Historical Events on June 27: 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 June 27, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

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Events on June 27 - Key Moments Throughout History

  • 1900 Franco-Spanish Colonial Boundary Agreement in West Africa: France and Spain formally established a definitive boundary between their respective West African colonial territories, specifically delineating the borders of Mauritania and the Spanish Sahara (Western Sahara). This diplomatic agreement, signed and ratified on June 27, 1900, represented a significant moment in the colonial partition of African territories during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
  • 1901 Uneventful Day in Global History: While no major historical events were recorded on this specific date, June 27, 1901, represents a typical day during the early 20th century. The world was in a period of significant transition, with emerging technologies, colonial expansions, and societal transformations happening globally. Even seemingly uneventful days contribute to the broader historical narrative.
  • 1903 First Woman to Fly a Solo Powered Aircraft: On June 27, 1903, 19-year-old American socialite Aida de Acosta made history by becoming the first woman to pilot a powered aircraft solo. She flew Santos-Dumont's motorized dirigible, 'No. 9', from Paris to Château de Bagatelle in France, breaking significant gender barriers in early aviation.
  • 1905 During the Russo-Japanese War, sailors start a mutiny aboard the Russian battleship .
  • 1906 Uneventful Day in 1906: While no specific major historical events were recorded for June 27, 1906, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. The early 20th century was a period of rapid industrialization, social change, and global transformation. This particular date falls during the Progressive Era in the United States, a time of social activism and political reform.
  • 1907 Uneventful Day in 1907: While no specific major historical events were recorded for June 27, 1907, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. The early 20th century was a period of rapid industrialization, technological advancement, and social transformation across the globe. Daily life continued, with people working, learning, and progressing in various fields such as science, commerce, and culture.
  • 1908 Deadly Hong Kong Typhoon Sinks Passenger Steamer Ying King: On June 27, 1908, a catastrophic typhoon struck Hong Kong, resulting in the tragic sinking of the passenger steamer Ying King. The disaster claimed 421 lives, marking it as one of the most devastating maritime accidents in the region's early 20th-century history. The typhoon's immense destructive power demonstrated the extreme maritime risks faced by seafaring vessels during this era, highlighting the vulnerability of maritime transportation to severe weather conditions.
  • 1909 First Airplane Flight in the Netherlands: A historic milestone in Dutch aviation occurred in Etten-Leur, marking the first recorded airplane flight in the Netherlands. This event symbolized the rapid technological advancements in early 20th-century transportation and the global spread of aviation innovation.
  • 1911 Lincoln Beachey's Historic Niagara Falls Aerial Performance: Pioneering stunt pilot Lincoln Beachey performed an extraordinary aerial demonstration at Niagara Falls, New York, executing a flight that was so remarkable that fellow aviator Cal Rodgers described it as 'the greatest flight ever made'. Beachey was known for pushing the boundaries of early aviation and demonstrating incredible aerial skills that captivated audiences during the nascent era of powered flight.
  • 1912 Birth of E.R. Braithwaite, Guyanese Author and Educator: Edward Ricardo (E.R.) Braithwaite was born on June 27, 1912, in Georgetown, British Guiana (now Guyana). He would become a renowned novelist, writer, and teacher, best known for his autobiographical work 'To Sir, With Love', which explored racial tensions and educational challenges in mid-20th century London. Braithwaite's writings often addressed themes of racism, social justice, and personal transformation, drawing from his own experiences as a Black professional in post-World War II Britain.
  • 1913 Willie Mosconi Dominates World Straight Pool Championship: Willie Mosconi, a legendary American billiards player, secured his first World Straight Pool Championship in Philadelphia. Known for his extraordinary skill and precision, Mosconi would go on to win this prestigious title an unprecedented 15 consecutive times, establishing himself as one of the most dominant players in the history of professional pool.
  • 1914 Prelude to Archduke Franz Ferdinand Assassination Attempt: A failed initial assassination attempt on Archduke Franz Ferdinand occurred in Sarajevo, Bosnia. Serbian nationalists, including Gavrilo Princip, positioned themselves along the Archduke's route. While an initial grenade attack was unsuccessful, this event was a critical precursor to the successful assassination the following day, which would ultimately trigger World War I.
  • 1915 Preventing a Potential Mexican Uprising: U.S. State Department agent Zach Cobb successfully coordinated the apprehension of exiled Mexican Generals Victoriano Huerta and Pascual Orozco, preventing a potential German-funded rebellion against the Mexican government.
  • 1916 Russian Forces Expel Austrians from Bukovina: During World War I, Russian Imperial forces successfully drove Austrian military units out of the Bukovina region, a strategic territory located in present-day Ukraine and Romania. This military action was part of the broader Eastern Front campaign, demonstrating the complex territorial struggles during the conflict.
  • 1917 Greece Joins the Allied Powers in World War I: Greece officially entered World War I on the side of the Allies, significantly shifting the geopolitical dynamics of the conflict in the Balkan region and expanding the Allied coalition's military capabilities.
  • 1918 Sinking of HMHS Llandovery Castle: During World War I, the Canadian hospital ship HMHS Llandovery Castle was deliberately torpedoed and sunk by German submarine SM U-86 in the Atlantic Ocean. This tragic maritime incident resulted in significant loss of life, including medical personnel and crew members. The deliberate targeting of a clearly marked hospital ship was considered a war crime and became a notable example of the brutality of naval warfare during the conflict.
  • 1919 Marcus Garvey Establishes Black Star Line: On June 27, 1919, African American entrepreneur and civil rights leader Marcus Garvey founded the Black Star Line, a groundbreaking shipping company that was entirely owned and operated by African Americans. This bold venture was a significant milestone in Black economic empowerment during the early 20th century, symbolizing self-determination and challenging the prevailing racial economic barriers of the time. The shipping line was part of Garvey's broader Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) movement, which aimed to promote economic independence and pride among Black communities worldwide.
  • 1920 British Army Brigadier General Kidnapped by Sinn Féin: During the Irish War of Independence, British Army Brigadier General Cuthbert Lucas was kidnapped by Sinn Féin members while fishing on the River Blackwater near Cappoquin, County Waterford. This incident highlights the intense conflict between Irish nationalists and British forces during this turbulent period.
  • 1921 Giovanni Giolitti Resigns as Italian Prime Minister: On June 27, 1921, Giovanni Giolitti, a prominent Italian statesman, resigned as Prime Minister of Italy following a narrow and contentious confidence vote in the parliament. This resignation marked a significant moment in the tumultuous political landscape of post-World War I Italy, which was characterized by rising tensions between liberal democratic forces and emerging fascist movements.
  • 1922 First Newbery Medal Awarded for Children's Literature: The American Library Association presented the first Newbery Medal, a prestigious award recognizing outstanding contributions to children's literature. This milestone marks a significant moment in promoting high-quality reading materials for young readers.
  • 1923 First Aerial Refueling in History: Captain Lowell H. Smith and Lieutenant John P. Richter successfully completed the pioneering first mid-air aerial refueling using a DH-4B biplane, marking a significant milestone in aviation technology and military aircraft capabilities.
  • 1924 Walter Hagen Wins British Open Golf Championship: American professional golfer Walter Hagen secured a dramatic victory at the British Open Golf Championships, defeating runner-up Ernest Whitcombe by a single stroke. This win marked Hagen's second Open Championship title, further solidifying his reputation as one of the most prominent golfers of the early 20th century. Hagen was known for his exceptional skill and helped elevate the status of professional golfers during an era when golf was predominantly an amateur's sport.
  • 1925 Helena, Montana Earthquake of 1925: On June 27, 1925, a significant seismic event occurred near Helena, Montana, with a magnitude of 6.6 on the Richter scale. While the earthquake did not result in any human casualties, it caused substantial structural damage, with estimated property losses reaching $150,000 (equivalent to approximately $2.3 million in today's currency). The event highlighted the geological instability of the region and provided valuable insights into the seismic risks in the northwestern United States.
  • 1926 Paul Berg, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry, Born: Paul Berg was born in Brooklyn, New York. He would become a distinguished American chemist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, making significant contributions to the understanding of molecular biology and genetic engineering.
  • 1927 Japanese Far Eastern Conference on China Strategy: Prime Minister Tanaka Giichi convened an eleven-day conference in Tokyo to discuss Japan's strategic objectives in China. The conference explored long-range geopolitical and military strategies, which later became controversial due to the emergence of the 'Tanaka Memorial' - a document purportedly revealing expansionist plans for Pacific regional domination.
  • 1928 Al Smith Democratic Nomination: New York Governor Al Smith was formally nominated as the Democratic presidential candidate at the National Convention. During the nomination, Franklin D. Roosevelt praised Smith's leadership potential, stating, 'Because of his power of leadership there is no doubt the governor will make an efficient president, a great president.'
  • 1929 German Debt Refusal by President Von Hindenburg: On June 27, 1929, German President Paul von Hindenburg officially refused to pay the World War I reparations, a decision that would have significant economic and political implications for Germany and the global economic landscape in the years leading up to World War II.
  • 1930 H. Ross Perot: Early Business Career: On June 27, 1930, H. Ross Perot was emerging as a notable Texas businessman who would later become famous for his entrepreneurial spirit and attempts to take over and restructure corporations. Perot would go on to found Electronic Data Systems (EDS) and become a prominent business figure and political candidate.
  • 1931 Catastrophic Yangtze River Flood of 1931: One of the deadliest natural disasters in recorded history, the 1931 China flood devastated the Yangtze and Huai River regions. An estimated 422,000 people perished, with approximately 150,000 drowning immediately and many more succumbing to subsequent starvation and disease. The flood's immense human toll and environmental impact made it a tragic milestone in 20th-century Chinese history.
  • 1932 Charles Lindbergh Testifies in Kidnapping Trial: Famed aviator Charles Lindbergh took the stand in the trial of John H. Curtis, who was charged with obstruction of justice related to the high-profile kidnapping of Lindbergh's young son, a case that had captivated national attention.
  • 1933 London Jews Protest Against Nazi Persecution: On June 27, 1933, a significant anti-Nazi demonstration was organized by the Jewish community in London, expressing strong opposition to the rising antisemitism and oppressive policies of the Nazi regime in Germany. This rally was an early and powerful public statement against the growing threat of Nazi ideology and its discriminatory practices towards Jewish people.
  • 1934 Federal Savings and Loan Association Established: The Federal Savings and Loan Association was created, marking a significant milestone in the United States financial regulatory framework. This institution would play a crucial role in providing mortgage lending and savings services to Americans, particularly during the post-Great Depression era.
  • 1935 British Public Overwhelmingly Supports League of Nations: An extensive seven-month unofficial poll across Britain concluded, revealing remarkable public support for the League of Nations. Out of 11,446,270 participants, a staggering 11,090,287 (96.8%) expressed their commitment to continued adherence to the international organization. This poll, conducted in 1935, reflected the British public's strong belief in international cooperation and diplomatic conflict resolution during a tumultuous period in European history, just years before the outbreak of World War II.
  • 1936 Roosevelt's Acceptance Speech at Franklin Field: President Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered a powerful open-air address at Franklin Field, speaking to a massive crowd of 110,000 people and reaching millions more via radio. In his concluding remarks, he dramatically stated, 'I accept the commission you have tendered me. I join with you. I am enlisted for the duration of the war.' This speech symbolized Roosevelt's commitment to leading the nation through challenging times, drawing parallels between the economic struggles of the Great Depression and a metaphorical 'war' against economic hardship.
  • 1937 Golden Gate Bridge Opens to Pedestrian Traffic: On June 27, 1937, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California, was opened to pedestrian traffic, marking a significant milestone in American infrastructure and engineering. The bridge, spanning the Golden Gate strait and connecting San Francisco to Marin County, was a remarkable achievement of civil engineering during the Great Depression era. Designed by chief engineer Joseph Strauss and architect Irving Morrow, the bridge's distinctive orange-red color and Art Deco styling would become a globally recognized symbol of San Francisco and American innovation.
  • 1938 Canadian Multiculturalism Day and Czech Remembrance Day: On June 27, two significant commemorative events are observed: Canadian Multiculturalism Day celebrates Canada's diverse cultural heritage and promotes inclusivity, while in the Czech Republic, the Commemoration Day for the Victims of the Communist Regime honors those who suffered under communist oppression.
  • 1939 Nazi Anti-Jewish Economic Restrictions: Reichsprotektor Konstantin von Neurath implemented severe economic restrictions on Jews in Nazi-controlled territories. These decrees prohibited Jews from acquiring real estate, stocks, bonds, or entering new business contracts. Jews were also forbidden from buying, selling, or pawning valuables and were required to report such assets to banks.
  • 1940 German Occupation of France Completed: On June 27, 1940, German forces completed their occupation of France by reaching the Spanish border, effectively conquering the entire French territory. This marked a decisive moment in World War II, demonstrating Nazi Germany's military supremacy and dramatically altering the European geopolitical landscape.
  • 1941 Iași Pogrom: Mass Murder of Jews in Romania: During World War II, Romanian governmental forces, allied with Nazi Germany, perpetrated one of the most horrific pogroms in Jewish history in the city of Iași, Romania. This brutal event resulted in the systematic murder of at least 13,266 Jewish civilians, representing a devastating act of antisemitic violence.
  • 1942 FBI Captures Nazi Saboteurs on Long Island: The Federal Bureau of Investigation successfully captured eight German saboteurs who had landed via submarine off the coast of Long Island, New York. This operation was part of Operation Pastorius, a failed Nazi intelligence mission to conduct sabotage within the United States during World War II.
  • 1943 Pantelleria Surrenders to Allied Forces: The Italian island of Pantelleria was unconditionally surrendered to the Allies at 11:40 am local time, following 19 days of intense aerial bombardment. This strategic surrender provided the Allies with a crucial base for staging the subsequent invasion of Sicily.
  • 1944 German Garrison Surrenders at Cherbourg: During World War II, the German garrison at Cherbourg surrendered after destroying the port facilities. Approximately 6,000 German soldiers were taken prisoner by Allied forces, marking a significant strategic victory in the Normandy campaign.
  • 1945 Stalin Drops UN Veto Request: In a diplomatic maneuver on June 27, 1945, Soviet leader Joseph Stalin instructed the Soviet delegation at the San Francisco Conference to withdraw its request for a Big Five veto over international dispute discussions, signaling a potential shift in post-war international cooperation.
  • 1946 Canadian Citizenship Act of 1946: On June 27, 1946, the Parliament of Canada passed the Canadian Citizenship Act, which formally established the legal definition of Canadian citizenship for the first time in the country's history. Prior to this act, Canadian residents were considered British subjects. This landmark legislation marked a significant step in Canada's journey towards national sovereignty and independent identity, creating a distinct legal status for Canadian citizens separate from British citizenship.
  • 1947 WRC-TV Launches in Washington DC: On June 27, 1947, WRC-TV, an NBC affiliate television station, began broadcasting in Washington DC, marking an important milestone in the city's media and communication history. As one of the early television stations in the nation's capital, WRC-TV played a significant role in bringing visual news and entertainment to the local community during the post-World War II era of technological expansion.
  • 1948 Berlin Blockade and Airlift Begins: The Soviet Union initiated a comprehensive blockade of West Berlin, cutting off land and rail access to the western sectors of the city. In response, the United States, Britain, and France launched a massive humanitarian and strategic operation known as the Berlin Airlift to supply the city's population with food, fuel, and essential supplies. This dramatic Cold War confrontation demonstrated the Western Allies' commitment to protecting West Berlin from Soviet pressure and became a pivotal moment in post-World War II geopolitical tensions.
  • 1949 Australian Coal Strike of 1949: A significant industrial action began on June 27, 1949, when coal miners in Australia initiated a widespread strike. This labor dispute highlighted tensions between workers and management in the post-World War II industrial landscape, challenging government policies and demonstrating the power of organized labor in mid-20th century Australia.
  • 1950 North Korean Invasion of South Korea Begins: North Korean troops capture Seoul, marking the start of the Korean War. The United Nations Security Council calls on member states to aid South Korea, and US President Harry Truman orders Air Force and Navy intervention to support South Korean forces.
  • 1951 Devastating Tornado Outbreak Sequence: A severe tornado outbreak sequence struck the central and eastern United States, generating 13 destructive tornadoes across a wide geographical range from Nebraska to Virginia. This meteorological event caused significant damage and casualties, highlighting the unpredictable and devastating potential of severe weather systems.
  • 1952 Congressional Override of McCarran-Walter Act Veto: The United States Congress successfully overrode President Harry Truman's veto of the McCarran-Walter Act (Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952). This act maintained strict immigration quotas and was controversial for its discriminatory provisions that limited immigration from certain countries, particularly in Asia. The congressional override demonstrated the legislative branch's determination to enforce restrictive immigration policies during the early Cold War period.
  • 1953 Joseph Laniel Becomes Prime Minister of France: Joseph Laniel was appointed as the Prime Minister of France on June 27, 1953, taking leadership of the French government during a period of post-World War II political reconstruction. Laniel, a centrist politician, would serve in this role until February 1954, navigating complex domestic and international challenges during his relatively short tenure.
  • 1954 First Soviet Nuclear Power Station Opens: The world's first atomic power station begins operations in Obninsk, located approximately 55 miles from Moscow. The facility generates up to 5,000 kilowatts of electricity, marking a significant milestone in nuclear energy production for industrial and agricultural applications.
  • 1955 Congress of the People Disrupted in South Africa: The Congress of the People, a pivotal anti-apartheid gathering organized by the National Action Council, was forcibly broken up by the South African Police. During the event, delegates were photographed, documents were confiscated, and multiple arrests were made, highlighting the oppressive nature of the apartheid regime.
  • 1956 Premiere of John Huston's Moby Dick: John Huston's cinematic adaptation of Herman Melville's classic novel 'Moby Dick' was premiered. Though initially not a commercial success, the film has since been critically reappraised and is now celebrated for its innovative cinematography, particularly its masterful use of light and color in capturing the maritime narrative.
  • 1957 International Geophysical Year Commences: The International Geophysical Year (IGY) begins, a global scientific project involving 67 countries that would significantly advance scientific understanding of Earth's geophysical processes, including groundbreaking research in space, polar regions, and atmospheric sciences.
  • 1958 Tragic U.S. Airmen Incident in Russia: A severe international incident occurred when five U.S. airmen were brutally attacked by Russian peasants after parachuting to the ground. Major Bennie A. Shupe was tragically killed during this confrontation, highlighting the intense tensions of the Cold War era.
  • 1959 Hawaii Votes for Statehood: Voters in Hawaii participated in a historic referendum to become the 50th state of the United States of America, marking a significant milestone in the territorial expansion of the United States.
  • 1960 Chlorophyll 'A' Synthesized at MIT: Scientists at Cambridge, Massachusetts successfully synthesized Chlorophyll 'A', a breakthrough in understanding photosynthetic processes and plant biochemistry, potentially opening new avenues in agricultural and botanical research.
  • 1961 Kuwait Requests British Military Intervention: In a critical moment of regional tension, Kuwait officially requested military assistance from the United Kingdom to counter potential Iraqi aggression. The British government promptly responded by deploying troops to support Kuwait's territorial integrity and sovereignty.
  • 1962 X-15 High-Altitude Speed Record: NASA civilian pilot Joseph Walker piloted the experimental X-15 aircraft to an impressive altitude of 37,700 meters (123,700 feet) while achieving a remarkable speed of 6,606 kilometers per hour, pushing the boundaries of aerospace technology and human flight capabilities.
  • 1963 X-15 High Altitude Flight: US Air Force Major Robert A Rushworth achieved a remarkable milestone by reaching an altitude of 86,900 meters in an X-15 rocket-powered aircraft, pushing the boundaries of aerospace exploration and high-altitude flight.
  • 1964 Die Beatles Single Peaks on Charts: The Beatles' German-language version of 'She Loves You' (Sie Liebt Dich) reaches its peak chart position at #97 in the United States.
  • 1965 Carol Mann wins LPGA Carling Golf Open
  • 1966 UK House of Lords Practice Statement: Lord Gardiner issues the Practice Statement in the House of Lords, declaring that the legislative body is not strictly bound to follow its own previous legal precedents, marking a significant moment in British judicial flexibility.
  • 1967 World's First Automated Teller Machine (ATM) Installed: On June 27, 1967, the world's first automated teller machine (ATM) was installed at a Barclays Bank branch in Enfield, London, marking a revolutionary moment in banking technology. This innovation would fundamentally transform how people access and manage their financial resources, reducing dependency on bank tellers and providing 24/7 banking services.
  • 1968 Manifest of 2000 Words Published in Prague: On June 27, 1968, Czech writer and journalist Ludvík Vaculík published the influential 'Manifest of 2000 Words' (Manifest dvou tisíc slov) during the Prague Spring period. This powerful document was a critical critique of the Communist regime in Czechoslovakia, calling for democratic reforms, freedom of expression, and political liberalization. The manifesto became a significant symbol of resistance against Soviet-style totalitarian control and represented the intellectual movement seeking greater political openness.
  • 1969 Stonewall Riots Begin in New York City: The Stonewall riots mark a pivotal moment in the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement, where members of the gay community in Greenwich Village actively resisted police harassment and discrimination. This spontaneous uprising against systemic oppression would become a catalyst for the modern gay rights movement in the United States.
  • 1970 Northern Ireland Civil Rights Riots: Violent unrest erupted in Derry and Belfast following the arrest of civil rights activist Bernadette Devlin. The incident escalated into an intense gun battle between Irish republicans and loyalists, highlighting the deep sectarian tensions during the Northern Ireland conflict known as 'The Troubles'.
  • 1971 Fillmore East Closes Down: Legendary concert promoter Bill Graham closes the iconic Fillmore East, a pivotal music venue located in New York City that played a crucial role in the rock and counterculture music scene from 1968 to 1971. The venue hosted numerous legendary performances by artists like The Grateful Dead, Jimi Hendrix, and The Allman Brothers Band.
  • 1972 Kissinger's Diplomatic Mission to China: Henry A. Kissinger conducted critical diplomatic talks in Peking (Beijing) from June 19-21, 1972, meeting with Chinese leaders including Premier Chou En-lai. This secret diplomatic mission was a pivotal moment in US-China relations, paving the way for President Nixon's historic visit and the eventual normalization of diplomatic relations between the United States and the People's Republic of China.
  • 1973 Watergate Scandal Testimony: John W. Dean testifies before the Watergate Committee, revealing President Richard Nixon's controversial 'enemies list'. This testimony was a pivotal moment in exposing the Nixon administration's unethical political practices and abuse of power.
  • 1974 Nixon's Diplomatic Visit to Soviet Union: U.S. President Richard Nixon traveled to the Soviet Union, continuing his policy of détente and diplomatic engagement during the Cold War era. This visit was part of ongoing efforts to reduce tensions and improve relations between the United States and the Soviet Union.
  • 1975 Egypt and Israel Sign Second Disengagement Agreement: On June 27, 1975, the Second Egyptian-Israeli Disengagement Agreement was finalized, representing a crucial diplomatic breakthrough in Middle Eastern geopolitics. This agreement was part of the ongoing peace negotiations following the 1973 Yom Kippur War and signaled continued efforts to reduce tensions between Egypt and Israel.
  • 1976 Israeli Raid on Entebbe: In a daring and historic military operation, Israeli Defense Forces conducted a rescue mission at Entebbe Airport in Uganda to free hostages from the hijacked Air France Flight 139. This raid became a landmark counterterrorism mission demonstrating Israel's commitment to protecting its citizens.
  • 1977 Djibouti Gains Independence from France: On June 27, 1977, Djibouti officially gained independence from France, marking the end of French colonial rule in the Horn of Africa. This historic moment transformed the territory from a French overseas territory (Territoire français des Afars et des Issas) into a sovereign nation.
  • 1978 US Seasat 1 Oceanographic Satellite Launch: The United States launched Seasat 1, the world's first dedicated oceanographic satellite, into a polar orbit. This groundbreaking mission marked a significant milestone in Earth observation and marine science, enabling unprecedented global monitoring of ocean conditions, sea surface temperatures, wave heights, and wind patterns.
  • 1979 John Paul Stevens Confirmed to Supreme Court: The United States Senate voted to confirm Judge John Paul Stevens to the Supreme Court. Stevens was sworn in on October 23, 1979, and served with distinction until his retirement in 2010, becoming one of the most respected and longest-serving justices in modern American history.
  • 1980 Ustica Plane Crash: Aerolinee Itavia Flight 870 tragically crashes into the Tyrrhenian Sea near Ustica, Italy, resulting in the loss of all 81 passengers and crew. The incident remains one of the most mysterious aviation disasters in Italian history.
  • 1981 Chinese Communist Party Issues Historical Resolution: The Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party officially issued a landmark resolution addressing the historical narrative of the party since the founding of the People's Republic of China. This significant document critically examined the Cultural Revolution and explicitly attributed primary responsibility for its tumultuous events to Mao Zedong, marking a pivotal moment of self-reflection and historical accountability.
  • 1982 Space Shuttle Columbia STS-4 Mission Launch: NASA launched the Space Shuttle Columbia on its fourth mission (STS-4) from Kennedy Space Center, marking a significant milestone in the Space Shuttle program's research and development phase.
  • 1983 Soviet Space Mission to Salyut 7: Soyuz T-9 spacecraft successfully launched, carrying two cosmonauts to the Salyut 7 space station, continuing the Soviet Union's ongoing space exploration efforts.
  • 1984 US Supreme Court Ends NCAA Television Monopoly: The United States Supreme Court ruled to end the NCAA's monopoly on college football television broadcasts, a significant decision for sports media and collegiate athletics.
  • 1985 Route 66 Decommissioning: Route 66, the iconic highway connecting Chicago to Santa Monica, was officially decommissioned after 59 years of service. This historic road, symbolizing American mobility and freedom, was removed from the official U.S. highway system.
  • 1986 International Court of Justice Rules Against US in Nicaragua Case: The International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a landmark ruling against the United States regarding its involvement in Nicaragua, condemning the US government's paramilitary actions and support for the Contras.
  • 1987 Chemical Weapons Attack on Sardasht, Iran: During the Iran-Iraq War, Iraqi warplanes conducted a devastating chemical weapons attack on the Iranian town of Sardasht, dropping mustard gas bombs on four residential areas. This marked the first known instance of a civilian town being targeted with chemical weapons, representing a significant escalation in warfare and a grave violation of international humanitarian law.
  • 1988 Gare de Lyon Train Disaster: A catastrophic train collision occurred during rush hour at Gare de Lyon in Paris, France, resulting in 59 fatalities and 55 injuries. The runaway train plowed into a packed commuter train, causing one of the deadliest rail accidents in French transportation history.
  • 1989 ILO 169 Convention on Indigenous Peoples' Rights Adopted: The International Labour Organization (ILO) adopted the Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention (ILO 169), a landmark international treaty designed to protect the rights, cultures, and lands of indigenous populations worldwide. This convention represents a significant milestone in recognizing indigenous peoples' fundamental human rights and their right to self-determination.
  • 1990 Merrill Lynch Massive Disney Bond Issue: Merrill Lynch initiated the largest convertible bond sale in US history, raising up to $2.25 billion for Walt Disney Company to fund the construction of Euro Disneyland in France.
  • 1991 Slovenia's Independence and Yugoslav Invasion: Slovenia declares independence from Yugoslavia, triggering a military response as Yugoslav troops, tanks, and aircraft invade the newly independent state, marking the start of the Ten-Day War. This conflict would become a pivotal moment in the dissolution of Yugoslavia and Slovenia's path to sovereignty.
  • 1992 Denmark Wins European Soccer Championship: In a remarkable performance, Denmark defeats Germany 2-0 to win the European Soccer Championship, marking a significant moment in international soccer history.
  • 1993 U.S. Missile Strike on Iraqi Intelligence HQ: U.S. President Bill Clinton authorizes a strategic cruise missile attack on Iraqi intelligence headquarters in Baghdad's Al-Mansur District, retaliating for an attempted assassination of former President George H. W. Bush in Kuwait during April.
  • 1994 Aum Shinrikyo Sarin Gas Attack in Matsumoto: Members of the Aum Shinrikyo cult conducted a devastating terrorist attack by releasing sarin nerve gas in Matsumoto, Japan. The chemical weapon attack resulted in seven fatalities and injured 660 people, marking a significant act of domestic terrorism that shocked Japan and the international community.
  • 1995 Milestone 100th U.S. Human Space Mission: The American space shuttle Atlantis launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, marking the 100th human space mission in American history. This significant milestone represented a major achievement in the United States' space exploration program.
  • 1996 Discovery of Kennewick Man: Archaeological researchers discovered prehistoric human remains near the Columbia River in Kennewick, Washington. The skeletal remains, later known as 'Kennewick Man' or 'The Ancient One', became a significant anthropological find that sparked extensive scientific debate and legal disputes about Native American heritage and archaeological research rights.
  • 1997 Glastonbury Festival Features Iconic Musical Performances: The renowned Glastonbury Festival in Pilton, England opened with an extraordinary lineup of musical acts, including headline performances by The Prodigy and Radiohead. Other notable performers included Smashing Pumpkins, Ray Davies, Van Morrison, Sting, Beck, Phish, and Nanci Griffith, making it a landmark event in the 1997 music scene.
  • 1998 Clinton-Jiang Diplomatic Dialogue in Beijing: US President Bill Clinton and Chinese President Jiang Zemin engaged in a nuanced diplomatic discussion at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The conversation candidly addressed sensitive topics including human rights concerns and the Tibet issue, reflecting the complex geopolitical dynamics of the late 1990s.
  • 1999 Death of George Papadopoulos, Greek Military Dictator: George Papadopoulos, the controversial military leader who led the Greek military junta from 1967 to 1973, passed away at the age of 80. He was a key figure in the military coup that overthrew the democratic government and established a repressive regime known as the 'Regime of the Colonels'.
  • 2001 Death of Jack Lemmon: Jack Lemmon, a renowned American actor and film director, passed away on June 27, 2001. Known for his versatile acting skills and memorable performances in comedic and dramatic roles, Lemmon was a two-time Academy Award winner who significantly influenced Hollywood cinema during the mid-20th century.
  • 2002 WorldCom Accounting Fraud Scandal: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) initiated a major fraud action against WorldCom, one of the largest telecommunications companies in the United States. This marked a significant moment in corporate financial misconduct, highlighting systemic issues in financial reporting and corporate governance.
  • 2003 United States National Do Not Call Registry Established: The United States Federal Trade Commission launched the National Do Not Call Registry to protect consumers from unwanted telemarketing calls. On its inaugural day, an impressive 750 million phone numbers were registered, demonstrating significant public interest in reducing unsolicited telephone solicitations.
  • 2004 Turkish Citizens Kidnapped in Iraq: Three Turkish citizens were kidnapped by Iraqi insurgents and threatened with decapitation, reflecting the volatile security situation during the Iraq occupation.
  • 2005 BTK Killer Dennis Rader Pleads Guilty: Dennis Rader, infamously known as the BTK (Bind, Torture, Kill) serial killer, pleaded guilty to ten murder charges in the Sedgwick County District Court, bringing closure to a series of horrific crimes that terrorized Wichita, Kansas for decades.
  • 2006 Saddam Hussein to Face Trial for Anfal Campaign: The Iraqi Special Tribunal announced that Saddam Hussein and six co-defendants would be tried on August 21 for the 1980s Anfal Campaign, during which an estimated 100,000 Kurds were killed. This marked a significant moment in holding the former dictator accountable for human rights atrocities.
  • 2007 Tony Blair Resigns, Gordon Brown Becomes Prime Minister: In a historic political transition, Tony Blair resigned as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom after a decade in power. Gordon Brown, his long-time Chancellor, was appointed as the new Prime Minister by Queen Elizabeth II, marking a significant moment in British political history.
  • 2008 Bill Gates Resigns from Microsoft Executive Role: Bill Gates officially resigned from his executive position at Microsoft to focus full-time on the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, marking a significant transition from technology leadership to global philanthropic work.
  • 2009 NATO and Russia Restore Military Relations: After a 10-month suspension following the 2008 war with Georgia, NATO and Russia agreed to re-establish military relations, potentially signaling a diplomatic thaw.
  • 2010 Death of Lithuania's First President: Algirdas Brazauskas, the first president of independent Lithuania after the fall of the Soviet Union, passed away in Vilnius. He was a pivotal figure in Lithuania's post-Soviet political landscape and national independence movement.
  • 2011 ICC Arrest Warrant for Gaddafi: The International Criminal Court at The Hague issued an arrest warrant for Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, his son Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, and intelligence chief Abdullah Senussi for alleged 'crimes against humanity' during the Libyan Civil War.
  • 2012 Syrian Civil War Escalates with Massive Casualties: According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, 916 Syrians were killed in the last seven days, marking the most deadly week since the uprising began.
  • 2013 Boston Marathon Bombing Indictment: Dzhokhar Tsarnaev (corrected spelling) is formally indicted by the US Federal Grand Jury on thirty counts related to the Boston Marathon Bombing, marking a significant legal proceeding in the terrorism case.
  • 2014 EU Signs Association Agreements with Eastern European Countries: The European Union signed significant association agreements with Ukraine, Georgia, and Moldova, a move strongly opposed by Russia and marking a critical geopolitical moment in Eastern European relations.
  • 2015 Confederate Flag Removal by Bree Newsome: Civil rights activist Bree Newsome performed an act of civil disobedience by scaling the South Carolina state flag pole and removing the Confederate flag, symbolizing a powerful statement against racial oppression.
  • 2016 Brexit Impact on Financial Markets: Following the Brexit referendum, Asian markets witnessed a dramatic initial drop in the British Pound's value by more than 22%, signaling significant economic uncertainty and global market reaction to the UK's decision to leave the European Union.
  • 2017 European Union Antitrust Fine Against Google: The European Commission imposed a record €2.42 billion antitrust fine on Google for allegedly manipulating search engine results. This landmark decision signaled the EU's strong stance on regulating digital market practices.
  • 2018 Trump Administration Family Separation Policy Halted: A federal judge ordered an immediate stop to family separations at the Mexico-US border and mandated the reunification of separated families, challenging the Trump administration's controversial immigration policy.
  • 2019 Supreme Court Gerrymandering Decision: The US Supreme Court ruled that the Constitution does not prohibit partisan gerrymandering, effectively allowing political parties to redraw electoral boundaries.
  • 2020 Trump's Social Media Blitz: On June 27, 2020, President Donald Trump was particularly active on social media, posting 39 tweets throughout the day. His tweets covered a range of topics including his upcoming Fox News town hall, commentary on the ongoing election campaign, and statements about his administration's approach to handling violent protests. This high-frequency social media engagement was characteristic of Trump's communication style during his presidency.
  • 2021 Surfside Condo Collapse Tragedy in Florida: The devastating collapse of a condominium building in Surfside, Florida, continued to unfold with an increasing death toll. Preliminary investigations revealed significant structural issues that likely contributed to the catastrophic building failure, raising serious questions about construction standards and building safety.
  • 2022 Russian Missile Strike on Kyiv During Ukraine Conflict: Russia launched missile attacks on Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, after capturing the strategic city of Sievierodonetsk. The strike resulted in one fatality and six injuries in a residential apartment building, marking another escalation in the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War.
  • 2023 Last Day of School in New York City: The final official calendar day of classes for students in New York City's public school system, marking the conclusion of the 2022-2023 academic year. This day signifies the transition from structured learning to summer break, with students and educators celebrating the end of another school year.

What Is special about June 27?

June 27 is notable for a variety of important historical, cultural, and significant events, including famous birthdays and deaths, holidays and more. Find out everything about June 27.