Historical Events on June 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 June 28, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on June 28 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 British Capture of Pretoria during Second Boer War: On June 28, 1900, the city of Pretoria, capital of the Transvaal Republic, surrendered to British forces led by Field Marshal Lord Roberts during the Second Boer War. This significant military event marked a crucial turning point in the conflict between British imperial forces and Boer resistance, effectively dealing a major blow to Boer independence efforts.
1901 Uneventful Day in Global History: While no specific major historical events were recorded for June 28, 1901, this date falls during the early years of the 20th century, a period of significant global transformation. The world was experiencing rapid industrialization, colonial expansions, and technological advancements. Although no singular event stands out for this specific date, it represents a moment in time during the Edwardian era, characterized by significant social, technological, and political changes.
1902 Spooner Act Passes for Panama Canal Rights: The U.S. Congress passed the Spooner Act, which authorized President Theodore Roosevelt to negotiate and acquire rights from Colombia for the construction of the Panama Canal, a pivotal moment in U.S. infrastructure and international diplomacy.
1903 Meteorite Fall in Uberaba, Brazil: On June 28, 1903, a significant meteorite classified as an H5 type was observed falling in Uberaba, a city located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. H5 classification indicates an ordinary chondrite with moderate thermal metamorphism, providing valuable insights into early solar system composition.
1904 SS Norge Maritime Disaster: The SS Norge runs aground on Hasselwood Rock in the North Atlantic, approximately 430 kilometres (270 miles) northwest of Ireland. More than 635 people tragically lose their lives during this devastating maritime accident.
1905 Battleship Potemkin Mutiny: Russian sailors staged a significant mutiny aboard the battleship Potemkin, a pivotal event in the early stages of the Russian Revolution that symbolized growing discontent within the Imperial Russian Navy and broader social tensions.
1906 Birth of Maria Goeppert-Mayer: Maria Goeppert-Mayer, a pioneering German-American physicist, was born on this day. She would later become a Nobel Prize laureate for her groundbreaking work in nuclear physics, specifically her contributions to understanding nuclear shell structure. Her research significantly advanced our understanding of atomic nuclei and earned her the prestigious Nobel Prize in Physics in 1963, making her only the second woman to win the Nobel Prize in Physics.
1907 Record-Breaking Base Stealing Performance Against Branch Rickey: In a remarkable baseball game on June 28, 1907, the Nationals set a historic record by successfully stealing 13 bases against catcher Branch Rickey, who would later become famous as the executive who broke baseball's color barrier by signing Jackie Robinson. This extraordinary feat highlighted the team's aggressive base-running strategy and exposed potential defensive weaknesses in Rickey's catching technique.
1908 Annular Solar Eclipse of 1908: A rare astronomical event occurred on June 28, 1908, when an annular solar eclipse was observable across multiple continents and oceanic regions. During an annular eclipse, the Moon appears slightly smaller than the Sun, creating a distinctive 'ring of fire' effect around the lunar silhouette. This celestial phenomenon was visible from Central America, North America, the Atlantic Ocean, and parts of Africa, offering a spectacular display for astronomers and sky watchers of the era.
1909 First French Air Show in Reims: The Concours d'Aviation (Aviation Competition) opened in Reims, France, marking a pivotal moment in early aviation history. This groundbreaking event showcased the rapidly evolving technology of powered flight and brought together pioneering aviators from across Europe to demonstrate their aircraft's capabilities.
1910 First Airline Crash in Germany: Dirigible Deutschland Incident: On June 28, 1910, the dirigible Deutschland experienced a dramatic incident during an emergency landing at Osnabrück, Germany. Despite being severely impacted by high winds, the airship was wrecked, yet remarkably, all 33 persons on board survived without injury. This event marked a significant moment in early aviation history, highlighting both the technological challenges and the resilience of early airship design.
1911 Nakhla Meteorite Falls in Egypt: A series of loud bangs were heard over Alexandria, Egypt, as approximately 40 pieces of a meteorite fell, totaling 40 kg. Tragically, one piece of the meteorite killed a dog during its descent. The meteorite was subsequently named Nakhla, after the village of El Nakhla El Baharia where it landed.
1912 Birth of Glenn Morris, Olympic Decathlon Champion: Glenn Morris was an exceptional American athlete born on June 28, 1912, who would later become a celebrated Olympic decathlete. He gained international recognition by winning the gold medal in the decathlon at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, competing during a politically charged time under the shadow of Nazi Germany. Morris set a world record in the decathlon during those games, showcasing remarkable athletic prowess across ten different track and field events.
1913 US-Japan Arbitration Treaty Renewal: On June 28, 1913, the United States and Japan formally renewed their bilateral arbitration treaty, symbolizing diplomatic cooperation and peaceful conflict resolution. United States Secretary of State William Jennings Bryan presided over the treaty renewal ceremony, highlighting the nations' commitment to resolving potential disputes through diplomatic channels rather than military confrontation.
1914 Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand: Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria and his wife Sophie were fatally shot by Bosnian Serb nationalist Gavrilo Princip during an official visit to Sarajevo, Bosnia. This pivotal event would become the immediate trigger for World War I, dramatically altering the geopolitical landscape of Europe.
1916 Ross Sea Party Ship Aurora Repaired: The British polar exploration ship Aurora was repaired and refitted to return to the Antarctic to rescue 10 stranded members of the Ross Sea party. This rescue mission was part of Ernest Shackleton's Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition, a critical moment in polar exploration history where the survival of the expedition members hung in the balance.
1917 Greece Enters World War I on Allied Side: On June 28, 1917, Greece officially joined the Allied powers during World War I, marking a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of the conflict. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Eleftherios Venizelos, Greece aligned with Britain, France, and Russia, abandoning its previous stance of neutrality. This decision came after considerable internal political tension and external pressure, ultimately contributing to the Allied war effort in the Balkan theater.
1918 Treaty of Versailles Signed, Ending World War I: The Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1918, marking the official conclusion of World War I. This pivotal diplomatic agreement was negotiated at the Paris Peace Conference and formally ended the state of war between Germany and the Allied Powers. The treaty imposed significant reparations and territorial changes on Germany, fundamentally reshaping the geopolitical landscape of Europe.
1919 Treaty of Versailles Signed, Ending World War I: The Treaty of Versailles was signed at the Palace of Versailles outside Paris, France, formally ending World War I. This historic document not only concluded the state of war between Germany and the Allied Powers but also established the groundwork for the League of Nations, a precursor to the modern United Nations.
1920 Treaty of Versailles Signed, Ending World War I: On June 28, 1920, the Treaty of Versailles was formally signed, marking the official conclusion of World War I. This pivotal diplomatic document, negotiated at the Paris Peace Conference, imposed significant reparations and territorial changes on Germany, fundamentally reshaping the geopolitical landscape of Europe. The treaty's harsh terms would later contribute to economic instability and rising nationalism in Germany, setting the stage for future conflicts.
1921 Vidovdan Constitution Proclaimed by King Alexander I: On June 28, 1921, Serbian King Alexander I officially proclaimed a new constitution for the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes. This significant political document established the constitutional framework for the young multi-ethnic state, marking a pivotal moment in the region's political development. The constitution was named 'Vidovdan' after St. Vitus Day, a historically important date in Serbian culture.
1922 Irish Civil War Begins in Dublin: On June 28, 1922, the Irish Civil War erupted with Free State forces shelling the Four Courts building in Dublin, a pivotal moment that marked the start of a bitter internal conflict between pro-treaty and anti-treaty Irish republicans. The bombardment signaled the breakdown of negotiations and the beginning of armed hostilities between two factions that had previously fought together against British rule.
1923 Turkey's First Democratic Elections: A pivotal moment in Turkish political history, the nation conducts its first general elections, marking a significant step in the country's transition to a democratic system following the establishment of the Republic of Turkey under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's leadership.
1924 Tornado strikes Sandusky and Lorain in Ohio, USA, killing 93.
1925 F.C. Porto Wins Campeonato de Portugal: On June 28, 1925, F.C. Porto secured a decisive 2-1 victory over Sporting CP in the Campeonato de Portugal, marking a significant moment in the club's early football history. The match showcased Porto's emerging prowess in Portuguese football during the mid-1920s.
1926 King–Byng Affair in Canadian Politics: A significant constitutional crisis in Canadian political history where Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King resigned after Governor General Julian Byng refused to sign an Order in Council to dissolve Parliament, highlighting the complex relationship between elected officials and the Crown's representative.
1927 Cyclone Roller Coaster Opens at Coney Island: The legendary Cyclone roller coaster, an iconic attraction at Coney Island in Brooklyn, New York, was opened. Though the precise date is sometimes cited as June 26, it is closely associated with the late June timeframe of 1927. The Cyclone became a landmark of American amusement park culture and is considered one of the most famous wooden roller coasters in history.
1928 Kellogg-Briand Pact Signed in Paris: The Kellogg-Briand Pact, a landmark international treaty that renounced war as an instrument of national policy, was signed in Paris by multiple nations, representing a significant diplomatic effort to prevent future global conflicts.
1930 First Night Baseball Game at Hamtramck Stadium: On June 28, 1930, a historic milestone in baseball occurred when the Negro League Detroit Stars hosted the Kansas City Monarchs in the first-ever night game at the newly constructed Hamtramck Stadium. This event was significant in showcasing the skill and entertainment of Negro League baseball, providing a groundbreaking opportunity for night-time sporting events.
1931 Iraq Gains Partial Sovereignty from United States: On June 28, 1931, the United States returned a degree of sovereignty to an interim government in Iraq, while maintaining a significant military presence of approximately 135,000 troops to address ongoing insurgent activities. This marked an important transitional moment in Iraq's path towards self-governance, though the continued substantial American military presence indicated the complex geopolitical challenges of the region.
1932 India's First Test Cricket Match Against England: The Indian national cricket team made its historic debut in Test cricket by playing against England at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground in London. Despite losing the match, this event marked a significant milestone in India's sporting history, representing the country's emergence on the international cricket stage during the late colonial period.
1933 Hitler Outlines Media Control Policy: Adolf Hitler delivered a significant speech to German newspaper publishers, explicitly detailing the Nazi government's new journalistic policy. This speech marked a critical moment in the regime's efforts to control and manipulate media narrative, effectively establishing state propaganda mechanisms and suppressing independent journalism.
1934 Night of the Long Knives: A significant political purge in Nazi Germany where Adolf Hitler ordered the execution of Ernst Röhm and other SA leaders, eliminating potential rivals within his own party and consolidating his power.
1935 Gold Vault Construction at Fort Knox: President Franklin D. Roosevelt ordered the construction of a federal gold vault at Fort Knox, Kentucky, as part of a strategic national financial security initiative during the Great Depression era.
1936 Formation of Mengjiang Puppet State: On June 28, 1936, the Japanese Empire established the puppet state of Mengjiang in northern China, expanding its territorial control and political influence in the region during the pre-World War II era.
1937 Gestapo Arrests Pastor Martin Niemöller: The Nazi secret police (Gestapo) arrest prominent Protestant pastor Martin Niemöller, a vocal critic of the Nazi regime's interference in church affairs. Niemöller would later become a symbol of Christian resistance against Hitler's government.
1938 Johnny Vander Meer's Historic No-Hitter: Johnny Vander Meer of the Cincinnati Reds pitched a remarkable 3-0 no-hitter against the Boston Bees, showcasing exceptional pitching skill in Major League Baseball.
1939 Pan American Airways Launches Southern Transatlantic Air Route: Pan American Airways (Pan Am) inaugurated its southern transatlantic air service with the Dixie Clipper, expanding international air travel capabilities and connecting North America with South America via a groundbreaking maritime air route.
1940 Soviet Territorial Expansion in Romania: Romania was forced to cede Bessarabia and Northern Bukovina to the Soviet Union after receiving an ultimatum, marking a significant territorial annexation during the early stages of World War II.
1941 Holocaust Atrocity in Kishinev: German and Romanian soldiers conducted a mass murder of 11,000 Jewish civilians in Kishinev (now Chișinău, Moldova), representing a horrific act of genocide during World War II's early stages.
1942 Nazi Germany's Case Blue Offensive: During World War II, Nazi Germany launched its strategic summer offensive against the Soviet Union, known as Operation Case Blue (Fall Blau). This massive military campaign aimed to capture the Soviet oil fields in the Caucasus region and push deep into Soviet territory, representing a critical turning point in the Eastern Front of World War II.
1943 Birth of Klaus von Klitzing, Renowned Physicist: Klaus von Klitzing, a distinguished German physicist, was born on this date. He would later become famous for discovering the quantum Hall effect, which earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1985. His groundbreaking work significantly advanced our understanding of quantum mechanics and electrical conductivity in semiconductors.
1944 Liberation of Cherbourg by Allied Forces: During Operation Overlord, American troops of the VII Corps, led by Major General J. Lawton Collins, successfully captured the strategic port city of Cherbourg in Normandy, France. This victory was a crucial milestone in the Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied Europe, providing the Allies with an essential deep-water port to support further military operations and supply lines across the European Theater.
1945 Nazi Criminal Code Amendment Targeting LGBTQ+ Community: On June 28, 1945, the German Ministry of Justice modified Paragraphs 175 and 175a of the criminal code, further institutionalizing the systematic persecution of gay men and lesbians. This legal revision continued the horrific legacy of discrimination and oppression against the LGBTQ+ community during and after the Nazi regime.
1946 First President of Italy Elected: Enrico de Nicola is elected as the first President of Italy following the country's transition from monarchy to a republican form of government after World War II. This marks a significant moment in Italian political history, symbolizing the nation's post-war democratic reconstruction.
1947 "Temptation" Tops Music Charts: The novelty song "Temptation" by Red Ingle, featuring vocals by Jo Stafford, reached the number one position on the music charts. The recording was known for its humorous and playful interpretation of the popular standard, showcasing Ingle's comedic musical style and Stafford's versatile vocal talents.
1948 Berlin Airlift Begins: The United States and United Kingdom initiate the Berlin Airlift, a massive humanitarian and strategic operation to supply West Berlin with food, fuel, and essential goods after Soviet blockade, marking a critical moment in the early Cold War.
1949 Strato-Freight Curtiss C-46A Disaster: A Curtiss C-46A transport plane experienced a catastrophic crash into the Atlantic Ocean while en route from Puerto Rico to Miami, Florida. The accident was attributed to a critical maintenance error, resulting in the tragic loss of 53 lives out of 81 passengers and crew aboard. This incident highlighted the importance of rigorous aircraft maintenance and safety protocols in commercial aviation.
1950 Fall of Seoul: On June 28, 1950, North Korean forces successfully captured Seoul, the capital of South Korea, marking a significant early victory in the Korean War. This rapid conquest demonstrated the initial military superiority of North Korean troops and set the stage for the subsequent international intervention.
1951 President Truman's 268th News Conference: On June 28, 1951, President Harry S. Truman conducted his 268th press conference in the Indian Treaty Room of the Executive Office Building. During the conference, he announced two significant personnel appointments: Francis P. Matthews as the new Ambassador to Ireland and Dan Kimball as Secretary of the Navy. A key point of discussion was the potential expiration of the Defense Production Act, which Truman viewed with considerable apprehension. He was particularly concerned that the act's termination could result in the removal of critical wartime economic controls affecting prices, wages, production, credit, and rental markets.
1952 First Miss Universe Pageant: The inaugural Miss Universe pageant was held on June 28, 1952, in Long Beach, California, United States. Armi Kuusela from Finland was crowned as the first Miss Universe, marking a significant moment in the history of international beauty competitions. The pageant would go on to become a globally recognized event, showcasing beauty, talent, and cultural diversity.
1953 Uneventful Day in 1953: While no specific historical events were documented for June 28, 1953, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. The mid-1950s was a period of significant global transformation, including the early Cold War era, post-World War II reconstruction, and emerging decolonization movements.
1954 Mysterious Disappearance of Fishing Troller *Al*: The fishing vessel *Al* departed from Sitka, Alaska on June 28, 1954, heading towards Maid Island in Southeast Alaska. The ship, carrying a single crew member, was reported missing on July 3rd and was never subsequently located or recovered, becoming a maritime mystery of the mid-20th century.
1955 First Helicopter Landing on Mont Blanc Summit: On June 28, 1955, French pilot Jean Moire achieved a remarkable aviation milestone by successfully landing a Bell 47 helicopter on the summit of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps and Western Europe. This groundbreaking flight reached an impressive altitude of 4,807 meters (15,772 feet), demonstrating the emerging capabilities of rotary-wing aircraft in challenging high-altitude environments.
1956 Poznań June Uprising of 1956: A significant anti-communist demonstration in Poznań, Poland, where workers protested against the oppressive communist regime. The uprising was a pivotal moment of resistance against Soviet control, highlighting growing discontent with economic conditions and political repression in Poland during the Cold War era.
1957 Frick overrules and names Stan Musial, Willie Mays, and Hank Aaron to team
1958 Brazil Wins First FIFA World Cup: Brazil secured its first FIFA World Cup championship in Sweden, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's soccer history. This victory would launch Brazil's reputation as a global soccer powerhouse and begin a legendary era of Brazilian football.
1959 Ethiopian Orthodox Church Gains Independence: The Ethiopian Orthodox Church officially separated from Egypt's Coptic Christian Church, establishing its autonomy and marking a significant moment in religious and cultural history. This separation represented an important step in Ethiopia's ecclesiastical self-determination and national identity.
1960 Cuban Oil Refineries Nationalized: The United States-owned oil refineries in Cuba were confiscated and nationalized by the Cuban government, marking a significant moment in the Cold War-era tensions between the two countries.
1961 Phils and SF set then record longest night game (5h11m) 7-7 15 inn tie
1962 Thalidomide Drug Ban in the Netherlands: The Dutch government officially banned the controversial drug thalidomide, which had been linked to severe birth defects in children born to mothers who took the medication during pregnancy. This decision was part of a global response to the thalidomide tragedy that had caused widespread congenital disabilities.
1963 Khrushchev's East Berlin Visit: Soviet First Secretary Nikita Khrushchev made a diplomatic visit to East Berlin during the height of the Cold War, reinforcing Soviet influence in the divided German city and demonstrating the complex geopolitical tensions of the era.
1964 Malcolm X Establishes Organization of Afro-American Unity: On June 28, 1964, Malcolm X founded the Organization of Afro-American Unity (OAAU) in New York City. This organization was a pivotal civil rights group aimed at promoting Black empowerment, self-determination, and human rights for African Americans. The OAAU sought to unite Black people across the United States and internationally, advocating for political, economic, and social justice through collective action and cultural pride.
1965 First Major US Offensive in Vietnam War: U.S. forces launched the first major offensive in the Vietnam War, involving approximately 3,000 troops from the 173rd Airborne Brigade, 800 Australian soldiers, and a Vietnamese airborne unit. The operation targeted the Viet Cong Zone D, located 20 miles northeast of Saigon. After three days, the operation was called off due to minimal enemy contact, resulting in one American fatality and thirteen total casualties.
1966 James Meredith Shot During Civil Rights March: African-American civil rights activist James Meredith is ambushed and shot while conducting a solo 'March Against Fear' from Memphis to Jackson, highlighting the dangerous racial tensions in 1960s Mississippi.
1967 Israel's Annexation of East Jerusalem: On June 28, 1967, Israel formally annexed East Jerusalem following the Six-Day War. This action was a significant geopolitical move that dramatically altered the territorial landscape of the region. From Israel's perspective, the annexation represented the reunification of its capital city, bringing the eastern part of Jerusalem under full Israeli control. However, the international community widely condemned this action as illegal under international law, maintaining that East Jerusalem is Palestinian territory under Israeli occupation.
1968 Daniel Ellsberg Pentagon Papers Indictment: Daniel Ellsberg was formally indicted for leaking the classified Pentagon Papers, a pivotal moment in American political history that exposed secret government documents about the Vietnam War and challenged government transparency.
1969 Stonewall riots begin in New York City, marking the start of the Gay Rights Movement.
1970 First Pride March in U.S. History: The inaugural Pride march was held on June 28, 1970, commemorating the one-year anniversary of the pivotal Stonewall Uprising in New York City. This landmark event marked a critical moment in the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement, symbolizing resistance, visibility, and the fight for equality.
1971 Pentagon Papers Supreme Court Decision: In a landmark First Amendment case, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in ''New York Times Co. v. United States'' that the Pentagon Papers could be published, rejecting government attempts to suppress the classified documents as unconstitutional prior restraint on press freedom.
1972 Nixon Halts Vietnam War Draft: U.S. President Richard Nixon announces a significant policy change, declaring that no new military conscripts will be sent to Vietnam, marking a pivotal moment in the winding down of American involvement in the Vietnam War.
1973 Northern Ireland Assembly Elections: Historic elections were held for the Northern Ireland Assembly, marking a pivotal moment in the region's political landscape. These elections aimed to establish a power-sharing government between unionists and nationalists, representing a significant step towards resolving long-standing sectarian tensions and promoting political cooperation.
1974 Mikhail Baryshnikov Defects from Soviet Union: Renowned ballet dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov dramatically defected from the Soviet Union while on tour with the Kirov Ballet in Toronto, Canada. His bold escape was motivated by artistic restrictions and the desire for creative freedom, marking a significant cultural and political moment during the Cold War era.
1975 India's Press Censorship During Emergency: In a significant blow to press freedom, the Indian government imposed the most stringent press censorship since the country's independence. This occurred against the backdrop of widespread anti-government protests during the period known as the Emergency, effectively silencing media criticism and restricting journalistic independence.
1976 Entebbe Airport Hijacking: Air France Flight 139, traveling from Tel Aviv to Paris, was hijacked by members of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) and two German accomplices. The aircraft was diverted to Entebbe Airport in Uganda, becoming a significant international hostage crisis that would later lead to a famous Israeli rescue operation.
1977 Supreme Court Ruling on Nixon Tapes: The United States Supreme Court ruled to allow federal control of President Richard Nixon's controversial White House tape recordings, a pivotal moment in the Watergate scandal's aftermath. This decision further undermined Nixon's attempts to maintain executive privilege and control over potentially incriminating evidence.
1978 Landmark Supreme Court Decision on College Admissions: In the landmark case Regents of the University of California v. Bakke, the United States Supreme Court ruled against racial quota systems in college admissions, marking a significant moment in the ongoing dialogue about affirmative action and equal opportunity in higher education.
1979 Three Mile Island Nuclear Accident: On June 28, 1979, a partial nuclear meltdown occurred at the Three Mile Island Nuclear Power Plant in Middletown, Pennsylvania. This catastrophic event was the most significant nuclear accident in United States history, causing widespread public concern about nuclear energy safety. The incident led to major reforms in nuclear power plant regulations, emergency response protocols, and public perception of nuclear technology.
1980 Iceland Elects First Woman President: On this historic day, Iceland made global headlines by electing Vigdís Finnbogadóttir as its first woman president, marking a significant milestone in gender representation in political leadership. Finnbogadóttir's election was groundbreaking, as she became one of the world's first democratically elected female heads of state, setting a powerful precedent for women's political empowerment.
1981 Terry Fox: Canadian Marathon of Hope Runner: Terry Fox, born in 1958, was a remarkable Canadian athlete and cancer activist who attempted to run across Canada to raise awareness and funds for cancer research, despite having lost a leg to the disease.
1982 Birth of Prince William: Prince Charles and Lady Diana welcome their first son, Prince William Arthur Philip Louis, to the British Royal Family. This birth marks a significant moment in the royal lineage and captures global attention.
1983 Mianus River Bridge Collapse: The Mianus River Bridge along Interstate 95 in Connecticut catastrophically collapsed, causing the immediate deaths of three drivers trapped in their vehicles. The incident highlighted critical infrastructure vulnerabilities and prompted nationwide bridge safety reviews.
1984 Night Stalker Commits First Recorded Murder: Richard Ramirez, infamously known as the 'Night Stalker,' commits his first documented murder in California. This marks the beginning of a terrifying serial killing spree that would grip the state with fear and lead to one of the most notorious criminal investigations of the 1980s.
1985 Space Shuttle Discovery Returns to Kennedy Space Center: The Space Shuttle Discovery was ferried back to the Kennedy Space Center from Bergstrom Air Force Base in Texas, completing a significant logistical transport of the spacecraft.
1986 Irish Population's Stance on Divorce: The Irish population publicly condemned the existing ban on divorce, highlighting the ongoing social and legal debate surrounding marriage dissolution in Ireland during the 1980s.
1987 Chemical Warfare Against Civilians in Sardasht: In a horrific milestone of military history, Iraqi warplanes conducted a chemical attack on the Iranian town of Sardasht, marking the first deliberate targeting of a civilian population with chemical weapons. This event represents a severe violation of international humanitarian law and a tragic escalation of the Iran-Iraq War.
1988 Nestucca Oil Spill Environmental Disaster: A maritime collision off the Washington coast resulted in a massive oil spill, releasing over 230,000 gallons of oil into marine ecosystems. The incident caused substantial environmental damage, particularly impacting seabird populations and triggering extensive cleanup and environmental restoration efforts.
1989 Slobodan Milošević's Gazimestan Speech at Kosovo Polje: On the 600th anniversary of the Battle of Kosovo, Serbian leader Slobodan Milošević delivered a highly significant and controversial speech at Gazimestan, the historic battlefield. This speech became a pivotal moment in Serbian nationalism, where Milošević invoked historical narratives of Serbian struggle and martyrdom, subtly laying groundwork for future ethnic tensions in Yugoslavia.
1990 Landmark Copyright Lawsuit in Software Industry: Paperback Software International Ltd. was found liable by a U.S. court for copyright violation, specifically for copying the appearance and menu system of Lotus 1-2-3 in its competing spreadsheet program. This legal decision was significant in establishing intellectual property protections in software design.
1991 Dissolution of COMECON: The Council for Mutual Economic Assistance (COMECON), a Soviet-led economic organization linking Eastern Bloc countries, was officially dissolved. This marked a significant moment in the post-Cold War restructuring of economic relationships between former communist states, signaling the end of centralized economic cooperation that had existed since 1949.
1992 Estonia Adopts New Constitution: Estonia officially signed its new constitution into law, marking a significant milestone in the country's post-Soviet era transition to democratic governance. This constitution established the fundamental legal framework for the newly independent Baltic state, defining its democratic principles, governmental structure, and citizens' rights.
1993 Carlton Fisk Released by White Sox: Carlton Fisk, a legendary MLB catcher, was released by the Chicago White Sox at age 45. At the time of his release, he held significant MLB records, including most games caught and most home runs by a catcher, marking the end of an illustrious baseball career.
1994 Aum Shinrikyo Sarin Gas Attack in Matsumoto, Japan: Members of the Aum Shinrikyo cult carried out a devastating sarin gas attack in Matsumoto, Japan, resulting in seven fatalities and 660 injuries. This terrorist incident marked a significant escalation of the cult's violent activities and raised serious concerns about domestic terrorism in Japan.
1995 New Jersey Devils Stanley Cup Victory Celebration: During the New Jersey Devils' Stanley Cup victory celebration, goalie Chris Terreri dramatically held up a sign reading 'Nashville? NO WAY!' to quash rumors about the team potentially relocating. The event highlighted the team's commitment to staying in New Jersey and celebrated their championship triumph.
1996 Ukraine's Constitutional Milestone: Ukraine officially signs its Constitution into law, a pivotal moment in the nation's post-Soviet political development and establishment of democratic governance.
1997 Mike Tyson Disqualified for Ear-Biting Incident: In a shocking turn of events during the WBA heavyweight title re-match, boxer Mike Tyson was disqualified for biting off part of Evander Holyfield's ear, creating one of the most infamous moments in boxing history.
1998 Nancy Gulbrandsen Wins ShopRite LPGA Classic: On June 28, 1998, professional golfer Nancy Gulbrandsen secured victory at the prestigious ShopRite LPGA Classic, demonstrating her skill and competitive prowess in women's professional golf. The tournament, held in Galloway, New Jersey, was a significant event in the LPGA Tour calendar, showcasing top-tier women's golf talent.
1999 Proclamation of the Vidovdan Constitution in the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes: On June 28, 1999, King Alexander I of Serbia officially proclaimed a new constitution for the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes. The Vidovdan Constitution (named after St. Vitus Day, a significant date in Serbian history) established a centralized monarchical system that aimed to unify the diverse ethnic groups within the newly formed kingdom. This constitutional document was significant in shaping the political structure and national identity of the emerging South Slavic state.
2000 Elián González Returns to Cuba: After a highly publicized international custody battle that captured global media attention, six-year-old Elián González was reunited with his father Juan Miguel González and returned to Cuba. The case had significant political and emotional implications, highlighting tensions between Cuban-American communities and the Cuban government.
2001 Slobodan Milošević Extradited to International Criminal Tribunal: Slobodan Milošević, former President of Serbia and Yugoslavia, was extradited to the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) in The Hague to stand trial for war crimes committed during the Yugoslav Wars of the 1990s. This event represented a significant moment in international justice and accountability for war crimes.
2003 Pirates of the Caribbean Movie Premiere: Disney celebrated the premiere of 'Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl' at Disneyland. Directed by Gore Verbinski, the film starred Johnny Depp, Keira Knightley, and Orlando Bloom. This movie would go on to become a massive global blockbuster, launching a successful film franchise and solidifying Johnny Depp's iconic portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow.
2004 Iraq Sovereignty Transfer: The U.S.-led coalition officially transfers sovereignty to an Iraqi Interim Government, marking a significant milestone in the Iraq War and the country's path to self-governance.
2005 Operation Red Wings Tragedy: A devastating military operation in Kunar, Afghanistan, where three US Navy SEAL team members were killed in an ambush on Sawtalo Sar Mountain. Two rescue helicopters were also shot down, resulting in the deaths of an additional 16 US troops, making it one of the deadliest days for US Special Forces in the Afghanistan conflict.
2006 Montenegro Joins the United Nations: The Republic of Montenegro was officially admitted as the 192nd member state of the United Nations through General Assembly resolution 60/264, marking a significant milestone in its international recognition following its independence.
2007 Scientific Breakthrough in Synthetic Life: Scientists made a groundbreaking first step towards creating synthetic life by successfully transferring genetic information between bacterial species, marking a significant milestone in genetic research.
2008 US Sanctions Against Zimbabwe: President Bush urged the UN to impose an international arms embargo on Zimbabwe and announced US economic sanctions against the Mugabe regime, condemning politically motivated violence and intimidation.
2009 Honduran Constitutional Crisis of 2009: A military coup in Honduras ousted democratically elected President Manuel Zelaya, sparking a significant political crisis. The military forcibly removed Zelaya from power, claiming he had violated the constitution by attempting to hold a referendum to potentially extend his presidential term.
2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Crisis Escalates: Louisiana reported 162 oil-spill related illnesses, with 128 among Gulf of Mexico workers. Tropical Storm Alex threatened to halt cleanup efforts and potentially spread oil pollution further inland.
2011 Christine Lagarde Becomes First Woman IMF Director: Christine Lagarde, France's Finance Minister since 2007, was elected as the new head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), succeeding Dominique Strauss-Kahn who had recently resigned.
2012 US Supreme Court Upholds Affordable Care Act: The Supreme Court of the United States affirmed the Patient Protection and Affordable Health Act, including the mandate that citizens must obtain health care coverage by 2014, a landmark decision in US healthcare policy.
2013 California Legalizes Gay Marriage: Following the Supreme Court's decision, gay marriage was legalized in California after the Proposition 8 stay was lifted, marking a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ rights.
2014 Sarajevo Commemorates Archduke Franz Ferdinand Assassination Centenary: Sarajevo marked the 100th anniversary of Archduke Franz Ferdinand's assassination, a pivotal event that triggered World War I, reflecting on a transformative moment in global history.
2015 Greek Debt Crisis Escalates: The European Central Bank limits lending to Greek banks, intensifying the financial crisis. Greece announces bank closures, ATM withdrawal restrictions, and plans a referendum on the Euro currency.
2016 Istanbul Atatürk Airport Terrorist Attack: A coordinated terrorist attack at Turkey's Istanbul Atatürk Airport resulted in 42 fatalities and over 230 injuries. The attack was attributed to ISIS militants and involved multiple suicide bombers, causing significant loss of life and widespread panic.
2017 Xi Jinping Visits Hong Kong: Chinese President Xi Jinping began a 3-day trip to Hong Kong to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the territory's handover from British to Chinese sovereignty, symbolizing the complex political relationship between mainland China and the special administrative region.
2018 Trump-Putin Summit Scheduled: A high-stakes summit meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin was scheduled for July 16th in Helsinki, Finland. The meeting was set to address critical national security issues and the controversial topic of Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.
2019 EU-Mercosur Free Trade Breakthrough: Argentina's Foreign Minister announced a significant breakthrough in free trade negotiations between the European Union, Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay after 20 years of discussions, potentially reshaping international trade dynamics.
2020 Global Coronavirus Pandemic Reaches Significant Milestone: On June 28, 2020, the global coronavirus pandemic reached a critical point with confirmed cases surpassing 10 million worldwide. The United States emerged as the most severely impacted country, accounting for over 25% of global cases. Several states, including Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Nevada, and Arizona, experienced record-breaking daily infection rates. Vice President Mike Pence canceled campaign events in Arizona and Florida due to the escalating situation. Washington state paused its re-opening plans after recording a new seven-day infection record. Other countries like India and Brazil also faced severe outbreaks, while nations that previously controlled the virus, such as China, Australia, and New Zealand, experienced smaller resurgences.
2021 Tigray Defense Forces Recapture Mekelle: In a critical turning point of the Ethiopian Tigray War, the Tigray Defense Forces successfully retook the regional capital of Mekelle. The Ethiopian government declared a unilateral ceasefire, though the gesture appeared largely symbolic as neither side demonstrated genuine commitment to de-escalation.
2022 Russian Missile Attack on Ukrainian Shopping Mall: A devastating Russian missile strike targeted a crowded shopping center in central Ukraine, killing at least 18 civilians and injuring over 50 others. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack as a 'terrorist act', noting that over 1,000 people were inside the mall at the time. An air raid warning had briefly alerted some shoppers before the missile struck.
2023 Russian Missile Attack in Krematorsk, Ukraine: On Tuesday evening, a Russian missile attack on the eastern Ukrainian city of Krematorsk resulted in at least nine civilian casualties, including three children. This attack represents another instance of civilian targeting during the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian conflict.

What Is special about June 28?

June 28 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 28.