Historical Events on May 10: Significant Moments in History

Throughout history, certain dates stand out for the remarkable events that unfolded on them. From turning points in politics to cultural breakthroughs, these days often carry significance that echoes through time. Explore the most important events that occurred on May 10, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on May 10 - Key Moments Throughout History

1902 Birth of David O. Selznick, Influential Hollywood Film Producer: David O. Selznick was born on May 10, 1902, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He would become one of the most prominent and influential film producers in Hollywood's golden age, known for producing landmark films like 'Gone with the Wind' (1939) and 'Rebecca' (1940). Selznick played a crucial role in shaping the American film industry during the first half of the 20th century, working with legendary directors and actors.
1903 Kay Petre: Pioneering Female Racing Driver: Kay Petre was an early female racing driver who broke gender barriers in the automotive racing world during the early 20th century. As one of the first women to compete professionally in motorsports, she challenged societal norms and paved the way for future generations of female racers.
1904 Founding of Horch & Motorwagenwerke AG: On May 10, 1904, August Horch established the Horch & Motorwagenwerke AG in Zwickau, Germany. This automotive manufacturing company would later evolve into the renowned Audi automobile brand, marking a significant moment in German automotive history.
1905 Devastating Snyder, Oklahoma Tornado: A catastrophic tornado struck the town of Snyder, Oklahoma, causing massive destruction and resulting in the tragic loss of 97 human lives. This natural disaster was one of the deadliest tornadic events in Oklahoma's early 20th-century history, highlighting the region's vulnerability to severe weather.
1906 First Meeting of Russian State Duma: On May 10, 1906, the Russian State Duma, the first representative legislative assembly in Russian imperial history, convened for its inaugural session. This marked a significant moment in Russia's political evolution, following the 1905 Russian Revolution and Tsar Nicholas II's October Manifesto, which promised constitutional reforms. The Duma represented an early attempt to introduce parliamentary governance to the autocratic Russian Empire, though its powers were initially quite limited.
1907 Premiere of Paul Dukas' Opera 'Ariane et Barbe Bleue': On May 10, 1907, the groundbreaking opera 'Ariane et Barbe Bleue' (Ariadne and Bluebeard) by French composer Paul Dukas premiered in Paris, France. Based on a libretto by Maurice Maeterlinck, this innovative work reimagines the classic Bluebeard fairy tale, offering a nuanced psychological exploration of the characters and challenging traditional narrative expectations.
1908 First Official Mother's Day Service: The first official Mother's Day service was held at the Andrews Methodist Episcopal Church in Grafton, West Virginia, meticulously organized by Anna Jarvis. This groundbreaking event marked the inaugural celebration of a day dedicated to honoring mothers and their profound contributions to family and society.
1909 Founding of the American Society for Clinical Investigation: The American Society for Clinical Investigation (ASCI) was established by fifteen pioneering physicians who convened at the New Willard Hotel in Washington, D.C. Their mission was to recognize and support outstanding physicians conducting groundbreaking biomedical research, marking a significant milestone in medical science collaboration and recognition.
1910 First International Women's Congress in South America: The first Congreso Femenino Internacional was held in Buenos Aires, bringing together 200 women from Peru, Chile, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Argentina. This groundbreaking event represented a significant moment in the early feminist movement in South America, discussing women's rights, education, and social progress.
1911 Birth of Blues Legend Robert Johnson: Robert Johnson, a legendary American blues musician who would profoundly influence rock and roll, was born on May 10, 1911. Later inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Johnson became an iconic figure in music history, known for his exceptional guitar skills and influential blues recordings.
1912 Glenn L. Martin Sets Water Flight Distance Record: Aviation pioneer Glenn L. Martin achieved a remarkable milestone by breaking the existing record for a flight over water. He successfully flew 38 miles (61 km) from Newport Beach, California, to Catalina Island in just 37 minutes, demonstrating significant advancement in early 20th-century aviation technology.
1913 First Aerial Attack on a Warship in Western Hemisphere: On May 10, 1913, French aviator Didier Masson made history by conducting the first aerial attack on a warship in the Western Hemisphere. In a daring and pioneering mission, Masson attempted to drop pipe bombs from an aircraft, marking a significant milestone in military aviation and naval warfare tactics.
1914 French General Elections of 1914: The French general elections were held on May 10, 1914, with the center-left Radical Party securing a significant victory by winning a plurality of nearly 35 percent of the popular vote. This election occurred during a critical period in French political history, just weeks before the outbreak of World War I, and reflected the complex political landscape of the Third Republic.
1915 Gas Mask Invention by Cluny Macpherson: Canadian physician Cluny Macpherson made a groundbreaking contribution to military safety by presenting his innovative gas mask invention to the British War Office, which would help protect soldiers from chemical warfare during World War I.
1916 Ernest Shackleton's Epic Lifeboat Journey: Ernest Shackleton completes an extraordinary maritime survival journey, navigating an 800 nautical mile voyage in a small lifeboat from Elephant Island to South Georgia, demonstrating remarkable navigational skill and human endurance during the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration.
1917 Pershing Appointed to Lead US Expeditionary Force: Major General John J. Pershing was appointed to command the United States Expeditionary Force, a pivotal moment in U.S. military involvement in World War I. This appointment signaled America's increasing commitment to the European conflict and would prove crucial in the war's later stages.
1918 Battle of Kaniów: A significant engagement during World War I where approximately 8,000 troops of the Polish II Corps, led by Józef Haller, were surprised and encircled by a larger Imperial German Army of 12,000 soldiers near Kaniów, Ukraine. This battle highlighted the complex military dynamics on the Eastern Front.
1919 Charleston Race Riot: A violent racial incident in Charleston, South Carolina resulted in the deaths of two Black men, highlighting the severe racial tensions and systemic violence prevalent in the post-World War I era.
1920 Armenian Bolshevik May Uprising: On May 10, 1920, the Armenian Bolsheviks initiated a coup d'état attempt in Alexandropol (now known as Gyumri), Armenia. This uprising was part of the broader political turbulence following World War I and the Russian Revolution, as communist forces sought to challenge the existing political order and potentially establish a Soviet-aligned government in Armenia.
1921 Germany Accepts Post-War Allied Demands: The German Reichstag voted 221 to 175 to comply with Allied post-World War I demands, agreeing to immediate disarmament, prosecution of war criminals, and acceptance of reparations terms. This pivotal vote signaled Germany's reluctant submission to the Treaty of Versailles conditions.
1922 First Woman Called to the English Bar: Dr. Ivy Williams made history by becoming the first woman to be called to the English Bar, marking a significant milestone for women's professional advancement in the legal field.
1923 Unremarkable Day in 1923: While no specific significant historical event was documented for May 10, 1923, this date falls within the interwar period between World War I and World War II. During this time, global political and economic landscapes were gradually reshaping, with countries recovering from the aftermath of the Great War and experiencing significant social transformations.
1924 J. Edgar Hoover Becomes First FBI Director: J. Edgar Hoover was appointed as the first Director of the United States' Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), marking the beginning of a transformative era in American law enforcement. He would go on to lead the agency for an unprecedented 48 years, until his death in 1972, significantly shaping the organization's structure, methods, and national influence.
1925 Death of New Zealand Prime Minister William Massey: On May 10, 1925, William Massey, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, passed away while still in office. Massey was a prominent political figure who led New Zealand during World War I and played a crucial role in the country's development during a transformative period of its national history.
1926 Byrd and Bennett's North Pole Flight Claim Challenged: Experts raised significant doubts about Richard E. Byrd and Floyd Bennett's historic claim of being the first to fly over the North Pole. Evidence suggested they might have only traveled approximately 80% of the intended route before being forced to turn back due to an oil leak, casting uncertainty on their pioneering aviation achievement.
1927 Ernest Hemingway Marries Pauline Pfeiffer: On May 10, 1927, renowned author Ernest Hemingway married journalist Pauline Pfeiffer in a significant personal milestone. This marriage was part of Hemingway's complex romantic life and occurred during his early writing career, shortly after his first marriage to Hadley Richardson ended. Pfeiffer would become his second wife and play an important role in his personal and professional development.
1928 Disney's First Mickey Mouse Animated Short: Walt Disney Studios releases 'Plane Crazy', marking the debut of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, a landmark moment in animation history that would transform global entertainment.
1929 Birth of Rock and Roll Legend Fats Domino: Fats Domino, a pioneering rock and roll musician known for his iconic hit 'Blueberry Hill', was born on this date. He would become a significant influence in early rock and roll music, blending rhythm and blues with pop sensibilities.
1930 Martial Law in Sherman, Texas: Texas Governor Dan Moody declares martial law in the city of Sherman, deploying the state national guard to arrest 14 rioters, indicating significant civil unrest.
1931 Birth of Prominent Japanese Voice Actor: Ichirō Nagai, a notable Japanese anime voice actor who would later contribute significantly to the development of the anime industry, was born on this date.
1932 Wellington Relief Workers Riot Over Unemployment Act: In a dramatic protest against economic hardship, approximately 4,000 relief workers marched on the New Zealand parliament in Wellington, demanding the repeal of the Unemployment Amendment Act. The demonstration escalated into a riot after Public Works Minister Gordon Coates delayed the government's response. Protesters smashed over 200 windows and looted shops before police restored order in the city centre.
1933 Nazi Book Burnings in Germany: University students in 34 university towns across Germany burned over 25,000 books, including works by Jewish authors like Albert Einstein and Sigmund Freud, as well as blacklisted American authors such as Ernest Hemingway and Helen Keller. The event was accompanied by a speech from Joseph Goebbels in Berlin's Opera Square, where he declared the era of extreme Jewish intellectualism to be at an end.
1934 Ribbentrop's Diplomatic Mission to London: Nazi diplomat Joachim von Ribbentrop met with British foreign officials Sir John Simon and Anthony Eden in London, attempting to negotiate terms regarding German rearmament. The meeting was unsuccessful, with Britain refusing to make any concrete promises.
1935 Royal Walkabout in South London: King George V and Queen Mary conducted an impromptu public engagement by driving through the working-class neighborhoods of South London, demonstrating a rare and personal connection with ordinary citizens. Their unannounced appearance drew significant public enthusiasm, with crowds gathering spontaneously at street crossings to cheer and catch a glimpse of the monarchs. This event was notable for its informal nature, showing the royal family's attempt to bridge social distances during the mid-1930s.
1936 Haile Selassie's Exile Statement: Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie provided a written statement to journalists explaining his and his family's forced exile, emphasizing that their personal safety was secondary to the broader interests of the Ethiopian people in the context of Italian invasion.
1937 London Busmen Strike of 1937: A significant labor action occurred in London, with bus workers collectively withdrawing their services to protest working conditions, wages, or other employment-related grievances. This strike highlighted the growing labor movement and workers' rights activism in pre-World War II Britain.
1938 Japanese Amoy Operation: The Japanese military initiated the Amoy Operation, a strategic blockade against China during the Second Sino-Japanese War, escalating military tensions in the region.
1939 Hungarian Anti-Semitic Legislation Enacted: On May 10, 1939, the Hungarian government implemented a series of discriminatory laws targeting the Jewish population, marking a significant escalation of state-sanctioned persecution. These laws systematically stripped Hungarian Jews of their civil liberties, restricting their rights in employment, education, and social participation. This legislation was part of the broader Nazi-influenced anti-Semitic policies that would ultimately contribute to the Holocaust in Hungary.
1940 Germany Launches Invasion of Western Europe: Germany launched a coordinated invasion of the Netherlands, Belgium, and France, marking the critical opening of World War II's Western Front. This strategic offensive represented a massive military operation that would dramatically reshape the European geopolitical landscape.
1941 Breaking the Enigma Code: British cryptographers at Bletchley Park successfully broke the Enigma code, a pivotal moment in World War II intelligence that would significantly impact the Allied war effort.
1942 Churchill's Powerful Radio Broadcast on War Escalation: On the second anniversary of becoming Prime Minister, Winston Churchill delivered a significant radio broadcast warning Germany about potential chemical warfare retaliation. He explicitly stated that any unprovoked use of poison gas against the Soviet allies would be met with massive aerial gas attacks on German military targets.
1943 Liberation of Tunis and Bizerte: On May 10, 1943, Allied troops successfully liberated the strategic North African cities of Tunis and Bizerte. The Americans captured Bizerte at 4:15 pm local time, followed by the British First Army taking control of Tunis just five minutes later. This marked a significant turning point in the North African Campaign during World War II, effectively ending Axis control in the region.
1944 Smith v. Allwright Supreme Court Decision: The United States Supreme Court ruled in Smith v. Allwright that racial discrimination in primary elections is unconstitutional, striking down 'white primary' practices that systematically excluded African Americans from voting. This landmark civil rights decision was a critical step towards ensuring equal voting rights for Black Americans.
1945 U.S. Announces Massive Troop Redeployment: The U.S. High Command officially announced plans to repatriate over three million American troops from Europe, signaling the imminent end of World War II and massive logistical operations to bring soldiers home.
1946 Nehru Leads Congress Party: Jawaharlal Nehru is elected leader of the Congress Party in India, a significant step in the country's journey towards independence and political transformation.
1947 73rd Preakness Stakes: The 73rd Preakness Stakes horse race was held, with jockey Doug Dodson riding Faultless to victory in a time of 1:59, a notable moment in horse racing history.
1948 Haganah Captures Safed: The Haganah, the primary paramilitary organization of the Jewish community in Palestine, successfully captured the strategically important town of Safed on May 10, 1948. This operation was part of a broader effort to secure mixed Arab-Jewish towns within the proposed Jewish territorial partition.
1949 West German Parliamentary Council Selects Bonn as Capital: In a pivotal moment for post-World War II Germany, the West German Parliamentary Council chose Bonn as the capital of the newly forming West German state, narrowly defeating Frankfurt in a close vote of 33-29. This decision would shape West Germany's political landscape for decades, with Bonn serving as the capital until reunification in 1990.
1950 Pilot ACE Computer Runs First Program: The Pilot ACE (Automatic Computing Engine), a groundbreaking digital computer designed by renowned mathematician and computer scientist Alan Turing, successfully executed its first program. This milestone was a 'successive digits' or 'Addition Routine', marking a significant moment in early computer development. The Pilot ACE represented an important step in the evolution of computing technology, demonstrating Turing's visionary approach to computational design.
1951 Z. Alexander Looby Elected to Nashville City Council: Z. Alexander Looby made history by being elected to the Nashville City Council, representing a significant moment in local political representation during the early civil rights era.
1952 Notable Births: Roland Kaiser and Manuel Mora Morales: On May 10, 1952, two significant cultural figures were born: Roland Kaiser, a prominent German singer known for his contributions to the Schlager music genre, and Manuel Mora Morales, a Spanish film and theater director who would make notable contributions to Spanish cinema and stage.
1953 Chemnitz Renamed Karl-Marx-Stadt: In a significant political gesture during the Cold War era, the East German town of Chemnitz was officially renamed Karl-Marx-Stadt, symbolizing the communist regime's ideological commitment.
1954 Bill Haley & His Comets Make Rock History: Bill Haley & His Comets released 'Rock Around the Clock', a groundbreaking rock and roll record that became the first of its genre to reach number one on the Billboard charts, marking a pivotal moment in music history.
1955 United States Conducts Nuclear Test in Pacific Ocean: During the height of the Cold War, the United States performed a nuclear weapons test in the Pacific Ocean, continuing its series of atmospheric nuclear tests. These tests were part of the ongoing nuclear arms race and demonstrated the technological and military capabilities of the United States during this tense period of global geopolitics.
1956 French Military Deployment to Algeria: The French government dispatched 50,000 military reservists to Algeria, escalating military presence during the Algerian War of Independence, a complex colonial conflict.
1957 Cameroon's Legislative Assembly First Meeting: The first meeting of the legislative assembly of Cameroon took place, marking a significant milestone in the country's path towards self-governance and political independence during the late colonial period.
1958 Humberto Delgado's Famous Political Challenge to Salazar: During an interview at the Chave d'Ouro café, opposition candidate Humberto Delgado made a bold and historic political statement when asked about the authoritarian leader António de Oliveira Salazar. His famous quote, 'Obviamente, demito-o!' (Obviously, I'll sack him!), became a defining moment in Portuguese political resistance against the Estado Novo regime, symbolizing the growing opposition to Salazar's long-standing dictatorship.
1959 Soviet Military Presence in Afghanistan: Soviet forces arrived in Afghanistan, marking an early stage of Soviet involvement in the country that would later escalate into a full-scale invasion in 1979.
1960 Nashville Desegregates Lunch Counters: Nashville became the first major racially segregated city in the United States to desegregate its lunch counters, marking a significant moment in the Civil Rights Movement. This event represented a crucial step towards dismantling systemic racial discrimination in public spaces.
1961 Beyond the Fringe Comedy Revue Premieres: The groundbreaking comedy revue 'Beyond the Fringe' opens at the Fortune Theatre in London's West End, featuring the comedic talents of Alan Bennett, Peter Cook, Dudley Moore, and Jonathan Miller. This performance would become a pivotal moment in British satirical comedy, influencing future generations of comedians and comedy styles.
1962 First Publication of The Incredible Hulk: Marvel Comics published the first issue of The Incredible Hulk, introducing the iconic muscle-bound antihero created by writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby. This groundbreaking comic book character would go on to become one of Marvel's most recognizable and enduring superheroes.
1963 Birmingham Campaign Settlement: A landmark civil rights agreement was reached between the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and Birmingham, Alabama's business leaders. The settlement marked a significant milestone in the desegregation efforts, with local businesses agreeing to end discriminatory practices by desegregating public facilities and committing to more inclusive hiring practices.
1964 Treblinka Memorial Dedicated in Poland: A commemorative memorial honoring the victims of the Treblinka death camp was officially dedicated in Poland. The memorial, designed by architects Adam Haupt and Franciszek Duszenko, featured a striking 26-foot (7.9 m) broken obelisk surrounded by 17,000 sharp granite pieces, symbolizing the immense loss of life during the Holocaust.
1965 Warren Buffett Acquires Controlling Interest in Berkshire Hathaway: Warren Buffett, a rising investor from Omaha, Nebraska, completed a strategic three-year process of purchasing stock in Berkshire Hathaway, a struggling textile manufacturing company. After acquiring a controlling interest, Buffett made a decisive move by removing the former president, Seabury Stanton. This acquisition would later become a pivotal moment in Buffett's investment career, transforming Berkshire Hathaway from a declining textile business into a massive conglomerate holding company.
1966 North American Professional Soccer League Founding: On May 10, 1966, Bob Hermann and William D. Cox held a press conference in New York City to announce the establishment of the North American Professional Soccer League (NAPSL). The ambitious league planned to launch professional soccer competitions in the autumn of 1967, targeting 11 major cities across North America. This marked a significant moment in the development of professional soccer in the United States, signaling growing interest in the sport beyond its traditional international strongholds.
1967 Stockholm Vietnam-Tribunal Condemns US Actions: The Stockholm Vietnam-Tribunal formally declares United States aggression in Vietnam and Cambodia, representing a significant moment of international criticism against US military intervention during the Vietnam War.
1968 Paris Peace Talks: US and North Vietnam Negotiate Vietnam War Resolution: Historic diplomatic negotiations commence in Paris between the United States and North Vietnamese representatives to explore potential pathways to end the prolonged and devastating Vietnam War. These talks mark a critical diplomatic effort to de-escalate the conflict and seek a peaceful resolution.
1969 Battle of Hamburger Hill Begins: US troops initiated a major assault on Hill 937 in Vietnam, a brutal and controversial battle that would become infamously known as 'Hamburger Hill' due to the extreme casualties and intense fighting.
1970 Jackson State University Shooting: During the second day of violent demonstrations at Jackson State University in Mississippi, state law enforcement officers fired into the crowd of demonstrators, resulting in 2 deaths and 12 injuries. This incident was part of the broader social unrest and civil rights tensions of the early 1970s.
1971 Anti-War Protests in Washington D.C.: Massive anti-war demonstration in Washington D.C. involving 30,000 protesters who camped along the Potomac River after an all-night rock concert, symbolizing the growing anti-Vietnam War sentiment in the United States.
1972 US Air Strikes in North Vietnam: During the Vietnam War, American warplanes engaged in intense aerial combat, shooting down eleven North Vietnamese MiG fighters. Notable pilots like future Congressman Duke Cunningham distinguished themselves, downing three MiG-17s and four MiG-21s. In a dramatic moment, pilot Maj. Robert Lodge was shot down by a North Vietnamese Shenyang J-6 but refused to eject.
1973 Frente Polisario Established: The Frente Polisario, a significant political movement in Western Sahara, was founded in Mauritania, marking an important moment in the region's struggle for self-determination.
1974 Closure of Tarrafal Concentration Camp: Portugal closed the notorious Tarrafal concentration camp, which had previously confined hundreds of Portuguese and African political prisoners for life, marking an important moment in the decolonization process.
1975 Sony Introduces Betamax Videocassette Recorder: Sony launched the Betamax videocassette recorder, a groundbreaking home video recording technology that would revolutionize media consumption and home entertainment. This innovative device allowed consumers to record television programs and watch them at their convenience, marking a significant milestone in consumer electronics.
1976 Ronald Reagan Wins Texas Primary: Former California Governor Ronald Reagan secured a substantial victory over incumbent President Gerald Ford in the Texas Republican primary, winning a crucial battle in his challenge for the party's presidential nomination. This primary win was a significant milestone in Reagan's political trajectory and demonstrated his growing popularity within the Republican Party.
1977 IDF Helicopter Tragedy: On May 10, 1977, a devastating helicopter crash occurred involving the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), resulting in the loss of 54 paratroopers and crew members. This catastrophic incident was one of the most significant military aviation accidents in Israeli history, highlighting the inherent risks faced by military personnel during training and operations.
1978 Liverpool Wins European Cup: Liverpool Football Club defeated Club Brugge KV 1-0 at Wembley Stadium in London, winning the European Cup (now UEFA Champions League) in front of 92,500 passionate fans. This victory marked Liverpool's continued dominance in European football during the late 1970s.
1979 Dan White Sentencing Sparks San Francisco Riots: Dan White received a controversial light sentence for the murders of San Francisco Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk, two prominent gay political figures. The lenient sentencing provoked significant riots in the city, highlighting tensions around LGBTQ+ rights and justice.
1980 West Ham United's FA Cup Upset Victory: In a remarkable underdog story, West Ham United, a Second Division team, achieves a surprising 1-0 victory over First Division Arsenal in the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium. This win marks West Ham's third FA Cup triumph in the club's history, demonstrating their ability to overcome higher-ranked opponents.
1981 Mitterrand Assumes Presidential Office: François Mitterrand is inaugurated as the first Socialist President of France in the Fifth Republic, signaling a major political transformation.
1982 WABC Radio's Final Music Broadcast: WABC radio in New York City played its last music record, John Lennon's iconic song 'Imagine', before transitioning to an all-talk radio format. This marked the end of an era for one of New York's most influential music radio stations, symbolizing the changing landscape of radio broadcasting in the early 1980s.
1983 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Islanders Lead Series: In the Stanley Cup playoffs, the New York Islanders defeat the Edmonton Oilers 2-0, taking a 1-0 lead in the series and demonstrating their hockey prowess.
1984 International Court of Justice Ruling on Nicaragua Blockade: The International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a landmark ruling regarding the United States' economic and military blockade of Nicaragua. This legal decision was a significant moment in international law, addressing the complex geopolitical tensions between the US and Nicaragua during the Cold War era. The ruling examined the legality of the US actions and their potential violations of international sovereignty and legal norms.
1985 The Go-Go's Announce Band Disbandment: On May 10, 1985, The Go-Go's announced their disbandment, marking the end of an era for one of the most successful all-female rock bands in history. Formed in Los Angeles in 1978 from the city's underground punk scene, the band made chart history in 1981 with their debut album *Beauty and the Beat*, which became the first album by an all-female band to reach No. 1 on the charts.
1986 Falco's 'Rock Me Amadeus' Tops UK Pop Chart: Austrian musician Falco's hit single 'Rock Me Amadeus' reached the number one position on the United Kingdom pop chart, marking a significant moment in 1980s pop music. The song, which celebrated the life of classical composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart with a unique new wave/rap style, became an international sensation.
1987 Klaus Barbie War Crimes Trial Begins: The trial of Klaus Barbie, a notorious former Gestapo commandant, commenced in France. Barbie, known as the 'Butcher of Lyon', was charged with war crimes committed during World War II, including the deportation of Jews and the torture of resistance fighters.
1988 Michel Rocard Becomes French Prime Minister: Michel Rocard was appointed as the Prime Minister of France, a significant political transition during the presidency of François Mitterrand. Rocard was known for his socialist policies and pragmatic approach to governance.
1989 Gorbachev's Historic China Visit: Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev makes a landmark visit to China, marking the first time a Soviet leader has done so since the 1960s. This diplomatic mission represents a significant thawing of Sino-Soviet relations during the late Cold War period.
1990 French TGV Train Sets World Speed Record: The French high-speed train (TGV) achieved a remarkable world record by reaching an unprecedented speed of 510.6 kilometers per hour (317.3 miles per hour), demonstrating cutting-edge rail technology and engineering prowess.
1991 Death of Armand Boni, Flemish Poet and Writer: Armand Boni, also known as 'Armand the Good', a notable Flemish poet and writer, passed away on this date. His contributions to Flemish literature marked an important moment in the cultural landscape of the region.
1992 Linda Martin Wins Eurovision: Linda Martin won the 37th Eurovision Song Contest for Ireland in Malmö, Sweden.
1993 Kader Toy Factory Fire in Bangkok: One of the world's deadliest industrial accidents occurred at the Kader Toy Factory in Bangkok, Thailand, resulting in a catastrophic fire that killed 188 workers and injured 469 others. The majority of victims were young women working in hazardous factory conditions, highlighting significant workplace safety failures.
1994 Nelson Mandela Becomes South Africa's First Black President: Nelson Mandela was inaugurated as South Africa's first black president, marking a historic moment in the country's transition from apartheid to democracy. After years of imprisonment and leading the anti-apartheid movement, Mandela's presidency symbolized hope, reconciliation, and the end of systemic racial segregation.
1995 Britain Lifts Ban on Sinn Fein Talks: The British government officially ended a 23-year prohibition on direct ministerial discussions with Sinn Fein, a significant political development in the Northern Ireland peace process. This marked a crucial step towards diplomatic engagement and potential resolution of long-standing political tensions.
1996 Mount Everest Disaster of 1996: A catastrophic storm struck Mount Everest, creating one of the deadliest days in the mountain's climbing history. Multiple climbing teams were caught high on the mountain's treacherous slopes, resulting in eight fatalities. The sudden and severe blizzard conditions overwhelmed experienced climbers, highlighting the extreme risks of high-altitude mountaineering.
1997 Devastating Qayen Earthquake in Iran: On May 10, 1997, a powerful magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck northeastern Iran's Khorasan Province, specifically near the city of Qayen. The seismic event caused widespread destruction, resulting in at least 1,567 fatalities, over 2,300 injuries, and leaving approximately 50,000 people homeless. The earthquake destroyed or severely damaged over 15,000 homes, creating a significant humanitarian crisis in the region.
1998 Viktor Orbán Becomes Prime Minister of Hungary: Viktor Orbán was elected Prime Minister of Hungary, leading a centre-right coalition formed by his Fidesz party, the Independent Smallholders Party, and the Hungarian Democratic Forum. This marked a significant political shift in Hungary's post-communist era, with Orbán representing a conservative nationalist political approach.
1999 Death of Shel Silverstein, Beloved Children's Author: On May 10, 1999, Shel Silverstein, a renowned American cartoonist, children's author, poet, and playwright, passed away at the age of 68. Silverstein was celebrated for his unique, whimsical style that captivated generations of children and adults alike. Best known for iconic works like 'The Giving Tree' and 'Where the Sidewalk Ends', he revolutionized children's literature with his imaginative storytelling and distinctive illustrations. His ability to blend humor, wisdom, and profound emotional depth made him a beloved figure in American literature, leaving an indelible mark on children's publishing and popular culture.
2001 United States Loses UN Human Rights Commission Seat: In an unprecedented diplomatic setback, the United States was removed from the U.N. Human Rights Commission for the first time since the commission's establishment in 1947, reflecting shifting international political dynamics.
2002 Robert Hanssen Sentenced for Espionage: FBI agent Robert Hanssen was sentenced to life imprisonment without parole for selling highly classified United States intelligence secrets to Russia. His espionage, which lasted for decades, resulted in him receiving $1.4 million in cash and diamonds, making him one of the most damaging spies in U.S. history.
2003 Severe Tornado Outbreak Sequence: A record-breaking tornado outbreak occurred across the United States, characterized by an unprecedented number of tornadoes and significant meteorological activity during the May 2003 Tornado Outbreak Sequence.
2004 Emmett Till Murder Investigation Reopened: The US Department of Justice reopened an investigation into Emmett Till's 1955 murder, a pivotal moment in the American civil rights movement, signaling ongoing efforts to address historical racial injustices.
2005 Germany Unveils Holocaust Memorial: Germany officially unveiled the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe in Berlin, near the Brandenburg Gate, creating a powerful and somber tribute to Holocaust victims and a significant symbol of national remembrance and reconciliation.
2006 Federal Reserve Adjusts Interest Rates: The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) of the United States Federal Reserve decided to increase the federal funds rate by 25 basis points, raising it to 5.00%. This monetary policy decision was part of the ongoing efforts to manage inflation and economic stability.
2007 Tony Blair's Resignation Announcement: Tony Blair announces his resignation as British Prime Minister, effective June 27, which will trigger a Labour Party leadership election. This marks the end of Blair's decade-long tenure as Prime Minister, a period characterized by significant political and social reforms.
2008 Unprecedented Fighting in Khartoum During Darfur War: The Justice and Equality Movement engaged in direct conflict with Sudanese Government Forces in Omdurman and Khartoum, marking the first time fighting reached Sudan's capital during the ongoing Darfur conflict.
2009 The H1N1 influenza virus kills a third of the US citizens and spreads to Australia, Japan and other countries.
2010 European Economic Rescue Package: European leaders approved a massive $1 trillion emergency rescue package to stabilize struggling European economies, which immediately boosted American stock market indexes by approximately 4 percent.
2011 2011 Syrian Uprising: The Syrian uprising continued with significant international attention, as the European Union imposed sanctions on 13 Syrian officials in response to violent protests. The Syrian Army released 300 people in Banias, indicating ongoing tensions and potential negotiations.
2012 Leveson Inquiry Revelation: The Leveson Inquiry exposed that British Prime Minister David Cameron allowed Andy Coulson, his former spokesman from the now-defunct News of the World tabloid, access to highly sensitive government secrets without proper security clearance.
2013 Guatemalan Court Convicts Efrain Rios Montt of Genocide: A Guatemalan court convicted former military leader Efrain Rios Montt of genocide and crimes against humanity, sentencing him to 80 years in prison - a landmark moment for justice and accountability in Guatemala's troubled history.
2014 2014 South African General Elections Results Announced: The Independent Electoral Commission officially declared the results of the 2014 South African general elections, marking a significant moment in the country's democratic process. The election was notable for its peaceful conduct and transparent reporting of results.
2015 Nepal Earthquake Death Toll Rises: The April 2015 Nepal earthquake's death toll reached 8,000. Rescue efforts were significantly hampered by avalanches in mountainous regions.
2016 NASA Discovers Massive Number of Exoplanets: NASA confirmed the Kepler spacecraft's discovery of 1,284 new exoplanets, significantly expanding our understanding of potential planetary systems beyond our solar system.
2017 Trump Shares Classified Information with Russian Officials: U.S. President Donald Trump shared classified information about an ISIS plot with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Ambassador Sergey Kislyak during a meeting in the Oval Office, causing significant diplomatic controversy.
2018 Trump-Kim Summit Announcement: US President Donald Trump announced a planned summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, scheduled for June 12, 2018, in Singapore, marking a potential diplomatic breakthrough.
2019 Trump Doubles Tariffs on Chinese Goods: President Trump doubled tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports, further escalating the trade tensions between the United States and China.
2020 2020 Polish Presidential Election Postponed Due to COVID-19: The Polish governing coalition made the unprecedented decision to postpone the presidential election originally scheduled for May 10, 2020, in response to the escalating COVID-19 pandemic. This marked a significant disruption to the country's democratic process, as public health concerns took precedence over the electoral timeline. The government committed to rescheduling the election at a later date when it would be safer for citizens to participate without risking widespread viral transmission.
2021 Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Escalates in Jerusalem: Tensions dramatically escalated between Palestinians and Israelis after Israeli security forces entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. The confrontation quickly spiraled into violence, with Hamas firing rockets from Gaza and Israel conducting retaliatory airstrikes, resulting in at least 31 fatalities and heightened regional tensions.
2022 Queen Elizabeth II Misses State Opening of Parliament: Queen Elizabeth II was absent from the State Opening of Parliament for the first time in 59 years. This historic event marked a significant moment, with the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Cambridge acting as Counsellors of State to jointly open the new parliamentary session, symbolizing a transition in the British royal leadership.
2023 Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Escalation on May 10, 2023: A significant escalation occurred in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with Israel launching airstrikes in the Gaza Strip that resulted in seven fatalities, including four members of the Marxist-Leninist Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP). In a separate raid in the West Bank's Qabatiya, Israeli security forces killed two Islamic Jihad Movement militants. In retaliation, Palestinian militants fired over 260 rockets into Israel, further intensifying the ongoing tensions.

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