Historical Events on March 10: 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 10, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on March 10 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Uganda Treaty with British Empire: The regents for the King of Uganda and leading chiefs signed a comprehensive treaty with Great Britain, formally establishing British protectorate governance. The agreement outlined critical administrative frameworks including government organization, taxation systems, judicial processes, and military structures, effectively solidifying British colonial control over the region.
1901 Blood Rain Phenomenon in Italy: A rare meteorological event known as 'blood rain' occurred in southern and central Italy, including the island of Sicily. This phenomenon, scientifically explained as rain mixed with red-colored dust or microorganisms, typically originates from desert regions like the Sahara. The reddish precipitation is caused by fine mineral particles or algal spores carried by wind currents, creating an eerie and visually striking atmospheric occurrence.
1902 Boers' Final Victory in Second Boer War: During the Second Boer War, South African Boers achieved a decisive victory by capturing a British general and 200 of his men, marking a significant moment in their resistance against British colonial forces.
1903 Cholera Outbreak on Ship Karmania: The disease-stricken ship Karmania was quarantined in New York's harbor after six passengers died from a cholera outbreak, highlighting the significant public health challenges of maritime travel in the early 20th century.
1904 Naval Skirmish During Russo-Japanese War: During the early stages of the Russo-Japanese War, a naval engagement occurred outside Port Arthur harbor, resulting in the sinking of two torpedo boats - one Russian and one Japanese. This incident was part of the broader maritime conflict between the Russian Empire and the Empire of Japan, which was fighting for strategic control in the Far East.
1905 Japanese Capture of Mukden in Russo-Japanese War: On March 10, 1905, Japanese forces captured the strategic city of Mukden (modern-day Shenyang) in Manchuria, decisively defeating the Russian Imperial Army. This battle was a critical turning point in the Russo-Japanese War, demonstrating Japan's emerging military prowess and significantly weakening Russia's position in the Far East.
1906 Courrières Mine Disaster: A catastrophic mining disaster in Northern France where an underground explosion and fire killed 1,099 miners, making it one of Europe's worst industrial accidents. The tragedy occurred after persistent warnings of smoke and toxic gases were ignored. The explosion was triggered by a deep mine fire that ignited flammable gas, causing massive destruction. Miners perished from flames, suffocation, poisonous gases, and structural collapses. This event highlighted critical safety failures in early 20th-century mining practices.
1907 No Significant Historical Record: After thorough review, no specific notable historical event was found for March 10, 1907. This could indicate a period of relative calm or gaps in available historical documentation.
1908 University of Pretoria Established: The Pretoria branch of Transvaal University College is established, marking the foundational moment for what would later become the University of Pretoria. This educational institution would go on to become a significant center of learning in South Africa, contributing to academic and research development in the region.
1909 Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909: Thailand signed the Anglo-Siamese Treaty, relinquishing sovereignty over the Malay states of Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis, and Terengganu, which became British protectorates. This significant geopolitical agreement reshaped the territorial control in Southeast Asia, marking a pivotal moment in British colonial expansion.
1910 China Abolishes Slavery: The Chinese government officially abolishes slavery, representing a significant social and humanitarian reform in Chinese history and marking a pivotal moment in the country's progression towards human rights.
1911 First Blue Sky Law in the United States: On March 10, 1911, Kansas made legislative history by enacting House Bill Number 906, the first 'blue sky law' in the United States. This pioneering legislation was designed to protect investors by subjecting securities and investment offerings to state regulatory oversight, marking a significant moment in financial consumer protection and securities regulation.
1912 Yuan Shikai Becomes Provisional President of Republic of China: Yuan Shikai was sworn in as the second Provisional President of the Republic of China, marking a significant moment in the early political transition of the newly established republic. This event represented a critical phase in China's transformation from imperial rule to a republican system of governance.
1913 Death of Harriet Tubman, Legendary Abolitionist: Harriet Tubman, a remarkable African American abolitionist, social activist, Civil War scout and spy, passed away at approximately 90-91 years old. Known for her extraordinary courage, Tubman was a former slave who became a pivotal conductor on the Underground Railroad, helping to rescue numerous enslaved African Americans and guiding them to freedom.
1914 Suffragettes Damage Famous Painting in Protest: On March 10, 1914, a notable act of art-based protest occurred when suffragettes targeted the famous 'Rokeby Venus' painting by Diego Velázquez in London's National Gallery. The painting was deliberately damaged as part of the women's suffrage movement's campaign to draw public attention to their fight for voting rights.
1915 Battle of Neuve Chapelle Begins: British and Indian troops launch a strategic offensive against German positions in France during World War I. This was the first deliberately planned British offensive of the war, marking a significant moment in military tactics and Allied strategy.
1916 McMahon-Hussein Correspondence Concludes: The McMahon-Hussein Correspondence reached its final stage, establishing a critical diplomatic agreement between the British Empire and Arab leadership. In this pivotal communication, the United Kingdom committed to recognizing potential Arab independence in exchange for Hussein bin Ali, the Sharif of Mecca, initiating a strategic Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire during World War I. This correspondence was instrumental in shaping the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, ultimately contributing to the eventual dissolution of Ottoman control in the region.
1917 Russian Revolution: Order to Suppress Riots: During the February Revolution of 1917, Tsar Nicholas II sent a direct communication to Sergey Semyonovich Khabalov, the commander of military forces in Petrograd, instructing him to use extreme measures including rifle fire to suppress ongoing civil unrest. This order highlighted the escalating tensions and the Tsar's desperate attempt to maintain control during the revolutionary period that would ultimately lead to his abdication.
1918 British Hospital Ship Survives German Submarine Attack in Bristol Channel: During World War I, the British hospital ship 'Guildford Castle' narrowly escaped an attack by a German submarine in the Bristol Channel. This incident highlights the dangerous maritime conditions during the conflict, where even medical vessels were targeted, violating international humanitarian conventions of the time. Hospital ships were supposed to be protected under international law, but German U-boats often disregarded these agreements during unrestricted submarine warfare.
1919 Cossack Rebellion Against Bolsheviks in Vyoshenskaya: In a significant moment during the Russian Civil War, Cossacks in the Vyoshenskaya region of Russia launched a rebellion against Bolshevik forces. This uprising strategically supported the Russian White Army, enabling them to capture substantial territories along the Don River. The rebellion represented the complex internal conflicts that characterized the post-Russian Revolution period, highlighting the Cossacks' resistance to the new communist regime.
1920 West Virginia Ratifies Women's Suffrage Amendment: West Virginia made a pivotal democratic advancement by ratifying the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, granting women the right to vote. The amendment passed by a narrow margin of 16 to 13, representing a significant milestone in the women's rights movement.
1921 Royal Wedding of Princess Helen and Crown Prince Carol: On March 10, 1921, Princess Helen of Greece and Denmark, the daughter of King Constantine of Greece, entered into a significant royal marriage with Crown Prince Carol of Romania, heir to King Ferdinand I of Romania. The wedding ceremony took place in Athens, Greece, symbolizing a strategic alliance between two Balkan royal families during a period of political realignment following World War I. Princess Helen, known for her intelligence and diplomatic skills, would later become Queen of Romania when Carol ascended to the throne.
1922 Mahatma Gandhi Arrested and Sentenced: Mahatma Gandhi was arrested in India, tried for sedition, and sentenced to six years in prison. However, he was released after nearly two years due to an appendicitis operation. This event was part of his ongoing struggle against British colonial rule and his commitment to non-violent resistance.
1923 Birth of Val Logsdon Fitch, Renowned Nuclear Physicist: Val Logsdon Fitch was an influential American nuclear physicist who would later make significant contributions to particle physics and quantum mechanics. Born on March 10, 1923, he would go on to win the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1980 for his groundbreaking work on fundamental symmetries in particle physics, particularly his experiments demonstrating CP violation in the decay of neutral kaon particles.
1924 Supreme Court Upholds Women's Labor Restrictions: In a landmark legal decision, the United States Supreme Court validated a New York state law that prohibited women from working late-night shifts, reflecting the prevailing gender norms and paternalistic labor regulations of the early 20th century. This ruling reinforced legal constraints on women's professional opportunities and workplace participation, effectively limiting their economic mobility and professional advancement.
1925 Antisemitic Murder of Hugo Bettauer: Otto Rothstock, a young Nazi Party member, assassinated Austrian Jewish writer Hugo Bettauer in a politically motivated attack. Rothstock was enraged by Bettauer's satirical novel 'Stadt ohne Juden' (The City Without Jews), which critiqued antisemitism. Bettauer was shot five times in his office and died from his wounds on March 26, 1925, in a chilling early example of Nazi-inspired violence.
1926 First Book-of-the-Month Club Selection: The Book-of-the-Month Club, a pioneering literary subscription service, released its inaugural book selection, marking a significant moment in 20th-century publishing and reading culture.
1927 Bavaria Lifts Hitler's Speech Ban: The Bavarian government lifted a two-year ban on Adolf Hitler's public political speeches, allowing him to resume public speaking engagements. This event marked a significant moment in Hitler's political rise, enabling him to spread his ideology more freely.
1928 Mysterious Disappearance of Walter Collins: Walter Collins, the young son of Christine Collins, vanished in Los Angeles, sparking a complex and tragic investigation that would later become known as the Wineville Chicken Coop Murders, a notorious criminal case that shocked California in the late 1920s.
1929 Egypt Introduces Limited Divorce Rights for Women: On March 10, 1929, the Egyptian government made a significant legal reform by granting women limited rights to divorce. This progressive legislative change marked an important milestone in women's legal rights in Egypt during the early 20th century, challenging traditional social norms and providing women with increased personal autonomy.
1930 Babe Ruth Signs Record-Breaking Yankees Contract: On March 10, 1930, baseball legend Babe Ruth signed a groundbreaking contract with the New York Yankees for $80,000 per year, an unprecedented salary that solidified his status as the highest-paid athlete of his era. This contract not only reflected Ruth's extraordinary performance and popularity but also marked a significant moment in professional sports compensation history.
1931 Gandhi-Irwin Pact Signed: Mahatma Gandhi and Viceroy of India Lord Irwin signed a landmark agreement that allowed coastal citizens to produce their own salt, granted amnesty to political prisoners, and committed to a second Round Table Conference in London regarding Indian independence. In exchange, Gandhi agreed to suspend his civil disobedience campaign, marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough in India's independence movement.
1932 Hindenburg's Pivotal Radio Campaign Address: German President Paul von Hindenburg delivered his sole public speech during the presidential campaign via radio, strategically positioning himself as a non-partisan leader and promising to transcend narrow party interests during a critical period in Weimar Republic politics.
1933 Long Beach Earthquake of 1933: A devastating 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck Long Beach, California, causing widespread destruction and significant loss of life. The earthquake killed 127 people, injured over 5,000 individuals, and destroyed more than 1,300 brick-and-mortar buildings, including most of the public schools in Long Beach. This seismic event highlighted the critical need for improved building codes and earthquake preparedness in California.
1934 Toronto Maple Leafs Undefeated Streak: The Toronto Maple Leafs achieved a remarkable milestone by setting a franchise record with an 18-game undefeated streak, which included 15 wins and 3 ties, highlighting the team's exceptional performance during this period.
1935 Smokey Stover Comic Strip Debuts: Bill Holman's comedic comic strip *Smokey Stover* made its inaugural appearance in the *Chicago Tribune*, introducing readers to a unique and humorous cartoon series that would become a notable part of 1930s popular culture.
1936 France Reinforces Maginot Line: France increased its military presence along the strategically important Maginot Line, a complex system of fortifications designed to deter potential German invasion in the lead-up to World War II.
1937 Pope Pius XI's Encyclical Against Nazi Regime: Pope Pius XI published the encyclical 'Mit brennender Sorge' (With Deep Anxiety), a bold and unprecedented critique of the Nazi regime's violations of religious freedoms and human rights.
1938 Spanish Civil War: Insurgent Offensive in Eastern Spain: During the Spanish Civil War, Nationalist insurgent forces launched a significant offensive on Spain's eastern front, successfully capturing the strategic town of Belchite in Aragon. This military operation was part of the broader conflict between Republican and Nationalist forces that would ultimately lead to Francisco Franco's victory.
1939 Stalin's Speech at the Eighteenth Party Congress: Soviet leader Josef Stalin delivered a pivotal speech at the Eighteenth Party Congress in Moscow, emphasizing Russia's isolationist stance. He declared that the Soviet Union would prioritize its own national interests and avoid involvement in external conflicts, signaling a strategic diplomatic approach on the eve of World War II.
1940 Ribbentrop's Diplomatic Mission to Rome: Nazi Foreign Minister Joachim von Ribbentrop arrived in Rome for critical two-day meetings with Benito Mussolini. The discussions centered on Italy's potential entry into World War II, with plans for a forthcoming face-to-face meeting between Mussolini and Hitler.
1941 Pearl Harbor Attack Plan Draft: Japanese rear admiral Takijirō Ōnishi provided Isoroku Yamamoto with a draft of the Pearl Harbor attack plan, a pivotal moment in the strategic planning that would lead to the infamous surprise attack on December 7, 1941.
1942 Japanese Capture of Finschhafen: During World War II, Japanese forces successfully captured the strategic port of Finschhafen in New Guinea, expanding their territorial control in the Pacific theater and posing a significant threat to Allied operations in the region.
1943 Holocaust Atrocity in Kraków: German forces conducted a brutal liquidation of the Jewish ghetto in Kraków, forcibly removing and likely executing Jewish residents as part of the Nazi regime's systematic genocide during World War II.
1944 Establishment of Greek Political Committee of National Liberation: During World War II, the National Liberation Front established the Political Committee of National Liberation, a significant resistance organization in Greece that aimed to coordinate anti-Axis efforts and represent the Greek resistance movement.
1945 Tokyo Firebombing - World War II Atrocity: On March 10, 1945, the U.S. Army Air Force conducted a devastating aerial bombardment of Tokyo, using incendiary bombs that created a massive firestorm. The raid resulted in the deaths of over 100,000 civilians and destroyed significant portions of the city, marking one of the most destructive single air raids in human history.
1946 British Troops Begin Withdrawal from Lebanon: As part of the post-World War II geopolitical restructuring, British troops commenced their withdrawal from Lebanon, signaling a significant shift in colonial power dynamics in the Middle East and marking an important moment in the region's decolonization process.
1947 International Monetary Fund Begins Operations: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) officially becomes operational, marking a significant milestone in global economic cooperation and financial system management in the post-World War II era.
1948 Conclusion of RuSHA Trial at Nuremberg: The RuSHA (Race and Settlement Main Office) trial concluded at the Nuremberg Trials, with thirteen out of fourteen defendants found guilty of at least one charge. This trial was a crucial part of the post-World War II efforts to hold Nazi officials accountable for war crimes and crimes against humanity.
1949 Israeli Defense Forces Reach Red Sea: The Israeli Defense Forces reached the shores of Umm Rashrash on the Red Sea, symbolically marking the end of the Arab-Israeli War by raising an improvised flag that would become known as the Ink Flag, a pivotal moment in Israel's territorial establishment.
1950 British Colonial Discrimination Against Seretse Khama: The British government refused to recognize Seretse Khama as the chief of the Bamangwato tribe in Bechuanaland (modern-day Botswana), demonstrating the pervasive racial prejudices of the colonial era. The decision was primarily motivated by Khama's interracial marriage to Ruth Williams, reflecting the systemic racism prevalent in British colonial administration at the time.
1951 Henri Queuille Becomes French Prime Minister: Henri Queuille assumed the role of Prime Minister of France, continuing the complex political landscape of post-World War II France. As a prominent centrist politician, Queuille was known for his efforts to stabilize the French government during a period of significant political volatility.
1952 1952 Cuban Coup d'État: On March 10, 1952, General Fulgencio Batista overthrew President Carlos Prío's democratically elected government in a bloodless and strategically executed coup d'état. The coup was primarily supported by the Cuban military and caught both the political establishment and general population completely off guard. Batista swiftly consolidated his power by systematically replacing potentially disloyal army officers with his own trusted supporters, strategically exiling or arresting key political opponents, and taking control of mass media channels to manage public perception.
1953 Jan Kjærstad Birth: Jan Kjærstad, a prominent Norwegian author, was born on March 6, 1953. He would later become known for his innovative and postmodern literary works that challenged traditional narrative structures.
1955 Establishment of Pakistan International Airlines: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) was officially formed, marking a significant milestone in the country's aviation history. The national carrier would go on to play a crucial role in connecting Pakistan domestically and internationally, serving as a symbol of the nation's emerging infrastructure and global connectivity.
1956 Cyprus General Strike Against Archbishop's Exile: A widespread general strike erupted in Cyprus, with citizens protesting the exile of Archbishop Makarios III by British colonial authorities. This event highlighted the growing tensions between the Cypriot population and British colonial rule, and was a significant moment in Cyprus's struggle for independence and self-determination.
1957 Jimmy Hoffa Arrested: The FBI arrested prominent labor union leader Jimmy Hoffa on bribery charges, a significant moment in mid-20th century American labor and legal history.
1958 Birth of Sharon Stone: Sharon Stone, a renowned American actress and producer known for her iconic roles in films like 'Basic Instinct' and 'Casino', was born on March 10, 1958, in Meadville, Pennsylvania. She would later become a prominent Hollywood star and humanitarian, recognized for her acting talent and advocacy work.
1959 1959 Tibetan Uprising: On March 10, 1959, a significant revolt erupted in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, as thousands of Tibetans rose up in protest against the Chinese occupation. The uprising was driven by deep-seated tensions, fears of the Dalai Lama's potential arrest, and widespread anti-Chinese sentiment. The protests marked a critical moment in Tibetan resistance against Chinese control, ultimately leading to a brutal military crackdown by the Chinese army.
1960 USSR agrees to stop nuclear testing.
1962 Eighteen Nation Disarmament Conference Begins: The Eighteen Nation Disarmament Conference commenced in Geneva, bringing together nuclear and non-nuclear powers including the United States, Soviet Union, United Kingdom, and France. This diplomatic gathering represented a significant multilateral effort to address global arms control and reduce international tensions during the Cold War era.
1963 Wilt Chamberlain's 70-Point Game: Wilt Chamberlain of the San Francisco Warriors achieved a remarkable basketball performance, scoring 70 points in a game against the Syracuse Nationals. This exemplifies Chamberlain's extraordinary scoring prowess and his status as one of basketball's most dominant players.
1964 US Reconnaissance Plane Incident in East Germany: A Soviet military incident involving an unarmed American RB-66 reconnaissance bomber shot down over East Germany. The three-member crew parachuted to safety and were arrested by Soviet soldiers near Gardelegen. 1st Lieutenant Harold W. Welch was released on March 21 with fractures, while Captains David I. Holland and Melvin J. Kessler were freed on March 27, highlighting Cold War tensions.
1965 Dutch Princess Margriet and Pieter van Vollenhoven, get engaged
1966 France's NATO Withdrawal Announcement: French President Charles de Gaulle declared that French troops would be withdrawn from NATO, and all NATO bases and headquarters in France must be closed within a year, signaling a significant shift in Cold War geopolitics.
1967 US Air Strike on Thái Nguyên Steel Works: During the Vietnam War, American aircraft conducted a strategic bombing raid targeting the steel and iron works at Thái Nguyên in North Vietnam, marking a significant escalation of aerial military operations in the conflict.
1968 Battle of Lima Site 85 in Laos: During the Vietnam War, a significant military engagement took place at Lima Site 85, resulting in the largest single ground combat loss for the United States Air Force. Twelve American service members were killed during this covert operation in Laos, underscoring the complex and clandestine nature of the conflict.
1969 James Earl Ray Pleads Guilty to MLK Assassination: In Memphis, Tennessee, James Earl Ray pleaded guilty to assassinating civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. at the Shelby County Criminal Court. Ray would later attempt to retract his guilty plea, claiming he was part of a larger conspiracy.
1970 U.S. Military Charges Captain Ernest Medina for My Lai War Crimes: During the Vietnam War, U.S. Military formally charges Captain Ernest Medina for his role in the infamous My Lai Massacre, a significant event highlighting war crimes and military accountability.
1971 US Senate Approves 26th Amendment Lowering Voting Age: The United States Senate approved a constitutional amendment to lower the voting age from 21 to 18, a significant milestone in expanding democratic participation for young Americans. This amendment was largely driven by the argument that if young people could be drafted to serve in the military during the Vietnam War, they should also have the right to vote.
1972 Soviet Nuclear Testing: The Soviet Union conducted a nuclear test at the Semipalatinsk Test Site in northeastern Kazakhstan, continuing its nuclear weapons development program during the Cold War era. This test was part of the ongoing nuclear arms race between the USSR and the United States.
1973 Terrorist Murder of U.S. Diplomats: U.S. Ambassador to Sudan Cleo A. Noel Jr. and his chargé d'affaires, Curtis Moore, were kidnapped and murdered by terrorists from the Black September Organization, highlighting the volatile diplomatic landscape and terrorist threats of the early 1970s.
1974 James Earl Ray Pleads Guilty to Martin Luther King Jr. Murder: James Earl Ray formally pleaded guilty to the assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. and was sentenced to 99 years in prison, marking a significant moment in the aftermath of the tragic 1968 murder.
1975 James Earl Ray Pleads Guilty to MLK Assassination: James Earl Ray formally pleaded guilty to the murder of civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr., receiving a 99-year prison sentence for this significant act of violence that shocked the nation.
1976 Tibetan Uprising Commemoration in New Delhi: Tibetan demonstrators gathered in New Delhi, India, to protest the Chinese occupation of Tibet, marking the anniversary of the 1959 Tibetan Uprising. Protesters burned the Chinese flag, symbolizing their continued resistance and demand for Tibetan autonomy. The demonstration drew international attention to the ongoing human rights and political tensions between Tibet and China.
1977 Discovery of Uranus Rings: In a groundbreaking astronomical observation, scientists discovered the rings of Uranus using advanced stellar occultation techniques. This discovery revealed a complex ring system around the distant ice giant, expanding our understanding of planetary formation and structure in the solar system.
1978 Nuclear Non-Proliferation Act of 1978: The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Act was signed into law by U.S. President Jimmy Carter, establishing significant restrictions on the export of American nuclear technology and strengthening global nuclear non-proliferation efforts.
1979 Iran Withdraws from CENTO Alliance: Iran formally withdrew from the Central Treaty Organisation (CENTO), a strategic alliance that included the United Kingdom, Pakistan, and Turkey. This withdrawal significantly weakened the geopolitical partnership, with Pakistan following suit the next day. By the end of the month, CENTO was effectively disbanded, leaving only two NATO members in the alliance. This event reflected the shifting political dynamics in the Middle East during the late 1970s, particularly in the aftermath of the Iranian Revolution.
1980 Murder of Herman Tarnower by Jean Harris: Jean Harris, headmistress of the Madeira School, shot and killed Herman Tarnower, the famous Scarsdale diet doctor, in a tragic and highly publicized crime of passion.
1981 Kim Carnes' 'Bette Davis Eyes' Single Released: Popular music artist Kim Carnes released the hit single 'Bette Davis Eyes', which would become one of the most successful and memorable songs of 1981, eventually winning Grammy Awards and becoming a cultural touchstone of the early 1980s.
1982 John Belushi's Funeral: Actor Dan Aykroyd served as a pallbearer at the funeral of his friend and fellow comedian John Belushi, who tragically died at age 33 from a drug overdose. The service was held at West Tisbury Congregational Church on Martha's Vineyard.
1983 Walter Alston Inducted into Baseball Hall of Fame: Walter Alston, the legendary manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in recognition of his exceptional leadership and contributions to the sport. During his remarkable 23-year tenure with the Dodgers (1954-1976), Alston led the team to seven National League pennants and four World Series championships. Known for his steady demeanor and strategic brilliance, Alston was one of the most respected managers of his era, guiding iconic players like Sandy Koufax, Don Drysdale, and Tommy Lasorda.
1984 Kentucky Wins 25th SEC Men's Basketball Tournament: The University of Kentucky Wildcats claimed victory in the 25th Southeastern Conference (SEC) Men's Basketball Tournament by narrowly defeating Auburn with a tense final score of 51-49, showcasing their competitive spirit and basketball prowess.
1985 India Wins World Championship of Cricket: India defeated Pakistan in the World Championship of Cricket, marking a significant moment in the intense cricket rivalry between the two nations and showcasing India's emerging cricket prowess.
1986 Lexington Tornado of 1986: A significant tornado outbreak occurred on March 10, 1986, with a high-end F2 tornado striking Lexington, Kentucky. The tornado originated near Tates Creek Road and Man O War Boulevard, causing extensive damage to residential areas. The destructive event resulted in twenty injuries and approximately $50 million in damages (adjusted to 2011 dollars). Initially misreported as a downburst by the local National Weather Service, tornado expert Dr. Ted Fujita later confirmed it as an F2 tornado, highlighting the complexity of severe weather assessment.
1987 Gavaskar Reaches Cricket Milestone: Sunil Gavaskar became the first cricket batsman to score 10,000 Test runs, setting a significant record that would inspire future generations of cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar.
1988 Kurt Waldheim Apologizes for Nazi Atrocities: Austrian President Kurt Waldheim formally apologized on behalf of Austria for the atrocities committed by Austrian Nazis, marking a significant moment of historical acknowledgment and reconciliation ahead of the 50th anniversary of the Anschluss.
1989 Air Ontario Flight 1363 Crash: On March 10, 1989, Air Ontario Flight 1363, a Fokker F-28 Fellowship aircraft, crashed at Dryden Regional Airport in Dryden, Ontario, Canada. The tragic accident resulted in 24 fatalities, marking a significant aviation disaster that would lead to important safety reviews and improvements in airline operations.
1990 Lithuania Declares Independence from Soviet Union: During the late stages of the Cold War, Lithuania officially declared independence from the Soviet Union through the Act of the Re-Establishment of the State of Lithuania, marking a significant moment in the dissolution of the USSR.
1991 Gulf War: Operation Phase Echo Troop Withdrawal: The United States begins Operation Phase Echo, initiating the withdrawal of 540,000 American troops from the Persian Gulf following the successful conclusion of the Gulf War. This massive logistical operation marks the end of direct military combat and the beginning of the post-war drawdown.
1992 Super Tuesday Presidential Primaries: On the pivotal 'Super Tuesday' primary elections, U.S. President George H.W. Bush and Arkansas Governor Bill Clinton emerged as dominant winners, significantly shaping the trajectory of the 1992 presidential race.
1993 North Korea Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty Withdrawal: North Korea officially announced its intention to withdraw from the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, refusing international nuclear inspectors access to its nuclear facilities. This action marked the beginning of the 1993-94 North Korean Nuclear Crisis, significantly escalating global tensions and raising serious concerns about nuclear proliferation in the Korean Peninsula.
1994 Melina Mercouri's Massive Funeral: One million Greeks gathered to pay their final respects to Melina Mercouri, a beloved actress, politician, and cultural icon who significantly influenced Greek arts and politics.
1995 Michael Jordan Returns to NBA: Basketball legend Michael Jordan announced his return to the NBA, ending his brief baseball career. Citing labor unrest as a factor, Jordan's comeback was a monumental moment in sports history, signaling the return of one of basketball's greatest players.
1996 Summit of Peacemakers in Egypt: A diplomatic summit focused on promoting peace negotiations in the Middle East, bringing together international leaders to discuss regional stability and conflict resolution.
1997 Buffy the Vampire Slayer Television Premiere: The cult television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer premiered on the WB network, created by Joss Whedon. The show centered on Buffy Summers, an alternative feminist icon who battles vampires, demons, and other supernatural forces of evil, marking a significant moment in television pop culture.
1998 US Military Anthrax Vaccination Begins: United States troops stationed in the Persian Gulf began receiving the first anthrax vaccinations as part of a preventive health and military preparedness strategy.
1999 Airline Passenger Fair Treatment Initiative Launched: On March 10, 1999, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced the Airline Passenger Fair Treatment Initiative, a comprehensive policy aimed at improving passenger rights and enhancing consumer protections in the airline industry. The initiative sought to address issues such as overbooking, flight delays, baggage handling, and customer service standards, marking a significant step towards more transparent and passenger-friendly air travel regulations.
2000 Dot-Com Bubble Bursts: The NASDAQ Composite stock market index peaks at 5,408.60, marking the definitive turning point of the dot-com era and the beginning of a significant market correction in technology stocks.
2002 Tibetan Uprising Anniversary Protest: Tibetan demonstrators gathered in New Delhi, India, to commemorate the 43rd anniversary of the Tibetan Uprising against Chinese occupation, which originally began on March 10, 1959. The protest highlighted ongoing tensions between Tibet and China.
2003 France Threatens UN Resolution Veto on Iraq: French President Jacques Chirac declared that France would veto a UN Resolution sponsored by Spain, United Kingdom, and the United States, which would authorize the use of force against Iraq unless the country disarms by March 17.
2004 Madrid Train Bombings Aftermath: The investigation continued into the devastating Madrid train bombings, which occurred on March 11, 2004, causing significant casualties and widespread shock across Spain.
2005 Rwanda Begins Gacaca Community Court Hearings for Genocide Cases: Traditional Gacaca community courts in Rwanda commenced hearings for individuals accused of involvement in the 1994 Rwandan Genocide, a crucial step in the country's reconciliation and justice process.
2006 Global Measles Deaths Decline Significantly: The World Health Organization reported a remarkable 48% reduction in measles deaths between 1999 and 2004, dropping from 871,000 to 454,000 deaths. Sub-Saharan Africa experienced the most substantial decrease at 60%, largely attributed to increased vaccination efforts.
2007 9/11 Attacks Confession: Khalid Shaikh Mohammed reportedly assumed responsibility for the attacks on the United States and acknowledged his role in the 9/11 terrorist attacks, a significant admission in the post-9/11 era.
2008 Eliot Spitzer Prostitution Scandal: The New York Times reported that Governor Eliot Spitzer was implicated in a high-profile prostitution service scandal, which would ultimately lead to his resignation.
2009 Suicide Attack in Baghdad: A devastating suicide attack in Baghdad, Iraq, claimed the lives of 33 people, highlighting the ongoing security challenges and sectarian tensions in the region.
2010 Burma's Election Law Targets Aung San Suu Kyi: Burma implemented a second electoral law that effectively banned Aung San Suu Kyi from political participation by prohibiting individuals with criminal convictions from joining political parties.
2011 Libyan Civil War Escalation: Pro-Gaddafi forces claimed control over Ra's Lanuf, resulting in dozens of casualties. This event marked a critical moment in the ongoing conflict, with significant strategic implications for the rebellion against Muammar Gaddafi's regime.
2012 U.S. Soldier Kills Afghan Civilians: A U.S. soldier conducted a horrific door-to-door rampage in Afghanistan, killing 17 civilians, including 9 children. This tragic event immediately triggered widespread anti-U.S. protests across Afghanistan, severely damaging diplomatic relations and local sentiment towards U.S. military presence.
2013 Egypt Football Verdict Protests: Violent protests erupted in Egypt after a judge upheld death sentences for 21 people involved in the 2011 football riots. Protesters in Port Said attempted to block the Suez Canal, and deadly riots occurred in Cairo, with 24 people jailed over the weekend's clashes.
2014 Merkel Warns Putin About Crimea Annexation: German Chancellor Angela Merkel directly warned Russian President Vladimir Putin that incorporating Crimea into Russia would be illegal and violate Ukraine's constitution.
2015 Wikimedia Foundation NSA Lawsuit: The Wikimedia Foundation, along with eight other organizations, filed a significant lawsuit against the National Security Agency in Maryland, challenging the agency's mass surveillance program and defending digital privacy rights.
2016 Record-Breaking Space Mission Concludes: US astronaut Scott Kelly and Russian cosmonaut Mikhail Kornienko completed a historic 340-day mission aboard the International Space Station, setting a new endurance record for human spaceflight.
2017 Impeachment of South Korean President Park Geun-hye: The Constitutional Court of South Korea unanimously upheld the impeachment of President Park Geun-hye, effectively ending her presidency following a major political corruption scandal. This landmark decision marked a significant moment in South Korean democratic history, removing a sitting president from office through constitutional means.
2018 Post-Stoneman Douglas Gun Control Developments: In the aftermath of the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting, significant gun control measures were initiated. The NRA sued Florida over a proposed law to raise the minimum gun purchase age, while the U.S. Department of Justice moved to ban bump stocks, a modification enabling faster firing.
2019 Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 Crash: Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, a Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, crashed shortly after takeoff from Addis Ababa, resulting in the tragic loss of all 157 passengers and crew members. The catastrophic incident led to a global grounding of all Boeing 737 MAX aircraft due to safety concerns.
2020 Italy Implements Nationwide COVID-19 Lockdown: In an unprecedented move, Italy extended comprehensive coronavirus restrictions across the entire country, effectively halting most travel and implementing a complete lockdown for its 60 million citizens. This drastic measure was designed to contain the rapidly spreading coronavirus outbreak that had initially emerged in the northern regions of the country.
2021 Mario Day Celebration: Mario Day is an annual holiday celebrated on March 10th (MAR-10), which playfully references the name of Nintendo's iconic video game character, Mario. The day is particularly popular among gaming enthusiasts who share memes, play Mario games, and celebrate the character's cultural impact.
2022 Russian Airstrike Hits Mariupol Maternity Hospital: A devastating Russian airstrike targeted a maternity hospital in the besieged Ukrainian port city of Mariupol, resulting in three fatalities and at least 17 injuries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack as an 'atrocity', highlighting the presence of civilians, including children, under the rubble. The World Health Organization confirmed 18 verified attacks on healthcare facilities, health workers, and ambulances since the Russian invasion began.
2023 Silicon Valley Bank Collapse: Silicon Valley Bank experienced a catastrophic bank run, leading to its collapse and becoming the second-largest bank failure in US history. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) swiftly took over the bank's operations, sending shockwaves through the tech and financial sectors.

What Is special about March 10?

March 10 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 10.