Historical Events on February 28: Significant Moments in History

Throughout history, certain dates stand out for the remarkable events that unfolded on them. From turning points in politics to cultural breakthroughs, these days often carry significance that echoes through time. Explore the most important events that occurred on February 28, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on February 28 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Relief of Ladysmith During Second Boer War: General Buller's British troops successfully lifted the siege of Ladysmith, breaking through Boer lines in a significant military operation during the Second Boer War, marking a crucial turning point in the conflict.
1901 Birth of Linus Pauling, Renowned Scientist: Linus Pauling was born, a groundbreaking American chemist who would later become one of the most influential scientists of the 20th century. He is the only person to have won two unshared Nobel Prizes - the Nobel Prize in Chemistry (1954) and the Nobel Peace Prize (1962). His work in quantum chemistry, molecular biology, and his advocacy for nuclear disarmament would profoundly impact scientific understanding and global peace efforts.
1902 Jules Massenet's Opera Premiere in Monte Carlo: Jules Massenet's opera 'Le jongleur de Notre-Dame' premiered at the Monte Carlo Opera House, marking an important moment in early 20th-century French operatic history. The work, which translates to 'The Juggler of Notre Dame', is a one-act opera that tells a medieval religious story about a juggler who becomes a saint through his devotion and performance.
1903 British Victory in Kwatarkwashi Battle: In a pivotal military engagement, British colonial forces defeated the army of the Sokoto Caliphate's Kano Emirate during the Battle of Kwatarkwashi. This battle effectively terminated the Kano Emirate's self-governance and solidified British control over Northern Nigeria, representing a critical moment in British colonial expansion in West Africa.
1904 Outbreak of the Russo-Japanese War: The Russo-Japanese War officially escalated to full-scale conflict by February 28, 1904. This war marked a significant moment in early 20th-century geopolitics, representing the first major military conflict where an Asian power defeated a European imperial power. The conflict began with a surprise Japanese naval attack on Port Arthur (Lüshun) in Manchuria on February 8, and by February 28, substantial military operations were underway.
1905 Murder of Jane Stanford at Moana Hotel: Jane Stanford, co-founder of Stanford University alongside her husband Leland Stanford, was fatally poisoned during her stay at the Moana Hotel in Honolulu, Hawaii. Her mysterious death sparked significant controversy and investigation, raising questions about potential motives and perpetrators within the university's inner circle.
1906 Birth of Bugsy Siegel: Benjamin 'Bugsy' Siegel, a notorious American gangster and organized crime figure, was born on February 28, 1906, in Brooklyn, New York. He played a significant role in developing Las Vegas casinos and was a key member of the infamous Murder, Inc. syndicate during the early to mid-20th century.
1907 Birth of Milton Caniff: Milton Caniff, a pioneering American cartoonist renowned for his influential comic strips 'Terry and the Pirates' and 'Steve Canyon', was born in Hillsboro, Ohio. His innovative storytelling and dynamic artistic style would significantly impact the comic art form throughout the mid-20th century, establishing him as one of the most important graphic storytellers of his generation.
1908 Assassination Attempt on Shah Mohammed Ali: A failed assassination attempt was made against Shah Mohammed Ali in Tehran, Persia (modern-day Iran). This event highlights the political instability and tensions during the early 20th century in the Persian constitutional period.
1909 First National Woman's Day in the United States: The Socialist Party of America organized the inaugural National Woman's Day, commemorating the pivotal 1908 garment workers' strike in New York City. This landmark event highlighted the challenging working conditions faced by women laborers and marked a significant moment in the early women's rights movement. The day celebrated the courage of women workers who had protested against exploitative labor practices, poor wages, and unsafe working environments in the garment industry.
1910 Wellington Avalanche: Deadliest Disaster in U.S. Railroad History: On February 28, 1910, one of the most tragic natural disasters in United States railroad history occurred in Wellington, Washington. An enormous avalanche struck the Great Northern Railway depot, killing 96 people in a devastating event that would become the deadliest avalanche in U.S. history. The massive snow slide swept two trains—the Great Northern Railway's Spokane Express and the Fast Mail train—off the tracks and down a steep mountainside, resulting in massive loss of life and highlighting the extreme dangers of mountain rail transportation in early 20th century winter conditions.
1911 President Taft Nominates First African-American for U.S. Attorney General: In a groundbreaking moment for racial representation in American government, President William Howard Taft nominated William H. Lewis, an African-American from Massachusetts, to be United States Attorney General. This nomination was a significant step towards racial progress in early 20th-century American politics, though Lewis was not ultimately confirmed.
1912 Victor Trumper's Final Test Cricket Innings: Victor Trumper, a legendary Australian cricketer, played his last Test Cricket innings on this day, scoring 50 runs before being caught by Woolley and bowled by Barnes. This marked the end of an era for one of cricket's most celebrated early batsmen.
1913 Devastating Dewey Hotel Fire in Omaha: A tragic fire erupted at the Dewey Hotel in Omaha, Nebraska, resulting in the loss of at least 20 human lives. This catastrophic event highlighted the significant fire safety challenges and urban infrastructure vulnerabilities of the early 20th century, prompting subsequent improvements in building codes and emergency response protocols.
1914 Proclamation of Autonomous Republic of Northern Epirus: On February 28, 1914, ethnic Greeks in southern Albania proclaimed the establishment of the Autonomous Republic of Northern Epirus in Gjirokaster. This declaration was a significant political move reflecting the complex ethnic tensions in the Balkan region during the early 20th century, following the resolution of the Balkan Wars.
1915 Birth of Sir Peter Medawar, Pioneering Immunologist: Sir Peter Medawar was born in London, England, a distinguished zoologist and immunologist who would later be awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1953 for his groundbreaking work in understanding tissue transplantation and the immune system's response to foreign cells.
1916 Formation of First Long-Range British Air Bombing Squadron: On February 28, 1916, the British Royal Flying Corps established the first dedicated long-range air bombing squadron, marking a significant milestone in military aviation history. This development represented a strategic shift in warfare, introducing the concept of aerial bombardment as a new form of military engagement during World War I.
1917 Russian Revolution Begins: Duma and Soviets Emerge: A critical moment in Russian political history occurs as the Russian Duma establishes a Provisional Committee, simultaneously with workers organizing their own representative bodies called Soviets. This marks the initial stages of the Russian Revolution that will ultimately lead to the fall of the Tsarist regime.
1918 Bolshevik Russia Halts Military Operations on Eastern Front: On February 28, 1918, the Bolshevik government suspended military operations on the Eastern Front and resumed diplomatic negotiations. This marked a critical moment in the aftermath of the Russian Revolution, as the new Soviet leadership sought to extract Russia from World War I and focus on consolidating internal power. The cessation of hostilities was part of the broader context of the Brest-Litovsk peace negotiations with Germany, which would ultimately result in a controversial and harsh peace treaty for Russia.
1919 Amanullah Khan Ascends to Afghan Throne: On February 28, 1919, Amanullah Khan seized power in Afghanistan, overthrowing his brother Nasrullah Khan and establishing himself as the new monarch. This pivotal moment marked a significant transition in Afghan political leadership, setting the stage for substantial reforms in the early 20th century.
1920 Silica Gel Mass Production Patent Filed: Chemistry professor Walter A. Patrick filed a groundbreaking patent application for the mass production of silica gel, a versatile synthetic substance with numerous industrial and scientific applications, including desiccation, chromatography, and later uses in electronics, pharmaceuticals, and packaging.
1921 Cleveland Clinic Established and Begins Patient Care: On February 28, 1921, the Cleveland Clinic, a pioneering medical institution that would become one of the most renowned hospitals in the United States, officially began patient care. In its inaugural day, the clinic admitted 42 patients, marking the start of what would become a transformative healthcare organization known for medical innovation and comprehensive patient treatment.
1922 Egypt Gains Limited Independence from Britain: Egypt officially regains a form of independence from British colonial rule, though British troops continue to maintain a significant presence in the country. This marks a pivotal moment in Egypt's struggle for sovereignty, albeit with substantial British influence remaining.
1923 Greece Transitions to Gregorian Calendar: Greece officially transitioned from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar, aligning itself with the majority of the world's timekeeping standard. This significant calendrical reform represented a modernization effort, bringing Greece's date system in line with most European and global practices.
1924 U.S. Military Intervention in Honduras: On February 28, 1924, the United States initiated a military intervention in Honduras, reflecting the era's complex geopolitical dynamics and U.S. foreign policy in Central America. This intervention was part of a broader pattern of U.S. military involvement in Latin American countries during the early 20th century, often motivated by strategic, economic, and political interests.
1925 First Presidential Inauguration Broadcast on Radio: Calvin Coolidge's presidential inauguration became the first such event to be broadcast on radio, symbolizing the growing influence of mass media in American political communication.
1926 Birth of Svetlana Alliluyeva, Stalin's Daughter: Svetlana Alliluyeva was born in Moscow, becoming the only daughter of Soviet leader Joseph Stalin. Her life would later become a significant historical narrative, marked by her eventual defection to the West in 1967 and her critical writings about her father's regime, providing unique personal insights into one of the most controversial political figures of the 20th century.
1927 Uneventful Day in 1927: While no major historical events were specifically documented for February 28, 1927, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. The late 1920s were a dynamic period of global transition, with ongoing developments in technology, politics, and social structures. The world was recovering from World War I, experiencing the Jazz Age, and on the cusp of significant economic and technological changes that would define the 20th century.
1928 Discovery of the Raman Effect: Indian physicist C.V. Raman discovers the Raman effect, a groundbreaking phenomenon in spectroscopy where light changes its wavelength when passing through a transparent material. This discovery would later earn Raman the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930 and significantly advance our understanding of molecular interactions.
1929 Communist Headquarters Raid in Hungary: A significant police operation targeted communist headquarters in Hungary, resulting in 60 arrests of predominantly Russian and German nationals. Authorities claimed to have successfully disrupted a potential communist plot aimed at overthrowing the government, highlighting the political tensions and anti-communist sentiments of the late 1920s.
1930 Spanish Press Censorship Reinstated: The Spanish government restored press censorship and prohibited all public meetings and speeches, aiming to suppress growing republican political movements and limit public dissent during a turbulent period in Spanish political history.
1931 Oswald Mosley founds his New Party
1932 Richard Spikes Invents Automatic Gear Shift: On February 28, 1932, African American inventor Richard Spikes patented a groundbreaking innovation in automotive technology: the automatic gear shift. This invention significantly simplified driving by eliminating the need for manual gear changing, making automobiles more accessible and easier to operate for a broader range of drivers. Spikes' patent represented a crucial step in the evolution of automotive engineering, paving the way for future automatic transmission systems.
1933 Reichstag Fire Decree Implemented: The Nazi regime passes the Reichstag Fire Decree, a pivotal legal instrument that suspends constitutional civil liberties and enables widespread political repression.
1934 Uneventful Day in 1934: While no major historical events were specifically recorded for February 28, 1934, this day represents a typical moment in the interwar period. During this time, global tensions were building, with political and economic uncertainties prevalent across Europe and the world. The lack of a notable event does not diminish the historical significance of the broader context of this period.
1935 Nylon Invention by Dr. Wallace H. Carothers: Dr. Wallace H. Carothers, a pioneering chemist at DuPont, successfully synthesized nylon, a groundbreaking synthetic polymer that would revolutionize the textile and manufacturing industries. This invention marked a significant milestone in materials science, creating a versatile, strong, and lightweight material with numerous applications.
1936 Interstate Commerce Commission Reduces Rail Passenger Fares: On February 28, 1936, the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) mandated a significant reduction in basic rail passenger fares across the United States, lowering the rate from 3.6 to 2 cents per mile. This regulatory decision aimed to make rail travel more affordable for Americans during the Great Depression era, potentially stimulating transportation and economic activity.
1937 Uneventful Day in 1937: While no specific major historical events were documented for February 28, 1937, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. During this period, the world was experiencing significant global tensions, with events like the Spanish Civil War ongoing and rising political uncertainties in Europe preceding World War II.
1938 Uneventful Day in 1938: While no specific major historical events were documented for February 28, 1938, this period was part of the tumultuous pre-World War II era. In the late 1930s, global tensions were rising with Nazi Germany's expansionist policies and increasing militarization in Europe. The world was on the brink of significant geopolitical changes, though this particular day passed without notable recorded incidents.
1939 Great Britain Recognizes Franco's Regime in Spain: The British government officially recognized Francisco Franco's Nationalist government in Spain, marking a significant diplomatic shift following the Spanish Civil War. This recognition signaled international acceptance of Franco's victory and consolidated his political power.
1940 Land Transfers Regulations in Mandatory Palestine: The British Mandate authorities published the Land Transfers Regulations, which divided Mandatory Palestine into zones with varying land ownership and transfer restrictions. These regulations significantly impacted land ownership and settlement patterns in the region.
1941 February Strike in the Netherlands: The February Strike, a significant act of resistance against Nazi occupation, was largely suppressed. This protest was primarily in response to the Nazi regime's anti-Jewish measures, demonstrating Dutch civilian resistance during World War II.
1942 USS Houston and HMAS Perth Sunk: In a devastating naval engagement during World War II, the heavy cruiser USS Houston was sunk in the Battle of Sunda Strait, resulting in the loss of 693 crew members. The Australian cruiser HMAS Perth was also destroyed, with 375 men killed.
1943 Operation Gunnerside: Norwegian Sabotage of Nazi Nuclear Research: A team of 6 Norwegian commandos, led by Joachim Ronneberg, successfully conducted a daring sabotage mission against the Vemork heavy water plant in Nazi-occupied Norway. This critical operation disrupted German nuclear research efforts during World War II, significantly impeding their potential development of an atomic weapon.
1944 Big Week Air Campaign: Strategic Allied Bombing of Nazi Industrial Targets: During the critical phase of World War II known as 'Big Week', approximately 3,800 Allied bombers conducted massive strategic bombing raids targeting key German war production facilities. These coordinated air attacks aimed to systematically destroy Nazi industrial infrastructure, particularly aircraft and manufacturing plants. The campaign involved significant aerial combat and resulted in substantial casualties and material losses for both the Allied and German forces, representing a pivotal moment in the air war over Europe.
1945 Anne Frank Dies in Bergen-Belsen Concentration Camp: In late February 1945, Anne Frank, the young Jewish diarist who became a symbol of Holocaust victims, died of typhus in the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in Lower Saxony, Germany, just months before the end of World War II.
1946 Ho Chi Minh Becomes North Vietnam's President: Ho Chi Minh was elected as the President of North Vietnam, a pivotal moment in Vietnamese political history that would have significant implications for the region's future conflicts and independence movements.
1947 The 228 Incident in Taiwan: On February 28, 1947, mass protests erupted in Taiwan following the violent suppression of an anti-government uprising. The incident was sparked by the arrest of a woman selling contraband cigarettes and the subsequent beating of a bystander by a government agent. The crowd, already frustrated with rising unemployment, inflation, and government corruption, turned violent, leading to significant clashes with authorities.
1948 Accra Riots Spark Gold Coast Independence Movement: The Accra riots erupted in the British colony of the Gold Coast (modern-day Ghana) when police violently suppressed a peaceful protest march of unarmed ex-servicemen demanding their unpaid war benefits. The tragic shooting of Sergeant Adjetey, Corporal Attipoe, and Private Odartey Lamptey became a pivotal moment in the country's struggle for independence, symbolizing the brutal colonial oppression and galvanizing the nationalist movement.
1949 Birth of Actress Ilene Graff: Ilene Graff, an accomplished American actress and singer, was born on February 28, 1949. Known for her work in television, theater, and music, Graff would later become recognized for her roles in various stage productions and television shows, contributing to the entertainment industry throughout her career.
1950 B-36 Bomber Nuclear Weapon Crash: A U.S. Air Force B-36 strategic bomber experienced a critical failure and crashed off the Pacific coast near Vancouver, Canada, while carrying a nuclear weapon. This incident raised significant concerns about nuclear safety and military aviation risks during the early Cold War period.
1951 US Crime Syndicate Senate Report: A United States Senate committee released a comprehensive report detailing the existence and operations of at least two major organized crime syndicates in the country, highlighting the growing concern about criminal networks during the early 1950s.
1952 Birth of William Finn, Notable American Musical Theater Composer: William Finn, a renowned American composer and lyricist, was born on this date. Known for his innovative and emotionally complex musical works, Finn would later become a significant figure in contemporary musical theater, creating groundbreaking shows like 'Falsettos' and 'The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee'.
1953 Discovery of DNA's Double Helix Structure: James D. Watson and Francis Crick announced to their colleagues their groundbreaking discovery of the chemical structure of DNA, a pivotal moment in molecular biology. This scientific breakthrough would revolutionize our understanding of genetics, heredity, and the fundamental mechanisms of life. The formal publication occurred in the journal Nature in April, marking a significant milestone in 20th-century scientific research.
1954 Brown v. Board of Education Filed in Federal Court: A landmark civil rights case was filed in Federal Court challenging racial segregation in public schools, which would ultimately lead to the historic Supreme Court decision that declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional.
1955 Birth of Gilbert Gottfried: Gilbert Gottfried was born in Brooklyn, New York, marking the arrival of a distinctive comedian known for his unique, abrasive comedic style and memorable voice acting roles, including the parrot Iago in Disney's Aladdin.
1956 Forrester Patents Computer Core Memory: Jay Forrester at MIT was awarded a patent for his groundbreaking coincident current magnetic core memory. This innovative 'multicoordinate digital information storage device' became the standard memory technology for digital computers, revolutionizing computer data storage until semiconductor RAM replaced it in the mid-1970s.
1957 USS Nautilus Achieves Remarkable Endurance Milestone: On February 28, 1957, the USS Nautilus (SSN-571), the world's first nuclear-powered submarine, logged 60,000 nautical miles (110,000 kilometers), symbolically matching the fictional endurance of Captain Nemo's submarine in Jules Verne's classic novel 'Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Seas'. This achievement represented a significant technological breakthrough in naval engineering and nuclear propulsion.
1958 Tragic Floyd County School Bus Accident: A devastating school bus accident occurred in Floyd County, Kentucky, when a bus collided with a wrecker truck and plunged down an embankment into the rain-swollen Levisa Fork River. The tragic incident resulted in the deaths of the bus driver and 26 children, marking the worst school bus accident in United States history at that time.
1959 Tragic Listowel Arena Roof Collapse: A devastating roof collapse occurred at the Listowel Arena in Ontario, Canada, during a hockey game, resulting in the deaths of seven young players, a referee, and a recreation director. This tragic incident highlighted the importance of building safety and structural integrity in public sports facilities.
1960 VIII Winter Olympics Close at Squaw Valley: The 8th Winter Olympic Games concluded at Squaw Valley, California, marking a significant moment in international sports competition. The games showcased athletic excellence across multiple winter sports disciplines.
1961 Kennedy Appoints Henry Kissinger as Special Advisor: President John F. Kennedy appointed Henry Kissinger, a prominent political scientist and diplomat, as a special advisor, marking an early stage in Kissinger's influential diplomatic career. This appointment would later prove significant in shaping U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War era.
1962 Death of Chic Johnson: Chic Johnson, a prominent American actor and comedian known for his comedic performances, passed away on February 28, 1962, at the age of 71.
1963 First African-American Elected to Chicago City Council Ward: Benjamin F. Lewis, an African-American Alderman from the 24th Ward, is elected to the Chicago City Council, breaking racial barriers in local Chicago politics.
1964 The Beatles Record Second 'From Us to You' Radio Program: The Beatles recorded their second 'From Us to You' radio program at the BBC Piccadilly Studios in London. During this recording session, they performed eight songs: You Can't Do That, Roll Over Beethoven, Till There Was You, I Wanna Be Your Man, Please Mr. Postman, All My Loving, This Boy, and Can't Buy Me Love. This session was part of their early radio performances that helped solidify their growing popularity.
1965 Adolf Schärf, Austrian President, Passes Away: Adolf Schärf, the President of Austria who served from 1957 to 1965, died at the age of 74. A significant political figure in post-World War II Austria, Schärf played a crucial role in the country's reconstruction and stabilization during a challenging period of national recovery.
1966 Venera 3: First Spacecraft to Land on Another Planet: The Soviet space probe Venera 3 made history by becoming the first spacecraft to land on the surface of Venus, marking a significant milestone in planetary exploration and the ongoing Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union.
1967 Anna Anderson Anastasia Claim Legally Rejected: A West German court definitively concluded a decades-long legal dispute by ruling that Anna Anderson could not substantiate her claim of being Princess Anastasia Romanov, the missing daughter of the last Russian Tsar. This landmark decision effectively ended one of the most famous impersonation cases of the 20th century, resolving a mystery that had captivated public imagination since the Russian Revolution.
1968 Pirate Radio Hauraki Returns to Broadcast: Pirate Radio Hauraki, a pioneering independent radio station broadcasting off the coast of New Zealand, resumed its transmissions after facing previous regulatory challenges. This marked a significant moment in New Zealand's broadcasting history, highlighting the station's resistance to government broadcasting restrictions and its role in challenging media control.
1969 Sirhan Sirhan Court Appearance: Sirhan Bishara Sirhan appeared in court in Los Angeles for the trial regarding the 1968 assassination of presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy.
1970 Caroline Walker's Marathon Record: Caroline Walker set a remarkable world record for female marathoners, completing the race in an impressive time of 3 hours, 2 minutes, and 53 seconds, highlighting women's growing achievements in long-distance running.
1971 Political Crisis in Pakistan: Pakistani President Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan indefinitely postpones the National Assembly session, triggering massive civil disobedience in East Pakistan and escalating tensions that would eventually lead to significant political upheaval.
1972 Nixon's Historic China Visit Concludes: US President Richard Nixon completes his groundbreaking week-long diplomatic visit to the People's Republic of China, marking a significant turning point in Sino-American relations and Cold War geopolitics.
1973 Iraq-IPC Nationalization Agreement: Iraq and the Iraq Petroleum Company (IPC) successfully negotiated a compensation agreement regarding the nationalization of petroleum resources, marking a significant moment in the country's economic sovereignty.
1974 US-Egypt Diplomatic Relations Restored: After a seven-year diplomatic hiatus, the United States and Egypt re-established diplomatic relations, marking a significant moment in Middle Eastern geopolitics and signaling a potential thaw in Cold War-era tensions.
1975 Moorgate Underground Disaster: A catastrophic train accident occurred in London when an underground train failed to stop at the Moorgate terminus station, crashing into the end of the tunnel. The tragic incident resulted in 43 fatalities and 74 injuries, becoming one of the deadliest accidents in London Underground history.
1976 UK Changes Terrorist Sentencing Policy: UK Home Secretary Merlyn Rees terminates Special Category Status for individuals convicted of scheduled terrorist crimes related to Northern Ireland's civil conflict, signaling a shift in legal approach to political violence.
1977 First Killer Whale Born in Captivity: A historic moment in marine biology occurred when the first killer whale (orca) was successfully born in captivity at Marineland in Los Angeles, California, marking a significant milestone in marine mammal conservation and research.
1978 Iran Parliamentary Bill Grants Prisoner Amnesty: Iran's Lower House of Parliament passed a significant legislative bill to free approximately 2,000 prisoners convicted of political offenses. The bill was designed to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the birth of the Shah's father, marking a notable moment of potential political reconciliation.
1979 Significant Earthquake in Alaska: A powerful magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck Mt. Saint Elias in Alaska, causing potential geological disruption and seismic activity in the region.
1980 Andalusia Autonomy Referendum: Andalusia, an autonomous community in southern Spain, approved its statute of autonomy through a democratic referendum, marking a significant moment in Spain's post-Franco democratic transition.
1981 Bobby Sands Begins Hunger Strike at Maze Prison: IRA member Bobby Sands initiated a hunger strike at the Maze Prison in Northern Ireland, marking a pivotal moment in the Irish Republican movement that would capture global media attention and become a significant event in the Northern Ireland conflict.
1982 AT&T Reports Record Financial Loss: AT&T reported an unprecedented financial loss of $7 billion for the fiscal year ending on February 28, 1982, signaling significant challenges in the telecommunications industry during this period.
1983 M*A*S*H Series Finale Breaks Television Viewership Record: The final episode of the iconic television series M*A*S*H is broadcast in the United States, becoming the most-watched television episode in history. The finale, titled 'Goodbye, Farewell and Amen', attracted an estimated 106-125 million viewers, setting a landmark moment in television broadcasting.
1984 Michael Jackson Dominates 26th Grammy Awards: At the 26th Grammy Awards, Michael Jackson achieved a historic milestone by winning eight Grammy Awards, highlighting his unprecedented musical success and cultural impact.
1985 Deadly IRA Mortar Attack in Newry: The Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) executed a devastating mortar attack on the Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) police station in Newry, Northern Ireland. This attack resulted in the single deadliest day for the RUC, with nine officers killed, marking a significant escalation in the Northern Ireland conflict.
1986 Assassination of Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme: On the evening of February 28, 1986, Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme was fatally shot while walking home with his wife from a movie in Stockholm. The assassination shocked Sweden and the international community, and the case remained unsolved for decades.
1987 Death of Nora Kaye, Prominent Ballet Dancer: Nora Kaye, a distinguished American ballet dancer known for her significant contributions to modern dance, passed away at the age of 67. Kaye was a renowned performer and influential figure in the mid-20th century dance world, having performed with prestigious companies and helped shape contemporary ballet techniques.
1988 Anti-Armenian Pogrom in Azerbaijan: A tragic ethnic violence erupted in Azerbaijan, resulting in the killing of 30 Armenian people. This event was part of the escalating tensions between Armenians and Azerbaijanis during the late 1980s, which would later contribute to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
1989 Baseball Hall of Fame Inductees: Red Schoendienst and Al Barlick were elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame, recognizing their significant contributions to the sport and their outstanding careers.
1990 Nicaragua Ceasefire Announcement: Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega announced a cease-fire with the U.S.-backed Contra rebels, signaling a potential de-escalation in the ongoing conflict.
1991 Gulf War Concludes with Coalition Victory: The Gulf War ends with a decisive 100-hour ground campaign by US-led coalition forces, marking a significant military triumph and geopolitical turning point in the Middle East.
1992 Bosnia and Herzegovina Independence Referendum: The Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina held a historic referendum on national independence, which received overwhelming support from the population. This pivotal vote would later play a crucial role in the complex geopolitical landscape of the breakup of Yugoslavia and the subsequent Bosnian War.
1993 Waco Siege Begins: ATF Raid on Branch Davidian Compound: On February 28, 1993, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) launched a controversial raid on the Branch Davidian religious compound near Waco, Texas. The operation, intended to serve a warrant to arrest group leader David Koresh on federal firearms violations, quickly escalated into a violent confrontation. The initial raid resulted in the deaths of four federal agents and six Branch Davidians, marking the beginning of a 51-day standoff that would become a significant and tragic event in modern American history.
1994 Brady Law Takes Effect: The Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act goes into effect, mandating federal background checks on firearm purchasers and imposing a waiting period for handgun purchases, representing a significant gun control measure in the United States.
1995 Political Transition in Poland: Polish Prime Minister Waldemar Pawlak resigned from Parliament and was replaced by Jozef Oleksy, a former communist, signaling ongoing political transformations in post-communist Poland.
1996 End of Siege of Sarajevo: The Bosnian government officially declares the end of the Siege of Sarajevo, a pivotal moment in the Bosnian War. This declaration marked a significant turning point in the conflict and represented hope for peace and reconstruction in the war-torn region.
1997 Turkish Military Memorandum and 'Postmodern Coup': The Turkish military leadership issued a critical memorandum on the National Security Council, leading to the resignation of Islamist Prime Minister Necmettin Erbakan and the collapse of his coalition government. This event was notably labeled a 'postmodern coup' by Turkish Admiral Salim Dervişoğlu, highlighting the complex political dynamics in Turkey during this period.
1998 Likoshane Massacre Triggers Kosovo War: A massacre in Likoshane, FR Yugoslavia, became a critical flashpoint that effectively initiated the Kosovo War, representing a brutal escalation of ethnic tensions in the region.
2000 US Presidential Leadership: Bill Clinton was serving as the 42nd President of the United States on February 28, 2000, during the final year of his second term in office.
2001 2001 Nisqually Earthquake: A significant intraslab earthquake struck the Pacific Northwest on February 28, 2001, at 10:54:32 local time. Measuring 6.8 on the moment magnitude scale with a maximum Mercalli intensity of VIII (Severe), the earthquake's epicenter was located in the southern Puget Sound, northeast of Olympia. The tremor was felt across multiple states and regions, including Oregon, British Columbia, eastern Washington, and Idaho. The earthquake caused extensive property damage estimated between $1-4 billion, resulted in one fatality from a heart attack, and injured several hundred people.
2002 Gujarat Religious Violence: A devastating day of religious violence in Gujarat, India, with two major massacres: the Naroda Patiya massacre resulting in 97 deaths and the Gulbarg Society massacre with 69 fatalities, representing a dark chapter in communal tensions.
2003 Iraq Missile Destruction Controversy: Iraq began destroying Al Samoud missiles on March 1, with UN Chief Weapons Inspector Hans Blix calling it 'a very significant piece of real disarmament'. However, the White House spokesman Ari Fleischer dismissed the action as fraudulent, insisting on total Iraqi disarmament.
2004 Criticism of Israeli West Bank Barrier: Ronnie Kasrils, South African Minister of Water Affairs and Forestry, strongly condemned the Israeli West Bank Barrier, describing it as a 'wall of shame' and alleging it was designed to deprive Palestinians of land and water resources.
2005 Lebanese Government Resigns Following Hariri Assassination: In the wake of massive protests following the assassination of Rafik Hariri, the entire Lebanese government, led by pro-Syrian Prime Minister Omar Karami, resigns. This marked a significant political turning point in Lebanon's struggle for sovereignty and independence from Syrian influence.
2006 Al Askari Mosque Bombing in Baghdad: A devastating bombing at the Al Askari Mosque in Baghdad, Iraq, resulted in widespread violence. Sixty-eight people were initially reported killed, with the death toll later escalating to over 1,300. The incident heightened fears of potential civil war in Iraq, marking a critical moment in the country's post-invasion instability.
2007 John McCain Announces 2008 Presidential Campaign: Senator John McCain (R-AZ) officially announced his candidacy for the 2008 United States Presidential Election during an appearance on The Late Show With David Letterman.
2008 Kenya Power-Sharing Agreement: In a landmark political resolution, Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki and opposition leader Raila Odinga signed a comprehensive power-sharing deal to end post-election tensions. The agreement established a coalition government with Odinga becoming prime minister, sharing cabinet posts, and committing to constitutional amendments to formalize the power-sharing arrangement.
2009 Mugabe Maintains Land Redistribution Policy: Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe reaffirmed his commitment to continuing the controversial land redistribution policy, which involved transferring agricultural lands from white farmers to black farmers, a policy that had significant economic and social implications for Zimbabwe.
2010 2010 Winter Olympics Close in Vancouver: The 2010 Winter Olympics concluded in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. An estimated 3.5 billion people watched the games worldwide, with Canada achieving a historic performance by winning 14 gold medals - the most ever by a single nation at the Winter Games.
2011 Arab Spring Escalates: A pivotal day in the Arab Spring, with widespread protests and political upheaval across multiple Middle Eastern countries, signaling significant regional transformation.
2012 UN Human Rights Commissioner Calls for Syrian Ceasefire: Navanethem Pillay, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, urgently demanded an immediate ceasefire in Syria and called for humanitarian access to support civilians affected by the conflict.
2013 Pope Benedict XVI Resigns: Pope Benedict XVI (born Joseph Ratzinger) resigns as the head of the Catholic Church, becoming the first pope to voluntarily resign since Pope Gregory XII in 1415, marking a historic moment in papal history.
2014 Russian Military Intervention in Crimea: Russia officially confirms the deployment of troops to Ukraine's Crimea region, citing the protection of its strategic interests. This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing Ukrainian crisis and tensions between Russia and Ukraine.
2015 ISIS Executes Egyptian Coptic Christians: ISIS militants brutally beheaded 21 Egyptian Coptic Christians kidnapped from Sirte, prompting a swift military response from Egypt with airstrikes targeting the militant stronghold in Derna, eastern Libya.
2016 88th Academy Awards - Best Actor: Leonardo DiCaprio wins the Academy Award for Best Actor for his intense portrayal in 'The Revenant', a performance long anticipated by his fans.
2017 Turkish Coup Attempt Trial: A massive trial commenced in Turkey, with approximately 330 individuals facing charges related to the previous year's coup attempt, including allegations of murdering and attempting to overthrow government officials.
2018 Retail Chains Respond to Stoneman Douglas High School Shooting: In response to the Parkland school shooting, Dick's Sporting Goods and Walmart raised the minimum age for firearm purchases to 21 and stopped selling semi-automatic rifles with military-style designs.
2019 Hanoi Summit Breakdown: The 2019 North Korea-United States summit in Hanoi between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended abruptly without reaching an agreement. The White House stated that no progress was made on bilateral relations, North Korea's nuclear weapons policy, or existing sanctions, representing a significant diplomatic setback.
2020 US-Taliban Peace Agreement: The United States and Taliban signed a historic peace deal aimed at ending the 18-year conflict in Afghanistan. Under the agreement, US and NATO allies committed to withdrawing troops within 14 months, contingent upon the Taliban's adherence to the negotiated terms. This landmark diplomatic effort sought to bring stability to the war-torn region and conclude America's longest military engagement.
2021 Myanmar Military Violently Suppresses Anti-Coup Protests: On February 28, 2021, Myanmar security forces launched a brutal crackdown on anti-coup protesters in multiple cities. The military used lethal force to disperse peaceful demonstrators and clear roadblocks, resulting in the deaths of 18 protesters. In addition to the fatalities, over 30 individuals were wounded by live ammunition, and numerous protesters were arrested, marking a significant escalation of violence against civilian opposition to the military coup.
2022 Russian Invasion of Ukraine: Massive Attack on Kharkiv: On February 28, 2022, Russian forces launched a devastating multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) attack on Kharkiv, Ukraine. The assault resulted in dozens of civilian casualties and hundreds of injuries. Eyewitness videos and reports suggested the use of cluster munitions, which are internationally condemned weapons. Simultaneously, a massive 64-kilometer-long convoy of Russian armored vehicles, tanks, and artillery continued its strategic advance towards Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital.
2023 Deadly Train Collision in Greece: On February 28, 2023, a catastrophic train collision occurred south of the Vale of Tempe in Greece, resulting in one of the deadliest rail accidents in the country's modern history. A passenger train and a freight train collided head-on, causing massive destruction and loss of life. The tragic incident claimed the lives of at least 57 people, left 58 individuals missing, and injured 85 others. The crash highlighted significant safety concerns in the Greek railway system and prompted national mourning and investigations into the causes of the accident.

What Is special about February 28?

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