Historical Events on March 2: 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 March 2, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on March 2 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Search for Australia's Federal Capital Location: Government officials began comprehensive inspections of towns across Australia to identify a suitable site for establishing the new Federal capital. This was a critical step in the nation's development, aimed at finding a location that would serve as the administrative center of the newly federated country.
1901 United States Steel Corporation Established: United States Steel Corporation is founded through a historic merger between Carnegie Steel Company and Federal Steel Company, becoming the world's first corporation to achieve a market capitalization exceeding $1 billion. This landmark event signifies a pivotal moment in American industrial consolidation and corporate finance.
1902 U.S. Marines Return from Challenging Samar Campaign: Major Littleton W. T. Waller and the surviving members of his U.S. Marine battalion, along with Filipino civilian assistants, returned to their base in Cavite, Luzon, after completing a grueling and challenging march across Samar during the Philippine-American War, highlighting the difficult military operations of the period.
1903 Martha Washington Hotel Opens in New York City: The Martha Washington Hotel, a pioneering establishment catering exclusively to women, opened its doors in New York City. This groundbreaking hotel represented a significant milestone in women's social independence and safety during the early 20th century, providing a secure and respectable lodging option for women travelers at a time when such accommodations were rare.
1904 Hotel Darlington Collapse Tragedy: A catastrophic collapse of the Hotel Darlington, an apartment building under construction in Manhattan, New York City, resulted in 20 fatalities. Most victims were construction workers, including Mrs. Ella Lacey Storrs, who was dining in a neighboring building. Construction worker Edwin Lask was rescued after 30 hours trapped in the debris but tragically died en route to the hospital.
1905 Religious Freedom Decree in Russian Empire: On March 2, 1905, Russia's Committee of Ministers made a landmark decision to grant religious freedom to the residents of the Russian Empire. This progressive move signaled a significant shift in the empire's approach to religious tolerance, potentially allowing minority religious groups greater autonomy and protection from persecution.
1906 Henry Clay and the Missouri Compromise: Henry Clay, a prominent statesman from Kentucky, played a pivotal role in negotiating the Missouri Compromise of 1820, a critical legislative agreement that attempted to balance the expansion of slavery in newly admitted states. The compromise allowed Missouri to enter the Union as a slave state, while simultaneously admitting Maine as a free state, and established the 36°30' parallel as a boundary for future slave and free state territories. This complex political maneuver temporarily preserved the fragile national unity but ultimately highlighted the deep-seated tensions surrounding slavery that would eventually lead to the Civil War.
1907 Philippine Government Act Establishes Territorial Status: Congress passes the Philippine Government Act, officially designating the Philippine Islands as an unorganized territory and granting territorial citizenship to all inhabitants, a crucial step in the U.S. colonial administration.
1908 Birth of Walter Bruch, German Engineer and Innovator: Walter Bruch was born on March 2, 1908, in Germany. He was a notable engineer who would later become known for his significant contributions to technology and engineering during the mid-20th century. Bruch was particularly recognized for his work in early television technology and his involvement in rocket and guidance systems development during World War II.
1909 European Powers Warn Serbia on Territorial Ambitions: Great Britain, France, Germany, and Italy jointly issued a diplomatic warning to Serbia, cautioning the nation against making territorial demands. This event highlights the complex geopolitical tensions in Europe preceding World War I.
1910 First U.S. Military Airplane Pilot: On March 2, 1910, U.S. Army Lieutenant Benjamin Foulois made history by becoming the first American military airplane pilot. He successfully completed a solo flight in a Wright Brothers' aircraft, marking a significant milestone in military aviation and technological advancement. This event symbolized the United States' emerging capabilities in aerial technology and military innovation during the early days of powered flight.
1911 British Veto Bill Second Reading Passes: In a significant legislative moment, the British House of Commons voted 368 to 243 to pass the second reading of the 'Veto Bill', which would grant the Commons the power to override actions taken by the House of Lords. This vote represented a crucial step in reforming the British parliamentary system and reducing the traditional power of the aristocratic upper chamber.
1912 Suffragettes Arrested in London Protest: Emmeline Pankhurst led 148 suffragettes in a dramatic protest in London, deliberately breaking windows to draw public attention to their campaign for women's voting rights. This act of civil disobedience was part of the increasingly militant tactics employed by the Women's Social and Political Union to demand political representation.
1913 Uneventful Day in History: On March 2, 1913, no significant historical events were documented. While this might appear unremarkable, such days are a reminder that not every moment in history is marked by dramatic occurrences. Daily life continued its steady pace across the world, with people going about their usual routines.
1914 Uneventful Day in World History: On March 2, 1914, no significant global events were recorded. This day represents a relatively quiet moment in the pre-World War I era, with no major political, social, or cultural developments noted in historical archives.
1915 British Naval Bombardment of Dardanelles Forts: British Vice Admiral Carden initiated a strategic naval bombardment of Ottoman defensive fortifications in the Dardanelles Strait, marking a significant moment in the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I. This operation was part of the Allied attempt to secure a maritime route to Russia and potentially knock the Ottoman Empire out of the war.
1916 Military Conscription Introduced in Great Britain: On March 2, 1916, during the midst of World War I, the British government implemented the Military Service Act, which introduced mandatory military conscription for men aged 18-41. This marked a significant shift in Britain's military recruitment strategy, transitioning from a volunteer-based system to a compulsory service model. The act was a direct response to the heavy casualties suffered by British forces and the urgent need to replenish military ranks during the prolonged conflict.
1917 Russian February Revolution Begins: The Russian February Revolution commences with the overthrow of Tsar Nicholas II, a pivotal event that would ultimately lead to the Russian Revolution and the end of the Russian Empire.
1918 German Forces Capture Kiev During World War I: During World War I, German troops captured Kiev as part of the 'Operation Fist Punch', a significant military operation on the Eastern Front that demonstrated the Central Powers' strategic advances in the region.
1919 Founding of the Communist International (Comintern): The Founding Congress of the Comintern opened in Moscow with over 50 representatives from two dozen countries. This historic assembly led to the establishment of the Communist International, a global organization aimed at promoting world communist revolution and coordinating communist parties internationally.
1920 Chinese Prime Minister Resigns Over Shantung Negotiations: China's Prime Minister Chin Yun-p'eng resigned after political tensions arose from his party's stance on negotiating with Japan regarding rights to the Shantung (Shandong) peninsula, reflecting the complex geopolitical dynamics of post-World War I China.
1921 Kronstadt Rebellion Against Bolsheviks: The Kronstadt Rebellion was a significant uprising against Bolshevik rule in the Kronstadt Fortress near Petrograd (now St. Petersburg). Sailors and soldiers who were previously supportive of the Bolshevik Revolution turned against the Soviet government, demanding more democratic freedoms and protesting the harsh policies of War Communism.
1922 Warren G. Harding's First Year as U.S. President: Warren G. Harding, a former newspaper publisher from Ohio, was completing his first year in office as President of the United States. Having been inaugurated on March 2, 1921, Harding was marking a significant milestone in his presidential tenure.
1923 Time Magazine Launches: Time magazine makes its debut, introducing a revolutionary format for news reporting and journalism that would become a significant media platform in the 20th century. Founded by Henry Luce and Briton Hadden, the magazine aimed to provide concise, comprehensive news coverage for the American public.
1924 Cardinal Mercier's Pastoral Letter on Belgian Economic Recovery: Cardinal Désiré-Joseph Mercier, a prominent Belgian Catholic leader, issued a significant pastoral letter addressing the economic challenges facing Belgium in the aftermath of World War I. In this letter, he called upon Belgian citizens to support their government's efforts to stabilize and restore the nation's financial infrastructure. By leveraging his moral and spiritual authority, Mercier sought to inspire national unity and economic solidarity during a critical period of post-war reconstruction.
1925 Japan Expands Democratic Rights: Japan's House of Representatives officially recognizes male suffrage, marking a significant milestone in the country's democratic evolution and expanding political participation rights for men.
1926 Savoy Ballroom Opens in Harlem: The legendary Savoy Ballroom opened in Harlem, becoming a pivotal cultural landmark that would play a crucial role in the Harlem Renaissance and the development of swing dance and jazz music.
1927 Babe Ruth Becomes Highest-Paid Baseball Player: On March 2, 1927, Babe Ruth signed a groundbreaking contract with the New York Yankees, securing a record-breaking salary of $70,000 per year. This unprecedented deal not only highlighted Ruth's extraordinary value to the team but also set a new standard for athlete compensation in professional baseball. At the time, his salary was astronomical, reflecting his status as the most famous and talented player of the era.
1928 Mussolini's Territorial Assertion in South Tyrol: Benito Mussolini, the fascist leader of Italy, submitted a provocative bill to the Chamber of Deputies, delivering a stern warning to Austria regarding the ongoing Italianization process in South Tyrol. His message emphasized that future responses to international criticism would be characterized by decisive actions rather than diplomatic rhetoric.
1929 San Francisco Bay Toll Bridge Opens: The San Francisco Bay Toll Bridge, measuring 12 miles (19 km), was inaugurated as the longest bridge in the world at the time, representing a significant engineering achievement of the era.
1930 Gandhi Announces Civil Disobedience: Mahatma Gandhi formally informed the British Viceroy of India that he would initiate a civil disobedience movement, signaling a critical moment in India's independence struggle against British colonial rule.
1931 Birth of Mikhail Gorbachev: Mikhail Gorbachev, a pivotal figure in late 20th-century world history, was born in Privolnoye, Russian SFSR. He would later become the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union from 1985 to 1991, playing a crucial role in the dissolution of the Soviet Union and introducing transformative policies of glasnost (openness) and perestroika (restructuring).
1932 Finnish President Ends Mäntsälä Rebellion: On March 2, 1932, Finnish President P. E. Svinhufvud delivered a pivotal radio speech that effectively quelled the Mäntsälä Rebellion, a far-right insurgency threatening the democratic stability of Finland. By addressing the nation directly and firmly rejecting the extremist Lapua Movement's attempts to overthrow the democratic government, Svinhufvud demonstrated strong leadership and commitment to constitutional principles. The speech, which was broadcast four days before the rebellion's final suppression, played a crucial role in undermining the rebels' morale and legitimacy.
1933 Franklin D. Roosevelt Inaugurated as U.S. President: U.S. President Herbert Hoover is succeeded by Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR), who delivers his iconic inaugural address referencing the Great Depression, famously stating "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself". FDR is sworn in by Chief Justice Charles Evans Hughes, marking the last Inauguration Day on March 4th in United States history.
1934 Roosevelt Advocates for Philippine Independence: President Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered a powerful message to Congress, advocating for Philippine independence. In his address, he emphasized the United States' commitment to self-determination, stating, "Our Nation covets no territory; it desires to hold no people over whom it has gained sovereignty through war against their will." This statement reflected a significant shift in U.S. colonial policy and demonstrated a growing recognition of national sovereignty.
1935 Austrian Nazi Conspirators Condemned: In a landmark legal proceeding, 17 Austrian Nazis were condemned to death for serious criminal activities, specifically for smuggling explosives into the country. This event highlights the rising tensions and legal crackdowns on Nazi sympathizers in Austria during the mid-1930s.
1936 Hitler Remilitarizes Rhineland: Adolf Hitler issued final orders for German troops to re-occupy former garrison posts in Rhineland towns, a direct violation of the Treaty of Versailles. The orders included a strategic contingency: if French forces intervened, German troops were instructed to withdraw immediately, testing international resolve.
1937 British Rearmament and Italian Militarization: The British House of Commons voted 243 to 134 to endorse the government's rearmament program. In response, Italy ordered all males between 18 and 55 to be prepared for 'integral militarization', signaling rising tensions in pre-World War II Europe.
1938 Great Purge Trials in Soviet Union: The Soviet leadership initiated a series of political trials targeting high-ranking Soviet officials, marking a critical phase of Joseph Stalin's Great Purge. These trials were part of a systematic campaign to eliminate perceived political opponents and consolidate Stalin's absolute power within the Communist Party and Soviet government.
1939 Gandhi Begins Protest Fast in Bombay: Mohandas Gandhi initiates a hunger strike in Bombay to protest against British colonial rule in India, demonstrating his commitment to non-violent resistance and independence.
1940 Soviet Conquest of Tuppura Island during Winter War: During the Winter War between the Soviet Union and Finland, Soviet armies successfully conquered Tuppura Island, representing another strategic military advancement in their ongoing conflict.
1941 German Military Enters Bulgaria During World War II: On March 2, 1941, German military units officially entered Bulgaria after the country's strategic decision to join the Axis Pact. This marked a significant geopolitical shift in the Balkan region, expanding Nazi Germany's territorial influence and setting the stage for further military operations in southeastern Europe.
1942 Japanese Air Strikes on New Guinea: The Japanese military launched heavy air strikes on New Guinea, strategically preparing for a potential invasion of the region during World War II's Pacific campaign.
1943 Mass Deportation of Berlin Jews to Auschwitz: A horrific Holocaust event where 1,500 Jewish men, women, and children were deported from Berlin following a citywide roundup. Upon arrival at Auschwitz, 1,350 of these deportees were immediately executed, representing another devastating instance of Nazi genocide.
1944 U.S. 5th Cavalry Regiment Lands in Admiralty Islands: As part of the Pacific Theater operations during World War II, 1,000 men from the U.S. 5th Cavalry Regiment successfully landed at Los Negros in the Admiralty Islands, advancing the Allied strategic position against Japanese forces.
1945 US 8th Air Force Bombing of Dresden: The United States 8th Air Force continues strategic bombing operations against Dresden, Germany, as part of the Allied strategic bombing campaign during the final months of World War II. This bombing was part of a controversial series of air raids that caused massive destruction and civilian casualties.
1946 First US Atomic Bomb Test at Bikini Atoll: The United States conducted its first post-World War II atomic bomb test at Bikini Atoll in the Marshall Islands, Pacific Ocean. This test was part of Operation Crossroads, a series of nuclear weapon experiments that would significantly impact global military strategy and nuclear proliferation.
1947 International Monetary Fund Established: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) officially became operational, marking a pivotal moment in global economic governance. Created in the aftermath of World War II as part of the Bretton Woods Agreement, the IMF was designed to promote international financial stability, facilitate trade, and provide economic assistance to member nations during times of financial stress.
1948 US House Judiciary Committee Advances Anti-Lynching Legislation: On March 2, 1948, the US House Judiciary Committee made a pivotal civil rights decision by approving an anti-lynching bill with an 18-8 vote, despite strong opposition from Southern Democratic representatives. This legislative effort represented a critical moment in the ongoing struggle against racial violence and systemic discrimination in the United States.
1949 First Non-Stop Round-the-World Flight by US Air Force: The Lucky Lady II, a B-50 Superfortress aircraft of the US Air Force, completed a historic non-stop circumnavigation of the globe, covering an impressive 23,452 miles in 94 hours. The flight, led by Captain James Gallagher, landed in Fort Worth, Texas, marking a significant milestone in aviation history.
1950 Karen Carpenter Born: Karen Carpenter, the iconic singer and drummer of the legendary musical duo The Carpenters, was born in New Haven, Connecticut. She would later become a significant figure in the soft rock and pop music scene of the 1970s.
1951 First NBA All-Star Game in Boston: The inaugural NBA All-Star Game was held at the historic Boston Garden, with the Eastern Conference defeating the Western Conference 111-94. This groundbreaking event marked a significant milestone in professional basketball, showcasing the league's top talent in a competitive and celebratory exhibition match.
1952 Marlene Hagge Wins LPGA Sarasota Golf Open: Professional golfer Marlene Hagge secured victory at the LPGA Sarasota Golf Open, marking a significant moment in women's professional golf during the early 1950s. Hagge was a pioneering female golfer who helped establish the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) and was instrumental in advancing women's competitive golf.
1953 First Television Broadcast of Academy Awards: On March 2, 1953, the Academy Awards ceremony was televised nationally for the first time by NBC, marking a significant milestone in entertainment media broadcasting. This event transformed the Oscars from an exclusive Hollywood event into a nationwide spectator experience, allowing millions of Americans to watch the glamorous celebration of cinema in real-time.
1954 Uneventful Day in 1954: On March 2, 1954, no significant historical events were recorded. This serves as a reminder that not every day in history is marked by momentous occurrences, and some days pass without leaving a notable mark in historical archives.
1955 Claudette Colvin's Civil Rights Stand: Fifteen-year-old Claudette Colvin becomes an early civil rights activist by refusing to give up her bus seat to a white woman in Montgomery, Alabama. She was forcibly removed from the bus, arrested, and subjected to physical and verbal harassment, predating Rosa Parks' similar protest by nine months and challenging racial segregation laws.
1956 Morocco Gains Independence from France: On March 2, 1956, Morocco officially gained its independence from the French protectorate, transforming into the sovereign 'Kingdom of Morocco'. This momentous event marked the end of French colonial rule and the beginning of Morocco's self-governance, following years of nationalist struggle and diplomatic negotiations.
1957 Morocco Gains Independence from France: On March 2, 1957, Morocco officially declared its independence from French colonial rule, marking a pivotal moment in North African history. Sultan Muhammad V, who had been a key figure in the independence movement, became the country's first sovereign leader after years of nationalist struggle. This momentous event signaled the end of French protectorate status and the beginning of Morocco's journey as a sovereign nation, symbolizing the broader decolonization trend sweeping across Africa in the mid-20th century.
1958 First Surface Crossing of Antarctica: A historic expedition successfully completed the first surface crossing of the Antarctic continent, marking a significant achievement in polar exploration. The journey took 99 days and demonstrated remarkable human endurance and technological capability.
1959 Miles Davis Records Kind of Blue: Miles Davis conducted the first recording session for his groundbreaking jazz album 'Kind of Blue' at Columbia 30th Street Studio in New York City. This album would become one of the most influential and best-selling jazz records of all time, featuring innovative modal jazz techniques.
1960 Lufthansa Launches First Boeing 707 Jet Service: Lufthansa made a significant milestone in aviation history by introducing its first Boeing 707 jet aircraft into commercial service. This marked the German national airline's entry into the jet age, symbolizing technological advancement and the rapid modernization of international air travel in the early 1960s. The Boeing 707 represented a quantum leap in commercial aviation, offering faster, more efficient, and more comfortable long-distance travel.
1961 Chubby Checker's 'Pony Time' Tops US Charts: Rock and roll sensation Chubby Checker's hit song 'Pony Time' reached the number one position on the US music charts, reflecting the vibrant pop music scene of the early 1960s and the dance craze culture of the era.
1962 Wilt Chamberlain Scores 100 Points in NBA Game: In a historic basketball performance, Wilt Chamberlain of the Philadelphia Warriors scored 100 points against the New York Knicks in Hershey, Pennsylvania, setting multiple National Basketball Association records. This extraordinary achievement remains one of the most remarkable individual performances in professional sports history.
1963 The Beatles Release 'Please Please Me' Album: The Beatles released their debut studio album 'Please Please Me' in the United Kingdom, marking the beginning of their revolutionary musical journey. This landmark record would help launch the band's unprecedented global popularity and significantly influence the trajectory of popular music in the 1960s.
1964 Beatles Begin Filming 'A Hard Day's Night': The Beatles started filming their iconic musical comedy film 'A Hard Day's Night', which would become a landmark in music cinema. During the filming, George Harrison met his future wife, Patti Boyd, marking a significant personal moment in the band's history.
1965 Operation Rolling Thunder Begins: The United States and Republic of Vietnam Air Force initiate Operation Rolling Thunder, a sustained strategic bombing campaign targeting North Vietnam during the Vietnam War. This military operation marked a significant escalation of American military involvement in the conflict.
1966 John Lennon's Controversial 'More Popular Than Jesus' Comment: In an interview with the London Evening Standard, John Lennon of The Beatles makes a provocative statement claiming the band is 'more popular than Jesus now', which would later spark significant international controversy.
1967 US-Soviet Nuclear Missile Limitation Talks: U.S. President Lyndon Johnson announced that Soviet Prime Minister Alexei Kosygin agreed to bilateral discussions aimed at limiting offensive and defensive nuclear missile capabilities, marking a significant diplomatic effort during the Cold War.
1968 Soviet Submarine K-129 Sinks: Tragedy struck when the Soviet ballistic missile submarine K-129, a Golf II-class vessel, sank in the North Pacific Ocean approximately 90 nautical miles southwest of Hawaii, resulting in the loss of all 98 crew members.
1969 Sino-Soviet Border Conflict: A significant military confrontation occurred between Chinese and Soviet forces along their disputed border, resulting in approximately 70 casualties. This clash represented the escalating tensions between the two communist nations during the Cold War period, highlighting geopolitical fractures within the communist bloc.
1970 Rhodesia Declares Independence from United Kingdom: On March 2, 1970, Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) officially became an independent republic, breaking its final constitutional ties with the British Crown. Led by white Prime Minister Ian Smith, this unilateral declaration was a controversial move aimed at maintaining white minority rule and preventing the transition to black majority governance.
1971 First Flag Hoisting Day of Bangladesh: On March 2, 1971, the first flag of Bangladesh was officially hoisted by ASM Abdur Rob, the vice president of Dhaka University Students' Union. The flag, meticulously designed by Shib Narayan Das, featured a vibrant green background with a bold red circle symbolizing the rising sun of independence. This powerful moment represented a critical milestone in Bangladesh's liberation struggle, signaling the growing momentum of the independence movement against Pakistani rule.
1972 Bokassa Declares Himself President for Life: Jean-Bédel Bokassa appoints himself President for life of the Central African Republic, marking a significant moment of autocratic power consolidation in African political history.
1973 Assassination of US Ambassador Cleo Noel: Cleo A. Noel Jr., the United States Ambassador to Sudan, was murdered by Black September terrorists during a coordinated attack on the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Khartoum. This tragic event highlighted the volatile diplomatic tensions in the Middle East during the early 1970s.
1974 Watergate Scandal: Nixon's Involvement Confirmed: A grand jury concluded that US President Richard Nixon was directly involved in the Watergate cover-up, marking a critical moment in the unfolding political scandal that would ultimately lead to his resignation.
1975 Shah of Iran Establishes One-Party State: Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi of Iran abolished all existing political parties and declared the kingdom a one-party state, establishing the 'Rastakhiz (Resurgence) Party' under the leadership of Prime Minister Amir-Abbas Hoveyda. This move effectively eliminated political opposition and consolidated the Shah's authoritarian control over Iran's political landscape.
1976 Northern Ireland Constitutional Convention Dissolved: The Northern Ireland Constitutional Convention was formally dissolved, resulting in direct rule from London via the British Parliament, signaling a significant shift in the region's governance during the Troubles.
1977 U.S. House Ethics Reform: The U.S. House of Representatives adopts its first comprehensive Code of Ethics, signaling a commitment to governmental transparency and accountability.
1978 First Non-Russian/Non-American in Space: Czech cosmonaut Vladimir Remek made history by becoming the first person from a country other than the United States or Soviet Union to travel to space, launched aboard Soyuz 28. This breakthrough symbolized the expanding international participation in space exploration.
1979 British Ambassador Assassination in the Netherlands: Sir Richard Sykes, the British ambassador to the Netherlands, was assassinated in The Hague. This tragic event highlighted the diplomatic tensions and security risks faced by international diplomats during a period of political instability.
1980 National Women's History Week Established: President Jimmy Carter officially designated March 2-8, 1980 as National Women's History Week, a landmark moment in recognizing and celebrating women's historic contributions and achievements across various fields.
1981 Black People's Day of Action in Response to New Cross Massacre: The inaugural Black People's Day of Action was organized by the New Cross Massacre Action Committee, led by John La Rose, to protest the tragic fire that killed 13 young Black people. The event featured a powerful march from the fire scene to the Houses of Parliament, highlighting racial injustice and community solidarity.
1982 Shining Path Prison Break in Peru: The Peruvian terrorist group 'Shining Path' (Sendero Luminoso) conducted a significant prison break, freeing 260 prisoners. This event highlighted the group's operational capabilities and the political instability in Peru during the early 1980s.
1983 M*A*S*H Final Episode Breaks Viewership Record: The final episode of the iconic television series M*A*S*H aired, drawing an unprecedented audience of 125 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched television events in history.
1984 Iran-Iraq War: Iranian Offensive Repelled: During the prolonged Iran-Iraq War, Iran launched a significant military offensive against Iraq, which was ultimately unsuccessful. The failed operation highlighted the strategic stalemate and the brutal nature of the conflict that had been ongoing since 1980.
1985 US AIDS Screening Test Approval: The United States government approved a critical screening test for AIDS, marking a significant milestone in the medical community's response to the emerging HIV/AIDS epidemic. This screening test would help blood banks ensure the safety of blood supplies and improve early detection capabilities.
1986 Kenny Knox Wins Honda Classic: Kenny Knox made golf history by becoming the last professional golfer to win a PGA Tour event while scoring in the 80s, clinching the Honda Classic at TPC Eagle Trace with a total score of 287.
1987 Apple Introduces Macintosh SE and Macintosh II: Apple Computer launched two groundbreaking personal computers on March 2, 1987: the expandable Macintosh SE and the open architecture Macintosh II with advanced color graphics, marking a significant moment in personal computing technology.
1988 30th Grammy Awards Highlights: The 30th Grammy Awards celebrate outstanding musical achievements, with notable wins for Paul Simon's 'Graceland' album, U2's 'The Joshua Tree', and Jody Watley as Best New Artist.
1989 Time Warner Merger Announcement: Time, Inc. and Warner Communications announced plans for a historic media merger, creating one of the largest entertainment and media conglomerates in the world.
1990 Nelson Mandela's ANC Leadership Role: Nelson Mandela was elected Deputy President of the African National Congress (ANC), marking a significant milestone in his political career and South Africa's journey towards democracy.
1991 End of the Gulf War at Rumaila Oil Field: The Battle at Rumaila Oil Field marked the decisive conclusion of the 1991 Gulf War, with coalition forces effectively ending military operations against Iraqi forces in Kuwait.
1992 Multiple Former Soviet Republics Join UN: Nine countries, including Armenia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, San Marino, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, are admitted to the United Nations, signaling a significant geopolitical transformation following the Soviet Union's collapse.
1993 Actress Claudette Colbert Suffers Stroke: Legendary Hollywood actress Claudette Colbert, known for her iconic roles in classic films like 'It Happened One Night', experiences a serious health setback with a stroke at the age of 89.
1994 David Koresh's Surrender Promise: Branch Davidian cult leader David Koresh promises to surrender if a taped statement is broadcast, but ultimately fails to follow through on his commitment, highlighting the complex and volatile nature of the Waco siege.
1995 Kobe Earthquake: The Japanese city of Kobe was struck by a significant earthquake, causing widespread destruction and marking a tragic moment in the city's modern history.
1996 Australian Federal Election of 1996: John Howard of the Liberal Party wins a decisive victory over incumbent Prime Minister Paul Keating, marking a significant shift in Australian political leadership. Howard's Coalition defeated the Labor Party in a landslide election, signaling a change in the nation's political direction.
1997 Prince al-Waleed bin Talal Invests in Apple: Saudi Arabian billionaire Prince al-Waleed bin Talal acquired a significant 5% stake in Apple Computer Company, signaling international investment in emerging technology firms.
1998 Galileo Spacecraft Discovers Potential Ocean on Europa: NASA's Galileo spacecraft provided groundbreaking scientific evidence suggesting the presence of a liquid ocean beneath the icy surface of Jupiter's moon Europa. This discovery significantly expanded our understanding of potential extraterrestrial environments that could potentially harbor life, marking a pivotal moment in planetary exploration.
1999 Dusty Springfield: Remembering a Music Icon: Dusty Springfield, a legendary English pop singer known for her distinctive voice and influential contributions to the 1960s music scene, was commemorated on this date. Born Mary Isobel Catherine Bernadette O'Brien in 1939, Springfield was a pivotal figure in the British pop and soul music landscape.
2000 Pinochet Returns to Chile After UK Legal Battle: Former Chilean dictator General Augusto Pinochet was allowed to return home to Chile after the United Kingdom declined to extradite him on torture charges, concluding a significant international legal confrontation regarding human rights violations.
2001 Destruction of Bamiyan Buddhas by Taliban: In a devastating act of cultural destruction, the Taliban systematically began demolishing the ancient Bamiyan Buddha statues, which were UNESCO World Heritage sites carved into cliff faces in central Afghanistan. These monumental 6th-century Buddhist sculptures, standing 55 and 38 meters tall, represented extraordinary examples of Gandharan Buddhist art and were among the world's most significant archaeological treasures.
2002 Operation Anaconda in Afghanistan: The U.S. military launched Operation Anaconda in eastern Afghanistan, a significant military campaign targeting Taliban and al-Qaeda fighters. The operation lasted until March 19, resulting in approximately 500 enemy combatants killed and 11 Western troop fatalities. This was a critical phase of the post-9/11 U.S. military intervention in Afghanistan, aimed at disrupting terrorist networks and removing Taliban control.
2003 Iraq Missile Destruction and Potential War Escalation: During the Iraq disarmament crisis, six more Al-Samoud-2 missiles were destroyed by Iraq, bringing the total to 10, in addition to 100 missiles previously ordered eliminated by the UN. The United States remained skeptical, suggesting Iraq's actions were part of a deception strategy and potentially signaling continued military confrontation.
2004 NASA Confirms Water on Mars: NASA announced that the Mars rover Opportunity confirmed its landing area was once submerged in liquid water, providing crucial evidence of potential past habitability on the Red Planet.
2005 Morocco Declares Independence from France: Morocco proclaims independence from France, with Sultan Muhammad V forming the country's first government, marking a significant moment in the nation's decolonization process.
2006 USA PATRIOT Act Renewed: The United States Senate voted 89-10 to renew the USA PATRIOT Act after two extensions, with expectations of further approval in the House of Representatives.
2007 US Develops New Nuclear Warhead Design: The Bush administration selected a design from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory for a new generation of nuclear warheads, potentially replacing Trident missiles on submarines by 2012.
2008 Dmitry Medvedev Elected President of Russia: Dmitry Medvedev was elected President of Russia with 72 percent of the total votes, positioning himself to succeed Vladimir Putin. This election represented a carefully managed transition of power within the Russian political system.
2009 Dow Jones Industrial Average Drops Below 7,000: The Dow Jones Industrial Average plummeted below 7,000 points for the first time since May 1997, dropping 299.64 points or 4.24 percent to close at 6,763.29. This milestone signaled the deepening severity of the late 2000s financial crisis.
2010 Assassination of Mahmoud Al-Mabhouh: A controversial assassination of Palestinian Hamas military commander Mahmoud Al-Mabhouh in Dubai, which sparked international diplomatic tensions and investigations into the potential involvement of Israeli intelligence services.
2011 2011 Japan Earthquake and Tsunami: A catastrophic 9.0 magnitude earthquake struck off Japan's east coast, triggering a devastating tsunami with waves reaching up to seven meters. The disaster caused massive destruction, resulting in approximately 23,000 fatalities and missing persons. The tsunami also triggered a severe nuclear crisis at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, leading to widespread environmental and humanitarian consequences.
2012 Devastating Tornado Outbreak in Southern United States: A severe tornado outbreak struck the Southern United States and Ohio Valley region, causing widespread destruction and resulting in 40 fatalities. Multiple states were impacted, with particularly severe damage in Indiana and Kentucky.
2013 Anchorage, Alaska is the starting point for the 1,000-mile 2013 Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. The race winner will receive a new truck as well as $50,400.
2014 Thailand's voters will vote in a rerun general election to try to end the current political crisis.
2015 A man kills a girl and then shoots himself in Biddeston, Queensland, Australia, west of Brisbane.
2016 Two teenagers from Qaryout in Palestine stabbed an Israeli settler near Nablus in occupied West Bank. The army stopped them and shot them dead. The wounded settler was taken by the army to a hospital.
2017 After reaching a new alliance, the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces’ Manbij Military Council gives over large swathes of land west of Manbij for the Syrian Army in order to establish a buffer zone between the SDF rebels and the Turkish-backed rebels.
2018 Relations Cuba-United States: The United States has permanently degraded their embassy in Havana. This means that no family members can reside at the post. This status change is due to alleged health threats.
2019 2019 in spaceflight SpaceX launches its first Crew Dragon spacecraft to orbit the International Space Station. The Falcon 9 launch vehicle's first stage successfully landed on the drone ship Of course I Still Love You.
2020 Klobuchar Endorses Biden in Presidential Primary: Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar suspended her 2020 presidential campaign and endorsed Joe Biden, influencing the Democratic Party's primary race dynamics.
2021 Targeted Killing of Female Media Workers in Afghanistan: In a tragic incident in Jalalabad, Nangarhar province, Afghanistan, three female media workers were fatally shot, with a fourth journalist sustaining injuries. This attack highlighted the ongoing risks faced by women in media and journalism in regions with high levels of gender-based violence and political instability.
2022 Russian Invasion Escalation: Russian forces intensified their military offensive in Ukraine, significantly escalating shelling in civilian areas. A massive 40-mile convoy of Russian military vehicles stalled en route to Kyiv, raising concerns about potential plans to encircle and capture the Ukrainian capital. The most severe attacks targeted Kharkiv, with additional strikes on strategic ports like Odessa and Mariupol. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the emotional impact with his powerful statement: 'Nobody will forgive. Nobody will forget.'
2023 Russian Missile Strike on Zaporizhzhia Apartment Building: A devastating Russian missile strike targeted a residential apartment building in the city of Zaporizhzhia, resulting in the tragic deaths of three civilians and causing injuries to at least four others. The attack underscores the ongoing civilian casualties in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

What Is special about March 2?

March 2 is notable for a variety of important historical, cultural, and significant events, including famous birthdays and deaths, holidays and more. Find out everything about March 2.