Historical Events on January 15: Significant Moments in History

Throughout history, certain dates stand out for the remarkable events that unfolded on them. From turning points in politics to cultural breakthroughs, these days often carry significance that echoes through time. Explore the most important events that occurred on January 15, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on January 15 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 First New York City Subway Construction Bid Awarded: At City Hall, the Rapid Transit Board opened bids for the first New York City Subway project. Contractor John B. McDonald's proposal of $35,000,000 was selected, a pivotal moment in the city's transportation infrastructure development.
1901 Birth of Luis Monti, Notable Footballer: Luis Monti was a prominent Argentine-Italian footballer who became renowned for his exceptional skills and international career. Born in Argentina to Italian heritage, Monti was a versatile player who represented both Argentina and Italy during his professional career, which was unusual for his era. He was known for his tactical intelligence and ability to play multiple positions on the field.
1902 Pan-American Conference in Mexico City: Fifteen of the sixteen nations participating in the Pan-American Conference in Mexico City signed an agreement to recognize the principles of compulsory arbitration for international disputes, as outlined in the Hague Convention. Chile had previously threatened to withdraw if compulsory arbitration was adopted, creating diplomatic tension during the negotiations.
1903 Political Assassination of Newspaper Editor in South Carolina: On January 15, 1903, in a shocking act of political violence, James H. Tillman, the Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina, shot and mortally wounded Narciso Gener Gonzales, a prominent newspaper editor, on a street corner in Columbia. Gonzales would succumb to his wounds four days later on January 19, marking a dark moment in the state's political and journalistic history. The incident highlighted the intense political tensions and personal animosities that could escalate to deadly confrontations during this tumultuous period of American history.
1904 Death of Asa S. Bushnell, Ohio Governor: Asa S. Bushnell, a prominent American businessman and politician who served as the Governor of Ohio, passed away at the age of 69 due to apoplexy (a historical term for a stroke or cerebral hemorrhage). Bushnell was a significant political figure in Ohio during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributing to the state's governance and development during a period of rapid industrialization and social change.
1905 British Museum Public Opening: On January 15, 1759, the British Museum first opened its doors to the public, marking a pivotal moment in cultural accessibility. Initially, strict entry controls were implemented, with visitors requiring tickets to prevent potential damage to the precious collections. This cautious approach reflected the museum's commitment to preserving its valuable artifacts while gradually making knowledge and cultural heritage available to the public.
1906 Birth of Aristotle Onassis: Aristotle Onassis was born in Greece, destined to become one of the most prominent and wealthy shipping magnates of the 20th century. His entrepreneurial skills would later transform him into a global business tycoon, known for his massive maritime empire and high-profile personal life, including his marriage to Jacqueline Kennedy.
1907 Invention of the Triode Vacuum Tube: Dr. Lee de Forest patented the 3-element vacuum tube, a groundbreaking electronic component that would revolutionize telecommunications, radio technology, and early computing. This invention, known as the triode, allowed for signal amplification and became a crucial building block in electronic technology throughout the early 20th century.
1908 Birth of Edward Teller, Nuclear Physicist: Edward Teller was born in Budapest, Austro-Hungarian Empire, who would later become a prominent nuclear physicist. His groundbreaking scientific work significantly contributed to the development of the hydrogen bomb and the American Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI), earning him the nickname 'father of the hydrogen bomb'.
1909 Revival of Taejonggyo in Korea: On January 15, 1909, religious leader Na Cheol (also known as Na Chul) officially proclaimed the revival of Taejonggyo, a traditional Korean religious movement. In a significant ceremony in Seoul, he announced edicts that emphasized the worship of Dangun, the legendary founder of the first Korean kingdom, as both a historical and messianic figure. This proclamation was deeply rooted in Korean nationalist sentiment during a period of Japanese colonial pressure, positioning Dangun as a symbolic father of the Korean nation and a potential future savior.
1910 Buffalo Bill Dam Completion: Construction of the Buffalo Bill Dam in Wyoming, United States, was completed on January 15, 1910. At the time of its completion, the dam stood as the highest dam in the world, measuring an impressive 99 meters (325 feet) in height. Located on the Shoshone River in the northwestern part of Wyoming, the dam was a significant engineering achievement of the early 20th century, representing the growing technological capabilities of the United States during the Progressive Era.
1911 Wu Tingfang Cuts Queue, Symbolizes Modern China: In a powerful symbolic act of modernization, Wu Tingfang, a future Chinese Premier, addressed 40,000 people at Shanghai's Zhang Gardens. He publicly cut off his traditional queue hairstyle, a symbol of Qing dynasty subservience, and encouraged others to do the same. At least 1,000 people immediately followed his lead, signaling a cultural and political transformation in China.
1912 Michel Debré Becomes Prime Minister of France: Michel Debré served as the first Prime Minister of the Fifth French Republic from 1959 to 1962, playing a crucial role in establishing the governmental structure under President Charles de Gaulle. He was instrumental in drafting the Constitution of the Fifth Republic and implementing significant administrative reforms during a pivotal period of French political transformation.
1913 United Kingdom Introduces National Sickness Benefits: The United Kingdom implemented the National Insurance Act, marking the first payment of sickness benefits. Under the new provisions, men were eligible to receive ten shillings per week for illness, while women received seven shillings and sixpence. After 13 weeks, the benefits for both genders reduced to five shillings a week. This represented an early form of social welfare and worker protection.
1914 First Indian Science Congress Convenes: The inaugural meeting of the Indian Science Congress was held, marking a significant milestone in the development of scientific research and collaboration in India. This event represented an important step in promoting scientific inquiry and knowledge exchange during the late colonial period.
1915 Japan's Economic Control of China: Japan asserted economic control over China, marking a significant moment in the geopolitical tensions of East Asia during the early 20th century and foreshadowing future imperial ambitions.
1916 Serbian Troops Arrive at Corfu: The first contingent of Serbian military forces landed on the Greek island of Corfu, marking a significant moment in the Serbian military's relocation during World War I after being pushed out of their homeland.
1917 Inter-Allied Conference in Petrograd: A significant diplomatic gathering of representatives from Russia, France, Great Britain, and Italy convenes in Petrograd to strategize and coordinate war efforts, discussing critical matters of war policy, financial strategies, supply chains, and international cooperation during World War I.
1918 Keel Laying of HMS Hermes: First Purpose-Built Aircraft Carrier: A significant milestone in naval engineering occurred with the keel laying of HMS Hermes in Britain. This Royal Navy vessel was the world's first purpose-designed aircraft carrier, marking a revolutionary moment in maritime military technology.
1919 Murder of Luxemburg and Liebknecht: Two prominent German communist leaders, Rosa Luxemburg and Karl Liebknecht, are brutally murdered by members of the Freikorps following the suppression of the Spartacist uprising, highlighting the intense political tensions in post-World War I Germany.
1920 John J. O'Connor Becomes Archbishop of New York: John J. O'Connor was appointed as the Roman Catholic Archbishop of New York, a significant leadership role in the American Catholic Church. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, O'Connor would go on to become a prominent and influential cardinal known for his conservative theological positions and advocacy work.
1921 Mitsubishi Electric Establishes Independence: On January 15, 1921, Mitsubishi Electric formally separated from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, marking a significant moment in Japanese industrial history. This strategic division allowed the newly independent company to focus specifically on electronics and electrical engineering, setting the stage for its future as a global technology and manufacturing leader. The separation represented a pivotal moment of corporate restructuring that would enable Mitsubishi Electric to develop its own distinct technological and business trajectory.
1922 Irish Free State Established: The Irish Free State was formally established, marking a pivotal moment in Irish independence. Michael Collins assumed the role of first premier, signaling a new era of self-governance for Ireland.
1923 Lee Teng-hui: Taiwanese Political Leader: Lee Teng-hui was a prominent Taiwanese politician who served as the President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) from 1988 to 2000. He was a key figure in Taiwan's democratization process and was the first native Taiwanese president of the Kuomintang (KMT) party, marking a significant shift from the previous mainland Chinese leadership.
1924 Third Dutch Government Formation: On January 15, 1924, the third government led by Ruijs de Beerenbrouck was established in the Netherlands. This marked a significant moment in Dutch political history, with Ruijs de Beerenbrouck serving as Prime Minister and continuing to shape the country's governance during the interwar period.
1925 Hans Luther Forms German Government: Hans Luther became Chancellor of Germany and formed a new government, including representatives from the German National People's Party (DNVP). This government represented a period of political transition during the Weimar Republic, reflecting the complex coalition politics of the era.
1926 Turkey Adopts Swiss Civil Code: As part of the comprehensive modernization reforms led by President Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Turkey officially adopted the Swiss Civil Code, marking a significant legal transformation aimed at secularizing and westernizing the nation's legal framework.
1927 Tennessee Supreme Court Partially Overturns Scopes Trial: In a significant legal decision, the Tennessee Supreme Court partially overturned John T. Scopes' conviction related to teaching evolution. While upholding the constitutionality of the anti-evolution law (Section 49-1922), the court set aside the previously imposed fine against the teacher.
1928 Calvin Coolidge's Historic Visit to Cuba: U.S. President Calvin Coolidge traveled to Havana, Cuba, to attend the Pan American Conference, marking a significant diplomatic moment in inter-American relations. This visit was particularly notable as it was the last presidential visit to Cuba by a U.S. leader until Barack Obama's historic trip in 2016, spanning an extraordinary 88-year gap. During the conference, Coolidge aimed to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between the United States and Latin American nations, symbolizing a period of diplomatic engagement and potential collaboration.
1929 Birth of Martin Luther King Jr.: Martin Luther King Jr., the iconic African-American civil rights leader who would become a pivotal figure in the American civil rights movement, is born in Atlanta, Georgia. His future leadership would profoundly impact racial equality, social justice, and non-violent resistance in the United States.
1930 George Headley's Historic Cricket Debut: George Headley, a legendary West Indian cricket batsman, scored an extraordinary century on his debut match against England, achieving a remarkable 176 runs. This performance marked the beginning of his illustrious cricket career and set a significant precedent for West Indian cricket.
1931 Italian Seaplanes Historic African Expedition: On January 15, 1931, a remarkable aviation milestone was achieved when eleven Italian seaplanes, led by the renowned aviator Italo Balbo, successfully landed in Africa. This expedition represented a significant technological and navigational achievement, demonstrating Italy's emerging capabilities in long-distance aerial transportation and exploration during the early 20th century.
1932 Rare Snowfall at UCLA Campus in 1932: On January 15, 1932, UCLA experienced an extraordinary and exceptionally rare meteorological event when the entire campus was blanketed in snow. By 8 a.m., students arrived to find a breathtaking winter landscape: red-brick buildings adorned with a pristine white layer, trees and shrubs transformed into cotton-like sculptures, and the iconic Royce Quad covered in two inches of glistening snow. The unexpected snowfall triggered playful student activities, which initially concerned campus authorities. However, the administration demonstrated remarkable understanding, allowing students to enjoy the unique moment despite potential minor injuries and property damages.
1933 Political Violence Erupts in Spain: A period of intense political instability in Spain resulted in widespread violence, causing nearly 100 fatalities. This event highlights the deep political tensions and social unrest prevalent in Spain during the early years of the Second Spanish Republic, reflecting the growing polarization between left-wing and right-wing factions.
1934 Devastating Nepal-India Earthquake of 1934: A catastrophic 8.4 magnitude earthquake struck the border region of Nepal and India, causing widespread destruction and significant loss of life. The seismic event resulted in approximately 10,700 fatalities, making it one of the most deadly earthquakes in the region's history. The quake's extreme intensity caused massive structural damage across Bihar and Nepal, devastating local communities and infrastructure.
1935 Saar Plebiscite: Overwhelming Vote for German Reunification: The League of Nations plebiscite commission officially announced the results of the Saar region referendum, with approximately 90% of voters choosing reunification with Germany. This significant democratic process marked a pivotal moment in the region's political landscape during the interwar period.
1936 Japan Withdraws from London Naval Conference: Japan withdrew from the London Naval Conference after refusing to accept proposed tonnage limitations on various types of warships. This diplomatic exit signaled growing tensions and Japan's increasing military ambitions in the lead-up to World War II.
1937 Second Battle of the Corunna Road during Spanish Civil War: During the Spanish Civil War, the Second Battle of the Corunna Road concluded with both Nationalist and Republican forces withdrawing after sustaining significant casualties. This battle was part of the broader conflict between the Nationalist forces led by Francisco Franco and the Republican government forces, highlighting the brutal and costly nature of the war.
1938 Stanley Reed Appointed to US Supreme Court: Stanley Reed was appointed as a Justice to the United States Supreme Court, marking a significant moment in the judicial history of the United States. Reed would serve on the Supreme Court from 1938 to 1957, playing a crucial role in several landmark legal decisions during a transformative period of American jurisprudence.
1939 First NFL Pro Bowl: The New York Giants defeated the NFL All-Stars 13-10 in a historic game at Wrigley Field, marking the inaugural NFL Pro Bowl.
1940 Belgium Protests Mechelen Incident to Germany: On January 15, 1940, Belgium formally lodged a diplomatic protest with Germany regarding the Mechelen incident. This event was likely related to military tensions or a specific conflict during the early stages of World War II, highlighting the diplomatic strain between Belgium and Germany at the time.
1941 First Public Description of the Atanasoff-Berry Computer: John Vincent Atanasoff and Clifford E. Berry publicly described the groundbreaking workings of the Atanasoff–Berry Computer (ABC), a pivotal moment in the early development of electronic digital computing. This computer was one of the first electronic digital computing devices and represented a significant leap forward in computational technology.
1942 German Counter-Insurgency Operation in Croatia: Nazi Germany launched Operation Southeast Croatia, a strategic counter-insurgency campaign targeting resistance movements in the Independent State of Croatia during World War II.
1943 Pacific Theater: Japanese Defeated at Guadalcanal: On January 15, 1943, Allied forces successfully drove Japanese troops off Guadalcanal, a critical turning point in the Pacific campaign of World War II that significantly weakened Japanese military control in the region.
1944 Eisenhower Takes Command of Operation Overlord: General Dwight D. Eisenhower officially assumes command of Operation Overlord, the critical Allied invasion plan for liberating Western Europe from Nazi control during World War II. This strategic appointment would prove pivotal in coordinating the massive D-Day invasion.
1945 Liberation of Concentration Camp: The Red Army liberates the Kraków-Płaszów concentration camp, a significant moment in the Holocaust's final stages and the Soviet advance through Nazi-occupied territories.
1946 Japan's World War II Balloon Bomb Campaign Revealed: The Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers (SCAP) in Japan disclosed details of a little-known World War II operation involving balloon bombs targeting the United States. Between summer 1942 and March 1945, Japan launched approximately 9,000 balloon bombs, with 225 successfully reaching American territory. This covert aerial attack strategy represented an innovative but ultimately ineffective attempt to strike the U.S. mainland during the war.
1947 The Black Dahlia Murder: A Shocking Crime that Captivated America: On January 15, 1947, the brutally murdered and dismembered body of Elizabeth Short, later known as 'The Black Dahlia', was discovered in Leimert Park, Los Angeles. The gruesome nature of her murder and the subsequent unsolved investigation became one of the most infamous criminal cases in American history. Short, a 22-year-old aspiring actress, was found cut in half at the waist, with her body surgically bisected and drained of blood, creating a macabre scene that shocked the public and law enforcement alike.
1948 Arab League Warns of Military Intervention in Palestine: A spokesman for the Arab League in Cairo declared that Arab countries' regular armies would occupy Palestine immediately after the British withdrawal. The spokesman emphasized that any international intervention, such as a police force or foreign troop deployment, would be considered an 'unfriendly act' by Arab states, with the League Council prepared to respond to such an emergency.
1949 Communist Forces Capture Tianjin: During the Chinese Civil War, Communist Party forces under Mao Zedong successfully captured the strategic city of Tianjin from the Nationalist Government (Kuomintang), marking a significant milestone in their campaign to control mainland China.
1950 National Emergency Civil Rights Conference: A significant civil rights gathering took place in Washington, D.C., with 4,000 attendees discussing urgent civil rights issues and strategies during a critical period of the civil rights movement.
1951 Ilse Koch Sentenced for Nazi War Crimes: Ilse Koch, infamously known as 'The Witch of Buchenwald', was sentenced to life imprisonment by a West German court for her horrific atrocities committed during the Holocaust. As the wife of the Buchenwald concentration camp commandant, she was notorious for her cruel treatment of prisoners and was a symbol of Nazi brutality.
1953 President Truman's Farewell Address: On the evening of January 15, 1953, President Harry S. Truman delivered his final address to the American people from the Oval Office. In a broadcast at 10:30 PM, Truman reflected on his presidency with characteristic humility, offering no new policy announcements but providing a thoughtful retrospective of his time in office. He concluded by extending his best wishes to incoming President Dwight D. Eisenhower, symbolizing a peaceful transition of power.
1954 Capture of Mau Mau Leader Waruhiu Itote: On January 15, 1954, British colonial forces captured Waruhiu Itote, a prominent leader of the Mau Mau uprising in Kenya. Itote, also known by his guerrilla name 'General China', was a significant figure in the Kenyan resistance against British colonial rule. His capture was a strategic blow to the Mau Mau rebellion, which sought to challenge British colonial control and fight for Kenyan independence.
1955 USSR Ends State of War with West Germany: The Soviet Union officially terminated its state of war with the Federal Republic of Germany, marking a significant diplomatic milestone in post-World War II relations between the two countries.
1956 Nasser's Palestine Reconquest Vow: Egyptian leader Gamal Abdel Nasser publicly declared his intention to reconquer Palestine, signaling heightened tensions in the Middle East.
1957 Kurosawa's 'Throne of Blood' Released in Japan: Akira Kurosawa's groundbreaking film 'Throne of Blood', a Japanese adaptation of Shakespeare's 'Macbeth', was released in Japan. This cinematic masterpiece is renowned for its innovative storytelling, stunning visual style, and powerful interpretation of the classic tragedy.
1958 Birth of Boris Tadić: Boris Tadić, a prominent Serbian politician who would later serve as President of Serbia from 2004 to 2012, was born on January 15, 1958, in Belgrade, Serbia.
1959 Soviet Union Conducts First Post-World War II Census: On January 15, 1959, the Soviet Union officially conducted its first comprehensive national population census since the end of World War II. This census was significant as it provided crucial demographic data about the population after the devastating impacts of the war, including population losses, migration patterns, and societal changes. The census would help Soviet planners understand the country's demographic landscape and inform future economic and social policies.
1960 Khrushchev Proposes Troop Reduction in Eastern Europe: Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev formally requested approval from the Supreme Soviet to reduce the number of Soviet military troops stationed in Eastern European countries, signaling a potential shift in Cold War military strategy.
1961 The Supremes Sign with Motown: The legendary musical group The Supremes signed a groundbreaking contract with Motown Records, a pivotal moment in the development of Motown's iconic sound and the group's future success.
1962 Discovery of the Derveni Papyrus: The Derveni papyrus, considered Europe's oldest surviving manuscript dating back to 340 BC, was discovered in a tomb in northern Greece. This ancient document is a significant archaeological find, providing insights into early Greek philosophical and religious thought through its commentary on an Orphic poem.
1964 Willie Mays Becomes Highest-Paid Baseball Player: The San Francisco Giants signed Willie Mays to a groundbreaking $105,000 per season contract, establishing him as the highest-paid player in baseball at that time and recognizing his extraordinary athletic achievements.
1965 Soviet Underground Nuclear Test Creates Atomic Lake: The Soviet Union conducts an underground nuclear test in Kazakhstan, resulting in the creation of the artificial Chagan Lake, demonstrating the environmental and technological implications of nuclear testing during the Cold War era.
1966 Nigerian Military Coup of 1966: On January 15, 1966, a significant military coup led by Kaduna Nzeogwu and other rebel officers overthrew the government of Nigeria, resulting in the death of 22 people, including Prime Minister Abubakar Balewa, several senior politicians, and Army officers. The coup plotters strategically attacked major cities like Kaduna, Ibadan, and Lagos, and blockaded the Niger and Benue rivers before being ultimately overcome by loyalist forces.
1967 First Super Bowl: Green Bay Packers Triumph: The inaugural Super Bowl took place at the Los Angeles Coliseum, where the Green Bay Packers decisively defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 35-10. A crowd of 61,946 spectators witnessed this historic moment in American football. Each Packers player received $15,000, which was the largest single-game share in team sports history at that time.
1968 Jeannette Rankin Anti-War March: At 87 years old, pioneering congresswoman Jeannette Rankin leads a massive protest of approximately 5,000 women in Washington D.C. against the Vietnam War, demonstrating remarkable political activism in her later years.
1969 Soviet Space Milestone: First Crew Transfer in Space: The Soviet Union launched Soyuz 5, which successfully rendezvoused with Soyuz 4 two days later, marking a historic achievement in human spaceflight by completing the first-ever transfer of crew between spacecraft in orbit.
1970 Nigerian Civil War Ends: Biafran Surrender: The Nigerian Civil War concludes with Biafran rebels surrendering after a prolonged 32-month conflict for independence from Nigeria. This marked a significant moment in post-colonial African history, ending a devastating war that resulted in widespread humanitarian suffering.
1971 George Harrison Releases 'My Sweet Lord': George Harrison, former member of The Beatles, released his iconic single 'My Sweet Lord', which became a global hit and a significant moment in post-Beatles musical history. The song, known for its spiritual lyrics and distinctive sound, topped charts worldwide and showcased Harrison's solo musical talents.
1972 Joe Frazier Retains World Heavyweight Championship: American boxer Joe Frazier successfully defended his World Heavyweight Championship by decisively knocking out challenger Terry Daniels in the fourth round at the Rivergate Convention Center in New Orleans, Louisiana.
1973 Nixon Suspends Offensive Action in Vietnam: President Richard Nixon announced the suspension of all offensive military actions in North Vietnam, citing significant progress in ongoing peace negotiations. This marked a critical moment in the Vietnam War, signaling potential de-escalation of the conflict.
1974 BTK Killer's First Murders: Dennis Rader, later known as the BTK (Bind, Torture, Kill) Killer, committed his first known murders by killing Joseph and Joseph II Otero, along with Josephine and Julie Otero in their home, marking the beginning of a terrifying serial killing spree that would span decades.
1975 Alvor Agreement Signed: The Alvor Agreement is signed, officially ending the Angolan War of Independence and granting Angola independence from Portugal. This historic diplomatic accord marked a crucial moment in African decolonization.
1976 Helios B Solar Probe Launch: The US-German collaborative Helios B solar probe was successfully launched into solar orbit, advancing scientific understanding of solar dynamics and space exploration.
1977 Kälvesta Air Disaster: A tragic aviation accident occurred near Stockholm, Sweden, when Linjeflyg Flight 618 crashed into a residential area, resulting in the deaths of all 22 people on board. This incident remains the worst air crash in Swedish aviation history, highlighting the critical importance of air safety protocols and investigation.
1978 Theodore Bundy Murders at Florida State University: Serial killer Theodore Bundy committed heinous murders of Florida State University students Lisa Levy and Margaret Bowman, marking a tragic moment in criminal history.
1979 Shah of Iran Flees During Islamic Revolution: Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, facing mounting pressure from revolutionary forces, flees Iran with his family, seeking refuge in Egypt. This marks a critical moment in the Iranian Revolution, signaling the imminent collapse of the Pahlavi dynasty and the eventual establishment of an Islamic Republic under Ayatollah Khomeini.
1980 Iran Expels Foreign Television Journalists: The Islamic Republic of Iran issued a directive ordering all foreign television journalists to leave the country by midnight on Friday, January 18, 1980. This action was part of the ongoing political upheaval following the Iranian Revolution and the subsequent hostage crisis, signaling increased media restrictions and isolation.
1981 Pope John Paul II Meets Solidarity Delegation: Pope John Paul II, himself a Polish native, receives a delegation from Solidarity, the Polish trade union that played a crucial role in challenging Communist rule, led by Lech Wałęsa at the Vatican.
1982 Death of Red Smith, Renowned Sports Journalist: Red Smith, a celebrated sports columnist who won the Pulitzer Prize and was famous for his insightful 'Fight Talk' commentary, passed away at the age of 76. Smith was a legendary figure in sports journalism, known for his witty and eloquent writing style.
1983 Record Cricket Partnership Between Miandad and Nazar: Pakistani cricketers Javed Miandad and Mudassar Nazar achieved a remarkable 451-run partnership against India, setting a significant record in cricket history.
1984 John McEnroe Wins ATP Masters Grand Prix Tennis Title: John McEnroe secured his second season-ending ATP Masters Grand Prix tennis title by defeating Ivan Lendl in a decisive straight-sets victory (6–3, 6–4, 6–4), reversing the previous year's result.
1985 Tancredo Neves Elected President of Brazil: Civil rights activist Tancredo Neves was elected President of Brazil by Congress, marking the end of 21 years of military dictatorship. This was a pivotal moment in Brazilian democratic transition, symbolizing the return to civilian rule after decades of authoritarian governance.
1986 Patrick Roy's First NHL Shutout: Montreal Canadiens rookie goaltender Patrick Roy recorded his first of 66 career NHL shutouts, beginning what would become a legendary goaltending career.
1987 Political Shift in Chinese Communist Party: A significant political moment occurs in China as Hu Yaobang, General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party, is forced to resign amid growing public demonstrations demanding greater democratic reforms, signaling internal party tensions and emerging pro-democracy sentiments.
1988 Violent Clashes at Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem: Intense confrontation erupts between Israeli police and Palestinian protesters at the religiously significant Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem. The clash results in injuries to several police officers and at least 70 Palestinians, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region.
1989 Nazi War Criminal Sentenced: Ilse Koch, infamously known as 'The Witch of Buchenwald' for her brutal actions in Nazi concentration camps, is sentenced to life imprisonment by a West German court, representing continued post-war efforts to bring Nazi war criminals to justice.
1990 Protesters Storm Stasi Headquarters in Berlin: Thousands of East German citizens stormed the Stasi headquarters in Berlin, seeking to access their government surveillance records and symbolically challenging the former regime's oppressive system.
1991 UN Deadline Expires for Iraq's Kuwait Withdrawal: The United Nations deadline for the withdrawal of Iraqi forces from occupied Kuwait expires, setting the stage for the imminent launch of Operation Desert Storm, a pivotal moment in the Gulf War that would dramatically reshape Middle Eastern geopolitics.
1992 European Community Recognizes Slovenia and Croatia's Independence: The European Community officially recognized the independence of Slovenia and Croatia, marking a significant moment in the dissolution of Yugoslavia and the emergence of new European states.
1993 Iraq Disarmament Crisis Escalation: Tensions escalated in the Iraq disarmament crisis as Iraq refused UNSCOM inspectors' aircraft entry and initiated military operations in demilitarized zones. The United States responded by launching approximately 40 Tomahawk cruise missiles targeting Baghdad factories suspected of illegal nuclear weapons development.
1994 Death of Harry Nilsson: Harry Nilsson, renowned rock vocalist famous for hit songs "Without You" and "Everybody's Talkin'", passed away at the age of 52. A significant figure in the music industry during the 1960s and 1970s, Nilsson was known for his distinctive vocal range and interpretative abilities.
1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake in Japan: A devastating 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck the southern Hyōgo Prefecture of Japan, causing massive destruction in the Kobe region. The earthquake resulted in 5,502–6,434 fatalities and displaced between 251,301–310,000 people, making it one of the most destructive natural disasters in modern Japanese history.
1996 Les Baxter's Passing: Les Baxter, a renowned American musician, orchestra leader, and composer, died at the age of 73. Known for his innovative work in exotica and orchestral music, Baxter was an influential figure in mid-20th century American musical landscape.
1997 Princess Diana Calls for Landmine Ban: Princess Diana publicly advocated for an international ban on landmines, a stance that created significant political tension and drew both support and criticism from international ministers, particularly in the United Kingdom.
1998 NASA Plans Historic Space Mission for John Glenn: NASA announces that John Glenn, 76 years old and a legendary astronaut, may fly in space again. This potential mission would make Glenn the oldest person to return to space, highlighting NASA's commitment to senior astronauts and space exploration.
1999 Racak Massacre in Kosovo: On January 15, 1999, Yugoslav security forces conducted a brutal operation in the Kosovo village of Racak, resulting in the killing of 45 ethnic Albanian civilians. This tragic event was a significant escalation of violence during the Kosovo War and drew international condemnation for its apparent targeting of non-combatant villagers. The massacre became a pivotal moment that highlighted the ethnic tensions and human rights violations in the region.
2000 Assassination of Zeljko Raznatovic (Arkan): Zeljko Raznatovic, also known as Arkan, was assassinated at Belgrade's InterContinental Hotel. A notorious Serbian paramilitary leader and criminal boss, he was previously Interpol's most wanted for numerous robberies and murders across several European countries during the 1970s and 1980s. His death marked the end of a significant era in Balkan organized crime.
2001 Wikipedia Launch: Wikipedia, the free, collaborative online encyclopedia, was officially launched by Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger, marking a revolutionary moment in digital knowledge sharing and collaborative information platforms.
2002 Yucca Mountain Nuclear Waste Repository Recommendation: Secretary of Energy Spencer Abraham officially notified Nevada Governor Kenny Guinn and the Nevada Legislature of his intent to recommend to President George W. Bush that the Yucca Mountain site in Nevada is scientifically suitable for development as the nation's long-term geological repository for nuclear waste. This recommendation represented a significant step in addressing nuclear waste storage challenges in the United States.
2003 Supreme Court Copyright Extension Ruling: The Supreme Court of the United States ruled in Eldred v. Ashcroft with a 7-2 decision, upholding the 1998 Sonny Bono Copyright Term Extension Act. This landmark decision prevents any U.S. copyrights from expiring for 20 years from the law's implementation.
2004 Mars Exploration: Spirit Rover's First Journey: NASA's Spirit Rover successfully completed its first journey on Mars, moving three meters in 78 seconds. At the end of the journey, the rover was positioned 0.7 meters away from its original lander.
2005 Mahmoud Abbas Becomes Palestinian President: Mahmoud Abbas was sworn in as President of the Palestinian Authority, six days after winning the presidential election. However, the election was marred by allegations of irregularities, with numerous election officials resigning.
2006 NASA's Stardust Mission Successfully Returns Comet Dust: NASA's groundbreaking Stardust mission concluded successfully by returning the first-ever dust samples from a comet, landing at the Dugway Proving Ground. This mission represents a remarkable achievement in space exploration, being the first to collect extraterrestrial samples beyond lunar material and the fastest man-made object to re-enter Earth's atmosphere.
2007 Execution of Saddam Hussein's Associates: Barzan Ibrahim al-Tikriti, former Iraqi intelligence chief and half-brother of Saddam Hussein, and Awad Hamed al-Bandar, ex-chief judge of the Revolutionary Court, were executed by hanging in Iraq. The execution was controversial, with reports of Ibrahim's decapitation causing additional outrage.
2008 2008 US Presidential Primary Developments: Mitt Romney wins the Michigan Republican Primary, with John McCain placing second. Hillary Clinton secures the Democratic contest, setting the stage for intense primary battles in Nevada and South Carolina.
2009 Miracle on the Hudson: US Airways Flight 1549 Emergency Landing: US Airways Flight 1549, an Airbus A320, successfully ditched in the Hudson River after a bird strike disabled both engines shortly after takeoff from LaGuardia Airport. All 155 passengers and crew members were safely rescued in an extraordinary emergency landing, which became known as the 'Miracle on the Hudson'.
2010 Russia Ratifies European Court of Human Rights Reform: Russia became the last of the 47 Council of Europe member states to ratify Protocol 14, a key reform to the European Court of Human Rights, signaling a significant diplomatic and legal milestone.
2011 Tunisian President Ben Ali Flees to Saudi Arabia: After being rejected by France, Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, the former President of Tunisia, flees to Saudi Arabia with his family, marking a significant moment in the Tunisian Revolution.
2012 Terrorist Attack in Pakistan: A bomb explosion near a Shia Muslim procession in Khanpur, Pakistan, results in at least 18 fatalities and 30 injuries, highlighting ongoing sectarian tensions.
2013 Aleppo University Bombings during Syrian Civil War: During the ongoing Syrian Civil War, rocket fire at Aleppo University caused massive casualties, with 83 people killed and over 150 injured. The incident highlighted the intense conflict, with both rebels and government forces claiming responsibility for the missile launches.
2014 Radio waves are used by the National Security Agency to spy on computers.
2015 Swiss National Bank Abandons Euro Exchange Rate Cap: The Swiss National Bank unexpectedly abandoned the cap on the Swiss franc's value relative to the euro, causing significant turmoil in international financial markets. This sudden policy shift led to dramatic currency fluctuations and economic uncertainty.
2016 2016 Ouagadougou Attacks: Terrorists launched a coordinated attack in Ouagadougou, the capital of Burkina Faso, targeting the Cappuccino restaurant and Splendid hotel. Armed with heavy weapons, the militants took hostages and killed at least 20 people. Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb claimed responsibility, potentially marking the first Islamic terrorist attack in the region.
2017 Failed Israeli-Palestinian Peace Summit in Paris: An international peace summit was held in Paris to restart negotiations between Israel and Palestine, aiming to discuss a potential two-state solution. However, the summit was undermined by the absence of representatives from both nations, casting significant doubt on the prospects of diplomatic progress.
2018 North Korea Crisis Meeting in Vancouver: A high-stakes diplomatic meeting in Vancouver brings together senior officials from countries that supported South Korea during the Korean War. The primary objective is to discuss enhanced sanctions implementation to pressure North Korea into abandoning its nuclear weapons program. Notably, China and Russia, historical supporters of North Korea who have since accepted UN sanctions, will not be attending this critical meeting.
2019 Historic Brexit Deal Defeat: British Prime Minister Theresa May suffered the most substantial parliamentary defeat in modern British political history when her proposed European Union withdrawal agreement was rejected by 432 MPs, with only 202 voting in support. This massive 230-vote margin represented a critical moment in the Brexit negotiations.
2020 First COVID-19 Case in Japan: The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare officially confirmed the first case of COVID-19 in Japan, marking the beginning of the pandemic's spread in the country. This event would later prove to be a critical moment in the global coronavirus outbreak.
2021 Global COVID-19 Death Toll Exceeds 2 Million: The worldwide death toll from the COVID-19 pandemic surpassed 2 million, with experts suggesting the true number is likely much higher. This grim milestone underscored the global pandemic's devastating impact on human life.
2022 COVID-19 Pandemic Developments: Iran reported its first three Omicron variant deaths across different cities, while the Philippines experienced a record-breaking third consecutive day of COVID-19 infections, reaching 39,004 new cases and bringing the total nationwide count to 3,168,379.
2023 Tragic Yeti Airlines Flight 691 Crash in Nepal: Yeti Airlines Flight 691 crashed near Pokhara International Airport, resulting in the tragic loss of all 72 passengers and crew members. This devastating incident represents Nepal's deadliest aviation disaster in three decades, highlighting ongoing concerns about air safety in the region.

What Is special about January 15?

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