Historical Events on May 2: Significant Moments in History

Throughout history, certain dates stand out for the remarkable events that unfolded on them. From turning points in politics to cultural breakthroughs, these days often carry significance that echoes through time. Explore the most important events that occurred on May 2, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on May 2 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Siege of Mafeking Ends: After an extraordinary 217-day siege, Colonel Robert Baden-Powell successfully breaks the Boer forces' blockade of the British garrison at Mafeking, marking a significant turning point in the Second Boer War and demonstrating remarkable military resilience.
1901 First Pipeline Delivery of Refined Crude Oil in the United States: The Standard Oil Company's 'United States Pipe Line' successfully delivered refined crude oil to the Eastern seaboard for the first time, marking a significant milestone in petroleum transportation infrastructure.
1902 First Science Fiction Film Released: A Trip to the Moon: Georges Méliès' groundbreaking silent film 'A Trip to the Moon' (Le Voyage dans la Lune) was released, marking a pivotal moment in cinema history. This innovative film, loosely based on novels by Jules Verne and H.G. Wells, depicted a fantastical journey to the lunar surface and is considered the first narrative science fiction film. Its imaginative special effects and creative storytelling techniques revolutionized early filmmaking.
1903 Birth of Bing Crosby: Bing Crosby, an iconic American singer and actor, was born in Tacoma, Washington, under the name Harry Lillis Crosby, Jr. He would go on to become one of the most popular and influential entertainers of the 20th century.
1904 30th Kentucky Derby: Elwood's Historic Win: The 30th Kentucky Derby was a landmark event in horse racing history. Jockey Shorty Prior rode Elwood to victory at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, with a winning time of 2:08.5. This race was particularly significant as Elwood became the first Kentucky Derby winner owned by a woman, Lasca Durnell, marking a groundbreaking moment for female ownership in the sport.
1905 Pennsylvania State Police Established: The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) was officially founded by state legislative act, directly responding to the widespread violence and labor unrest during the coal strike of 1902. This marked a significant moment in law enforcement professionalization and labor relations.
1906 San Francisco's Post-Earthquake Economic Concerns: In the aftermath of the devastating San Francisco earthquake and fire, The San Francisco Chronicle highlighted potential economic implications, particularly regarding trade with the Orient. The newspaper expressed concerns about the possible exodus of Chinese residents and the potential disruption to international commerce.
1907 Belgian Government Formation: Jules baron de Trooz successfully formed a new government in Belgium, marking a significant moment in the country's political leadership and governance structure during the early 20th century.
1908 Copyright of 'Take Me Out to the Ball Game': On May 2, 1908, the iconic American baseball song 'Take Me Out to the Ball Game' was officially copyrighted by songwriters Jack Norworth and Albert Von Tilzer. Interestingly, neither of them had actually attended a baseball game at the time of writing the song. The tune would go on to become one of the most recognizable sports anthems in American cultural history, traditionally sung during the seventh-inning stretch of baseball games.
1909 Death of Panama's First President: Manuel Amador Guerrero, a pivotal historical figure who served as the first President of Panama and played a crucial role in the nation's founding, passed away shortly after completing his presidential term. His death marked a significant moment in Panama's early political history.
1910 Charles Evans Hughes Confirmed as Supreme Court Justice: On May 2, 1910, the United States Senate confirmed Charles Evans Hughes as a Supreme Court Justice in a swift, undebated process. Hughes was a prominent legal figure who would later become Governor of New York and run for President, marking a significant moment in the judicial appointment history of the early 20th century.
1911 British Parliament Bill Amendment Approved: The British House of Commons passed significant amendments to the Parliament Bill, which aimed to reduce the legislative power of the House of Lords. The first reading was approved with 299 votes in favor and 193 against, marking a crucial moment in the evolution of British parliamentary democracy and the balance of political power.
1912 Royal Commission Investigates Titanic Sinking: The royal commission led by Lord Mersey commenced its official investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic sinking of the RMS Titanic, aiming to determine the causes and potential preventive measures for future maritime safety.
1913 United States Recognizes Republic of China: On May 2, 1913, the United States officially recognized the newly established Republic of China. American Chargé d'Affaires Edward T. Williams formally delivered President Woodrow Wilson's diplomatic message to Chinese President Yuan Shikai, marking a significant moment in diplomatic relations between the two nations during a period of significant political transformation in China.
1914 Dennis Dyer - South African Cricket Player: Dennis Dyer was a notable South African cricket player who played a significant role in international cricket, particularly in the post-World War II era. He was recognized for his opening batting performance in the match between South Africa and England in 1947, representing a pivotal moment in South African cricket history.
1915 Gorlice–Tarnów Offensive in World War I: The Austro-German forces launched a significant offensive against the Russian Imperial Army, breaking through the defensive lines at the strategic Gorlice-Tarnow region in Poland. This offensive marked a critical moment in the Eastern Front of World War I, demonstrating the military capabilities of the Central Powers.
1916 Easter Rising Courts-Martial Begin: A series of courts-martial began against 187 Irish citizens charged for their role in the Easter Rising insurrection, overseen by Major-General Charles Blackader. These trials were conducted secretly in British military barracks, with the accused denied proper legal representation. Ninety participants were sentenced to death, including all seven signatories of the Proclamation of the Irish Republic, marking a severe crackdown on Irish nationalist resistance.
1917 Anti-War Peace Council Established: The People's Council of America for Democracy and the Terms of Peace was founded in New York City, representing a significant anti-war movement opposing the United States' involvement in World War I.
1918 Vyborg Massacre during Finnish Civil War: During the Finnish Civil War, a tragic event unfolded in Vyborg (Viipuri) where White Guard militia executed hundreds of Red Guard prisoners and civilians. White Guard commander Carl Gustaf Emil Mannerheim, upon receiving news of the massacre, immediately ordered an official investigation into the atrocities, highlighting the brutal nature of the conflict and the potential war crimes committed.
1919 Munich Soviet Resistance Crushed: Weimar Republic troops and Freikorps forces decisively ended the Bavarian Soviet Republic after two days of intense urban combat in Munich. The operation resulted in 606 total casualties, including 335 civilians. Several key Soviet leaders were killed or arrested, including Gustav Landauer and Eugen Leviné, effectively suppressing the communist uprising.
1920 Founding of the Negro National League: The first game of the Negro National League, a groundbreaking professional baseball league for African American players, was played in Indianapolis. This historic event marked a significant milestone in sports history, providing a professional platform for Black baseball players during an era of racial segregation.
1921 Jaffa Riots of 1921: Significant inter-communal violence erupted in Jaffa, British Mandate Palestine, triggered by tensions between Jewish political factions and local Arab populations. The riots, initiated by a Jewish Communist Party march through the Manshiyya neighborhood, escalated into widespread conflict involving Jews, Christians, Arabs, and Muslims, resulting in at least 40 fatalities.
1922 Deaths of Pioneering African-American Scholars: Two groundbreaking African-American scholars passed away: Richard T. Greener, the first African-American Harvard University graduate, died at 78, and Mary Annette Anderson, the first African-American woman elected to Phi Beta Kappa, died at 47.
1923 Senator Walter Johnson Pitches Historic Shutout Against Yankees: On May 2, 1923, baseball legend Walter Johnson of the Washington Senators achieved a remarkable milestone by pitching his 100th career shutout, defeating the New York Yankees with a dominant 3-0 victory. Known as 'The Big Train', Johnson was one of the most formidable pitchers of the early 20th century, renowned for his incredible fastball and precision on the mound.
1924 Netherlands Refuses Diplomatic Recognition of Soviet Union: On May 2, 1924, the Netherlands officially declined to establish diplomatic relations with the newly formed Soviet Union, reflecting the ongoing ideological tensions and political uncertainties surrounding the communist state in the early years after the Russian Revolution.
1925 U.S. Navy Seaplane Sets Endurance Record: A U.S. Navy seaplane achieved a remarkable feat by staying continuously airborne for 28.5 hours, demonstrating significant advancements in aviation technology and naval aircraft capabilities during the mid-1920s.
1926 Women's Electoral Rights in India: A significant milestone in Indian women's political empowerment was achieved as women were granted the right to stand for election to public office. This progressive step marked an important advancement in gender equality and political representation in India during the early 20th century.
1927 Buck v. Bell Supreme Court Case: The U.S. Supreme Court case *Buck v. Bell* controversially upheld state-mandated forced sterilization of individuals deemed 'unfit' based on eugenic pseudoscience, a dark chapter in American legal and medical history that violated fundamental human rights.
1928 Foreign Citizens Awarded Swedish Cross: On May 2, 1928, King Gustaf V of Sweden approved an amendment to the terms of a national award, enabling foreign citizens to receive the prestigious Cross for the first time. This modification represented a notable expansion of Sweden's recognition protocols and international diplomatic engagement.
1929 Devastating Appalachian Mountain Tornadoes: On May 2, 1929, a series of tornadoes struck the Appalachian Mountains, causing widespread destruction and tragic loss of life. The most heartbreaking incident occurred in Rye Cove, Virginia, where thirteen students and a teacher were killed in a schoolhouse. In total, the tornadoes claimed 42 lives and injured 323 people, making it one of the deadliest tornado events in the region's history.
1930 Canada Introduces Dunning Tariff in Economic Response to U.S.: Canada's Finance Minister introduced the Dunning Tariff, a significant economic policy measure responding to the U.S. Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act. This was the most substantial tariff revision since 1907, strategically designed to raise duties on American goods while providing preferential treatment to British imports, reflecting the complex international trade dynamics of the early 20th century.
1931 Mock Air Raid Over Toulon Reveals Vulnerability: A simulated military exercise was conducted over Toulon, France, demonstrating the potential devastating impact of aerial bombardment on a critical naval installation. Despite being cut short after two hours due to inclement weather, the mock air raid revealed that a hypothetical attack by 150 bombers could potentially reduce the strategic naval base to complete destruction. The exercise provided valuable insights into the emerging military tactics and vulnerabilities of naval infrastructure in the early 1930s.
1932 Pearl S. Buck Wins Pulitzer Prize for 'The Good Earth': Pearl S. Buck was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for her groundbreaking novel 'The Good Earth', which provided Western readers with a profound and empathetic portrayal of rural Chinese life during the early 20th century. The novel would later contribute significantly to cross-cultural understanding between the United States and China.
1933 Hitler Suppresses Trade Unions: Under the terms of the Reichstag Fire Decree, Adolf Hitler ordered the comprehensive suppression of German trade unions, specifically targeting the German General Trade Union Federation. This action was a critical step in eliminating independent worker organizations and consolidating Nazi control over labor and economic structures.
1934 Establishment of Nazi Germany's People's Court: On May 2, 1934, Nazi Germany established the People's Court (Volksgerichtshof), a specialized judicial institution designed to handle political crimes. This court was empowered to issue severe punishments, including death sentences, for charges of high treason. The court became a notorious instrument of Nazi judicial repression, effectively removing legal protections for political opponents and serving as a tool for eliminating dissent.
1935 Franco-Soviet Mutual Assistance Treaty: France and the Soviet Union concluded negotiations for a five-year Treaty of Mutual Assistance, a significant diplomatic agreement that reflected the complex geopolitical tensions and potential alliances in the lead-up to World War II.
1936 Emperor Haile Selassie Flees Abyssinia: During the Second Italo-Ethiopian War, Emperor Haile Selassie and his family were forced to flee Abyssinia (Ethiopia) as Italian forces under Benito Mussolini invaded and occupied the country, marking a significant moment in colonial history.
1937 Nazi Party Headquarters Raided in Vienna: Austrian police conducted a significant raid on the Nazi Party headquarters in Vienna, uncovering critical evidence of collaboration between German and Austrian Nazis. The raid also revealed propaganda materials that were hostile to the Austrian government, highlighting the growing tensions and subversive activities of Nazi sympathizers in Austria during the pre-World War II period.
1938 Thornton Wilder Wins Pulitzer Prize: On May 2, 1938, renowned American playwright and novelist Thornton Wilder was awarded the Pulitzer Prize, recognizing his significant contributions to American literature. This prestigious award further solidified his reputation as an important literary figure of the 20th century.
1939 Lou Gehrig's Consecutive Games Streak Ends: Lou Gehrig's remarkable streak of 2,130 consecutive Major League Baseball games played comes to an end. Known as the 'Iron Horse', Gehrig's incredible durability and consistency set a record that would stand for 56 years until Cal Ripken, Jr. broke it in 1995. This moment marked the conclusion of one of the most impressive endurance records in sports history.
1940 Allied Evacuation from Norwegian Ports During World War II: During the early stages of World War II, the Allied forces began a strategic withdrawal from Norwegian ports following the German invasion. This evacuation operation, which commenced on May 2nd, 1940, was a critical military maneuver aimed at preserving Allied troops and resources after the unsuccessful defense against German forces. The evacuation process would continue over the next month, marking a significant moment in the Norwegian Campaign of 1940.
1941 Citizen Kane World Premiere: Orson Welles' groundbreaking film 'Citizen Kane' had its world premiere at the Palace Theatre in New York City, a landmark moment in cinema history.
1942 Japanese Occupation of Mandalay: Japanese Imperial Army troops successfully occupy Mandalay, a strategic city in Burma (now Myanmar), during World War II's Pacific Campaign.
1943 Operation Mincemeat: Elaborate WWII Deception Strategy: A sophisticated British intelligence operation involving the strategic use of a deceased homeless man's body to mislead German forces about potential Allied invasion plans. The elaborate ruse involved creating a fictional military persona, Major William Martin, and planting false documents to misdirect enemy strategic thinking.
1944 First Hungarian Jewish Transports Arrive at Auschwitz: The first two transports of Hungarian Jews arrived at the Auschwitz concentration camp, marking a tragic moment in the Holocaust and the systematic deportation of Jewish populations during World War II.
1945 Fall of Berlin: At 1500 hours Moscow time, Berlin, Germany capitulates to the First White Russian and First Ukrainian armies. During the twelve-day defense of the city, 343,000 German soldiers were killed.
1946 Battle of Alcatraz: On May 2, 1946, a violent prison uprising occurred at Alcatraz Federal Prison in San Francisco. Six inmates attempted a daring escape that resulted in a deadly confrontation, killing two prison guards and three inmates during the intense standoff.
1947 Political Tensions Erupt in Italian Parliament: A heated political confrontation escalated into a physical altercation in the Italian Chamber of Deputies, with legislators engaging in a fistfight over the controversial Portella della Ginestra massacre. This incident highlighted the intense political divisions and emotional tensions in post-World War II Italy.
1948 Eisenhower's Military Retirement: On May 2, 1948, General Dwight D. Eisenhower formally retired from the United States Army in a ceremonial event at Fort Myer, Virginia. This marked the end of a distinguished military career that included serving as the Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in Europe during World War II. Eisenhower's retirement would be short-lived, as he would later become the 34th President of the United States from 1953 to 1961.
1949 US Supreme Court Declines German War Crimes Intervention: In a significant post-World War II legal decision, the US Supreme Court, split 4-4, refused to intervene in the cases of over fifty Germans convicted by American military tribunals at Nuremberg, effectively allowing the original verdicts to stand.
1950 Establishment of Central University for Nationalities: The Chinese government established the Central University for Nationalities in Beijing, a strategic educational institution designed to provide higher education opportunities and promote cultural integration for China's ethnic minority populations.
1951 Uneventful Day in Global History: While no specific major historical events were documented for May 2, 1951, this day represents a moment in the post-World War II era, characterized by global reconstruction, Cold War tensions, and emerging decolonization movements. The absence of a notable event does not diminish the ongoing historical processes of the time.
1952 First Jet Airliner Maiden Voyage: The world's first jet airliner, the BOAC De Havilland Comet 1, made its historic maiden voyage from London to Johannesburg, marking a revolutionary moment in commercial aviation. This groundbreaking flight signaled the beginning of the jet age, dramatically transforming long-distance travel by offering unprecedented speed and comfort.
1953 Hussein Crowned King of Jordan: King Hussein bin Talal was officially crowned as the monarch of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, marking a significant moment in the country's post-colonial history. At just 17 years old, Hussein became king following the assassination of his father, King Talal, and would go on to rule Jordan for nearly five decades.
1954 Adnan Menderes Forms New Turkish Government: Adnan Menderes of the Democrat Party successfully formed the 21st government of Turkey following a significant electoral victory, marking a pivotal moment in the country's post-war political landscape.
1955 Tennessee Williams Pulitzer Prize: Tennessee Williams wins the Pulitzer Prize for Drama for his iconic play 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof', a significant achievement in American theatrical literature.
1956 Methodist Church Rejects Racial Segregation: The United Methodist Church in America takes a landmark step by officially disallowing racial separation and granting women full ordained clergy status. This decision represents a progressive stance against racial discrimination and gender inequality within religious institutions.
1957 South African National Anthem Change: On May 2, 1957, 'Die Stem van Suid-Afrika', a poem written by Cornelis Jacobus Langenhoven, officially became the national anthem of South Africa. This marked a symbolic moment in the country's political history, replacing 'God Save the Queen' as the primary anthem, though the British royal anthem was retained in a secondary capacity.
1958 Colombian Military Junta Kidnapping Incident: On May 2, 1958, a dramatic political event unfolded in Colombia when rebels within the armed forces attempted a coup by kidnapping four of the five members of the ruling military junta. The kidnapped members included Major General Gabriel Paris, Major General Deogracias Fonsceca, Brigadier Generals Luis Ordonez and Rafael Navas Pardo. Admiral Rubén Piedrahíta, the fifth junta member, managed to escape capture and alerted the Colombian armed forces. The military refused to support the rebels, who ultimately surrendered after an eight-hour standoff and released their hostages.
1959 Betty Jean Owens Rape Case: A Landmark Moment in Civil Rights: In a significant civil rights moment, four white men were convicted for kidnapping and raping Betty Jean Owens, a black woman, near Florida A & M University. An all-white jury convicted the perpetrators, sentencing them to life in prison on June 22, marking a rare instance of judicial accountability during the segregation era.
1960 Allen Drury Wins Pulitzer Prize: Allen Drury was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for his novel 'Advise and Consent', a political novel that provided a nuanced look into the inner workings of Washington D.C. and the Senate confirmation process.
1961 Iranian Teachers' Strike of 1961: A significant labor protest erupted in Iran when over 50,000 educators walked off the job, demanding better working conditions and wages. The strike highlighted tensions between workers and the government, with initial suspicions of CIA involvement. Iranian monarch Mohammad Reza Pahlavi initially attempted to suppress the strike through military intervention but was forced to negotiate after learning that troops would not fire on demonstrators. As a result of the unrest, Pahlavi dismissed Prime Minister Jafar Sharif-Emami and replaced him with Ali Amini, demonstrating the strike's political impact.
1962 OAS Car Bomb Explosion in Algiers: A devastating terrorist attack by the Organization of the Secret Army (OAS) resulted in a car bomb explosion at the docks of Algiers, killing 96 people and injuring 147, marking one of the most violent incidents during the Algerian War of Independence.
1963 Birmingham Children's Crusade: Civil Rights Protest: On May 2, 1963, a pivotal moment in the American Civil Rights Movement occurred when hundreds of African Americans, including children, were arrested while protesting racial segregation in Birmingham, Alabama. The protest, strategically organized by James Bevel and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), began with 959 people taken into custody from the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church. Public Safety Commissioner Eugene 'Bull' Connor's brutal response—ordering police dogs and fire hoses to be used against peaceful demonstrators—sparked national outrage and became a turning point in the struggle for civil rights.
1964 First Major Student Demonstration Against Vietnam War: Approximately 1,000 students participated in the first significant nationwide student protest against the Vietnam War. Organized by Yale University students as part of the 'May 2nd Movement', demonstrations occurred simultaneously in multiple major cities including New York City, San Francisco, Boston, Seattle, and Madison, Wisconsin.
1965 Johnson Explains Dominican Republic Intervention: U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson delivered a nationally televised speech explaining the rationale behind the U.S. military intervention in the Dominican Republic, addressing the American public's concerns about the ongoing political crisis and military deployment.
1966 Pulitzer Prize for Biography Awarded to Arthur M. Schlesinger Jr.: Arthur M. Schlesinger Jr. was awarded the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography for his seminal work 'A Thousand Days', a comprehensive account of President John F. Kennedy's presidency. The book provided an intimate and scholarly examination of the Kennedy administration from an insider's perspective.
1967 Israel Considers War with Syria: In Tel Aviv, Prime Minister Levi Eshkol's Ministerial Committee on Security conditionally approved plans to commence a war by launching an attack on Syria.
1968 Staff Sergeant Roy Benavidez's Heroic Rescue in Vietnam: Staff Sergeant Roy Benavidez of the U.S. Army's 5th Special Forces Group performed an extraordinary act of heroism near Loc Ninh in South Vietnam. Despite being off duty, he volunteered for a dangerous rescue mission involving a 12-man Special Forces team surrounded by 1,000 enemy troops. During an intense 8-hour battle, Benavidez was wounded four times while rescuing 8 survivors, administering first aid, calling in airstrikes, securing classified documents, and dragging wounded men to safety.
1969 Queen Elizabeth 2 Maiden Voyage: The British ocean liner Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) embarked on her historic maiden voyage from the United Kingdom to New York City. This luxurious and technologically advanced ship would become an iconic symbol of maritime travel in the late 20th century.
1970 96th Kentucky Derby Winner: Mike Manganello rode Dust Commander to victory in the 96th Kentucky Derby, completing the race in an impressive time of 2:03.4.
1971 Mass Arrests During Anti-War Protests in Washington, D.C.: Anti-war militants attempted to disrupt government operations in Washington, D.C., resulting in massive arrests by police and military units. Approximately 12,000 protesters were detained, with most subsequently released.
1972 Death of J. Edgar Hoover: J. Edgar Hoover, the long-serving and controversial director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, died of a heart attack, marking the end of an era in American law enforcement and intelligence.
1973 John B. Connally Switches Political Parties: Former Texas Governor and U.S. Secretary of the Treasury John B. Connally announced his political party switch from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party, signaling a significant personal and potentially symbolic political realignment during the early 1970s.
1974 UVF Bombing in Belfast: A tragic sectarian attack occurred in Belfast during the height of the Northern Ireland conflict, known as 'The Troubles'. The Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF), a loyalist paramilitary group, detonated a bomb at the Rose & Crown Bar on Ormeau Road, resulting in the deaths of six Catholic civilians and injuring eighteen others. This violent incident exemplified the brutal nature of the sectarian conflict that plagued Northern Ireland during this period.
1975 Apple Records Dissolution: Apple Records, the iconic record label founded by The Beatles in 1968, officially closed down on May 2, 1975. The label, which was originally created as a division of their multimedia corporation Apple Corps, had been a significant platform for the band and other artists during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Its closure marked the end of an era in the music industry and signaled the final administrative separation of the band's business interests.
1976 Devastating Mudslides in Afghanistan: Two catastrophic mudslides struck the Badakhshan region of Afghanistan, resulting in a potential humanitarian crisis with up to 2,500 people reported missing, highlighting the region's vulnerability to natural disasters.
1977 Beagle Islands Territorial Dispute: Argentina and Chile submitted their long-standing territorial dispute over the Beagle Islands to international arbitration. The World Court awarded all three contested islands (Picton, Lennox, and Nueva) to Chile. Argentina rejected the ruling, bringing the two nations to the brink of war in 1978, highlighting the complex geopolitical tensions in South America.
1978 Portland Trail Blazers NBA Championship Victory: In a remarkable display of basketball prowess, the Portland Trail Blazers secured their first and only NBA championship by defeating their opponents in a decisive four-game series. Led by legendary players like Bill Walton and Maurice Lucas, the team demonstrated exceptional teamwork and skill, marking a significant moment in the franchise's history.
1979 Quadrophenia Film Premiere in London: Quadrophenia, a groundbreaking film adaptation of The Who's iconic rock opera, made its debut in London. The movie, set in the 1960s mod and rocker subculture, starred Phil Daniels and Sting, and became a significant cultural touchstone for British youth culture and music history.
1980 Pink Floyd Song Banned in South Africa: Pink Floyd's protest song 'Another Brick in the Wall (Part II)' was banned in South Africa, reflecting the country's apartheid-era censorship and resistance to anti-segregation messages.
1981 Aer Lingus Flight 164 Hijacking Incident: On May 2, 1981, Aer Lingus Flight 164 from Dublin to London was hijacked by Laurence James Downey, a man obsessed with uncovering the third secret of Fátima. Downey held 113 passengers and crew hostage for 8 hours, demanding the publication of his manifesto and pressuring Pope John Paul II to disclose the religious secret. French anti-terrorist police successfully intervened and took Downey into custody without revealing the mysterious secret he sought.
1982 Sinking of ARA General Belgrano during Falklands War: During the Falklands War, the British nuclear submarine HMS Conqueror sank the Argentine cruiser ARA General Belgrano in the South Atlantic, resulting in the deaths of more than 350 Argentine sailors. This controversial naval engagement was a significant turning point in the conflict between Argentina and the United Kingdom over the Falkland Islands.
1983 Coalinga Earthquake of 1983: A significant seismic event struck Coalinga, California, causing widespread damage and injuries. The earthquake, measuring 6.7 on the Richter scale, resulted in 487 people being injured. This event highlighted the geological instability of California's Central Valley and prompted increased earthquake preparedness efforts.
1984 Itaipu Dam Begins Power Generation: The massive Itaipu Dam, located on the border of Brazil and Paraguay, commenced power generation after nine years of construction. At the time, it was the world's largest hydroelectric dam, representing a significant milestone in renewable energy infrastructure.
1985 Microsoft Excel Launches for Macintosh: Microsoft introduces the Excel spreadsheet program for the Macintosh, marking a significant milestone in personal computing software. Despite Lotus Development's earlier Jazz release, Excel quickly becomes the dominant spreadsheet application, driving increased Macintosh sales similar to how VisiCalc and Lotus 1-2-3 had previously boosted their respective platforms.
1986 Chernobyl Disaster Evacuation: Six days after the catastrophic nuclear accident at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, the entire city of Chernobyl was evacuated. This marked a critical moment in one of the worst nuclear disasters in human history, with residents being forcibly relocated to prevent further radiation exposure.
1987 113th Kentucky Derby: Alysheba's Victory: Chris McCarron rode Alysheba to a remarkable victory in the 113th Kentucky Derby, completing the race in an impressive time of 2:03.4, showcasing exceptional horse racing skill and strategy.
1988 IRA Kills British Servicemen: In a tragic incident during the Northern Ireland conflict, three British servicemen were killed by the Irish Republican Army (IRA) in the Netherlands, highlighting the international reach of the sectarian violence.
1989 Hungary Dismantles Border Fence with Austria: In a significant moment during the late Cold War period, Hungary began dismantling 150 miles of barbed wire fencing along its border with Austria. This action represented a critical symbolic and practical breakthrough in the erosion of the Iron Curtain, allowing increased movement between Eastern and Western Europe.
1990 South Africa Apartheid Negotiations Begin: A pivotal moment in South African history occurred as the government and the African National Congress (ANC) initiated talks to dismantle the apartheid system. These negotiations represented a critical step towards ending racial segregation and establishing a democratic South Africa.
1991 End of Angolan Civil War: The Angolan Civil War, a prolonged and devastating conflict that lasted nearly three decades, officially concluded on May 1, 1991. This marked a significant turning point in Angola's history, potentially opening the path for national reconciliation and reconstruction after years of intense internal strife.
1992 Yugoslav Army Seizes Bosnian President: In a significant political event during the Bosnian War, the Yugoslav Army captured Bosnian President Alija Izetbegovic, escalating tensions in the region.
1993 Assassination of Sri Lankan President: Sri Lankan President Ranasinghe Premadasa was tragically killed in a devastating suicide bombing by Tamil Tiger militants in Colombo. The attack resulted in the president's death and claimed the lives of 17 other individuals, marking a significant moment of political violence during the Sri Lankan Civil War.
1994 Bus crashes into a tree at Gdansk, Poland, 30 killed.
1995 Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building Demolition: The remains of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City are imploded, symbolizing the final physical closure of the site devastated by the terrorist bombing.
1996 Iraq Obstructs UN Weapons Inspections: On May 2, 1996, Iraqi forces deliberately impeded United Nations Special Commission (UNSCOM) inspection teams, refusing initial access to five designated inspection sites. The inspectors were ultimately allowed entry after significant delays ranging up to seventeen hours, highlighting ongoing tensions between Iraq and international monitoring efforts in the aftermath of the Gulf War.
1997 Tony Blair Becomes UK Prime Minister: Tony Blair of the Labour Party was appointed Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, marking a significant political transition after nearly two decades of Conservative governance. At 44 years old, he became the youngest prime minister in 185 years, signaling a potential generational shift in British politics.
1998 European Central Bank Established: The European Central Bank was officially founded in Brussels, establishing a central institution to define and execute the European Union's monetary policy and economic strategy.
1999 Moore, Oklahoma Tornado Disaster: A catastrophic F5 tornado struck Moore, Oklahoma, causing massive destruction and claiming 38 lives. This devastating natural disaster was part of the 1999 Oklahoma tornado outbreak, representing one of the most destructive tornadoes in U.S. history.
2000 GPS Access Democratization: President Bill Clinton announced that GPS technology would now be available to regular citizens, providing equivalent access previously restricted to the U.S. military. This decision significantly expanded global positioning capabilities for civilian use.
2001 Cincinnati City Manager Resigns Amid Racial Tensions: Cincinnati City Manager John Shirey resigned following significant racial unrest triggered by the controversial police shooting of an unarmed Black man. The incident highlighted ongoing tensions between law enforcement and the African American community, leading to public protests and administrative changes.
2002 Death of W. T. Tutte, Mathematician and Codebreaker: William Thomas Tutte, a renowned English-born mathematician and cryptanalyst who made significant contributions to code-breaking during World War II, passed away. Tutte was known for his groundbreaking work in graph theory and his crucial role in breaking German communication codes at Bletchley Park.
2003 US Unemployment Report for April 2003: The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics released economic data showing the unemployment rate at 6% for April 2003. The job market showed signs of stabilization, with employers cutting 48,000 jobs—a smaller reduction than the anticipated 75,000, following a revised decline of 124,000 jobs in March.
2004 EU Expansion: Ten New Member States Join: Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia officially joined the European Union, marking the largest single expansion in the EU's history. This momentous event significantly reshaped the geopolitical landscape of Europe, integrating ten former Eastern Bloc and Mediterranean countries into the European political and economic framework.
2005 Abu Ghraib Abuse Scandal Continues: Army Reservist Pfc. Lynndie England pleaded guilty to seven criminal counts related to the Abu Ghraib prisoner abuse scandal, a significant moment in the investigation of military misconduct in Iraq.
2006 Berlusconi Resigns as Italian Prime Minister: Silvio Berlusconi officially submitted his resignation to President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi following his defeat by Romano Prodi in the April elections. President Ciampi requested Berlusconi to remain in office for managing current affairs during the transition.
2007 ICC Arrest Warrants for Darfur War Crimes: The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Ahmed Haroun, Sudan's humanitarian affairs minister, and Ali Kushayb, a Janjaweed leader, charging them with war crimes committed during the Darfur conflict.
2008 Cyclone Nargis Devastates Myanmar: Cyclone Nargis made catastrophic landfall in Burma (Myanmar), resulting in over 138,000 fatalities and leaving millions of people homeless, marking one of the deadliest natural disasters of the 21st century.
2009 UN Calls for Halt to Palestinian Evictions: The United Nations issued a directive to Israel demanding a stop to the eviction of Palestinians from East Jerusalem, highlighting ongoing territorial tensions.
2010 IMF and Eurozone Bailout of Greece: The International Monetary Fund and the Eurozone agreed to a €110 billion bailout package for Greece, which includes stringent austerity measures designed to address the country's severe sovereign debt crisis.
2011 Osama bin Laden Killed by U.S. Navy SEALs: On May 2, 2011, Osama bin Laden, the founder and leader of al-Qaeda, was killed in a precision operation by U.S. Navy SEALs in Abbottabad, Pakistan. This mission marked the culmination of a decade-long manhunt following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
2012 Edvard Munch's 'The Scream' Sells for Record Price: A pastel version of 'The Scream' by Norwegian painter Edvard Munch was sold at a New York City auction for $119,922,500, setting a new world record for the highest price ever paid for a work of art at auction.
2013 Syrian Army Massacre in al-Bayda: Syrian Army conducts a brutal raid on al-Bayda, resulting in approximately 100 civilian casualties during the ongoing Syrian Civil War.
2014 Odesa Clashes in Ukraine: Violent confrontations erupted in Odesa, Ukraine between pro-federalism and pro-unity groups on May 2, 2014. The conflict resulted in 42 deaths, with participants using firearms, stones, and Molotov cocktails. The House of Trade Unions was set on fire, and police response was ineffective. Only one person has been charged with murder, and the subsequent trial has been plagued by delays and disruptions.
2015 Nepal Earthquake Aftermath: The devastating April 2015 Nepal earthquake resulted in 7,040 confirmed fatalities and 14,025 injuries. Thousands remain missing, and Nepalese authorities have abandoned hope of finding additional survivors among the earthquake's rubble.
2016 Leicester City Wins Premier League in Historic Upset: Leicester City won the English Premier League title in a stunning achievement, having started the season with 5,000-1 odds against winning. This was considered one of the greatest underdog stories in sports history.
2017 North Korea Nuclear Tensions: North Korea escalated its nuclear rhetoric, vowing to accelerate its nuclear weapons program to 'maximum speed' and threatening to test a nuclear weapon 'at any moment' in response to perceived aggressive stances from the United States under President Donald Trump.
2018 North Korea Releases US Detainees: In preparation for a summit with US President Donald Trump, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un released three American detainees. National Security Advisor John R. Bolton announced this as a gesture of sincerity for upcoming diplomatic talks.
2019 Pelosi Accuses Barr of Lying: US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi accused US Attorney General William Barr of lying to Congress regarding the Mueller Report, escalating tensions in the ongoing political investigation.
2020 FDA Approves Remdesivir for COVID-19 Treatment: On May 2, 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted emergency use authorization for remdesivir, originally developed as an Ebola treatment, to be used in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. This antiviral medication, developed by Gilead Sciences, was the first drug approved for treating patients hospitalized with severe coronavirus infections. The approval came after clinical trials showed the drug could reduce recovery time for COVID-19 patients, marking a significant milestone in the global medical response to the pandemic.
2021 Berlin Labor Day Protests and Arrests: On May 2, 2021, Berlin experienced significant social unrest during its annual Labor Day demonstrations. At least 354 protesters were detained by local law enforcement during the protests, highlighting tensions between demonstrators and authorities. The protests, traditionally marking International Workers' Day, involved large crowds expressing various social and economic grievances, leading to widespread arrests and potential clashes with police.
2022 Supreme Court Draft Opinion on Roe v. Wade: A leaked draft opinion from Politico suggested that the U.S. Supreme Court was preparing to overturn Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey, potentially signaling a major shift in reproductive rights legislation.
2023 Writers Guild of America Initiates Major Hollywood Strike: The Writers Guild of America launched a comprehensive strike following unresolved labor disputes, effectively halting film and television production across the United States. This work stoppage represents the most significant disruption to the entertainment industry since the COVID-19 pandemic, with potential long-term implications for content creation and industry labor relations.

What Is special about May 2?

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