Historical Events on March 17: 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 17, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

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Events on March 17 - Key Moments Throughout History

  • 1900 American Colonial Expansion in the Philippines: Bohol Occupation: American military forces, specifically the 44th Infantry Battalion under the command of Major Henry Hale, arrived in Tagbilaran and established control over the island of Bohol during the Philippine-American War, marking another step in the United States' colonial territorial expansion in the Pacific.
  • 1901 Vincent van Gogh Paintings Exhibition in Paris: A groundbreaking exhibition of 71 Vincent van Gogh paintings was held in Paris, marking a significant moment in art history. This event, occurring 11 years after the artist's death, created a profound sensation in the Parisian art world and helped establish van Gogh's posthumous reputation as a revolutionary painter.
  • 1902 Birth of Bobby Jones, Golf Legend: Bobby Jones, a remarkable American athlete who would become one of the most influential golfers in history, was born on March 17, 1902. Jones was not only an exceptional golfer but also a lawyer, and he is famously known for winning the Grand Slam in 1930, a feat that remained unmatched for decades. His contributions to golf extended beyond his playing career, as he was instrumental in founding the Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament.
  • 1903 Uneventful Day in 1903: While no specific significant historical events were recorded on March 17, 1903, this date represents a typical day during the early 20th century. The world was in a period of rapid industrialization, technological advancement, and geopolitical transformation. At this time, countries like the United States were experiencing significant economic growth, and global powers were establishing their international presence.
  • 1904 Bubonic Plague Outbreak in Johannesburg: A significant public health crisis emerged in Johannesburg, South Africa, when bubonic plague began spreading through the city's Indian quarter. This outbreak highlighted the challenging sanitary conditions and racial segregation of early 20th-century urban environments, exposing vulnerabilities in colonial-era public health infrastructure.
  • 1905 Einstein's Groundbreaking Photoelectric Effect Paper: Albert Einstein published a seminal scientific paper explaining the photoelectric effect using the revolutionary concept of light quanta (photons), which would later contribute significantly to quantum mechanics and earn him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921.
  • 1906 Theodore Roosevelt Coins 'Muckraker' Term: President Theodore Roosevelt publicly uses the term 'muckraker' to describe investigative journalists who exposed societal corruption and corporate misconduct during the Progressive Era, marking a significant moment in American media and political discourse.
  • 1907 Birth of Takeo Miki, Japanese Prime Minister: Takeo Miki was born on March 17, 1907, in Japan. He would later become the 41st Prime Minister of Japan, serving from 1974 to 1976. Miki was a prominent political figure known for his efforts to reform the Liberal Democratic Party and promote democratic principles during a significant period of post-war Japanese political development.
  • 1908 World Heavyweight Title Fight Record: Tommy Burns set a remarkable record by defeating Jem Roche in the world heavyweight title fight, knocking out his opponent in an astonishingly brief 88 seconds, which was the quickest heavyweight title fight at that time.
  • 1909 Panama Canal Construction Milestone: On March 17, 1909, a significant engineering milestone was achieved when the first concrete was poured for the Panama Canal project, specifically at the Gatun spillway. This marked a critical phase in the ambitious international infrastructure project that would revolutionize global maritime trade by connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
  • 1910 Founding of Camp Fire Girls Organization: Luther Gulick and his wife Charlotte established the Camp Fire Girls, a pioneering youth organization focused on character development, outdoor skills, and personal growth for young women. The organization was formally announced in 1912 and would later evolve into Camp Fire USA, becoming one of the first gender-inclusive youth development organizations in the United States.
  • 1911 First Woman in Norwegian Parliament: Anna Rogstad made history by becoming the first woman to serve in the Storting, Norway's national parliament, marking a significant milestone for women's political representation in early 20th century Scandinavia.
  • 1912 Alice Paul Leads Suffrage Delegation: Prominent women's rights activist Alice Paul led a significant suffrage delegation to meet with President Woodrow Wilson, advocating for women's right to vote and marking a crucial moment in the American women's suffrage movement.
  • 1913 Establishment of the Uruguayan Air Force: On March 17, 1913, Uruguay officially established its national air force, marking a significant milestone in the country's military aviation history. This event represented Uruguay's commitment to developing a modern military infrastructure and national defense capabilities during the early 20th century. The founding of the air force came at a time of global technological advancement in aviation, with many nations recognizing the strategic importance of aerial military capabilities.
  • 1914 Invention of Green Beer on Saint Patrick's Day: On Saint Patrick's Day in 1914, Thomas H. Curtin pioneered the creation of green beer, a festive beverage that would become a popular tradition during St. Patrick's Day celebrations. By adding green food coloring to beer, Curtin created a playful and visually striking drink that would become synonymous with Irish-American cultural festivities.
  • 1915 First German Zeppelin Raid on Great Britain: During World War I, the Imperial German Army launched its inaugural airship raid against the United Kingdom. The mission, conducted by a Zeppelin airship, was ultimately unsuccessful due to severe weather conditions that prevented the crew from identifying and engaging strategic targets. This event marked an early attempt to bring aerial warfare directly to British soil, representing a significant technological and strategic development in military aviation.
  • 1916 Pancho Villa Expedition Begins: U.S. Army General John J. Pershing established a strategic base of operations in Colonia Dublán, Mexico, marking the start of a military campaign against Mexican revolutionary leader Pancho Villa. This expedition was a direct response to Villa's cross-border raids into U.S. territory, including the notable attack on Columbus, New Mexico, which had occurred just days earlier.
  • 1917 Russian Tsar Nicolas II Abdicates: Tsar Nicolas II of Russia officially abdicates the Russian throne, marking a pivotal moment in Russian history and signaling the end of the Romanov dynasty's 300-year rule. This event precipitates the Russian Revolution and sets the stage for the eventual rise of the Soviet Union.
  • 1918 German Forces Capture Nicolayev: During World War I, German military forces successfully capture the strategic city of Nicolayev (now Mykolaiv) in South Russia, expanding their territorial control in the region.
  • 1919 Birth of Nat King Cole: Nathaniel Adams Cole, better known as Nat 'King' Cole, was born in Montgomery, Alabama. He would become one of the most iconic jazz pianists and vocalists of the 20th century, known for legendary songs like 'Unforgettable' and 'Mona Lisa'. Cole was a pioneering African American artist who broke racial barriers in the entertainment industry.
  • 1920 Discovery of Meket-Re's Tomb in Egypt: Archaeologists uncovered the remarkably preserved tomb of Meket-Re, a high-ranking chief minister who served under Pharaoh Mentuhotep II during the Middle Kingdom period of ancient Egypt. The discovery, made on a Wednesday, provided significant insights into the administrative and cultural practices of the 11th Dynasty, approximately 3,900 years after Meket-Re's original burial. The tomb's preservation offered researchers a rare, detailed glimpse into the life and administrative roles of senior officials during this pivotal period of Egyptian history.
  • 1921 Lenin's New Economic Policy (NEP): Vladimir Lenin introduces the New Economic Policy, a strategic economic reform allowing limited private enterprise and market mechanisms within the Soviet socialist framework, marking a significant shift from strict communist economic principles.
  • 1922 New York St. Patrick's Day Parade Highlights Irish-American Political Sentiment: On March 17, 1922, over 50,000 people participated in the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade in New York City, transforming the cultural celebration into a powerful political statement. The parade's Grand Marshal, Edward J. Gavegan, used the event as a platform to express dissatisfaction with the Anglo-Irish Treaty recently negotiated with the British government. In a notable telegram sent to Michael Collins, the head of the Provisional Government of Ireland, Gavegan articulated the American Irish community's disappointment with the treaty's terms, which fell short of their expectations for full Irish independence.
  • 1923 Margaret Bondfield Becomes First Female TUC Chair: Margaret Bondfield made history by becoming the first woman to chair the Trades Union Congress (TUC), a significant milestone in British labor movement and women's leadership. Her election represented a breakthrough for female representation in trade union leadership during the early 20th century.
  • 1924 First Round-the-World Flight Departs: The historic Round-the-World Flight commenced from Santa Monica, California at precisely 9:32 am, representing a groundbreaking moment in aviation exploration and technological achievement.
  • 1925 Tri-State Tornado Outbreak of 1925: On March 17, 1925, the most devastating tornado outbreak in United States history began, with the infamous Tri-State Tornado causing unprecedented destruction across Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana. This catastrophic weather event would ultimately claim 695 lives, injure over 2,000 people, and destroy numerous towns along its 219-mile path. The tornado, which traveled an extraordinary distance and maintained ground contact for an unprecedented duration, remains the longest and deadliest single tornado in recorded American history. Its immense power and widespread devastation led to significant improvements in tornado tracking, warning systems, and community disaster preparedness.
  • 1926 Diplomatic Maneuver Against Germany: Spain and Brazil collaborate to block Germany's attempt to join the League of Nations, reflecting the complex international political tensions in the aftermath of World War I and the ongoing diplomatic isolation of Germany.
  • 1927 US Declines League of Nations Disarmament Treaty: The United States government chose not to sign the League of Nations disarmament treaty, reflecting the nation's isolationist foreign policy stance during the interwar period.
  • 1928 Uneventful Day in 1928: While no specific major historical events were recorded for March 17, 1928, this period was part of the interwar years between World War I and World War II. The world was experiencing significant economic and social transitions, with the aftermath of the 1929 Great Depression looming on the horizon.
  • 1929 First Mickey Mouse Cartoon Released: Walt Disney's *Plane Crazy*, the first Mickey Mouse cartoon ever made, was released. Although it was the first film created, it was the fourth to be shown in theaters, marking a pivotal moment in animation history.
  • 1930 Uneventful Day in 1930: On March 17, 1930, no significant historical events were recorded. This was a relatively quiet day during the interwar period, with no major political, social, or cultural developments noted in historical archives.
  • 1931 Stalin's Political Maneuver Against Lenin's Widow: Josef Stalin politically marginalized Nadezhda Krupskaya, Vladimir Lenin's widow, by removing her from the Soviet Central Committee, demonstrating his growing power and consolidation of control within the Communist Party leadership.
  • 1932 US Rejects Japanese Puppet State in Manchuria: The United States government officially announced its refusal to recognize Manchukuo, the Japanese-established puppet republic in Manchuria. This diplomatic stance signaled American disapproval of Japan's territorial expansionism and imperial ambitions in East Asia.
  • 1933 Hitler Appoints Hjalmar Schacht as Economic Adviser: Adolf Hitler appointed Hjalmar Schacht as his chief economic adviser, a strategic move that would significantly influence Nazi Germany's economic policies and reconstruction efforts in the early years of the Third Reich.
  • 1934 Rome Protocols Signed by Austria, Hungary, and Italy: On March 17, 1934, Austrian Chancellor Engelbert Dollfuss, Italian Prime Minister Benito Mussolini, and Hungarian Prime Minister Gyula Gömbös signed the Donau Pact (Rome Protocols). This diplomatic agreement strengthened economic and political ties between the three countries, creating a strategic alliance aimed at counterbalancing the influence of the Little Entente and France in Central Europe.
  • 1935 Nazi Suppression of Religious Opposition: The Nazi regime arrested 700 pastors from the oppositional Confessional Lutheran synod, preventing them from publicly reading a proclamation that criticized the state church regime. This action represents a significant moment of religious persecution and suppression of free speech during the early years of Nazi control in Germany.
  • 1936 St. Patrick's Day Flood in Pittsburgh: On March 17, 1936, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania experienced its most devastating flood in recorded history. The St. Patrick's Day Flood caused significant damage to the city's infrastructure, with widespread flooding along the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers. At least 10 fatalities were reported in nearby Johnstown, highlighting the flood's destructive impact on the region. The disaster led to major changes in flood control and urban planning in southwestern Pennsylvania.
  • 1937 Stalinist Purge in Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic: Vasily Sharangovich was appointed First Secretary of the Communist Party of Byelorussia, initiating a brutal political purge targeting alleged spies and political opponents. He orchestrated the removal of top government officials, including Nikolai Goloded and Alexander Cheryakov, under the pretext of eliminating 'enemies of the state'. His reign of terror was short-lived, as he was himself arrested on espionage charges just five months later.
  • 1938 Austrian Anschluss Referendum: In a historic and controversial national referendum, the Austrian electorate overwhelmingly approved the annexation by Nazi Germany (Anschluss) with an astonishing 99.73% vote, signaling the end of Austria's independence and a critical moment in the lead-up to World War II.
  • 1939 Chamberlain's Defiant Speech Against German Expansionism: British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain delivers a pivotal speech in Birmingham, explicitly declaring Britain's commitment to opposing any German attempts at global domination, signaling a critical moment in pre-World War II diplomatic tensions.
  • 1940 Saint Patrick's Day Celebration: Saint Patrick's Day, observed annually on March 17th, is a cultural and religious holiday commemorating Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Originally a Christian feast day, it has evolved into a global celebration of Irish heritage and culture, marked by parades, wearing green clothing, and festive gatherings. Saint Patrick, a 5th-century missionary, is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland and legendarily known for driving snakes out of the island.
  • 1941 Luftwaffe Bombing of Bristol: During World War II, 162 German Luftwaffe aircraft conducted a strategic bombing raid on the Avonmouth district of Bristol, causing significant damage and escalating the aerial campaign against British civilian and industrial targets.
  • 1942 Belzec Concentration Camp Opens: The Bełżec extermination camp became operational in Nazi-occupied Poland, marking a horrific escalation of the Holocaust. On this day, approximately 30,000 Lublin Polish Jews were forcibly transported to the camp, which would become one of the primary sites of the Nazi genocide.
  • 1943 Major U-boat Victory in Battle of the Atlantic: At the climax of the Battle of the Atlantic, German U-boats achieve a significant victory by sinking 22 Allied ships, representing 20% of convoys HX-229 and SC-122, while losing only one U-boat. This was considered the last major U-boat success of World War II.
  • 1944 Polish Troops Capture Monte Cassino: In a significant World War II battle, the 2nd Polish Corps under General Władysław Anders successfully captured the strategic Monte Cassino location in Italy. This victory forced German troops to withdraw to the Hitler Line, marking a crucial moment in the Allied campaign in western Italy.
  • 1945 Battle of Iwo Jima Concludes: American forces complete the capture of Iwo Jima after an intense and bloody battle. The campaign resulted in significant casualties: 26,038 American soldiers were wounded or killed, including 6,821 fatalities. Of the 21,000 Japanese defenders, only 1,083 survived, highlighting the brutal nature of the Pacific theater in World War II.
  • 1946 Soviet Troops Withdraw from Danish Bornholm Island: On March 17, 1946, Soviet troops completed their withdrawal from Bornholm Island, marking the end of their military occupation following their liberation of the island from Nazi control in May 1945. This withdrawal was a significant diplomatic moment in the early post-World War II period, symbolizing the gradual normalization of relations between the Soviet Union and Denmark.
  • 1947 Supreme Court Anti-Communist Government Policy: The US Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling supporting the Civil Service Commission's authority to dismiss government employees with communist affiliations or sympathies, reflecting the intense ideological tensions of the early Cold War era.
  • 1948 Treaty of Brussels Signed: Belgium, France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom signed the Treaty of Brussels, a critical diplomatic agreement that served as a foundational precursor to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). This treaty established mutual defense commitments and frameworks for economic, social, and cultural collaboration in post-World War II Europe.
  • 1949 Grand Opening of the Shamrock Hotel in Houston: On March 17, 1949, the luxurious Shamrock Hotel, a landmark property owned by flamboyant oil tycoon Glenn McCarthy, celebrated its grand opening in Houston, Texas. The hotel was a symbol of post-World War II prosperity and McCarthy's entrepreneurial spirit, featuring lavish amenities and becoming an iconic destination in the city. Known for its massive scale and opulent design, the Shamrock Hotel was considered one of the most impressive hotels in the United States at the time, attracting celebrities, businessmen, and socialites.
  • 1950 Discovery of Californium: Scientists at the University of California, Berkeley announce the discovery and creation of element 98, which they name Californium, a significant milestone in nuclear chemistry and periodic table expansion.
  • 1951 Willem Drees Leads Dutch Government: Willem Drees, a prominent Dutch politician from the Labour Party (PvdA), assumed leadership of the Dutch government. Drees was a significant post-World War II political figure who played a crucial role in the reconstruction and social welfare policies of the Netherlands during the 1950s.
  • 1952 Birth of Perla, Paraguayan-Brazilian Singer: Perla, a talented singer with dual Paraguayan and Brazilian heritage, was born on March 17, 1952. Known for her unique cultural background and musical contributions, she would become an important figure in the Latin American music scene.
  • 1953 Live TV Coverage of Nuclear Test Operation Upshot-Knothole: The Annie nuclear test was broadcast live on national television as part of Operation Upshot-Knothole. Detonated from a 300-foot tower in Yucca Flat, Nevada, with a 16-kiloton yield, reporters were permitted to observe the blast from 12 kilometers away.
  • 1954 Birth of Lesley-Anne Down: Lesley-Anne Down, a prominent British actress known for her roles in television and film, was born on March 17, 1954, in London, England. She would later gain international recognition for her performances in period dramas and television series, becoming a notable figure in the entertainment industry during the 1970s and 1980s.
  • 1955 Maurice Richard Suspension Sparks Montreal Riot: On March 17, 1955, NHL hockey player Maurice "Rocket" Richard was suspended by league president Clarence Campbell, which triggered a massive 7-hour riot in Montreal, Quebec. The suspension of the beloved Montreal Canadiens star player deeply angered fans and became a significant cultural moment in Canadian sports history. The riot reflected not just sporting passion, but underlying tensions in Quebec society during the 1950s.
  • 1956 Death of Irène Joliot-Curie, Renowned French Physicist: Irène Joliot-Curie, a distinguished French physicist and Nobel Prize in Chemistry recipient, passed away at the age of 58 due to leukaemia. She was a prominent scientist who continued the remarkable scientific legacy of her parents, Marie and Pierre Curie, making significant contributions to nuclear physics and radioactivity research.
  • 1957 Death of Ramon Magsaysay in Plane Crash: Philippine President Ramon Magsaysay tragically died in a plane crash on Mount Manunggal in Cebu, Philippines. The crash claimed the lives of 25 people, including the president, marking a significant loss for the nation. Magsaysay was known for his reformist policies and was widely popular among Filipinos, making his sudden death a profound shock to the country.
  • 1958 Vanguard 1: First Solar-Powered Satellite Launch: The U.S. Navy launched the Vanguard 1 satellite, which became the oldest man-made satellite still in orbit. This groundbreaking satellite was the first to be powered by solar energy and successfully achieve a long-term orbital trajectory, marking a significant milestone in space exploration technology.
  • 1959 Dalai Lama's Dramatic Escape from Tibet: On March 17, 1959, Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, made a perilous journey from Tibet to India, fleeing escalating tensions with Chinese authorities. Wearing a soldier's uniform and carrying a gun, he left the Norbulinka palace at 10 pm, accompanied by his mother and elder sister. This escape was prompted by a revolt in Lhasa and growing fears for his personal safety amid the Chinese occupation of Tibet.
  • 1960 U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signs the National Security Council directive on the anti-Cuban covert action program that will ultimately lead to the Bay of Pigs Invasion.
  • 1961 South Africa Leaves British Commonwealth: On March 17, 1961, South Africa officially withdrew from the British Commonwealth, marking a significant moment in the country's political history. This decision was primarily driven by increasing international pressure over the apartheid system and South Africa's racist policies, which were increasingly seen as incompatible with the Commonwealth's principles of equality and human rights.
  • 1963 Mount Agung Volcanic Eruption in Bali: On March 17, 1963, Mount Agung, an active volcano in Bali, Indonesia, erupted catastrophically, causing widespread destruction and significant loss of life. The eruption killed approximately 1,100-1,900 people and devastated local communities, marking one of the most deadly volcanic events in Indonesian history.
  • 1964 The Beatles Top US Charts: On March 17, 1964, 'She Loves You' by The Beatles was the number 1 song in the United States, reflecting the band's rising global popularity during the early stages of the British Invasion. This achievement highlighted the Beatles' unprecedented musical influence and growing international appeal during the mid-1960s.
  • 1965 Civil Rights Demonstration in Montgomery: In Montgomery, Alabama, 1,600 civil rights marchers gathered at the Courthouse to protest and demonstrate in response to the violent events of March 7 and 9 in Selma, Alabama, highlighting the ongoing struggle for racial equality and voting rights during the Civil Rights Movement.
  • 1966 Palomares Hydrogen Bomb Recovery: The United States Navy submersible DSV Alvin locates a missing hydrogen bomb off the Mediterranean coast of Spain, resolving a critical nuclear safety incident.
  • 1967 Declaration on the Croatian Language: A group of prominent Croatian intellectuals in Yugoslavia issued the Declaration on the Croatian Language, asserting the distinct identity and rights of the Croatian linguistic heritage. This landmark document challenged the linguistic policies of the Yugoslav government and became a pivotal moment in Croatian cultural and national self-determination, highlighting the importance of language preservation and cultural autonomy.
  • 1968 Anti-Vietnam War Protest in London: A demonstration in London's Grosvenor Square against U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War escalates into violence, with 91 people injured and 200 demonstrators arrested, reflecting the growing global opposition to the conflict.
  • 1969 Golda Meir Becomes Prime Minister of Israel: Golda Meir, originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, became the fourth Prime Minister of Israel, marking a significant milestone for women in political leadership. A prominent Zionist and Labor Party leader, she was the first woman to hold this prestigious position in Israel's history.
  • 1970 My Lai Massacre: US Army Charges Officers: The United States Army formally charges 14 officers with suppressing critical information related to the infamous My Lai Massacre, a significant event in the Vietnam War where US soldiers committed atrocities against Vietnamese civilians.
  • 1971 First $1 Million State Lottery Winner in US: Edward Henry from Morristown, New Jersey, made history by becoming the first person to win a $1 million prize in a state lottery, marking a significant milestone in American gambling and public revenue generation.
  • 1972 Indo-Bangladeshi Treaty of Friendship Signed: Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi of India and Sheikh Mujibur Rahman of Bangladesh signed the historic Indo-Bangladeshi Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Peace during Gandhi's diplomatic visit to Dhaka, solidifying bilateral relations post-Bangladesh's independence.
  • 1973 Iconic 'Burst of Joy' Pulitzer Photograph: The legendary Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph 'Burst of Joy' was captured, depicting the emotional reunion of a former Vietnam War prisoner of war with his family. This powerful image became a profound symbol of the United States' withdrawal from the Vietnam War and the homecoming of American POWs.
  • 1974 Jane Blalock Wins LPGA Tournament: Professional golfer Jane Blalock secured victory at the LPGA Bing Crosby Golf Classic International, demonstrating her skill in women's professional golf.
  • 1975 South Vietnamese Forces Retreat in Vietnam War: In a significant turning point of the Vietnam War, South Vietnamese forces withdrew from three provinces, effectively surrendering strategic territory to North Vietnamese troops who substantially outnumbered them. This retreat effectively disrupted South Vietnamese supply routes and signaled a critical moment in the conflict's final stages.
  • 1976 US Nuclear Test: The United States conducted a nuclear test at the Nevada Test Site, continuing Cold War-era nuclear weapons development and testing programs.
  • 1977 Chouf Mountains Massacre in Lebanon: A tragic sectarian violence erupted in Lebanon's Chouf Mountains, resulting in the brutal killing of at least 67 Lebanese Christian villagers by Druze Muslims. This horrific event highlighted the deep-seated religious and ethnic tensions that plagued Lebanon during its complex civil conflict.
  • 1978 Amoco Cadiz Oil Spill: The Amoco Cadiz oil tanker ran aground off the coast of Brittany, France, resulting in a catastrophic environmental disaster. Approximately 1.6 million gallons of crude oil were spilled into the ocean, causing significant ecological damage to marine and coastal ecosystems.
  • 1979 Wales Wins Rugby Championship: Wales achieved a remarkable victory by defeating England 27-3 at the National Stadium in Cardiff, securing its second consecutive Five Nations Rugby Championship, its 21st outright title, and its fourth straight Triple Crown.
  • 1980 Pink Floyd's 'Another Brick in the Wall' Tops US Charts: On March 17, 1980, Pink Floyd's iconic song 'Another Brick in the Wall (Part II)' from their landmark album 'The Wall' reached the number one position on the US music charts. This protest song against rigid educational systems became a global anthem and one of the most recognizable rock tracks of the era.
  • 1981 Propaganda Due Masonic Lodge Exposed in Italy: On March 17, 1981, Italian authorities uncovered the controversial Propaganda Due (P2) Masonic Lodge, a secretive and influential organization linked to political and financial elites. The discovery revealed a complex network of powerful individuals who had been operating behind the scenes, potentially influencing Italian politics and society.
  • 1982 Dutch TV Crew Murdered in El Salvador: Four Dutch television journalists were tragically killed while reporting in a conflict zone controlled by leftist guerrillas in El Salvador. The victims were Hans ter Laag (sound technician), Jan Kuiper (news editor from IKON), Joop Willemsen (cameraman), and Koos Koster (newscaster from IKON). Their deaths highlight the extreme dangers faced by journalists in war-torn regions during the Salvadoran Civil War.
  • 1983 Chad Seeks UN Intervention in Border Dispute with Libya: Chad formally requested assistance from the UN Security Council to help resolve a long-standing border dispute with Libya. This diplomatic move underscores the ongoing tensions between the two African nations and highlights the complex geopolitical challenges in the region during the early 1980s.
  • 1984 Scotland's Historic Rugby Triumph in Five Nations Championship: On March 17, 1984, the Scottish national rugby team achieved a remarkable victory by defeating France 21-12 at Murrayfield Stadium. This win was particularly significant as it secured Scotland the Five Nations Rugby Championship outright and the prestigious Triple Crown. Moreover, it marked Scotland's first Grand Slam victory since 1925, representing a momentous achievement in the team's rugby history.
  • 1985 Night Stalker Begins Murder Spree: Serial killer Richard Ramirez, infamously known as the 'Night Stalker', committed his first two murders in Los Angeles, California, marking the beginning of a terrifying criminal rampage that would shock the nation.
  • 1986 Haemers Gang Gold Transport Robbery in Belgium: The notorious Haemers criminal gang executed a daring robbery of a gold transport in Belgium, stealing approximately 35 million Belgian francs. This high-profile heist was a significant criminal event that highlighted the sophisticated methods of organized crime in mid-1980s Belgium.
  • 1987 Sunil Gavaskar Concludes Legendary Test Cricket Career: Renowned Indian cricket batsman Sunil Gavaskar concluded his illustrious Test cricket career with a memorable final innings of 96 runs against Pakistan, marking the end of an era in international cricket.
  • 1988 Iran Accuses Iraq of Chemical Warfare: Iran publicly alleges that Iraq has employed poison gas during the ongoing Iran-Iraq War, escalating international concerns about chemical weapons usage.
  • 1989 El Salvador Presidential Election: Alfredo Cristiani is elected President of El Salvador, marking a significant political transition in Central America during the late Cold War period.
  • 1990 Murder of Mar Mejía, Guatemalan Feminist Activist: Mar Mejía, a prominent Guatemalan feminist activist, was murdered on this date, highlighting the dangerous climate for human rights advocates in Guatemala during this period.
  • 1991 USSR Referendum on Union Treaty: The Soviet Union held a critical referendum to determine the future of the union, with nine out of fifteen Soviet representatives officially approving a new union treaty. This event signaled a pivotal moment in the potential restructuring of the Soviet state during its final years.
  • 1992 South African Referendum to End Apartheid: A historic referendum was held where white South African voters overwhelmingly supported ending the apartheid system. With 68.7% voting 'Yes', this marked a critical turning point in South Africa's journey towards racial equality and democratic transformation under President F.W. de Klerk's leadership.
  • 1993 Deadly Bomb Attack in Calcutta: On March 17, 1993, a devastating bomb attack in Calcutta (now Kolkata), India, resulted in the tragic loss of 86 lives. This terrorist incident was part of a series of violent events that marked the early 1990s in the region, highlighting the complex political and social tensions of the time.
  • 1994 Iranian Transport Aircraft Crash in Azerbaijan: An Iranian transport aircraft crashed in Azerbaijan, resulting in the tragic loss of 32 lives. The incident highlights the risks associated with aviation in challenging geographical and geopolitical conditions during the mid-1990s.
  • 1995 FDA Approves First Chickenpox Vaccine: The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Varivax, the first chickenpox (varicella) vaccine developed by Merck and Company. This groundbreaking medical advancement would significantly reduce the incidence of chickenpox and its potential complications.
  • 1996 Sri Lanka Wins Cricket World Cup: Sri Lanka achieved a historic victory in the Cricket World Cup, defeating tournament favorites Australia by 7 wickets. Aravinda de Silva was the standout player, scoring an unbeaten 107 runs and taking 3 crucial wickets, earning him the Player of the Match award.
  • 1997 Liggett Tobacco Company Admits Cigarette Addiction: Liggett Group became the first major tobacco company to publicly admit that cigarettes are addictive, a groundbreaking moment in the ongoing legal and health debates surrounding tobacco use.
  • 1998 Vatican Acknowledges Failure During Holocaust: The Vatican issued a historic document of repentance, formally acknowledging and expressing regret for the Roman Catholic Church's failure to effectively prevent or deter the mass killing of Jews during World War II.
  • 1999 Introduction of Roth 401(k) Retirement Plan: U.S. Senator William Roth introduced the Roth 401(k), a new retirement savings vehicle that allows employees to contribute after-tax dollars, with the significant benefit of tax-free withdrawals during retirement. This innovative financial instrument provided workers with more flexible retirement planning options.
  • 2000 Ugandan Cult Mass Tragedy: On March 17, 2000, a devastating incident occurred involving the Movement for the Restoration of the Ten Commandments of God, a religious cult in Uganda. Approximately 778 members died in what investigators believe was a deliberate mass murder or orchestrated mass suicide. The tragedy unfolded with 530 members perishing in a fire at a cult location, and an additional 248 members found dead elsewhere. The event shocked the international community and raised serious questions about cult dynamics and leadership manipulation.
  • 2002 Envisat Environmental Satellite Launch: The Envisat environmental satellite was successfully launched into an orbit 800 kilometers above Earth, carrying the heaviest payload to date at 8,500 kilograms. This mission represented a significant advancement in environmental monitoring and space technology.
  • 2003 Bush Issues Ultimatum to Saddam Hussein: U.S. President George W. Bush delivers a critical ultimatum to Saddam Hussein and his sons, demanding they leave Iraq or face imminent military intervention, marking a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the Iraq War.
  • 2004 Kosovo Ethnic Violence: A severe outbreak of organized ethnic violence occurred in Kosovo, resulting in widespread destruction and loss of life. Nineteen people were killed, 139 Serbian homes were burned, and numerous schools, businesses, and over 30 Orthodox monasteries and churches were destroyed or vandalized.
  • 2005 Potential Black Hole Creation at Particle Accelerator: Physicists at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider in Upton, New York, potentially created a microscopic black hole, sparking scientific speculation about quantum physics.
  • 2006 Warning About Darfur Conflict: The International Crisis Group issued a stark warning about the potential escalation of the Darfur conflict, emphasizing the risk of increased casualties and potential regional destabilization if the situation is not addressed promptly and comprehensively.
  • 2007 Zimbabwe Political Crisis Escalates: Three opposition activists, including Arthur Mutambara, leader of a Movement for Democratic Change faction, were detained while attempting to flee to South Africa, reflecting the ongoing political tensions in Zimbabwe.
  • 2008 Lehman Brothers Stock Plummets: The stock market witnessed a dramatic 20 percent decline in the value of shares for American investment bank Lehman Brothers, signaling deepening financial instability during the emerging global economic crisis.
  • 2009 Madagascar Political Coup: A significant political upheaval occurred in Madagascar when President Marc Ravalomanana was overthrown in a military-backed coup following a month of intense protests in Antananarivo. The military subsequently appointed opposition leader Andry Rajoelina as the new president, dramatically altering the country's political landscape.
  • 2010 Obama Announces Iran Sanctions: President Barack Obama declared the United States would pursue aggressive sanctions to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, highlighting ongoing tensions in Middle Eastern geopolitics.
  • 2011 Fukushima Nuclear Disaster Escalates: The Fukushima I Nuclear Power Plant experiences critical meltdown, with emergency efforts including helicopter water drops and cable laying to cool overheated fuel rods, marking a significant environmental and technological crisis.
  • 2012 Death of Nazi War Criminal John Demjanjuk: John Demjanjuk, a notorious Nazi war criminal convicted of being an accessory to the murder of 27,900 Jews during the Holocaust, dies at age 91, closing a significant chapter in Holocaust accountability.
  • 2013 Pope Francis First Angelus Prayer: Pope Francis made his first public appearance in Saint Peter's Square, delivering his inaugural Angelus prayer and blessing. Thousands of faithful gathered to witness the new pontiff's first public address, marking a significant moment in Catholic Church history.
  • 2014 Crimean Status Referendum: A controversial referendum was held in Crimea to determine its political status, which would ultimately lead to the region's annexation by Russia, causing significant international tension.
  • 2015 Netanyahu Wins Israeli Legislative Election: In a surprising turn of events, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his Likud Party win the legislative election, securing 30 out of 120 seats despite polls suggesting he was trailing.
  • 2016 US Declares ISIL Genocide Against Christians and Yazidis: US Secretary of State John Kerry officially stated that the Islamic State (ISIL) committed genocide against Christians and Yazidis in Syria and Iraq. Simultaneously, Islamic State commander Hassan Aboud was reported killed near Aleppo after being wounded in a roadside bomb attack.
  • 2017 ETA Announces Full Disarmament: The Basque separatist group ETA officially announced in Spain that it would fully disarm by April 8, 2017, marking a significant step towards resolving the long-standing Basque conflict.
  • 2018 Cambridge Analytica Data Breach Investigation: Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey launched a significant investigation into Cambridge Analytica's alleged unauthorized harvesting of Facebook user profiles, which were potentially used in Donald Trump's 2016 presidential campaign, raising critical questions about data privacy and electoral manipulation.
  • 2019 Zimbabwe Declares Emergency After Cyclone Idai: Zimbabwe officially declared a state of emergency following the devastating passage of Cyclone Idai, which claimed at least 259 lives in the eastern region of the country.
  • 2020 COVID-19 Pandemic: Global Restrictions and Market Turmoil: On March 17, 2020, the United States experienced a significant escalation of the coronavirus pandemic. U.S. confirmed cases surpassed 4,600 with 85 deaths. President Trump advised Americans to limit gatherings to 10 people or fewer, warning the outbreak could persist for months. Major metropolitan areas like San Francisco implemented 'shelter in place' orders. Stock markets experienced their most substantial decline since 1987. Internationally, countries like Canada, Italy, France, Germany, and Spain implemented strict border controls and social distancing policies.
  • 2021 Deadly Military Post Attack in Mali: A devastating attack on a military post in Gao, Mali resulted in the tragic loss of at least 33 soldiers' lives, with an additional 14 soldiers wounded, highlighting ongoing regional security challenges.
  • 2022 Nigerian President Addresses Infrastructure Challenges: Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari publicly apologized for the ongoing national infrastructure crisis, acknowledging significant disruptions in fuel supply and electricity distribution. The apology specifically addressed the comprehensive failure of the national electricity grid and the circulation of adulterated fuel, which had been causing substantial hardship for Nigerian citizens.
  • 2023 Slovakia Donates MiG-29 Fighter Jets to Ukraine: Slovakia announced a significant military support package for Ukraine, including the donation of MiG-29 fighter jets and a portion of its Kub air-defense system. This contribution represents a notable commitment to Ukraine's defense efforts during the ongoing conflict with Russia.

What Is special about March 17?

March 17 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 17.