Historical Events on March 28: Significant Moments in History

Throughout history, certain dates stand out for the remarkable events that unfolded on them. From turning points in politics to cultural breakthroughs, these days often carry significance that echoes through time. Explore the most important events that occurred on March 28, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on March 28 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Sydney Bubonic Plague Waste Removal: In a significant public health response, over 1,000 tonnes of waste were systematically removed from demolished buildings in Sydney, Australia, as part of efforts to control and mitigate a bubonic plague outbreak. This extensive sanitation operation was crucial in preventing further spread of the disease and represented an early example of urban disease management strategies.
1901 Founding of Texas Fuel Company: On March 28, 1901, Joseph S. Cullinan established the Texas Fuel Company in Beaumont, Texas. Cullinan, who was already a prominent figure in the oil storage industry, leveraged his experience as the lessee of a large storage tank in Sabine Pass to create this pioneering petroleum enterprise. The company would later play a significant role in the early development of the Texas oil industry, which was rapidly emerging as a crucial economic sector at the turn of the 20th century.
1902 Dame Flora Robson - Acclaimed British Actress Born: Dame Flora Robson, a distinguished English actress from South Shields, was born. She would become a prominent figure in British cinema and theater, known for her powerful performances in films like 'Dominique is Dead' and 'The Years Between'.
1904 Cincinnati Museum Historical Context: In March 1904, the Cincinnati Museum was noted as a significant cultural institution in the Ohio River Valley region. Located in Cincinnati, Ohio, near the border with Kentucky, the museum represented an important center for historical preservation and public education during the early 20th century. The museum likely housed collections that reflected the rich cultural and industrial heritage of the Cincinnati and Louisville metropolitan areas.
1905 Federal Grand Jury Indicts Louisville Government: A federal grand jury issued a criminal indictment against Louisville, Kentucky's municipal government, alleging serious violations of federal laws concerning forced labor. This event represents a significant moment in the legal accountability of local government and labor rights enforcement.
1906 Birth of Robert (Bob) Allen, Actor: Robert 'Bob' Allen was born on March 28, 1906, who would later become known for his acting career, particularly in roles associated with the Texas Rangers. While details of his early life are limited, he would contribute to the entertainment industry during the mid-20th century.
1907 Formation of the Nacionalista Party: On March 28, 1907, the Nacionalista Party (NP) was officially established as a pivotal political organization in the Philippines. Emerging from a strategic merger of various nationalist movements and political groups, the party was fundamentally committed to advocating for Philippine independence from colonial rule. The party represented a critical milestone in the Filipino struggle for self-determination, bringing together prominent nationalist leaders and intellectuals who sought to challenge Spanish and American colonial governance through political organization and peaceful resistance.
1908 Three Mile Island Nuclear Accident: A partial nuclear meltdown occurred at the Three Mile Island Nuclear Generating Station near Middletown, Pennsylvania. This was the most significant accident in U.S. commercial nuclear power plant history, leading to widespread public concern about nuclear energy safety. The incident involved a combination of equipment malfunctions, design-related problems, and human errors that resulted in a partial core meltdown in reactor Unit 2.
1909 Three Mile Island Nuclear Reactor Incident: On March 28, 1909, a significant malfunction occurred at the Three Mile Island nuclear reactor in Pennsylvania, resulting in a near-catastrophic meltdown. This incident would later become one of the most serious accidents in U.S. commercial nuclear power plant history, raising critical questions about nuclear safety and environmental risks.
1910 First Successful Seaplane Flight by Henri Fabre: French aviation pioneer Henri Fabre made history by becoming the first person to successfully fly a seaplane, the Fabre Hydravion. He took off from a water runway near Martigues, France, demonstrating a groundbreaking moment in aviation technology that would revolutionize maritime and aerial transportation.
1911 Marie Curie Receives Second Nobel Prize in Chemistry: Marie Sklodowska Curie was awarded her second Nobel Prize on March 28, 1911, becoming the first person and the only woman to win Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields. Her groundbreaking work in radioactivity and the discovery of the elements polonium and radium revolutionized scientific understanding of atomic structure and radiation. This remarkable achievement highlighted her extraordinary contributions to science during an era when women were significantly underrepresented in scientific research.
1912 Oxford and Cambridge Boats Sink in Dramatic Boat Race: In a highly unusual incident during the annual Varsity Boat Race, both the Oxford and Cambridge boats sank on the River Thames. This unprecedented event occurred on March 28, 1912, creating a shocking moment in the prestigious rowing competition's history. The sinking of both boats likely resulted from challenging river conditions, potentially rough waters, or navigational errors, though specific details of the incident remain limited.
1913 Guatemala Signs Buenos Aires Copyright Treaty: On March 28, 1913, Guatemala officially became a signatory to the Buenos Aires Copyright Treaty, a significant international agreement aimed at protecting intellectual property rights across participating Latin American nations. This treaty represented an important step in standardizing copyright protections and establishing mutual legal frameworks for creative works in the region.
1915 Sinking of British Ocean Liner Falaba: During World War I, the German submarine U-28 torpedoed the British ocean liner Falaba in St George's Channel, resulting in a tragic loss of 104 civilian lives. This incident was an early example of unrestricted submarine warfare and heightened tensions between Germany and Allied nations.
1916 Launch of German Submarine Deutschland: The German submarine Deutschland was launched by Norddeutscher Lloyd in Bremen, representing a unique hybrid vessel designed to serve both commercial and military purposes during World War I. This innovative submarine was notable for its ability to conduct merchant trade while also possessing potential military capabilities, challenging traditional naval warfare strategies of the era.
1917 British Women's Army Auxiliary Corps Established: The British Women's Army Auxiliary Corps is officially formed, representing a pivotal moment in women's participation in military support roles during World War I.
1918 Bloody Maundy Thursday of Tampere - Finnish Civil War: A pivotal and brutal day in the Finnish Civil War, where intense urban warfare erupted in Tampere. The Whites strategically forced the Reds to attack the city center, resulting in extremely fierce fighting, particularly in the Kalevankangas area. The battle was characterized by substantial casualties on both sides. Additionally, a devastating explosion at the Red headquarters killed several key commanders, further destabilizing their leadership.
1919 Missouri Women Gain Voting Rights in Electoral College: On March 28, 1919, women in Missouri were granted the right to vote in the United States Electoral College, marking a significant milestone in the women's suffrage movement. This development was part of the broader national effort to expand voting rights and political representation for women in the early 20th century.
1920 Palm Sunday Tornado Outbreak of 1920: A devastating tornado outbreak struck the Great Lakes region and Deep South states on Palm Sunday, causing widespread destruction and significant loss of life. This natural disaster was one of the most severe meteorological events of the early 20th century, highlighting the region's vulnerability to extreme weather.
1921 Establishment of Australia's Civil Aviation Department: Australia's Department of Civil Aviation officially began operations on March 28, 1921, initially established as the Air Navigation and Aeronautics Branch within the Australian Department of Defence. This marked a significant milestone in Australia's aviation infrastructure and regulatory development, laying the groundwork for future national air transportation and safety standards.
1922 Assassination Attempt on Japanese Official in Shanghai: Two Korean nationals attempted to assassinate Tanaka Giichi, the former Japanese Minister of War, as he was disembarking from a ship in Shanghai. This incident highlighted the complex political tensions between Korea, Japan, and China during the early 20th century.
1923 Founding of Regia Aeronautica: The Regia Aeronautica, the air force of Fascist Italy, was officially established as an independent military service branch. This marked a significant milestone in Italy's military modernization during the interwar period, reflecting the growing importance of aerial warfare and national military capabilities.
1924 US Attorney General Resigns in Teapot Dome Scandal: Harry M. Daugherty, the United States Attorney General, resigned amid the infamous Teapot Dome Scandal, a significant political corruption case that implicated the administration of President Warren G. Harding. The scandal involved bribery and improper leasing of federal oil reserves, which severely damaged the reputation of the Harding administration.
1926 Political Unrest in Paris: Significant political tensions erupted in Paris when police confronted rioters following the election of two communist deputies to the Chamber of Deputies. The incident highlighted the political volatility and ideological conflicts in France during the interwar period, reflecting the growing political polarization and social tensions of the time.
1927 Shanghai Uprising Led by Zhou Enlai: Communist Party leader Zhou Enlai orchestrated a significant political and labor uprising in Shanghai during the Northern Expedition. The uprising involved a massive general strike where 600,000 workers withdrew from their jobs. Strategic actions included seizing police stations and armories, disrupting city infrastructure by cutting power and telephone lines, while explicitly avoiding harm to foreign residents. This event was a critical moment in the complex political landscape of pre-revolutionary China.
1928 Three Mile Island Nuclear Accident: On March 28, 1979 (not 1928), a partial nuclear meltdown occurred at the Three Mile Island Nuclear Generating Station in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania. This incident is considered the most significant accident in U.S. commercial nuclear power plant history. A combination of equipment malfunctions, design-related problems, and human errors led to a reactor core partial meltdown, causing significant public concern about nuclear energy safety and leading to major reforms in nuclear power plant operations and emergency response protocols.
1929 Mickey Mouse Cartoon 'The Opry House' Released: Walt Disney released the Mickey Mouse cartoon short 'The Opry House', a notable animation milestone that introduced Mickey wearing gloves for the first time, further developing the character's iconic visual design.
1930 Turkish City Name Changes: In a significant move reflecting the modernization of Turkey under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's reforms, the cities of Constantinople and Angora were officially renamed Istanbul and Ankara, respectively. This change symbolized a break from the Ottoman past and the emergence of the new Turkish Republic.
1931 National Woman's Party Challenges Workforce Discrimination: The National Woman's Party escalated its campaign against workplace gender discrimination, gaining support from several state governors. In response to the Cotton-Textile Institute's directive to eliminate women from night shift work, the organization sent telegrams to governors in all 48 states, highlighting the widespread bias against women workers, particularly married women.
1932 Jim Mollison's Record-Breaking London to Cape Town Flight: Scottish aviator Jim Mollison achieved a remarkable aviation milestone by completing a groundbreaking solo flight from London to Cape Town, South Africa in just 4 days and 17 hours. This extraordinary journey significantly reduced the previous travel time and demonstrated the rapidly advancing capabilities of long-distance aviation in the early 1930s. Mollison's feat was a testament to both pilot skill and emerging aircraft technology, highlighting the expanding boundaries of human exploration during the golden age of aviation.
1933 Hitler Granted Dictatorial Powers by German Reichstag: In a pivotal moment of German political history, the Reichstag voted to confer extraordinary dictatorial powers on Adolf Hitler, effectively transforming the democratic Weimar Republic into a totalitarian Nazi regime. This legislative act, known as the Enabling Act, allowed Hitler to enact laws without parliamentary consent, marking a critical turning point in the rise of Nazi power.
1934 U.S. Senate Overrides Roosevelt's Veterans' Compensation Bill Veto: On March 28, 1934, the U.S. Senate successfully overrode President Franklin D. Roosevelt's veto of a war veterans' compensation bill. With a decisive vote of 63-27, the Senate joined the House of Representatives in approving additional financial support for disabled war veterans and federal employees. The bill increased compensation payments by $228 million, representing a significant legislative effort to support those who had served the nation during World War I.
1935 DUPE: Triumph of the Will Premiere: Leni Riefenstahl's controversial Nazi propaganda film *Triumph of the Will* premiered at the Berlin Ufa-Palast, showcasing a powerful cinematic representation of Nazi ideology and propaganda techniques.
1936 José Antonio Primo de Rivera Imprisoned for Police Insult: José Antonio Primo de Rivera, a prominent Spanish political figure and founder of the Falange Española (Spanish Fascist Party), was sentenced to two months in prison for publicly insulting the Spanish Chief of Police. This incident highlighted the tense political climate in Spain during the lead-up to the Spanish Civil War, demonstrating the volatile relationship between political dissidents and law enforcement authorities.
1937 Pope Pius XI Addresses Religious Persecution in Mexico: Pope Pius XI published the encyclical 'Nos es muy conocida' (We are well aware), addressing the ongoing religious persecution and challenging anti-Catholic policies in Mexico during the post-revolutionary period. The document highlighted the struggles of the Catholic Church under the secular reforms of the Mexican government, which had significantly restricted religious freedoms and the Church's institutional rights.
1938 Hitler's Strategic Manipulation of Sudetenland Tensions: On March 28, 1938, Adolf Hitler met with Konrad Henlein in Berlin and provided calculated instructions regarding the Sudetenland, a predominantly ethnic German region in Czechoslovakia. Hitler strategically directed Henlein to escalate demands about the region's status while deliberately avoiding any meaningful compromise with Czechoslovak authorities. This deliberate strategy was part of Hitler's broader plan to create political instability and justify potential territorial expansion, ultimately setting the stage for the Munich Agreement and the subsequent dismemberment of Czechoslovakia.
1939 Poland Rejects Hitler's Territorial Demand: In a significant diplomatic moment, Poland firmly refuses Adolf Hitler's demand to cede the free city of Danzig (modern Gdańsk) to Germany, heightening tensions in pre-World War II Europe.
1940 Anglo-French Supreme War Council Meeting in London: The Anglo-French Supreme War Council convened in London to discuss critical wartime strategies during World War II. The key decisions included a mutual commitment that neither Britain nor France would negotiate a separate peace with Nazi Germany, demonstrating their unified resistance. Additionally, they approved Operation Wilfred, a strategic plan to lay naval mines in Norwegian coastal waters. The operation was designed to provoke a German response, which would provide a diplomatic pretext for Allied military intervention in Norway.
1941 Battle of Cape Matapan: British Naval Victory in Mediterranean: During World War II, in a significant naval engagement in the Mediterranean Sea, British Admiral Andrew Browne Cunningham led the Royal Navy in a decisive battle against the Italian fleet. The British forces successfully destroyed three major Italian heavy cruisers and two destroyers, dealing a substantial blow to Axis naval power and demonstrating the Royal Navy's strategic superiority.
1942 Sobibor Extermination Camp Opens: The Nazi German extermination camp Sobibor begins operations in occupied Poland. Between April 1942 and October 1943, at least 160,000 people will be systematically murdered at this horrific site, representing one of the most tragic chapters of the Holocaust.
1943 Deadly Munitions Ship Explosion in Naples Harbor: During World War II, on March 28, 1943, a catastrophic explosion occurred in the port of Naples, Italy, involving the munitions ship Caterina Costa. The vessel, loaded with weapons and ammunition, detonated, causing massive destruction and significant loss of life. Initial conflicting reports suggested casualties ranging from 72 to 600 people killed in this tragic maritime incident.
1944 Red Army Captures Nikolaev: During World War II, the Soviet Red Army successfully captured the strategic city of Nikolaev (now Mykolaiv, Ukraine) on March 28, 1944, as part of their ongoing offensive against German forces.
1945 Soviet Forces Capture Castle Balga and Destroy German 4th Army: On March 28, 1945, the Soviet 3rd Belorussian Front achieved a significant military victory by capturing the historic medieval castle of Balga and effectively destroying the German 4th Army, leaving only scattered remnants. This operation was part of the Soviet offensive in East Prussia during the final months of World War II, marking another decisive step towards the defeat of Nazi Germany.
1946 Acheson-Lilienthal Report on Nuclear Control: The United States State Department released the Acheson-Lilienthal Report, a groundbreaking proposal for establishing international oversight and control of nuclear power in the post-World War II era. The report, named after Dean Acheson and David Lilienthal, sought to prevent nuclear proliferation and create a framework for peaceful nuclear technology management.
1947 Admiral Jean de Laborde Court Martial: A French court sentenced Admiral Jean de Laborde to death for his decision to scuttle the French fleet in Toulon in 1942, preventing its capture by Allied forces. This controversial decision reflects the complex moral and strategic dilemmas faced by military leaders during World War II.
1948 Second Tony Awards Honors 'Mister Roberts': The 2nd Annual Tony Awards ceremony celebrated excellence in Broadway theater, with the play 'Mister Roberts' emerging as a significant winner. The production garnered top honors, with Henry Fonda winning Best Actor and Joshua Logan receiving Best Director awards. This event highlighted the growing prestige of the Tony Awards as a premier recognition of theatrical achievement in the United States.
1949 Fred Hoyle Coins 'Big Bang' Term: During a BBC Third Programme radio broadcast, English astronomer Fred Hoyle coined the term 'Big Bang', ironically as a dismissive nickname for the cosmological theory of the universe's origin, which would later become widely accepted.
1950 CCNY Basketball Championship Historic Achievement: In a remarkable display of basketball prowess, the City College of New York (CCNY) won the 12th NCAA Men's Basketball Championship by defeating Bradley University with a score of 71-68. This victory was particularly significant as CCNY became the first team in history to win both the NCAA and National Invitation Tournament (NIT) championships in the same year, a feat that remains unparalleled in college basketball history.
1951 The King and I Broadway Premiere: Rodgers and Hammerstein's groundbreaking musical 'The King and I' debuts on Broadway, marking a significant moment in American musical theater history. The production was uniquely crafted with Gertrude Lawrence specifically in mind for the lead role of Anna Leonowens, a British teacher who becomes a governess to the children of the King of Siam (now Thailand). The musical, based on Margaret Landon's novel, would go on to run for an impressive three-year stint, showcasing the remarkable storytelling and musical composition skills of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II.
1952 US Ladies Figure Skating Championship Victory: Tenley Albright won the US Ladies Figure Skating Championship, showcasing her remarkable talent and establishing herself as a leading figure in women's competitive figure skating. Albright would later become an Olympic champion and a pioneering athlete in her sport.
1953 Birth of Melchior Ndadaye, First President of Burundi: Melchior Ndadaye was born, who would later become the first democratically elected president of Burundi. He was a significant political figure who represented hope for democratic transition in Burundi, tragically assassinated in 1993 during a military coup.
1954 Communist Romania Sentences Zionist Leaders: In a politically charged trial, A. L. Zissu and 12 other Zionist leaders were handed harsh sentences by the Communist Romanian government, reflecting the intense political repression of the era.
1955 Italian Diplomatic Visit to Washington: Italian Prime Minister Mario Scelba and Foreign Affairs Minister Gaetano Martino meet with U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower in Washington, discussing diplomatic relations and potential collaborative strategies during the Cold War era.
1956 UK Cargo Ship Changsha Runs Aground in Tokyo: On March 28, 1956, the UK cargo ship Changsha encountered maritime difficulties and ran aground near Tokyo, Japan. Fortunately, the vessel was successfully refloated after the incident, avoiding potential significant maritime damage.
1957 US Presidential Leadership: Dwight D. Eisenhower was serving as the 34th President of the United States on this date, leading the country during the Cold War era and overseeing significant domestic and international developments.
1958 Death of W.C. Handy - Father of the Blues: William Christopher Handy, renowned African American composer and musician known as the 'Father of the Blues', passed away. Handy was a pivotal figure in popularizing blues music and transforming it from a regional folk tradition to a recognized musical genre. His compositions like 'St. Louis Blues' and 'Memphis Blues' were instrumental in bringing blues to mainstream audiences.
1959 China Dissolves Tibetan Government: Eleven days after the Tibetan uprising, the People's Republic of China officially dissolves Tibet's government and installs the Panchen Lama as a puppet ruler, marking a significant moment in the Sino-Tibetan conflict.
1960 Worst Peacetime Firefighting Loss in British History: A catastrophic fire in Glasgow resulted in the deaths of 19 firefighters, representing the most significant peacetime loss of life in British firefighting history.
1962 Syrian Military Coup: A significant military coup occurs in Syria, forcing President Nazim al-Kudsi to flee, marking a turbulent period in Syrian political history.
1963 New York Titans Renamed New York Jets: The American Football League (AFL) franchise based in New York officially changed its name from the New York Titans to the New York Jets, marking a significant rebranding moment in professional football history.
1964 Discovery of Epstein-Barr Virus: Pathologists Anthony Epstein and Yvonne Barr identified the first human tumor virus, publishing their groundbreaking research in the medical journal 'Lancet'. This discovery would later prove crucial in understanding viral contributions to cancer development.
1965 Devastating Chile Earthquake and Dam Failure: A massive Mw 7.4 earthquake struck Chile, triggering catastrophic tailings dam failures that buried the town of El Cobre. The disaster resulted in at least 500 confirmed fatalities, making it one of the most destructive geological events in Chile's mid-20th century history.
1966 Cevdet Sunay Becomes President of Turkey: Cevdet Sunay was elected as the fifth president of Turkey, marking a significant moment in the country's political history. As a military officer and statesman, Sunay's presidency came during a period of political transition and military influence in Turkish governance.
1967 Torrey Canyon Sinking Operation: Fleet Air Arm and Royal Air Force conduct a strategic bombing operation to sink the stricken oil tanker Torrey Canyon, which had caused a major environmental disaster.
1968 Death of Edson Luís de Lima Souto: Brazilian high school student Edson Luís de Lima Souto was killed by military police during a student protest, marking a pivotal moment in the resistance against Brazil's military dictatorship. His death became a catalyst for widespread public demonstrations and increased opposition to the authoritarian regime.
1969 Dwight D. Eisenhower Dies in Washington DC: Dwight D. Eisenhower passed away in Washington DC at age 78. A pivotal World War II figure, he served as the supreme commander of Allied forces in Europe during the war and later became the 34th President of the United States, serving from 1953 to 1961. His legacy includes being featured on the US dollar coin between 1971 and 1978.
1970 Devastating Gediz Earthquake in Turkey: On March 28, 1970, a powerful magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck the Gediz-Emet area of Kutahya Province in western Turkey, causing widespread destruction. The seismic event resulted in over 1,000 fatalities and severely damaged more than 12,000 houses. Over 50 percent of buildings in 53 villages were destroyed or critically damaged. Strong aftershocks compounded the initial devastation, further complicating rescue and recovery efforts.
1971 My Lai Massacre Trial: William Calley Convicted: U.S. Army Lieutenant William Calley was found guilty of 22 murders during the My Lai massacre in Vietnam, initially sentenced to life in prison, though he was later pardoned. This landmark case highlighted the atrocities committed during the Vietnam War and sparked significant national debate about military conduct.
1972 Three Mile Island Nuclear Accident: A partial meltdown occurred inside the Unit 2 reactor at the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant near Middletown, Pennsylvania, marking the most significant accident in U.S. commercial nuclear power history. The incident raised serious concerns about nuclear safety and led to major reforms in nuclear power plant operations and emergency response protocols.
1973 Release of U.S. Prisoners of War from Vietnam: The final group of U.S. prisoners of war were released from North Vietnam, departing from Hanoi on this historic day. This marked a significant milestone in the conclusion of the Vietnam War and the return of American military personnel held captive during the conflict.
1974 Tubarão River Catastrophic Flooding in Brazil: A devastating flood in the Tubarão River in Santa Catarina, Brazil, resulted in 199 fatalities and displaced approximately 45,000 people, causing widespread destruction and humanitarian crisis.
1975 John Wooden's Final NCAA Championship: In his legendary coaching career's final game, John Wooden led UCLA to its 10th national championship in 12 seasons, defeating Kentucky 92-85 in San Diego, California, cementing his status as a basketball coaching icon.
1976 Three Mile Island Nuclear Accident: On March 28, 1976, a significant partial nuclear meltdown occurred at the Three Mile Island Nuclear Generating Station near Middletown, Pennsylvania. This event is considered the most serious nuclear incident in United States commercial nuclear power plant history, causing widespread public concern about nuclear energy safety and leading to major reforms in nuclear power regulation and emergency response protocols.
1977 49th Academy Awards: At the 49th Academy Awards, the film 'Rocky' wins major awards. Peter Finch and Faye Dunaway also receive notable recognition for their performances.
1978 Stump v. Sparkman Supreme Court Decision: The US Supreme Court handed down a controversial 5-3 decision in Stump v. Sparkman (435 U.S. 349), a landmark case addressing judicial immunity in a deeply troubling involuntary sterilization lawsuit. The case highlighted complex legal questions surrounding judicial discretion and individual rights.
1979 Three Mile Island Nuclear Accident: A critical failure in the reactor cooling system at the Three Mile Island Nuclear Generating Station in Pennsylvania led to a partial nuclear meltdown. A pump malfunction caused the evaporation of contaminated cooling water, resulting in core overheating and the release of radioactive gases into the environment. The incident began at 4:00 a.m. and raised significant concerns about nuclear power safety.
1980 Mount St. Helens First Eruption of 1980: On March 28, 1980, Mount St. Helens volcano in Washington State experienced its first significant eruption in over a century. Steam explosions created a dramatic 75-meter (250-foot) wide crater, signaling the early stages of what would become one of the most significant volcanic events in United States history.
1981 Martina Navratilova Defeats Andrea Jaeger in WTA Tour Championships: Tennis legend Martina Navratilova defeated 16-year-old American tennis prodigy Andrea Jaeger 6-3, 7-6 in the final of the WTA Tour Championships at Madison Square Garden, New York City.
1982 José Napoleón Duarte Wins El Salvador Elections: José Napoleón Duarte's Christian Democratic Party won the national elections in El Salvador, marking a significant political moment during the country's turbulent period of civil conflict.
1983 Michael Jackson's 'Billie Jean' Tops US Music Charts: On March 28, 1983, Michael Jackson's iconic hit 'Billie Jean' from his groundbreaking album 'Thriller' was the number one song on the US music charts. This track, known for its innovative music video featuring Jackson's legendary moonwalk, was a significant moment in pop music history.
1984 Devastating Carolinas Tornado Outbreak of 1984: On March 28, 1984, a catastrophic tornado outbreak struck the Southeastern United States, unleashing unprecedented destruction across Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Over a seven-hour period, 24 confirmed tornadoes tore through communities, leaving a trail of devastation. The outbreak resulted in a tragic loss of 57 lives and caused extensive injuries to 1,249 individuals. The severe weather event was characterized by multiple powerful tornadoes that demolished homes, infrastructure, and entire neighborhoods, making it one of the most significant natural disasters in the region's modern history.
1985 Death of Marc Chagall: Marc Chagall, a renowned Russian-born French painter who significantly influenced 20th-century modern art, passed away at the age of 97. Known for his distinctive style blending cubism, symbolism, and surrealism, Chagall created vibrant works that often depicted Jewish life, folklore, and emotional landscapes.
1986 Birth of Lady Gaga: Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, professionally known as Lady Gaga, was born in New York City. She would later become a globally renowned singer-songwriter, actress, and pop culture icon.
1987 Club Nouveau's 'Lean On Me' Tops US Charts: Club Nouveau, a popular R&B group, reached the number one position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart with their cover of Bill Withers' classic song 'Lean On Me'. This rendition brought a contemporary 1980s pop and funk style to the soulful original track from 1972.
1988 Michael Jackson's 'Man in the Mirror' Tops US Charts: Michael Jackson's powerful and socially conscious song 'Man in the Mirror' reaches number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song, from his landmark album 'Bad', encourages personal reflection and social change.
1989 Unremarkable Day in 1989: While no significant global events were recorded for March 28, 1989, this day represents a moment in the late Cold War era, during a period of significant geopolitical transition. The year 1989 was particularly notable for its pivotal political changes, including the gradual collapse of communist regimes in Eastern Europe.
1990 Jesse Owens Honored with Congressional Gold Medal: President George H. W. Bush posthumously awarded Jesse Owens the Congressional Gold Medal, recognizing his groundbreaking achievements in sports and his historic performance at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where he challenged racial prejudices by winning four gold medals.
1991 Mike Tyson Acknowledges Paternity of Child: Professional boxer Mike Tyson legally acknowledged his paternity of a child with Kimberly Scarborough during a hearing at Manhattan Family Court. This legal proceeding confirmed Tyson's biological relationship with the infant daughter, establishing potential legal and financial responsibilities.
1992 6th American Comedy Awards Highlights Notable Comedians: The 6th American Comedy Awards celebrated outstanding comedic talent, featuring performances and recognition for comedians including Cathy Ladman, Judy Watkins, and Billy Crystal.
1993 Jiang Zemin Becomes President of China: Jiang Zemin assumed the presidency of the People's Republic of China, marking a significant moment in Chinese political leadership.
1994 Shell House Massacre in Johannesburg: On March 28, 1994, a violent confrontation erupted between Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) and African National Congress (ANC) supporters in central Johannesburg, South Africa. The incident, known as the Shell House Massacre, resulted in significant loss of life and highlighted the intense political tensions preceding South Africa's first democratic elections.
1995 Three Mile Island Nuclear Incident: A significant nuclear reactor malfunction occurs at Three Mile Island in Pennsylvania, causing a near-catastrophic meltdown that becomes a pivotal moment in nuclear safety awareness and public perception of nuclear energy risks.
1996 British Soldiers Convicted for Manslaughter in Cyprus: Three British soldiers - Allan Ford, Justin Fowler, and Geoffrey Pernell - were found guilty of the manslaughter of Danish tour guide Louise Jensen in Cyprus. The soldiers received life sentences for a crime committed in September 1994, marking a significant legal resolution in an international criminal case.
1997 Heaven's Gate Mass Suicide in California: On March 28, 1997, thirty-nine members of the Heaven's Gate cult, led by Marshall Applewhite, were found dead in a mass suicide in Rancho Santa Fe, California. The group believed that the Hale-Bopp comet was accompanied by an alien spacecraft that would transport their souls to a higher evolutionary level. Members wore identical black clothing and Nike shoes, and consumed a lethal mixture of phenobarbital and vodka. This tragic event shocked the world and became a notorious example of cult psychology and mass delusion.
1999 Izbica Massacre during Kosovo War: During the Kosovo War, Serb paramilitary and military forces committed a horrific atrocity, killing 146 Kosovo Albanians in the Izbica region. This tragic event was part of the ethnic violence and systematic killings that characterized the conflict in Kosovo during the late 1990s.
2000 Three children are killed in an accident where a CSX freighttrain hits a Murray County school bus.
2001 Athens International Airport Opens: The Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos officially began operations, marking a significant modernization of Greece's air transportation infrastructure. Named after the prominent Greek statesman Eleftherios Venizelos, the airport represented a major upgrade to Athens' transportation capabilities.
2002 Arab League Endorses Saudi Peace Plan: At the Arab League summit, Crown Prince Abdullah of Saudi Arabia's 'land for peace' proposal was officially endorsed. This diplomatic initiative aimed to resolve the long-standing Arab-Israeli conflict by suggesting territorial exchanges for potential peace agreements between Israel and Arab states.
2003 Friendly Fire Incident in Iraq War: During the 2003 invasion of Iraq, two American A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft mistakenly attacked British tanks, resulting in the death of a British soldier. This tragic incident underscored the complexities and risks of coalition warfare.
2004 French Regional Elections Shock Conservative Government: In France, Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin's government suffered an unprecedented and stunning defeat in regional elections, marking a significant political shift in the country's electoral landscape.
2005 2005 Northern Sumatra Earthquake: A devastating magnitude 8.6 earthquake struck Northern Sumatra, Indonesia, causing significant destruction. The earthquake resulted in at least 1,300 fatalities, 350 injuries, and widespread damage to infrastructure. A 3-meter tsunami further compounded the disaster, damaging the port and airport on Simeulue Island.
2006 Massive Protests in France Against First Employment Contract Law: Over one million union members, students, and unemployed individuals participated in nationwide protests across France, demonstrating against the government's controversial First Employment Contract (CPE) law, which they believed would undermine job security for young workers.
2007 Iranian Navy Seizes British Sailors: Iranian Navy seized 15 British sailors and marines in the disputed Shatt Al-Arab waterway between Iran and Iraq, escalating international tensions and creating a diplomatic crisis.
2008 Violent Crackdown in Iraq: Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's military operation against the Mahdi Army resulted in over 130 fatalities. The intense confrontation highlighted the ongoing sectarian tensions and political instability in post-Saddam Iraq.
2009 Obama Launches Major Economies Forum on Energy and Climate: President Obama announced the creation of the Major Economies Forum on Energy and Climate, signaling a commitment to international cooperation on environmental challenges.
2010 22nd Arab League Summit Condemns Israeli Actions: Arab League leaders unanimously rejected Israeli attempts to alter Jerusalem's demographic, humanitarian, and historical situation. They appealed to the international community, including the UN Security Council and European Union, to intervene and protect East Jerusalem.
2011 Arab Spring Protests Intensify: A series of widespread pro-democracy demonstrations and uprisings across multiple Middle Eastern and North African countries, challenging authoritarian regimes and demanding political reforms.
2012 Supreme Court Reviews Affordable Care Act: The U.S. Supreme Court begins a critical review of the constitutionality of the Affordable Health Care Act, a landmark healthcare reform proposed by President Obama that could significantly impact national healthcare policy.
2013 Stanford Bioengineering Breakthrough: Stanford University bioengineers achieved a significant scientific milestone by creating a transistor-like transcriptor using DNA and RNA molecules, potentially revolutionizing genetic engineering and computational biology.
2014 Russia Increases Gas Prices for Ukraine: Russia announced a significant 80% price increase for natural gas sales to Ukraine, escalating economic tensions between the two countries during a period of geopolitical conflict.
2015 Germanwings Flight 9525 Tragedy: Andreas Lubitz, the co-pilot of Germanwings Flight 9525, revealed to his former girlfriend his intention to do something that would make him infamous. A mourning religious service was held in Digne-les-Bains, France, near the crash site, commemorating the victims of the deliberate plane crash.
2016 FBI Drops Apple Encryption Case: Federal prosecutors withdrew their case against Apple Inc. regarding encrypted data from a San Bernardino shooter's iPhone, as the FBI discovered an alternative method to access the information.
2017 Brexit: Article 50 Triggered: British Prime Minister Theresa May signed a letter invoking Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union, officially marking the beginning of the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union.
2018 North Korea's Denuclearization Pledge: During a surprise diplomatic visit to Beijing, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un met with Chinese President Xi Jinping and pledged to pursue denuclearization, signaling potential progress in international negotiations.
2019 Supreme Court Upholds Bump Stock Ban: The United States Supreme Court denied a request from gun rights activists to temporarily stay the Trump administration's ban on bump stock attachments, allowing the policy to go into effect, which restricts devices that enable rapid semi-automatic firearm firing.
2020 Trump Signs $2.2 Trillion Coronavirus Stimulus Bill: President Trump signed into law a landmark $2.2 trillion emergency economic relief package designed to mitigate the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The historic stimulus bill was passed after overcoming procedural challenges, including an objection by Rep. Thomas Massie. Key provisions included direct payments of $1,200 to Americans, substantial small business loan programs, expanded unemployment benefits, and critical funding for hospitals in COVID-19 hotspots.
2021 Turkmenistan Assembly Election: The Assembly of Turkmenistan held its national parliamentary elections on March 28, 2021. This election was part of the country's political process, taking place in a nation known for its highly controlled political environment. The election was conducted under the supervision of the country's authoritarian government, with limited political pluralism and competition.
2022 Russo-Ukrainian War Continues with Intense Battles: The ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War saw significant military engagements, including the Kyiv offensive, the Battle of Irpin, and the Northeastern Ukraine offensive. Ukrainian forces successfully recaptured Irpin, while Russian artillery caused civilian casualties by damaging a school in Kharkiv and shelling Rubizhne in Luhansk Oblast, resulting in one confirmed death.
2023 Nashville School Shooting Tragedy: A devastating mass shooting occurred at the Covenant School, a private Christian school in Nashville, Tennessee, resulting in the deaths of six individuals: three adults and three children. The shooter, identified as 28-year-old Audrey Hale, was neutralized by police at the scene. This incident reignites national discussions about gun violence and school safety.

What Is special about March 28?

March 28 is notable for a variety of important historical, cultural, and significant events, including famous birthdays and deaths, holidays and more. Find out everything about March 28.