20th century.
1914 Launch of HMHS Britannic: The HMHS Britannic, sister ship to the ill-fated RMS Titanic, was launched at the Harland & Wolff shipyard in Belfast, Northern Ireland. This Olympic-class ocean liner was initially designed as a passenger ship but was later converted to serve as a hospital ship during World War I. Tragically, like her sister ship Titanic, Britannic would also meet a dramatic end, sinking in the Aegean Sea in 1916 after striking a naval mine.
1915 First German Flame-Thrower Deployed in World War I: During the Battle of Malancourt in the Argonne Forest, German forces introduced the flame-thrower (Flammenwerfer) as a new and terrifying weapon of warfare. This marked a significant technological advancement in military weaponry, designed to clear trenches and create psychological terror among enemy troops.
1916 Battle of Verdun - French Offensive Fails: In a critical moment during World War I, French forces under General Philippe Pétain failed to retake Fort Douaumont during the Battle of Verdun. This setback forced the French command to suspend further offensive operations, marking a significant strategic moment in the battle.
1917 Zimmermann Telegram Revealed to Public: The U.S. government publicly releases the plaintext of the Zimmermann Telegram, a pivotal diplomatic communication during World War I that significantly influenced American public opinion and eventual entry into the war.
1918 Sinking of Hospital Ship Glenart Castle: German submarine U-56 torpedoed the British hospital ship 'Glenart Castle' in the Bristol Channel during World War I, resulting in a tragic loss of life with only 38 of the 200 personnel aboard surviving the attack.
1919 Grand Canyon National Park Established: The United States Congress officially established the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, protecting one of the most iconic natural landscapes in North America. This landmark decision ensured the preservation of the stunning geological formation for future generations.
1920 The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari Premieres: Robert Wiene's groundbreaking film 'The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari' premiered in Berlin, marking a pivotal moment in cinema history. This German Expressionist masterpiece is widely considered one of the most influential early horror movies, characterized by its distinctive angular set designs, dramatic lighting, and psychological narrative that challenged traditional filmmaking conventions of the time.
1921 USSR Signs Treaties Respecting Persian and Afghan Sovereignty: On February 26, 1921, the Soviet Union (USSR) signed landmark diplomatic treaties with Persia (Iran) and Afghanistan, formally committing to respect the territorial integrity and sovereignty of these Central Asian nations. These treaties represented a significant diplomatic gesture during a period of geopolitical realignment following World War I and the Russian Revolution, signaling the USSR's intent to establish peaceful relations with its southern neighbors.
1922 UK-France Military Alliance Treaty Signed: A significant 20-year military alliance was formally agreed upon between the United Kingdom and France. British Prime Minister David Lloyd George and his French counterpart negotiated this strategic partnership in the aftermath of World War I, aiming to provide mutual defense and geopolitical stability in Europe. The treaty represented a crucial diplomatic effort to maintain peace and collective security in the wake of the devastating Great War.
1923 Italian Fascist Unification: Italian nationalist groups, including blue-shirts and black-shirts, formally merged to consolidate their political power and ideological alignment under the growing fascist movement led by Benito Mussolini.
1924 Beer Hall Putsch Trials Begin: Trials related to the Beer Hall Putsch that occurred on November 9, 1923, begin in Munich on February 26. Adolf Hitler and Erich Ludendorff are among those put on trial for their roles in the attempted coup against the Weimar Republic.
1925 Birth of Louis Nirenberg: Louis Nirenberg, a renowned Canadian-American mathematician, was born on February 26, 1925. He would become a significant figure in partial differential equations and made substantial contributions to mathematical analysis.
1926 Louis Armstrong Records 'Heebie Jeebies': Louis Armstrong and his Hot Five recorded 'Heebie Jeebies', a groundbreaking jazz recording that not only launched Armstrong's star status but also introduced scat singing to a wider audience, revolutionizing jazz vocal techniques.
1927 Uneventful Day in 1927: While no major historical events were specifically documented for February 26, 1927, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. Many smaller, localized events or personal histories might have transpired that were not widely recorded. The interwar period of the 1920s was a time of significant social and technological transformation, with ongoing developments in industry, culture, and global politics.
1928 Birth of Ariel Sharon, Israeli Political and Military Leader: Ariel Sharon was a prominent Israeli military general and politician who served as the 11th Prime Minister of Israel. Known for his controversial but influential role in Israeli politics and military strategy, he was a key figure in the nation's complex history.
1929 Establishment of Grand Teton National Park: On February 26, 1929, President Calvin Coolidge signed legislation establishing the Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, protecting approximately 96,000 acres (390 square kilometers) of stunning mountainous landscape. This significant conservation effort preserved one of the most iconic mountain ranges in the United States, ensuring the protection of its unique geological features, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking natural scenery.
1930 First Red and Green Traffic Lights in Manhattan: New York City's Manhattan district became the first location to install red and green traffic lights, a significant advancement in urban traffic management and road safety technology. This innovation would soon spread to other cities, revolutionizing traffic control.
1931 La Placita Raid: A Dark Chapter in Immigration Enforcement: On February 26, 1931, a deeply controversial immigration enforcement action occurred in Los Angeles. Immigration agents conducted a massive raid at La Placita park, systematically sealing off all exits and arresting dozens of individuals, primarily targeting Mexican Americans. This traumatic event instilled widespread fear and terror within the Mexican American community, representing a stark example of discriminatory immigration practices of the era.
1932 Birth of Johnny Cash: On February 26, 1932, John R. "Johnny" Cash was born in Kingsland, Arkansas. He would go on to become one of the most influential American country music singers of the 20th century, known for his distinctive deep baritone voice and songs that blended country, rock, blues, and gospel genres. Cash's legendary career spanned several decades, and he was inducted into multiple music halls of fame, including the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
1933 Marinus van der Lubbe Detained: Dutch communist Marinus van der Lubbe was kept overnight in a police cell, a significant event connected to the political tensions in Germany during the rise of the Nazi regime. Van der Lubbe was later implicated in the Reichstag fire, a pivotal moment in Nazi Germany's consolidation of power.
1934 Robert Novak: Prominent Conservative Political Journalist: Robert Novak was an influential American political columnist known for his conservative commentary and long-standing career in political journalism. He was a prominent figure in Washington D.C. media circles, writing for publications like the Chicago Sun-Times and co-hosting CNN's 'Crossfire' political debate show.
1935 First Successful RADAR Demonstration in the United Kingdom: Robert Watson-Watt conducted a groundbreaking demonstration near Daventry that directly led to the development of Radio Detection and Ranging (RADAR) technology, marking a pivotal moment in early electronic detection systems.
1936 February 26 Incident in Imperial Japan: A significant attempted coup d'état organized by young Imperial Japanese Army officers. The rebels assassinated key government officials, including Finance Minister Korekiyo Takahashi, Lord Keeper of the Privy Seal Makoto Saito, and Inspector General of Military Education Jotaro Watanabe. Despite attempting to kill Prime Minister Keisuke Okada, they were ultimately unsuccessful. The Imperial Japanese Army suppressed the uprising by February 29, 1936, marking a critical moment of internal political instability in pre-World War II Japan.
1937 February 26 Incident: Failed Military Coup in Imperial Japan: The February 26 Incident was a significant attempted coup d'état in the Empire of Japan, orchestrated by a radical group of young Imperial Japanese Army officers. Their primary objectives were to purge the government and military leadership of perceived factional rivals and ideological opponents, reflecting the intense internal political tensions of the era. The uprising, which took place in Tokyo, was ultimately suppressed by loyal military and government forces. The aftermath was severe: 19 conspirators were executed by firing squad, dozens were imprisoned, and several key participants committed suicide. The incident resulted in the deaths of four government officials and five police officers, marking a dramatic and violent moment in pre-World War II Japanese political history. The failed coup highlighted the deep ideological divisions within the Japanese military and government during the 1930s, and significantly impacted Japan's political landscape leading up to World War II.
1938 French Parliamentary Support for Diplomatic Negotiations: The French Chamber of Deputies overwhelmingly endorsed the government's diplomatic approach, voting 439-2 in support of joining Britain in negotiations with Germany and Italy, reflecting the complex pre-World War II diplomatic landscape.
1939 Eleanor Roosevelt's Stand Against Racial Discrimination: On February 26, 1939, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt made a powerful statement against racial segregation by resigning her membership in the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). Her resignation was a direct response to the organization's discriminatory decision to prevent renowned African American contralto Marian Anderson from performing at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. This act of solidarity was a significant moment in the early civil rights movement, drawing national attention to racial inequality in the United States.
1940 German Submarine U-33 Sunk in Firth of Clyde: The German submarine U-33 was sunk in the Firth of Clyde by the British minesweeper Gleaner. Of the submarine's crew, 25 perished while 17 survived. A significant intelligence breakthrough occurred when one survivor was found carrying three Enigma machine rotors, which were subsequently sent to Alan Turing at the Government Code and Cypher School for critical cryptographic analysis.
1941 German Submarine U-47 Sinks Convoy Ships: German submarine U-47 attacked convoy OB-290 northwest of Ireland, sinking four ships. Subsequently, five Fw 200 patrol bombers from I/KG.40 joined the attack and sank seven additional steamers from the same convoy.
1942 Heisenberg Discusses Uranium Project with German Leadership: Renowned physicist Werner Heisenberg briefed German leadership about the uranium project, codenamed 'Wunderwaffen' (Wonder Weapon), a critical moment in the Nazi nuclear research program.
1943 Soviet Recapture of Voronezh: Soviet troops successfully recaptured the city of Voronezh on February 26, 1943, during a critical phase of the Eastern Front in World War II. This strategic victory was part of the larger Soviet counteroffensive against German forces.
1944 Nazi Propaganda Film Production in Theresienstadt: Nazi officials began shooting a propaganda film titled "The Fuhrer Gives a Village to the Jews" in the Theresienstadt concentration camp, a carefully staged production designed to mislead international observers about the true conditions of Jewish prisoners.
1945 US Troops Reclaim Corregidor Island: During World War II, United States military forces successfully recaptured the strategic Philippine island of Corregidor from Japanese occupation, marking a significant turning point in the Pacific Theater of the war.
1946 Formation of Socialist Unity Party of Germany: The Sozialistische Einheitspartei Deutschlands (SED) was established in the Soviet-occupied zone of Germany, marking a significant moment in the political reorganization of post-World War II Germany and the emergence of communist political structures.
1947 Belgian POW Bonus Riot in Brussels: A massive demonstration of 50,000 former Belgian prisoners of war escalated into a violent confrontation with police in Brussels. The veterans were demanding payment of war bonuses that had been promised to them, resulting in a riot that left approximately 100 people injured. This event highlighted the post-World War II tensions and economic challenges faced by returning soldiers.
1948 Western Powers Condemn Czechoslovak Communist Coup: On February 26, 1948, the United States, Great Britain, and France issued a joint diplomatic statement strongly condemning the recent communist takeover in Czechoslovakia. The statement accused communist leaders of deliberately manufacturing a political crisis to seize power, highlighting the growing tensions of the early Cold War period. The Western powers viewed the coup as a significant threat to democratic governance in Eastern Europe and a clear example of Soviet political manipulation.
1949 First Nonstop Around-the-World Flight by US Air Force: On February 26, 1949, a United States Air Force aircraft successfully initiated the first nonstop circumnavigation of the globe, marking a significant milestone in aviation history. This groundbreaking flight demonstrated the remarkable technological capabilities of military aircraft during the post-World War II era and showcased the expanding reach of aerial transportation.
1950 Uneventful Day in 1950: While no major historical events were prominently documented for February 26, 1950, this does not necessarily mean the day was entirely without significance. The post-World War II era was a complex period of global reconstruction, Cold War tensions, and emerging social transformations. Even seemingly quiet days contribute to the broader historical narrative.
1951 22nd Amendment Ratification: The 22nd Amendment to the United States Constitution was officially ratified, establishing a formal two-term limit for U.S. presidents. This constitutional amendment ensures that no president can serve more than two consecutive four-year terms, fundamentally changing the potential longevity of presidential leadership.
1952 UK Announces Atomic Bomb Capability: United Kingdom Prime Minister Winston Churchill officially announces that the United Kingdom has successfully developed an atomic bomb, signaling the country's entry into the nuclear age and marking a pivotal moment in Cold War geopolitics.
1953 Allen W. Dulles Becomes CIA Director: Allen W. Dulles was promoted from deputy to become the 5th director of the United States Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), marking a significant moment in Cold War-era intelligence leadership.
1954 Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Birth: Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who would later become the 25th Prime Minister of Turkey and a prominent political figure, was born in Istanbul, Turkey.
1955 First Supersonic Ejection Survival: George F. Smith made aviation history by becoming the first pilot to successfully bail out of an aircraft at supersonic speed. During a test flight in a North American F-100 Super Sabre, Smith ejected at Mach 1.05, demonstrating remarkable survival skills and providing critical insights into human endurance at extreme velocities.
1956 Sylvia Plath and Ted Hughes First Meet: On a significant literary evening in Cambridge, poets Sylvia Plath and Ted Hughes encounter each other at a party, marking the beginning of one of the most famous and tumultuous literary marriages of the 20th century. Their meeting would later inspire numerous works of poetry and biographical studies.
1957 Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidency: Dwight D. Eisenhower was serving as the 34th President of the United States, leading the country during the mid-1950s Cold War period.
1959 Birth of Rolando Blackman, Panamanian Basketball Star: Rolando Blackman was born on February 26, 1959, in Panama. He would later become a notable professional basketball player, known for his skills and contributions to the sport. Blackman went on to have a successful career in the NBA, primarily playing for the Dallas Mavericks, where he was a four-time NBA All-Star and became an important figure in the team's early history.
1960 Soviet Support for Indonesia: Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev publicly expresses support for Indonesia, signaling the ongoing geopolitical dynamics and diplomatic relations during the Cold War period.
1961 Hassan II Ascends to Moroccan Throne: Hassan II became the King of Morocco, succeeding his father Mohammed V. His coronation marked a significant moment in Moroccan modern history, as he would rule the country for nearly four decades until his death in 1999. Known for his political acumen and controversial leadership, Hassan II played a crucial role in Morocco's post-colonial era.
1962 Supreme Court Ruling Against Transportation Segregation: The U.S. Supreme Court delivered a landmark decision disallowing racial segregation in public transportation, a significant milestone in the Civil Rights Movement.
1964 The Beatles' Cinematic Debut: The theatrical release of 'A Hard Day's Night' marked a pivotal moment in music and film history. The movie not only showcased the immense popularity of The Beatles but also revolutionized the music film genre, blending comedy, music, and the band's charismatic personalities into a groundbreaking cinematic experience.
1965 Broadway's Most Expensive Theatrical Failure of 1965: U.S. Navy Lt. *Kelly*, a Broadway production, opened and closed at the Broadhurst Theatre, setting a record as the most financially disastrous theatrical production of its time. The show resulted in a staggering loss of $650,000 (equivalent to approximately $4.9 million in 2015), representing a significant financial risk in the entertainment industry.
1966 Apollo Program: First Saturn IB Rocket Launch: NASA successfully launched the Apollo-Saturn 201 (AS-201), an unmanned suborbital flight testing the Saturn IB launch vehicle and Apollo Command and Service Modules. The mission was a critical milestone in the Apollo program, reaching an altitude of 303 miles and traveling 5,264 miles downrange. This flight marked the first test of the S-IB and S-IVB stages, including the inaugural flight test of the liquid-hydrogen/liquid-oxygen J-2 engine in the S-IVB stage.
1967 Soviet Nuclear Test in Kazakhstan: The Soviet Union conducted a nuclear test at the Semipalatinsk Test Site in Eastern Kazakhstan, continuing its Cold War-era nuclear weapons development program.
1968 Clandestine Radio Voice of Iraqi People Final Transmission: The communist-affiliated clandestine radio station 'Voice of Iraqi People' ceased broadcasting on February 26, 1968. This marked the end of an underground communication channel during a politically turbulent period in Iraq's history.
1970 National Public Radio Incorporation: National Public Radio (NPR) officially incorporates as a non-profit media organization, marking a significant milestone in American public broadcasting history.
1971 United Nations Establishes Earth Day: U.N. Secretary General U Thant officially signed a proclamation designating the vernal equinox as Earth Day, marking a significant moment in global environmental awareness and recognition of planetary ecological concerns.
1972 Nixon's Historic Visit to China: President Richard Nixon spent an extraordinary week in the People's Republic of China, marking the first U.S. presidential visit to China and initiating a groundbreaking diplomatic engagement with the PRC. This landmark trip significantly transformed Cold War geopolitics, opening diplomatic channels between two nations that had been ideological adversaries for decades.
1973 Australia Establishes Diplomatic Relations with North Vietnam: In a significant diplomatic move, Australia formally established diplomatic relations with North Vietnam, marking a pivotal moment in post-Vietnam War international relations and Australia's engagement with Southeast Asian countries.
1974 A-10A Thunderbolt II Prototype Gun Test: On February 26, 1974, the A-10A Thunderbolt II prototype successfully fired its GAU-8/A Avenger rotary cannon during an in-flight test at Edwards Air Force Base. This was a significant milestone in the development of the iconic ground-attack aircraft known for its powerful anti-tank capabilities.
1975 First Televised Kidney Transplant: A groundbreaking medical event occurred when the first kidney transplant was broadcast live on national television via the Today Show, marking a significant moment in medical media transparency and public health education.
1976 Portugal Ends Military Rule: On February 26, 1976, leaders of Portugal's armed forces and the nation's five main political parties signed a historic agreement in Belém, officially ending military rule. This marked a crucial transition to democratic governance following the Carnation Revolution of 1974.
1977 First Space Shuttle Test Flight: The first Space Shuttle test flight occurred on February 26, 1977, marking a significant milestone in NASA's space exploration program. The shuttle was mounted atop a Boeing 747 for its initial atmospheric test, which was a critical step in validating the spacecraft's design and aerodynamic capabilities before actual space missions.
1978 Deathtrap Play Premieres in New York City: Ira Levin's critically acclaimed thriller play 'Deathtrap' made its debut on Broadway, marking an important moment in contemporary theatrical history. The play would go on to become one of the longest-running comedy-thriller plays in Broadway history.
1979 Total Solar Eclipse of 1979: The last total solar eclipse of the 20th century for the continental United States occurred, marking a significant astronomical event. This rare celestial phenomenon provided a spectacular view for observers in the region.
1980 Egypt-Israel Diplomatic Milestone: Egypt and Israel established full diplomatic relations, a significant diplomatic breakthrough following the Camp David Accords.
1981 French TGV Sets Speed Record: The French Train à Grande Vitesse (TGV) achieved an impressive average speed of 380 kilometers per hour during a trial run, demonstrating significant advancements in high-speed rail technology.
1982 Martin Crowe's Test Cricket Debut: Martin Crowe, a legendary New Zealand cricketer, made his Test cricket debut against Australia in Wellington, marking the beginning of a remarkable international cricket career. In his first match, he was run out after scoring 9 runs, a modest start to what would become an illustrious sporting journey.
1983 Michael Jackson's Thriller Dominates Music Charts: Michael Jackson's groundbreaking album 'Thriller' reaches the pinnacle of the Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart, marking a historic moment in popular music. The album would maintain its number one position for an unprecedented 37 weeks, demonstrating its massive cultural impact and Jackson's extraordinary musical genius.
1984 US Marines Exit Lebanon: The last US Marines in the multinational peacekeeping force depart from Beirut, concluding an 18-month international peacekeeping mission in Lebanon during a period of significant regional tension.
1985 27th Grammy Awards Highlights: The 27th Annual Grammy Awards celebrated outstanding achievements in music. Notable winners included Tina Turner for 'What's Love Got to Do With It' and Cyndi Lauper, marking significant moments in 1980s pop music.
1986 People Power Revolution in the Philippines: The People Power Revolution, also known as the EDSA Revolution, was a pivotal moment in Philippine history. Peaceful mass demonstrations in Manila led to the ousting of President Ferdinand Marcos, marking a significant triumph of non-violent resistance and democratic change.
1987 USSR Resumes Nuclear Testing: The Soviet Union ended a 19-month nuclear test moratorium by conducting a nuclear weapons test at the Eastern Kazakh / Semipalatinsk test site, escalating Cold War tensions.
1988 World Record Speed Skating Performance: Christa Rotherburger from the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) set a remarkable ladies' world record in the 1000-meter speed skating event, achieving an impressive time of 1:17.65.
1989 Death of Roy Eldridge, Jazz Trumpet Legend: Renowned American jazz trumpet player Roy Eldridge passed away on February 26, 1989. Known as a pivotal figure in the swing and bebop eras, Eldridge was a significant influence on later jazz musicians like Dizzy Gillespie.
1990 Soviet Union to Withdraw Troops from Czechoslovakia: As part of the ongoing political transformations in Eastern Europe, the Soviet Union committed to withdrawing all 73,500 of its troops from Czechoslovakia by July 1991, signaling the end of Soviet military presence in the country and reflecting the broader geopolitical changes of the era.
1991 Gulf War Conclusion: US Victory Declaration: President George H.W. Bush declares victory over Iraq and orders a cease-fire, marking the end of major combat operations in the Gulf War.
1992 Khojaly Massacre during Nagorno-Karabakh War: During the First Nagorno-Karabakh War, Armenian armed forces open fire on Azerbaijani civilians at a military post outside the town of Khojaly, resulting in a significant loss of civilian lives and marking a tragic moment in the conflict.
1993 1993 World Trade Center Bombing: On February 26, 1993, a devastating terrorist attack occurred when a truck bomb was detonated in the underground parking garage beneath the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City. The explosion killed six people and injured over 1,000, marking a significant moment in domestic terrorism history. The attack was orchestrated by al-Qaeda terrorists led by Ramzi Yousef, who aimed to topple the North Tower onto the South Tower, causing massive destruction. While the terrorists failed to achieve their primary objective, the bombing caused substantial structural damage and became a precursor to the more catastrophic September 11, 2001 attacks.
1994 Russian Parliament Grants Political Amnesty: The new Russian Parliament issued a general amnesty, releasing political opponents of President Boris Yeltsin, signaling a potential shift in post-Soviet political dynamics.
1995 Barings Bank Collapse: On February 26, 1995, the United Kingdom's oldest investment banking institution, Barings Bank, dramatically collapsed after securities broker Nick Leeson incurred unauthorized trading losses of $1.4 billion on the Singapore International Monetary Exchange. This event sent shockwaves through the global financial industry and highlighted critical risks in trading oversight.
1996 Silicon Graphics Acquires Cray Research: Silicon Graphics announced a strategic cash tender offer to acquire 75 percent of Cray Research's stock at US$30 per share, with a total transaction value of US$576 million. This significant merger in the high-performance computing sector was expected to be completed by June 1996, representing a major consolidation in the technology industry.
1997 Israeli Government Approves East Jerusalem Housing Development: The Israeli government approved a significant housing development in East Jerusalem, a controversial move that immediately drew criticism from Arab nations and the international community. This decision further complicated the already tense geopolitical landscape of the region, highlighting ongoing disputes over territorial sovereignty and settlement expansion.
1998 Oprah Winfrey Wins Landmark Beef Defamation Trial: In a high-profile legal battle, Oprah Winfrey was found not guilty in a defamation lawsuit brought by Texas cattlemen, related to comments she made about beef on her popular talk show. This trial was a significant moment in media and agricultural industry relations.
1999 Intel Launches 500 MHz Pentium III Processor: Intel announced the groundbreaking 500 MHz Pentium III processor, which introduced 70 new Streaming SIMD Extensions (SSE). This processor represented a significant advancement in computer processing technology, enhancing multimedia and computational performance for personal computers.
2000 Iranian Reformists Win Parliamentary Control: In a landmark political shift, reformist candidates secured control of Iran's parliament, decisively winning the Tehran district in the February elections. This marked the first time hard-liners were ousted from power since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, signaling potential significant political transformation in Iran.
2001 Destruction of Bamiyan Buddha Statues: The Taliban systematically destroyed two monumental Buddha statues carved into the cliff face of the Bamiyan valley in Afghanistan, representing a devastating act of cultural vandalism. These ancient statues, dating back to the 6th century, were UNESCO World Heritage sites and among the largest standing Buddha statues in the world before their deliberate demolition.
2002 Shiite Muslims Killed in Rawalpindi Mosque Attack: A tragic sectarian violence incident occurred in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, where 12 Shiite Muslims were fatally shot inside a mosque. This event highlights the ongoing religious tensions and sectarian conflicts in the region.
2003 World Trade Center Memorial Design Selected: Daniel Libeskind's architectural design for the World Trade Center memorial site was chosen, featuring an innovative office building and a symbolic 'Wedge of Light' memorial. The design honors the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, with the memorial area designed to be illuminated and then darkened annually on September 11th between specific times, utilizing the original WTC foundations.
2004 Same-Sex Marriage Developments in United States: A significant milestone in LGBTQ+ rights occurred as the United States saw progressive movements towards same-sex marriage. In New Paltz, the mayor announced civil marriages for gay couples, while Rosie O'Donnell wed Kelli Carpenter at San Francisco City Hall.
2005 Global Climate Action: Kyoto Protocol: Over 190 countries signed the Kyoto Protocol, a landmark international environmental treaty designed to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change, representing a significant milestone in international environmental cooperation.
2006 Al Askari Mosque Bombing: Warning of Civil War: The International Crisis Group issued a critical warning about the potential for civil war in Iraq following the devastating Al Askari Mosque Bombing, which resulted in at least 250 deaths and heightened sectarian tensions.
2007 International Court of Justice Ruling on Srebrenica Genocide: The International Court of Justice delivered a nuanced verdict on the Srebrenica genocide case, finding Serbia guilty of failing to prevent the genocide while simultaneously clearing it of direct responsibility and complicity. This landmark ruling was brought forth by Bosnia and Herzegovina and represents a significant moment in international legal accountability for mass atrocities.
2008 Global Seed Vault Established: The Global Seed Vault officially opened in Svalbard, Norway, creating a critical repository to preserve global crop diversity and protect against potential genetic losses in other gene banks.
2009 US Budget Reveals Record Deficit: The 2009/10 US budget is US$3.6 trillion, with an unprecedented US$1.75 trillion deficit representing 12.3% of the economy - the largest increase since 1945. The budget includes US$634 trillion for healthcare reform, US$200 billion for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, and US$250 billion to bail out US banks.
2010 Kim Yu-Na Wins Olympic Gold in Figure Skating: Kim Yu-Na, a South Korean figure skater, won the gold medal at the Winter Olympics with a historic performance. She set a new world record in both short program and free skating, achieving a total score of 228.56. This victory marked a significant milestone, as she became the first South Korean figure skater to win gold at the Olympic Games.
2011 2011 Libyan Civil War Escalation: The Libyan Civil War intensified with increasing international and internal pressure mounting against Muammar Gaddafi's regime. The conflict marked a critical moment in the Arab Spring uprisings.
2012 Trayvon Martin Shooting: Seventeen-year-old African-American student Trayvon Martin was fatally shot by neighborhood watch coordinator George Zimmerman in Sanford, Florida. This incident sparked nationwide discussions about racial profiling, self-defense laws, and systemic racism in the United States.
2013 Chuck Hagel Confirmed as U.S. Secretary of Defense: The United States Senate confirmed Chuck Hagel as the new Secretary of Defense, marking a significant moment in the Obama administration's defense leadership transition.
2014 2014 Ukrainian Revolution and Crimean Crisis: On February 26, 2014, significant political changes occurred in Ukraine during the ongoing revolution. Oleksandr Turchynov was officially appointed as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. In response to the violent protests, the Berkut elite police unit, which was implicated in the deaths of protesters, was disbanded by acting interior minister Arsen Avakov. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered military exercises near the Ukrainian border, escalating tensions in the region.
2015 FCC Establishes Net Neutrality Rules: The U.S. Federal Communications Commission voted to classify internet service providers as public utilities, establishing comprehensive net neutrality rules. Additionally, the FCC moved to override state laws in North Carolina and Tennessee that restricted municipal broadband providers' expansion.
2016 Syrian Cessation of Hostilities Truce Begins: A UN-backed truce went into effect in Syria, with nearly 100 rebel groups agreeing to stop hostilities. The ceasefire did not apply to operations against terrorist organizations like ISIL and Jabhat al-Nusra.
2017 89th Academy Awards Ceremony: The 89th Academy Awards took place in Los Angeles, featuring a historic moment when 'Moonlight' won Best Picture after initially being mistakenly announced as 'La La Land'. Key winners included Damien Chazelle (Best Director), Casey Affleck (Best Actor), Emma Stone (Best Actress), Mahershala Ali (Best Supporting Actor), and Viola Davis (Best Supporting Actress).
2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Students Return After Shooting: Thousands of students, parents, and teachers returned to Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, for an orientation session following the tragic February 14 shooting that killed 17 people. Grief counselors were present to support students, and memorial crosses adorned with flowers and stuffed animals marked the site. The school planned a phased reopening, with full schedule resumption expected by March 5, and administrators were working to restructure class schedules after the loss of the three-story building where the shooting occurred.
2019 Indian Air Force Strikes Jaish-e-Mohammed Terrorist Camp in Balakot: The Indian Air Force conducted targeted strikes against a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist training camp in Balakot, Pakistan, as a direct response to the Pulwama terrorist attack. This operation marked a significant escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan.
2020 U.S. Congress Passes Emmett Till Antilynching Act: In a historic moment for civil rights, the U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed the Emmett Till Antilynching Act with a vote of 410-4. This landmark legislation finally designates lynching as a federal crime, marking the first successful anti-lynching bill in Congressional history and representing a significant step towards addressing racial violence.
2021 Zamfara Mass Kidnapping of Female Students: A horrific mass abduction occurred in Zamfara State, Nigeria, where 279 female students between the ages of 10 and 17 were kidnapped by armed bandits, highlighting the ongoing security challenges and vulnerability of children in the region.
2022 Scientific Discovery of Balkanatolia Continent: Researchers published groundbreaking findings about Balkanatolia, a 'lost' continent that existed 35 to 38 million years ago. This geological discovery revealed a critical land bridge connecting southern Europe with Asia, which played a significant role in prehistoric animal migrations. The research provides crucial insights into ancient biogeography and the movement of species during the Eocene epoch.
2023 Violent Settler Attacks in West Bank: A severe escalation of tensions in the northern West Bank occurred when Israeli settlers conducted retaliatory attacks following a Palestinian gunman's killing of two Israelis. The settlers burned approximately 200 buildings in Palestinian villages and killed at least one person, marking one of the most violent incidents of settler revenge.

What Is special about February 26?

February 26 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 26.