Historical Events on May 22: 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 22, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

history

Events on May 22 - Key Moments Throughout History

  • 1900 Associated Press Establishes Non-Profit News Cooperative: The Associated Press (AP) was formally organized in New York City as a non-profit news cooperative, marking a significant milestone in the development of modern journalism and news distribution. This cooperative model would revolutionize how news was gathered, shared, and disseminated across the United States and eventually globally.
  • 1901 Unremarkable Day in Early 20th Century: While no specific significant historical events were recorded for May 22, 1901, this date falls during the early years of the 20th century, a period of significant global transformation marked by industrialization, colonial expansion, and emerging technological innovations.
  • 1902 President Roosevelt's Automotive Milestone: Theodore Roosevelt made history on May 22, 1902, by becoming the first United States President to ride in an automobile, marking a significant moment in presidential and technological history.
  • 1903 Launch of SS Ionic by White Star Line: On May 22, 1903, the White Star Line launched the SS Ionic, a significant passenger steamship of the early 20th century. This vessel was part of the growing transatlantic maritime transportation industry, representing the technological and commercial advancements in ocean travel during the Edwardian era.
  • 1904 Lake Shore Novelty Works Factory Explosion: On May 22, 1904, a catastrophic explosion completely destroyed the Lake Shore Novelty Works factory in Findlay, Ohio, resulting in the tragic deaths of seven workers. The incident highlighted the dangerous working conditions and industrial safety challenges prevalent in early 20th-century manufacturing facilities.
  • 1905 Royal Academy in Delft Becomes Technical High School: On May 22, 1905, the Royal Academy in Delft, Holland underwent a significant transformation, transitioning to become a Technical High School. This institutional change represented an important milestone in the Netherlands' educational development, signaling a shift towards more specialized technical education.
  • 1906 Wright Brothers Patent Flying Machine: The Wright Brothers were granted U.S. patent number 821,393 for their groundbreaking 'Flying-Machine', a pivotal moment in aviation history that legally recognized their innovative aircraft design.
  • 1907 Birth of Sir Laurence Olivier: Sir Laurence Olivier was born, a legendary English actor and director who would become one of the most influential performers of the 20th century. He was renowned for his Shakespearean roles and groundbreaking film adaptations.
  • 1908 Wright Brothers: Pioneering Aviation through Biomimicry: On May 22, 1908, Orville and Wilbur Wright continued their groundbreaking aviation experiments, drawing inspiration from bird flight mechanics and applying principles of biomimicry. Their meticulous research and innovative design of wing structures and control mechanisms would ultimately revolutionize human transportation. By carefully studying bird wing movements and aerodynamic principles, they developed the first practical controlled, sustained flight aircraft, fundamentally transforming global transportation, communication, and warfare in the 20th century.
  • 1909 Federal Land Settlement Expansion in Northwestern United States: On May 22, 1909, President William Howard Taft signed an executive order opening nearly 700,000 acres of federally owned land for settlement across Washington, Montana, and Idaho. This action was part of the broader homesteading movement, encouraging westward expansion and providing opportunities for agricultural development in the Northwestern United States.
  • 1910 King George V Grants Widespread Pardons: On May 22, 1910, King George V of the United Kingdom demonstrated royal clemency by issuing pardons for numerous prisoners serving short-term sentences. In a significant act of judicial mercy, he not only freed many individuals but also reduced the sentences of others, reflecting a compassionate approach to criminal justice during the early 20th century.
  • 1911 Cliff Curtis Sets Unfortunate Baseball Record: On May 22, 1911, Cliff Curtis of the Boston Braves set an infamous Major League Baseball record by losing his 23rd consecutive game. This extraordinary streak of futility remains one of the most remarkable and disheartening performances in baseball history, highlighting the immense challenges a struggling pitcher can face.
  • 1913 Birth of Benedict Garmisa: Benedict Garmisa, an American politician who would later become notable in local or regional politics, was born on May 22, 1913. While specific details about his early life and political career are limited, his birth marks the beginning of a life dedicated to public service during the early 20th century.
  • 1914 Uneventful Day in 1914: While no specific significant historical events were recorded for May 22, 1914, this date falls in a critical period leading up to World War I. Just two months before the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, which would trigger the global conflict, Europe was experiencing rising tensions between major powers.
  • 1915 Quintinshill Rail Disaster: On May 22, 1915, a catastrophic rail collision occurred near Gretna Green, Scotland, involving three trains. The accident resulted in 227 fatalities and 246 injuries. Investigations revealed that the disaster was caused by non-standard operating practices during a shift change at a busy railway junction. Most of the victims were military troops being transported during World War I, making this the deadliest rail accident in United Kingdom history at the time.
  • 1916 French Troops Occupy Fort Douaumont during Battle of Verdun: During the prolonged Battle of Verdun, French troops successfully occupied strategic sections of Fort Douaumont, a critical defensive position in the Western Front of World War I. This fort was a key stronghold that had previously been captured by German forces, and its partial reoccupation represented a significant tactical achievement for the French military.
  • 1917 Battle of Vardar Concludes: The Battle of Vardar, a significant military engagement during World War I that began on May 5, 1917, concluded on May 22, 1917. This battle was part of the broader Macedonian Front, involving Allied forces fighting against Central Powers in the challenging terrain of the Balkan region.
  • 1918 World War I: A Quiet Day in Global Conflict: During the final months of World War I, May 22, 1918, was a relatively uneventful day on the global stage. While no specific major historical events were recorded for this precise date, the broader context was marked by intense military operations on the Western Front. The German Spring Offensive was still underway, and Allied forces were preparing defensive strategies that would ultimately lead to the war's conclusion later that year.
  • 1919 Mustafa Kemal's First Report to Ottoman Sultan: Mustafa Kemal dispatched his first report to the Ottoman Sultan, emphasizing the Turkish people's resistance to foreign subjugation and their strong desire for national sovereignty, which was a pivotal moment in the Turkish War of Independence.
  • 1920 Uneventful Day in 1920: While no major historical events were specifically documented for May 22, 1920, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. The early 1920s were a period of significant global transformation following World War I, with ongoing social, political, and economic changes across many nations.
  • 1921 Shuffle Along Premieres on Broadway: On May 22, 1921, 'Shuffle Along' made history as the first Broadway musical revue entirely written, composed, and performed by African American artists. Created by Noble Sissle and Eubie Blake, the groundbreaking musical challenged racial barriers in the entertainment industry and became a landmark moment in African American theatrical representation. The show was a critical and commercial success, helping to launch the Harlem Renaissance and paving the way for future Black performers and creators in musical theater.
  • 1922 Assassination of William J. Twaddell: William J. Twaddell, a prominent member of parliament for Northern Ireland, was fatally shot by members of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) while walking to work on May 22, 1922. This assassination occurred during the tumultuous period of the Irish War of Independence, reflecting the intense political violence and sectarian tensions that characterized Northern Ireland at the time.
  • 1923 German Hyperinflation Crisis: The German mark experienced a catastrophic decline in value, dropping below 1/50,000th of a U.S. dollar. This event was a critical moment in the Weimar Republic's economic crisis, highlighting the severe hyperinflation that plagued Germany in the aftermath of World War I and the Treaty of Versailles.
  • 1924 Leopold and Loeb Murder of Bobby Franks: In a shocking and infamous crime, Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb, two wealthy University of Chicago students, kidnapped and murdered 14-year-old Bobby Franks in Chicago. Their motivation was a disturbing attempt to commit what they believed would be a 'perfect crime', driven by their belief in their own intellectual superiority. The murder was meticulously planned but ultimately failed due to critical forensic evidence that linked them directly to the crime.
  • 1925 Rescue Mission: N24 Assists Stranded N25 Crew: In a remarkable display of aerial camaraderie and survival solidarity, the companion airship N24 spotted the stranded N25 and immediately landed to provide assistance. This rescue operation demonstrated the tight-knit nature of early polar explorers and their commitment to mutual survival in the unforgiving Arctic environment.
  • 1926 Chiang Kai-shek Consolidates Power in Kuomintang: Chiang Kai-shek strategically removes communists from leadership positions within the Kuomintang (Nationalist Party), marking a critical moment in the internal power struggle that would later define Chinese political history. This action signaled Chiang's growing influence and his eventual confrontation with the Communist Party.
  • 1927 Devastating Nan-Shan Earthquake in China: A catastrophic 8.3 magnitude earthquake struck near Xining, China, causing one of the most destructive natural disasters in recorded history, resulting in approximately 200,000 fatalities in the Nan-Shan region.
  • 1928 Capper-Ketcham Act Supports Agricultural Education: The Capper-Ketcham Act was passed, providing crucial support for agricultural education in the United States. The law financed the establishment of the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and offered matching funds to states with 4-H clubs, promoting youth agricultural training and rural development.
  • 1929 Uneventful Day in 1929: While no specific major historical events were recorded for May 22, 1929, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. Daily life continued across the globe, with people going about their usual activities during the interwar period. The late 1920s were a time of economic recovery and cultural transformation in many parts of the world, following the aftermath of World War I.
  • 1930 Harvey Milk's Birth: Harvey Milk, a groundbreaking American politician and LGBTQ+ rights activist, was born on this date. He would later become the first openly gay elected official in California and a pivotal figure in the civil rights movement.
  • 1931 Execution of Michele Schirru: Michele Schirru, a 31-year-old Italian-born American anarchist, was executed by a firing squad after being convicted of plotting to assassinate Italian dictator Benito Mussolini, marking a significant moment in political resistance against fascist regimes.
  • 1932 Amelia Earhart's Historic Solo Atlantic Crossing: On May 22, 1932, pioneering aviator Amelia Earhart made history by becoming the first woman to complete a solo non-stop flight across the Atlantic Ocean. Flying her Lockheed Vega 5B, she departed from Harbour Grace, Newfoundland, and landed near Londonderry, Northern Ireland, after a challenging 14-hour, 56-minute journey. This groundbreaking achievement not only challenged gender barriers in aviation but also solidified Earhart's reputation as one of the most significant pilots of the 20th century.
  • 1933 US Currency Legal Tender Declaration: The United States Congress passed a significant monetary policy measure, declaring all currency in circulation as legal tender, effectively standardizing the dollar's value and providing economic stability during the Great Depression era.
  • 1935 Moscow Metro Inaugurates First Public Line: On May 22, 1935, the Moscow Metro officially opened to the public, marking a significant milestone in urban transportation infrastructure. The inaugural phase stretched 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) and featured 13 meticulously designed stations. This underground transit system not only represented a technological achievement for the Soviet Union but also symbolized the industrial progress and urban modernization of the era.
  • 1936 James Henry Thomas Political Scandal: On May 22, 1936, James Henry Thomas was forced to resign from his position as Secretary of State for the Colonies following a significant political scandal. Thomas was implicated in a serious breach of governmental trust after leaking confidential budget details, which undermined his political credibility and ministerial integrity.
  • 1937 Birth of Facundo Cabral: Facundo Cabral, a renowned Argentine singer-songwriter, singer-poet, and folk musician, was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Known for his poetic lyrics and philosophical approach to music, Cabral would become an influential figure in Latin American music, blending folk traditions with social commentary and personal storytelling.
  • 1938 British Diplomatic Stance on Czechoslovakia: British Foreign Secretary Lord Halifax delivered a critical diplomatic message to the French ambassador, explicitly stating that Britain would not provide military support in the event of a potential conflict over Czechoslovakia. This communication signaled Britain's reluctance to engage in military intervention and foreshadowed the appeasement policies leading up to World War II.
  • 1939 Pact of Steel Signed in Berlin: On May 22, 1939, at the Reich Chancellery in Berlin, Italian Foreign Minister Count Galeazzo Ciano and German Foreign Minister Joachim von Ribbentrop formally signed a comprehensive ten-year political and military alliance known as the 'Pact of Steel'. This strategic agreement solidified the Axis powers' military cooperation and mutual support, setting the stage for their joint military actions during World War II.
  • 1940 Churchill Visits Paris During World War II: British Prime Minister Winston Churchill travels to Paris for critical strategic discussions with French General Maxime Weygand, attempting to develop a plan to defend the city against imminent Nazi invasion.
  • 1941 Hannah Arendt Arrives in the United States: Renowned philosopher Hannah Arendt, her husband Heinrich Blucher, and other refugees fleeing Nazi persecution arrived at Ellis Island aboard the SS Guine, symbolizing the intellectual exodus from Europe during the Holocaust.
  • 1942 Mexico Enters World War II: Mexico officially enters World War II on the side of the Allies, declaring war on Nazi Germany, Fascist Italy, and Imperial Japan, marking a significant commitment to the Allied war effort in the Pacific and European theaters.
  • 1943 First Jet Fighter Test: A significant milestone in aviation technology occurred with the first test of a jet fighter, marking a revolutionary moment in military and aerospace engineering during World War II.
  • 1944 Sinking of Japanese Destroyer Asanagi: During World War II, the Japanese destroyer Asanagi was torpedoed and sunk northwest of Chichijima by the American submarine USS Pollack. This naval engagement was part of the broader Pacific Theater naval campaign, where US submarines systematically targeted and destroyed Japanese naval vessels to weaken their maritime capabilities.
  • 1945 US 6th Marine Division Advances in Okinawa: As part of the Pacific Campaign in World War II, the US 6th Marine Division reached the suburbs of Naha, a significant city on the island of Okinawa. This advance was a crucial step in the United States' strategy to defeat Imperial Japan and bring an end to the war in the Pacific theater.
  • 1946 US Government Seizes Bituminous Coal Mines: In a dramatic labor dispute intervention, the United States federal government seized control of bituminous coal mines at 12:01 a.m. due to an ongoing workers' strike. This action demonstrated the government's willingness to directly intervene in industrial conflicts to maintain national economic stability during the post-World War II period.
  • 1947 Truman Doctrine Takes Effect: On May 22, 1947, the Truman Doctrine officially went into effect, marking a significant moment in Cold War geopolitics. The doctrine provided critical military and economic support to Turkey and Greece, two strategically important nations facing internal Communist pressures. By providing $400 million in aid, the United States aimed to prevent the spread of Communist influence in these regions and establish a containment strategy against Soviet expansion.
  • 1948 Soviet Mass Deportation of Lithuanians: The Soviet Union conducted Operation Vesna, a massive forced deportation of Lithuanian citizens to Siberia. This brutal action was part of the Soviet regime's systematic policy of population displacement, political repression, and cultural suppression in the Baltic states during the post-World War II era.
  • 1949 James Forrestal's Controversial Death: James Forrestal, a prominent U.S. government official, died by suicide at Bethesda Naval Hospital after a two-month stay. His death, occurring on the 16th floor of the hospital, sparked numerous conspiracy theories and speculation about the circumstances surrounding his demise. As the first U.S. Secretary of Defense and a former Secretary of the Navy, Forrestal was a significant political figure experiencing severe mental health challenges at the time of his death.
  • 1950 Celal Bayar Elected President of Turkey: Celal Bayar is elected as the third President of Turkey, marking a significant moment in the country's political transition and democratic development.
  • 1951 Memorandum on Korean War Diplomatic Considerations: A detailed memorandum by Windsor G. Hackler from the Bureau of Far Eastern Affairs analyzing the geopolitical implications following General Douglas MacArthur's controversial relief from command. The document explores potential diplomatic strategies and pathways toward achieving a peaceful resolution to the ongoing Korean conflict, reflecting the complex diplomatic tensions of the early Cold War period.
  • 1952 President Truman's 305th News Conference: President Harry S. Truman held his 305th news conference in the Indian Treaty Room (Room 474) in the Executive Office Building at 10:35 a.m. on Thursday, May 22, 1952. During the conference, he addressed several critical national issues including the recent railroad strike settlement, appreciation for John Steelman's contributions, the steel industry settlement, tidelands policy, the McCarran immigration bill, and General Matthew Ridgway's remarks concerning the Korean conflict.
  • 1953 Submerged Lands Act Enacted: President Eisenhower signed the Submerged Lands Act, granting states the legal authority to manage and develop navigable waters and submerged lands within their territorial boundaries, marking a pivotal moment in state-federal resource management.
  • 1954 Bob Dylan's Bar Mitzvah: Robert Zimmerman, later known globally as Bob Dylan, celebrated his Bar Mitzvah, a significant Jewish coming-of-age ritual marking his transition to religious adulthood.
  • 1955 Oldest Grand Prix Driver Makes Remarkable Finish: In a remarkable display of skill and endurance, a 55-year-old racing driver defied age expectations by not only competing in the Grand Prix but also securing an impressive 6th place finish. This achievement challenged prevailing notions about age limitations in professional motorsports and demonstrated that experience and skill can transcend typical physical constraints.
  • 1956 Intense French-Algerian Conflict Escalates: A significant military engagement occurred between French colonial troops and Algerian independence fighters, resulting in substantial casualties: 24 French soldiers and 67 Algerian rebels were killed during the day-long confrontation, highlighting the brutal struggle for Algerian independence.
  • 1957 Accidental Hydrogen Bomb Drop at Kirtland AFB: On May 22, 1957, a potentially catastrophic incident occurred when a B-36 bomber accidentally dropped the largest U.S. hydrogen bomb, the Mk 17, at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico. A snagged control cable caused the unintended release, but fortunately, the aircraft's safety systems prevented a disaster.
  • 1958 1958 Ceylon Riots: The 1958 riots in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) marked a critical turning point in ethnic relations between Sinhalese and Tamil communities. The violent conflict resulted in approximately 300 deaths, predominantly among Sri Lankan Tamils, exposing deep-seated communal tensions and setting the stage for future ethnic conflicts.
  • 1959 Benjamin O. Davis Jr. Becomes First Black Major General in USAF: Benjamin O. Davis Jr. achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first African American Major General in the United States Air Force, breaking racial barriers in military leadership during the late 1950s.
  • 1960 The Great Chilean Earthquake of 1960: Chile's subduction fault ruptured from Talcahuano to Taitao Peninsula, causing the most powerful earthquake on record. The seismic event was so intense that seismographs in Valdivia were overloaded and malfunctioned throughout the entire earthquake. The magnitude 9.5 quake triggered devastating tsunamis that impacted multiple Pacific coastal regions.
  • 1961 Martial Law Declared in Montgomery: Alabama Governor John Patterson declares martial law in Montgomery following racial tensions and riots, highlighting the intense racial conflicts of the early 1960s Civil Rights era.
  • 1962 Raoul Salan Sentenced: Raoul Salan, founder of the French terrorist organization Organisation armée secrète (OAS), is sentenced to life imprisonment in France, marking a significant moment in the aftermath of the Algerian War.
  • 1963 Assassination of Grigoris Lambrakis: Greek left-wing politician Grigoris Lambrakis was brutally attacked and clubbed over the head, an assault that would ultimately lead to his death five days later. This politically motivated violence shocked the nation and highlighted the intense political tensions in Greece during this period.
  • 1964 US President Lyndon Johnson presents "Great Society".
  • 1965 First Skateboard Championship and Vietnam War Protests: The inaugural skateboard championship takes place, marking a milestone in the sport's development. Simultaneously, in Berkeley, California, approximately 300 Vietnam War protesters march to the Draft Board, burning 19 draft cards and symbolically hanging an effigy of President Lyndon Johnson to protest the ongoing conflict.
  • 1966 U.S. First Military Action in Cambodia during Vietnam War: The United States launched its first military attack into Cambodia during the Vietnam War. After the U.S. 1st Infantry Division was subjected to mortar fire, Lt. Col. Richard L. Prillaman authorized a retaliatory strike across the Cai Bac River, targeting a Viet Cong position under the principle of self-defense.
  • 1967 Egypt Closes Straits of Tiran to Israeli Shipping: Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser strategically closed the Straits of Tiran to Israeli shipping, effectively blockading Israel's southern port of Eilat and its entire Red Sea coastline. This provocative action was a significant escalation of tensions in the region, directly contributing to the buildup of the Six-Day War.
  • 1968 Apollo 7 Mission Milestone: On May 22, 1968, the prime crew of Apollo 7 conducted a crucial mission that represented a pivotal moment in the United States' space exploration program, helping to restore confidence after the Apollo 1 tragedy and paving the way for future lunar missions.
  • 1969 Apollo 10 Lunar Module Test Flight: Astronauts Thomas Stafford and Eugene Cernan piloted the Apollo 10 Lunar Module (LEM) in a critical pre-landing mission, flying approximately 9.4 miles (15 km) above the lunar surface. This mission was a crucial dress rehearsal for the upcoming Apollo 11 moon landing, testing spacecraft maneuvers and procedures in lunar orbit.
  • 1970 Terrorist Attack on School Bus in Israel: Arab terrorists attacked a school bus in Israel, killing nine children and three adults in a tragic act of violence.
  • 1971 Devastating Bingol Earthquake in Eastern Turkey: On May 22, 1971, a powerful magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck Eastern Turkey, approximately 410 miles southeast of Ankara. The city of Bingol was catastrophically impacted, with nearly total destruction of its urban infrastructure. The seismic event resulted in 1,000 fatalities, destroyed 90 percent of the city's structures, and left 15,000 inhabitants homeless, creating a massive humanitarian crisis.
  • 1972 Watergate Scandal Begins: The Watergate scandal officially commences with the arrest of five burglars who illegally broke into the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate office complex in Washington, D.C. This event would ultimately lead to President Richard Nixon's resignation and is considered one of the most significant political scandals in American history.
  • 1973 Nixon Admits Watergate Cover-Up: US President Richard Nixon publicly acknowledged his administration's involvement in the Watergate scandal, admitting to unethical and illegal activities. He conceded that high-ranking officials participated in the Democratic National Convention break-in and covert spying operations, marking a critical moment in American political history.
  • 1974 US Nuclear Test in Nevada: The United States conducted a nuclear test at the Nevada Test Site, continuing its Cold War-era nuclear weapons research and development program. These tests were part of ongoing efforts to maintain and advance nuclear capabilities during a tense period of international relations.
  • 1975 West Ham United Wins FA Cup: West Ham United secured victory in the FA Cup at Wembley Stadium, defeating Fulham 2-0. Both goals were scored by Alan Taylor, marking a memorable moment in the club's football history.
  • 1976 Continental Airlines Flight 11 Bombing: On May 22, 1976, Continental Airlines Flight 11 was tragically destroyed after bombs exploded on board, resulting in a catastrophic incident that likely involved terrorism or criminal activity.
  • 1977 Carter's Notre Dame Address on Global Policy: President Jimmy Carter delivered a significant foreign policy speech at the University of Notre Dame, articulating a nuanced approach to international relations that emphasized human rights, democratic principles, opposition to apartheid, and nuclear arms control.
  • 1978 Deadly Air India Express Boeing 737 Crash in Mangalore: A catastrophic aviation disaster occurs when an Air India Express Boeing 737 aircraft crashes over a cliff during landing at Mangalore International Airport, resulting in the tragic loss of 158 lives out of 166 passengers and crew on board. This incident represents one of the deadliest aviation accidents in Indian aviation history.
  • 1979 Iran Hostage Crisis Continues: The Iran hostage crisis persisted, with American diplomats still held captive in Tehran, representing a significant international diplomatic and geopolitical tension.
  • 1980 International Court of Justice Addresses Iran Hostage Crisis: The International Court of Justice calls for the release of U.S. Embassy hostages in Tehran, highlighting the ongoing diplomatic tensions between the United States and Iran during the hostage crisis that began in November 1979.
  • 1981 Key Break in Atlanta Child Murders Investigation: A critical breakthrough occurred in the Atlanta Child Murders investigation when FBI agents and Atlanta police observed Wayne Williams near a bridge on the James Jackson Parkway. After witnessing a suspicious incident involving a white Chevrolet station wagon and hearing a splash, they placed Williams under surveillance. Two days later, the body of Nathaniel Cater was discovered in the river, significantly advancing the investigation into the serial killings.
  • 1982 Argentine Surrender in the Falklands War: On May 22, 1982, Argentine military forces officially surrendered to British troops on the Falkland Islands, marking the end of the 74-day Falklands War. This conflict, which began on April 2 when Argentina invaded the British-controlled islands, concluded with a decisive British victory. The surrender took place in Port Stanley, the capital of the Falkland Islands, effectively returning the territory to British control and solidifying the United Kingdom's sovereignty over the disputed South Atlantic archipelago.
  • 1983 Littleport and Ely Riots of 1983: In a significant social unrest event, a mob in Littleport, Cambridgeshire, England rioted on May 22, 1983, driven by high unemployment and escalating grain prices. The civil disturbance spread to the nearby town of Ely the following day, reflecting the economic tensions of the early 1980s.
  • 1984 Unremarkable Day in 1984: While no specific significant historical events were documented for May 22, 1984, this day represents a moment in the mid-1980s during the Cold War era. The world was experiencing geopolitical tensions, technological advancements, and cultural shifts characteristic of the decade.
  • 1985 Roger Moore's Final James Bond Film Premieres: 'A View to a Kill', the 14th James Bond film and the last to star Roger Moore, premiered in San Francisco, marking the end of Moore's iconic tenure as the legendary spy.
  • 1986 Cher's Controversial Appearance on Late Night with David Letterman: During a memorable and heated moment on NBC's 'Late Night with David Letterman', singer and actress Cher publicly confronted the host by calling him an 'asshole' during her live television appearance. The unfiltered outburst became an iconic moment in late-night television history, highlighting the raw and unpredictable nature of celebrity interviews in the 1980s.
  • 1987 Hashimpura Massacre: The Hashimpura massacre occurs in Meerut, India, where members of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) extrajudicially killed Muslim civilians during communal tensions, representing a dark moment in Indian civil rights history.
  • 1988 Leadership Change in Hungarian Communist Party: Károly Grósz succeeds János Kádár as the leader of the Hungarian Communist Party, marking a significant political transition during the late Cold War era.
  • 1989 Tiananmen Square 'Goddess of Democracy' Unveiled: Student demonstrators in Beijing erect the 10-meter (33-foot) high 'Goddess of Democracy' statue in Tiananmen Square, a powerful symbolic gesture of resistance against government authoritarianism during the historic 1989 protests.
  • 1990 Microsoft Windows 3.0 Launch: Microsoft introduces and ships Windows 3.0 at the Center City at Columbus Circle in New York. This groundbreaking version allows addressing memory above 640 kB, representing a significant leap in personal computing capabilities. Microsoft invested US$3 million in opening-day marketing as part of a US$10 million promotional campaign.
  • 1991 Channel Tunnel Breakthrough: Historic breakthrough of the North rail tunnel connecting England and France, a major engineering achievement in trans-European infrastructure.
  • 1992 Johnny Carson's Final Tonight Show Appearance: After 30 years of hosting, 66-year-old Johnny Carson concludes his legendary tenure on The Tonight Show, marking the end of an iconic era in American late-night television.
  • 1993 Riddick Bowe Wins Heavyweight Boxing Title: Professional boxer Riddick Bowe secured the heavyweight championship by scoring a technical knockout (TKO) against Jesse Ferguson in a decisive two-round bout. Bowe's powerful performance demonstrated his dominance in the ring and marked a significant milestone in his boxing career.
  • 1994 Vatican Reaffirms Male-Only Priesthood: Pope John Paul II issued the Apostolic Letter 'Ordinatio Sacerdotalis', definitively stating the Catholic Church's position that priestly ordination is reserved exclusively for men, reinforcing traditional ecclesiastical doctrine.
  • 1995 Laverne & Shirley 20th Anniversary TV Special: A nostalgic television reunion special celebrating the 20th anniversary of the popular sitcom 'Laverne & Shirley', featuring original cast members Penny Marshall and Cindy Williams reminiscing about their iconic roles and the show's cultural impact during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
  • 1996 Burmese Military Suppresses Pro-Democracy Movement: The Burmese military regime arrested 71 supporters of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, attempting to prevent a planned pro-democracy meeting and further suppress political opposition.
  • 1997 Kelly Flinn Discharged from Air Force: Kelly Flinn, the U.S. Air Force's first female bomber pilot certified for combat, accepted a general discharge to avoid a court martial. Her case drew significant attention to gender dynamics and military policies regarding personal conduct.
  • 1998 Lewinsky Scandal: Secret Service Testimony Ruling: A federal judge ruled that United States Secret Service agents could be compelled to testify before a grand jury regarding the Monica Lewinsky scandal involving President Bill Clinton. This legal decision was a significant development in the high-profile political controversy.
  • 1999 Columbine High School Massacre: A tragic mass shooting occurred at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado, where two students killed 13 people and wounded 21 others before taking their own lives, marking a devastating moment in American school violence history.
  • 2000 Sri Lankan Civil War: Major Battle in Jaffna: In a significant military engagement during the prolonged Sri Lankan Civil War, over 150 Tamil rebels were killed during two days of intense fighting for control of the strategic city of Jaffna. This battle represented a critical moment in the ongoing conflict between the Sri Lankan government forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), highlighting the brutal nature of the civil war that lasted from 1983 to 2009.
  • 2001 Nepalese Royal Massacre: Crown Prince Dipendra committed a horrific act of violence, murdering his father (the King), mother, and other royal family members before shooting himself. This tragic event led to his uncle Gyanendra ascending to the throne, dramatically altering Nepal's royal succession.
  • 2002 Civil Rights Justice: Bobby Frank Cherry Convicted: In a landmark moment for civil rights, a jury in Birmingham, Alabama convicted former Ku Klux Klan member Bobby Frank Cherry for the racially motivated 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church, which resulted in the tragic murder of four young African American girls. This conviction represented a significant step towards justice, decades after the heinous crime occurred.
  • 2003 UN Security Council Iraq Sanctions Lift: The United Nations Security Council voted to lift sanctions on Iraq and grant the United States and United Kingdom administrative control of the country until a democratic government could be established, marking a pivotal moment in post-war Iraq.
  • 2004 Dr. Manmohan Singh Becomes Prime Minister of India: Dr. Manmohan Singh assumes office as the 17th Prime Minister of India and the first Sikh to hold this prestigious position. His appointment marked a significant moment in Indian political history, signaling a new era of leadership and potential policy reforms.
  • 2005 German Political Shift: German Chancellor Gerhard Schroder announced early federal elections for autumn, one year ahead of constitutional schedule. This decision followed the CDU and FDP's victory in the North Rhine-Westphalia regional election, signaling potential political transformation.
  • 2006 Military Coup in Thailand: General Prayut Chan-o-cha of the Royal Thai Armed Forces announces a military coup d'état, following six months of significant political instability and tension in Thailand.
  • 2007 Israel-Gaza Conflict Escalation: Intense conflict between Israel and Gaza Strip involved rocket launches from Gaza, resulting in an Israeli woman's death, followed by retaliatory Israeli Air Force strikes on a munitions facility in Jabaliya, Gaza City.
  • 2008 2008 Sichuan Earthquake Devastating Aftermath: The catastrophic 2008 Sichuan earthquake continues to reveal its immense human toll, with 51,151 confirmed deaths and 29,328 people still unaccounted for, representing one of the most significant natural disasters in recent Chinese history.
  • 2009 India's New Government Formation: Dr. Manmohan Singh was sworn in as Prime Minister of India, marking the continuation of the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government in a significant democratic transition.
  • 2010 Air India Express Flight 812 Crash: Air India Express Flight 812, a Boeing 737, crashed over a cliff upon landing at Mangalore International Airport, India, resulting in a devastating tragedy. The aircraft crashed with 166 people on board, killing 158 passengers and leaving only 8 survivors. This incident became the deadliest crash involving a Boeing 737 at the time, prompting a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the accident. The flight's black box was recovered to help determine the factors leading to the crash.
  • 2011 Devastating Joplin, Missouri EF5 Tornado: A catastrophic EF5 tornado struck Joplin, Missouri, causing unprecedented destruction. With winds exceeding 200 mph and a width of nearly one mile, the tornado resulted in 158 fatalities, over 1,150 injuries, and $2.8 billion in damages, making it the costliest and seventh-deadliest single tornado in U.S. history.
  • 2012 SpaceX Launches First Commercial ISS Mission: SpaceX successfully conducts the COTS Demo Flight 2, launching a Dragon capsule on a Falcon 9 rocket. This historic mission represents the first commercial spaceflight to the International Space Station, marking a pivotal moment in private space exploration.
  • 2013 Murder of Lee Rigby in London: British Army Fusilier Lee Rigby was murdered near the Royal Artillery Barracks in London by two Islamic terrorists, Michael Adebolajo and Michael Adebowale, in a shocking act of violence that sparked national outrage.
  • 2014 Pro-Russian Separatist Attack in Ukraine: Pro-Russian separatists launch a coordinated attack on a Ukrainian military checkpoint in eastern Ukraine, killing 11 Ukrainian Army soldiers and injuring 30. The Luhansk People's Republic declares martial law and requests Russian peacekeeping intervention, escalating tensions in the ongoing conflict.
  • 2015 Ireland Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage via Public Referendum: The Republic of Ireland made history by becoming the first nation in the world to legalize same-sex marriage through a national public referendum. This landmark decision represented a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ rights, reflecting a profound social and cultural shift in a traditionally conservative Catholic country.
  • 2016 Syrian Civil War Atrocities: The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that over 60,000 people were killed in government prisons during Syria's five-year civil war, revealing the extreme human rights violations and humanitarian crisis in the conflict.
  • 2017 Manchester Arena Bombing: A devastating terrorist attack occurred at the Manchester Arena during an Ariana Grande concert, resulting in the tragic deaths of 22 people and injuring 59 others. The suicide bombing was carried out by Salman Abedi, a 22-year-old British-born Libyan, shocking the United Kingdom and the world.
  • 2018 Syrian Government Declares Damascus Safe After Recapturing Key Areas: The Syrian government successfully recaptured Yarmouk Camp and Hajar al Aswad from ISIL, declaring Damascus and its surrounding areas completely secure for the first time in 11 years, signaling a major turning point in the Syrian conflict.
  • 2019 Trump Financial Records Court Ruling: Judge Edgardo Ramos of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York ruled that Capital One and Deutsche Bank can release President Trump's financial records to Congress.
  • 2020 Pakistan International Airlines Flight 8303 Crash: On May 22, 2020, Pakistan International Airlines Flight 8303, an Airbus A320, crashed in a residential area near Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, Pakistan. The tragic incident resulted in 98 fatalities, with 97 passengers and crew members dying onboard and one person killed on the ground. Two passengers miraculously survived with injuries. The crash occurred in the Model Colony neighborhood, causing significant damage to residential structures and highlighting serious aviation safety concerns.
  • 2021 Israel-Palestine Ceasefire: A ceasefire was established between Israel and Palestine, ending 11 days of intense conflict that resulted in over 250 fatalities. International humanitarian aid was permitted to enter Gaza, marking a critical moment in the ongoing regional tensions.
  • 2022 Uneventful Day in Global History: On May 22, 2022, no major global events were recorded in primary historical sources. While daily life continued around the world, no singular significant political, cultural, scientific, or social milestone was prominently documented for this specific date.
  • 2023 U.S. Expands Pacific Security Presence in Papua New Guinea: The United States and Papua New Guinea signed a strategic security pact that will involve stationing American troops in the country. This move is primarily aimed at countering Chinese influence and expanding U.S. geopolitical reach in the Pacific region.

What Is special about May 22?

May 22 is notable for a variety of important historical, cultural, and significant events, including famous birthdays and deaths, holidays and more. Find out everything about May 22.