Historical Events on May 29: 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 29, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

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Events on May 29 - Key Moments Throughout History

  • 1900 Founding of N'Djamena: French commander Emile Gentil establishes Fort-Lamy, which would later become N'Djamena, the capital city of Chad, during the period of French colonial expansion in Africa.
  • 1901 Uneventful Day in Early 20th Century: While no significant documented historical events occurred on May 29, 1901, this date represents a typical day during the early years of the 20th century. The world was in a period of gradual technological and social transformation, with industrialization spreading across Europe and North America, and global powers establishing complex diplomatic and economic relationships.
  • 1902 Lord Rosebery Inaugurates London School of Economics: Lord Rosebery, a prominent British politician and academic patron, officially opened the London School of Economics (LSE), marking a significant moment in the institution's founding. This event symbolized the growing importance of social sciences and economic education in early 20th century Britain.
  • 1903 Serbian Royal Assassination: May Coup d'État: On May 29, 1903, King Alexander Obrenovich and Queen Draga of Serbia were brutally assassinated in Belgrade by members of the Black Hand (Crna Ruka) organization. This violent coup d'état marked a dramatic and bloody transition of power in the Serbian monarchy, with military officers conspiring to overthrow and murder the royal couple in the royal palace.
  • 1904 Death of Sultan Abu Bakar of Pahang: Sultan Abu Bakar, the ruler of Pahang, passed away at his royal residence, Istana Hinggap, located in Pekan, Pahang. At the time, Pahang was part of the Federated Malay States under British colonial administration. His death marked a significant moment in the political transition of the Malay sultanate during the early 20th century.
  • 1905 Pogrom in Brisk, Lithuania: A violent antisemitic riot targeting the Jewish community occurred in Brisk (now Brest), Lithuania, during a period of significant social and ethnic tensions in the Russian Empire. These pogroms were characterized by widespread violence, property destruction, and physical attacks against Jewish residents.
  • 1906 Tragic Regicide Attempt on Spanish Royal Wedding Day: On May 29, 1906, a dramatic assassination attempt targeting Spanish King Alfonso XIII and Queen Victoria Eugenie occurred during their wedding procession in Madrid. The failed regicide resulted in a devastating tragedy, with 24 innocent bystanders killed in the attack. This shocking event exposed significant security vulnerabilities and created profound public trauma, dramatically overshadowing the royal couple's wedding celebrations.
  • 1907 Birth of Hartland Molson, Canadian Business Leader and Senator: Hartland Molson was born on this day, a prominent Canadian businessman from the renowned Molson family, who would later become a distinguished senator. As a member of the influential Molson brewing dynasty, he played a significant role in Canadian business and political circles throughout the 20th century. His life spanned nearly a century, during which he contributed to the economic and political landscape of Canada until his passing in 2002.
  • 1908 Indian Land Allotment Act of 1908: On May 29, 1908, the United States government passed a deeply problematic legislation that granted the Secretary of the Interior unprecedented power to sell Native American land allotments. Under this act, if the federal government deemed the heirs of a deceased Native American landowner as 'incompetent', the Secretary could unilaterally sell their inherited lands. This policy resulted in the massive dispossession of approximately 27 million acres of Native American territory, further eroding indigenous land rights and economic stability.
  • 1909 First Commercial Aircraft Sale in History: On May 29, 1909, a landmark moment in aviation history occurred when the G.H. Curtiss Manufacturing Co. completed the first sale of an airplane to a non-military buyer. The Curtiss No. 1, nicknamed the Golden Flyer, was sold to the New York Aeronautical Society for $5,000, marking a significant milestone in civilian aviation development.
  • 1910 Pope Pius X's Encyclical on Church Reform: Pope Pius X issued the encyclical 'Editae Saepe' on May 29, 1910, addressing concerns about potential reforms within the Catholic Church. The document was a critical response to emerging movements seeking to modify traditional church practices and doctrines, reflecting the Pope's conservative stance on ecclesiastical matters.
  • 1911 American Tobacco Company Antitrust Dissolution: The United States Supreme Court issues a landmark antitrust decision, dissolving the American Tobacco Company, continuing its aggressive stance against monopolistic business practices following the earlier Standard Oil Company breakup.
  • 1912 Labor Rights and Social Norms: Curtis Publishing Controversy: In a striking example of early 20th-century workplace restrictions, fifteen young women were terminated from their positions at Curtis Publishing for dancing the 'Turkey Trot' during their lunch break. This incident highlights the strict social and professional norms of the era, where certain dance styles were considered inappropriate and could result in immediate job loss.
  • 1913 The Rite of Spring Premiere Causes Artistic Uproar: On May 29, 1913, Igor Stravinsky's groundbreaking ballet 'The Rite of Spring' (Le Sacre du Printemps) premiered at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris, causing one of the most infamous riots in musical history. The avant-garde composition, with its radical choreography by Vaslav Nijinsky and revolutionary musical score, shocked the audience with its dissonant sounds, unconventional rhythms, and primitive, angular dance movements. The performance challenged traditional aesthetic norms, representing a pivotal moment in modernist art that challenged audience expectations and redefined the boundaries of classical music and dance.
  • 1914 RMS Empress of Ireland Maritime Disaster: On May 29, 1914, the RMS Empress of Ireland, a Canadian Pacific Ocean liner, sank in the Gulf of St. Lawrence after a catastrophic collision. The tragic maritime accident resulted in the loss of 1,024 lives, making it one of the deadliest peacetime shipwrecks in Canadian history. The vessel was struck by the Norwegian collier SS Storstad in dense fog, which quickly led to the ship's sinking. The disaster highlighted the critical importance of maritime safety protocols and navigation practices during the early 20th century.
  • 1915 ANZAC Forces Capture Strategic Position in Gallipoli Campaign: During World War I, New Zealand forces successfully captured and fortified No. 3 Post, a critical defensive position overlooking ANZAC Cove during the Gallipoli Campaign. This strategic maneuver was crucial in the Allied efforts to establish a foothold in the region.
  • 1916 US Military Intervention in Dominican Republic: The United States military forces invaded the Dominican Republic, initiating an occupation that would last until 1924. This intervention was part of the broader U.S. policy of military interventionism in Latin America during the early 20th century, aimed at protecting American economic and strategic interests in the Caribbean region.
  • 1917 Birth of John F. Kennedy: John Fitzgerald Kennedy was born in Brookline, Massachusetts, to a prominent political family. He would later become the 35th President of the United States, serving from 1961 to 1963, and is remembered as one of the most iconic and influential leaders of the 20th century. Kennedy was a Democrat who represented Massachusetts in the Senate before his presidential election, and his presidency was marked by significant events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis and early civil rights initiatives.
  • 1918 Battle of Sardarapat: Armenian Resistance Against Ottoman Aggression: On May 29, 1918, Armenian forces achieved a crucial victory against the Ottoman Army in the Battle of Sardarapat, a pivotal moment in Armenian military history. This battle was a significant turning point that prevented complete Ottoman conquest and helped preserve Armenian national identity during a period of extreme existential threat. The Armenian defenders, despite being outnumbered and under-equipped, demonstrated remarkable courage and strategic resilience, successfully repelling Ottoman forces and protecting their homeland.
  • 1919 Einstein's Theory of Relativity Tested During Solar Eclipse: Arthur Eddington conducted groundbreaking astronomical measurements during a solar eclipse, observing shifted star positions to test Albert Einstein's revolutionary theory of general relativity. This scientific expedition was a pivotal moment in modern physics, potentially challenging Newtonian physics and providing empirical evidence for Einstein's complex gravitational theory.
  • 1920 The Great Louth Flood of 1920: On 29 May 1920, a catastrophic flash flood struck the Lincolnshire market town of Louth, causing unprecedented devastation. Within just 20 minutes, the sudden deluge resulted in 23 tragic fatalities, making it one of the most significant and deadly flood disasters in 20th-century United Kingdom history. The rapid onset and extreme intensity of the flood overwhelmed local infrastructure, catching residents completely off guard and causing widespread destruction across the town.
  • 1921 Salzburg Province Votes for German Incorporation: In a significant plebiscite held on May 29, 1921, voters in the Salzburg province of Austria cast their ballots overwhelmingly in favor of being incorporated into Germany. This referendum reflected the complex post-World War I territorial and national identity tensions in Central Europe, highlighting the desire of some Austrian regions to align more closely with Germany during the tumultuous interwar period.
  • 1922 US Supreme Court Baseball Antitrust Ruling: The United States Supreme Court ruled that organized baseball is a sport and not a business, thereby exempting it from federal antitrust laws. This landmark decision would have significant implications for the future of professional baseball's legal and economic structure.
  • 1923 First Successful Rhesus Blood Group Transfusion: Dr. Karl Landsteiner and Dr. Alexander Wiener achieved a groundbreaking medical milestone by performing the first successful blood transfusion using the Rhesus (Rh) blood group system. This discovery was crucial in understanding blood compatibility and significantly advanced medical knowledge about human blood typing, ultimately saving countless lives by reducing transfusion-related complications.
  • 1924 Bucharest Munitions Depot Explosion: A catastrophic explosion occurred at a munitions depot located two miles west of Bucharest, resulting in significant loss of life and causing substantial damage to the royal palace. The incident highlighted the potential dangers of storing military explosives near populated and important governmental areas.
  • 1925 Percy Fawcett's Final Amazon Expedition Communication: British explorer Percy Fawcett sent his last known telegram to his wife before embarking on his fateful expedition into the uncharted Amazon rainforest. This communication would be the final contact with Fawcett before his mysterious disappearance, which would later become one of the most intriguing unsolved exploration mysteries of the 20th century.
  • 1926 Birth of Abdoulaye Wade, Senegalese Political Leader: Abdoulaye Wade was born on May 29, 1926, in French West Africa (now Senegal). He would later become a prominent political figure, serving as the third President of Senegal from 2000 to 2012. Wade was a key opposition leader and democratic activist before ascending to the presidency, playing a significant role in Senegal's political transformation during the late 20th century.
  • 1927 Jean Coutu: Pioneering Quebec Pharmacist and Entrepreneur: Jean Coutu was a prominent Quebec pharmacist and businessman who founded the Jean Coutu Group, a significant pharmaceutical and retail pharmacy chain in Quebec and Eastern Canada. His entrepreneurial vision transformed the local pharmacy landscape, establishing a business model that would become a cornerstone of healthcare retail in the province.
  • 1928 Dodge and Chrysler Merger: On May 29, 1928, automobile manufacturers Dodge and Chrysler announced a significant merger valued at $235 million. This strategic business combination represented a major consolidation in the American automotive industry, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape and creating a more robust manufacturing entity.
  • 1929 Kenneth Couzens - Coal Products Leadership: Kenneth Couzens served as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Coal Products, a significant industrial enterprise during the late 1920s. During this period, coal was a critical energy resource driving industrial development and economic growth in the United States.
  • 1930 Animal Rights Activists Disrupt Controversial Bullfight in Paris: On May 29, 1930, a passionate group of 600 members from the French Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) staged a dramatic protest against a bullfighting event in Paris. Despite bullfighting being technically illegal in France at the time, promoters had claimed the event would not involve bloodshed. The activists dramatically interrupted the event by throwing smoke bombs and other projectiles, causing significant disruption. The protest resulted in the arrest of seventeen women, highlighting the intense emotions surrounding animal rights and entertainment practices of the era.
  • 1931 Execution of Michele Schirru: Michele Schirru, an American citizen, was executed by a Royal Italian Army firing squad after being convicted of plotting to assassinate Benito Mussolini. This event highlights the brutal suppression of political dissent during the early years of Fascist Italy, demonstrating the regime's harsh approach to potential threats against its leadership.
  • 1932 Amelia Earhart's Historic Solo Atlantic Flight: Amelia Earhart became the first woman to complete a solo transatlantic flight, a groundbreaking achievement in aviation history that challenged gender barriers and advanced women's recognition in aeronautics. Her courageous journey significantly contributed to the progression of female pilots and international aviation exploration.
  • 1933 Standard Oil's Saudi Arabia Oil Agreement: The Standard Oil Company of California (now Chevron Corporation) signed a groundbreaking petroleum exploration and development agreement with Saudi Arabia, marking a pivotal moment in global energy geopolitics. This landmark contract would fundamentally transform the economic landscape of the Middle East and set the stage for Saudi Arabia's emergence as a major global oil producer.
  • 1934 Barmen Declaration Synod Convenes: The Confessional Synod of the German Evangelical Church gathered in Barmen, Germany, to draft the Barmen Declaration. This pivotal document was a theological rejection of Nazi ideology's influence on the Protestant Church, representing early resistance against the rising Nazi regime.
  • 1935 Messerschmitt Bf 109 First Flight: The Messerschmitt Bf 109, a revolutionary German fighter aircraft, completed its inaugural test flight. This aircraft would become one of the most significant and widely used fighter planes during World War II, playing a crucial role in the German Luftwaffe's aerial operations.
  • 1936 Yeste Conflict: Deadly Confrontation: A violent armed confrontation occurred between the Guardia Civil and local farmers in Yeste, resulting in 18 fatalities and numerous serious injuries. This incident highlighted the intense social and economic tensions in rural Spain during the pre-Civil War period.
  • 1937 Alwin Schockemöhle: Notable Horse Show Jumper: Alwin Schockemöhle was a prominent German equestrian athlete specializing in show jumping, a competitive equestrian sport that involves riding horses over a series of obstacles. During the mid-20th century, he was recognized for his skill and precision in navigating complex jumping courses, representing Germany in international competitions.
  • 1938 Balaguer Offensive Fails During Spanish Civil War: The Balaguer Offensive, a significant military operation during the Spanish Civil War, concluded with a decisive failure for the Republican forces. This engagement highlighted the strategic challenges faced by Republican troops against Nationalist forces in Catalonia.
  • 1939 Albanian Fascist Leader Joins Italian Political Body: Tefik Mborja, a prominent Albanian fascist leader, was appointed as a member of the Italian Chamber of Fasces and Corporations. This appointment reflected the growing political influence of fascist ideology and Italy's expanding control over Albania during the pre-World War II period.
  • 1940 Churchill's Defiant Speech: In a historic address to the British House of Commons, Prime Minister Winston Churchill delivered his famous 'We shall fight' speech, rallying British resolve and determination in the face of Nazi aggression.
  • 1941 Pro-Axis Iraqi Leadership Escapes Baghdad: On May 29, 1941, pro-Axis Iraqi leader Rashid Ali al-Gaylani and his supporters, including the influential Amin al-Husseini, fled Iraq as British troops approached Baghdad. This escape marked the collapse of their political and military resistance against British forces, significantly altering the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East during World War II.
  • 1942 Hitler's Strategic Directive No. 42: During World War II, Adolf Hitler issued Directive No. 42, which strategically canceled Operation Isabella and replaced it with Case Anton, signaling significant changes in Nazi military planning.
  • 1943 RAF Bombing of Wuppertal: A massive Royal Air Force bombing raid targeting the industrial city of Wuppertal in Nazi Germany, involving 719 aircraft that created a devastating firestorm resulting in over 3,500 civilian casualties, representing the escalating aerial warfare of World War II.
  • 1944 US Carrier USS Block Island Sunk and First Tank Battle in Southwest Pacific: On May 29, 1944, two significant World War II events occurred: German U-boat U-549 sank the escort carrier USS Block Island in the Atlantic, resulting in 6 American casualties. In retaliation, US destroyer escorts Ahrens and Eugene E. Elmore successfully sank U-549. Simultaneously, the first tank battle in the Southwest Pacific took place on Biak Island near New Guinea, with US forces defeating Japanese troops.
  • 1945 US Marines Capture Shuri Castle in Okinawa: The US 1st Marine Division successfully conquered Shuri Castle during the Battle of Okinawa, a critical and bloody campaign that marked a significant turning point in the Pacific War against Japan. The capture of this strategic location was a crucial moment in the Allied island-hopping strategy.
  • 1946 KVP Wins Provincial National Election in the Netherlands: The Katholieke Volkspartij (Catholic People's Party or KVP) secured victory in the provincial national election in the Netherlands, marking a significant moment in the country's post-World War II political landscape.
  • 1947 United Airlines Flight 521 Fatal Crash at LaGuardia Airport: On May 29, 1947, United Airlines Flight 521, a Douglas DC-4 passenger aircraft, crashed during its approach to LaGuardia Airport in New York City, resulting in the tragic loss of 43 lives. The accident was one of the significant aviation disasters of the post-World War II era, highlighting the ongoing challenges in air travel safety during the early years of commercial aviation.
  • 1948 UN Truce Supervision Organization Established: The United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) was founded to monitor and maintain peace in the Middle East, specifically focusing on observing and mediating conflicts between Israel and its neighboring Arab states. This organization became a critical early peacekeeping mechanism in the region during the tumultuous period following Israel's declaration of independence.
  • 1949 Ford Labor Strike Concludes: The 24-day Ford Motor Company labor strike officially ends after both management and union representatives agree to submit their dispute over work speeds to arbitration. This resolution highlights the complex labor relations in post-World War II American manufacturing and the role of negotiation in resolving industrial conflicts.
  • 1950 First Successful Mount Everest Summit: New Zealand mountaineer Edmund Hillary and Nepalese Sherpa Tenzing Norgay made history by becoming the first climbers to successfully reach the summit of Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, marking a monumental achievement in human exploration and mountaineering.
  • 1951 First Solo Flight Across the North Pole: Charles F. Blair, Jr. successfully completed the first solo flight across the North Pole in a single-engine plane, marking a significant milestone in aviation history. This daring journey demonstrated remarkable piloting skills and technological capability in navigating one of the world's most challenging and remote environments.
  • 1952 Charles de Gaulle Forms French Government: Charles de Gaulle, a towering figure in French history, led the Free French Forces during World War II and later established the Fifth Republic in 1958. As the first president of the newly formed republic, de Gaulle's leadership was instrumental in navigating France through a period of significant political transformation and asserting its sovereignty on the global stage.
  • 1953 First Summit of Mount Everest: Sir Edmund Hillary from New Zealand and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay from Nepal successfully reached the summit of Mount Everest, achieving a historic milestone in mountaineering. This groundbreaking expedition conquered the world's highest peak at 29,031.7 feet (8,848.86 meters), marking a pivotal moment in human exploration and endurance.
  • 1954 First Bilderberg Conference: The inaugural meeting of the influential Bilderberg Group took place on May 29, 1954, in Oosterbeek, Netherlands. This secretive conference brought together prominent political, business, and intellectual leaders to discuss global issues, marking the beginning of a highly influential annual gathering that would shape international discourse.
  • 1955 John Hinckley Jr. Background: John Hinckley Jr. is infamously known for attempting to assassinate US President Ronald Reagan on March 30, 1981, in Washington, D.C. The shooting occurred outside the Washington Hilton Hotel and critically wounded Reagan, who survived the attack. Hinckley's motivations were later revealed to be connected to his obsession with actress Jodie Foster.
  • 1956 La Toya Jackson Birth: La Toya Jackson, an American singer and member of the famous Jackson family, was born in Gary, Indiana. She would later become known for her music career and as a sibling of pop icon Michael Jackson.
  • 1957 Algerian Rebel Violence: During the Algerian War of Independence, rebels executed 336 individuals deemed as collaborators with French colonial authorities. This event underscores the brutal nature of the conflict and the intense struggle for Algerian independence.
  • 1958 Elvis Presley to Be Stationed in Germany: The U.S. Army announced that Private Elvis Presley would be deployed to Germany in September after completing basic training, to join an armored division.
  • 1959 Charles de Gaulle Forms French Government: Charles de Gaulle, a prominent French military and political leader, successfully forms a new government in France, marking a significant moment in the country's post-World War II political landscape. This event represents a crucial step in de Gaulle's return to political power and his efforts to reshape France's governance.
  • 1961 US Food Stamp Program Launched: The United States Department of Agriculture officially inaugurates the Food Stamp program, a significant social welfare initiative designed to provide nutritional assistance to low-income individuals and families.
  • 1962 Algerian Armistice Negotiations: Significant negotiations between the Organisation Armée Secrète (OAS) and the Front de Libération Nationale (FLN) result in a crucial armistice agreement, marking a pivotal moment in the Algerian War of Independence.
  • 1963 Titan II Research Flight Failure: A significant setback occurred during the 19th Air Force research and development flight of the Titan II rocket series. The flight N-20 experienced a critical failure just 55 seconds after liftoff from Cape Canaveral, highlighting the challenges and risks in early space and missile technology development.
  • 1964 Arab League Meeting in East Jerusalem: The Arab League convened in East Jerusalem to discuss the Palestinian question, a pivotal meeting that ultimately led to the establishment of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), a significant moment in Palestinian political history.
  • 1965 Samotlor Oil Field Discovery: A significant petroleum discovery occurred in the Soviet Union when drillers first struck oil at the Samotlor oil field, which would later become the sixth largest oil field in the world, marking a pivotal moment in Soviet energy exploration.
  • 1966 US Military Engagement in Cambodia during Vietnam War: The United States launched its first military attack on Cambodia during the Vietnam War, with the U.S. 1st Infantry Division responding to mortar fire while patrolling near the border of Tây Ninh Province. This incident marked an escalation of the conflict into neutral Cambodian territory, signaling a significant expansion of the war's geographical scope.
  • 1967 Pope Paul VI Expands College of Cardinals: Pope Paul VI conducted a significant consistory, naming 27 new cardinals to the Catholic Church's leadership. Among the notable appointments was Karol Wojtyla, Archbishop of Krakow, who would later become Pope John Paul II, one of the most influential pontiffs of the 20th century.
  • 1968 Manchester United Wins European Championship: Manchester United makes history by becoming the first English team to win the European Cup (now UEFA Champions League), defeating Benfica of Portugal 4-1 in an exciting match at Wembley Stadium after extra time.
  • 1969 Cordobazo: Major Civil Unrest in Argentina: A significant social uprising known as the Cordobazo erupted in Córdoba, Argentina, involving a general strike and widespread civil protests. This event was a pivotal moment in Argentine political history, representing massive worker and student resistance against the military government and highlighting growing social tensions.
  • 1971 Al Unser Wins Indianapolis 500: Al Unser achieved a remarkable feat by winning the Indianapolis 500 for the second consecutive year in 1971, demonstrating his exceptional skill and dominance in motorsports during this era.
  • 1972 Passing of Prithviraj Kapoor: Indian Cinema Legend: Prithviraj Kapoor, a pioneering and influential figure in Indian cinema and theatre, died on this date. A patriarch of the renowned Kapoor acting dynasty, he was instrumental in shaping the early foundations of Bollywood and Indian performing arts.
  • 1973 Tom Bradley Elected Mayor of Los Angeles: Tom Bradley made history by becoming the first African American mayor of Los Angeles, California, defeating incumbent Sam Yorty with 56 percent of the vote. His election represented a significant milestone in municipal politics and civil rights progress.
  • 1974 Direct Rule Imposed in Northern Ireland: On May 29, 1974, the United Kingdom government suspended the Northern Ireland Assembly and imposed direct rule from Westminster. This significant political decision came in the wake of the Ulster Workers' Council Strike, which had effectively paralyzed the power-sharing government established by the Sunningdale Agreement. The direct rule marked a critical moment in Northern Ireland's complex political history, reflecting the deep sectarian tensions and challenges of governance during the Troubles.
  • 1975 Final Shelling of Saigon During Vietnam War: North Vietnamese troops launched a strategic artillery attack on Saigon's Tan Son Nhut Air Base, a critical moment signaling the imminent fall of Saigon. This attack prompted U.S. Ambassador Graham Martin to initiate the final evacuation of American personnel, marking a pivotal turning point in the Vietnam War.
  • 1976 Severe Earthquakes on Burma-China Border: Two significant seismic events occurred in the Burma-China border region, with magnitude 6.9 and 7.0 earthquakes striking less than two hours apart, potentially causing substantial geological disruption and potential human impact.
  • 1977 Apple II Computers Launch: Apple introduces the Apple II series computers, marking a significant moment in personal computing history and helping to democratize technology for home users.
  • 1978 Soviet Nuclear Testing: The Soviet Union conducted a nuclear test at the Semipalatinsk Test Site in Eastern Kazakhstan, continuing its nuclear weapons development program during the Cold War era.
  • 1979 Zimbabwe's Political Transition: Bishop Abel Muzorewa is sworn in as Zimbabwe's Prime Minister, marking a significant moment in the country's transition from Rhodesian rule towards independence.
  • 1980 NBA Rookie of the Year Award: Larry Bird beats Magic Johnson to win the NBA Rookie of the Year Award, marking an early milestone in their legendary rivalry.
  • 1981 United States Nuclear Test in Nevada: On May 29, 1981, the United States conducted a nuclear weapons test at the Nevada Test Site, continuing its Cold War-era nuclear weapons development and testing program. These underground nuclear tests were part of ongoing efforts to maintain and advance the country's nuclear capabilities during a period of heightened geopolitical tensions with the Soviet Union.
  • 1982 Battle of Goose Green in Falklands War: During the Falklands War, British paratroopers achieved a significant military victory by defeating a larger Argentine force at the Battle of Goose Green. This battle was a crucial engagement that demonstrated the British military's tactical superiority and resolve during the conflict.
  • 1983 Tom Sneva Triumphs at Indianapolis 500: After three consecutive runner-up performances, Tom Sneva finally claimed victory at the prestigious Indianapolis 500 motor race, marking a significant milestone in his racing career. His win represented a culmination of years of persistence and skill in one of motorsport's most challenging competitions.
  • 1984 Death of Eric Morecambe: Eric Morecambe, one half of the legendary British comedy duo Morecambe and Wise, tragically passed away after suffering a heart attack during a live performance in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire. The beloved comedian died in hospital at the age of 58, leaving behind a significant legacy in British entertainment.
  • 1985 Heysel Stadium Disaster: On May 29, 1985, a tragic event unfolded at Heysel Stadium in Brussels, Belgium, during the European Cup final between Liverpool F.C. and Juventus. Violent confrontations between British and Italian football fans led to a catastrophic stadium collapse, resulting in the deaths of 39 people and injuring approximately 500 others. The incident was marked by crowd violence, structural failure, and a subsequent five-year ban on English clubs from European competitions. This event became a pivotal moment in football history, highlighting critical stadium safety and crowd management issues.
  • 1986 Indianapolis 500 Speed Record: Bobby Rahal made history at the Indianapolis 500 by becoming the first driver to complete the 500-mile race in under 3 hours, achieving an impressive average speed of 170.722 mph. This remarkable performance set a new benchmark in motorsport racing.
  • 1987 John Landis Acquitted in Twilight Zone Tragedy: Director John Landis was found not guilty in the legal proceedings related to the tragic helicopter accident that resulted in the deaths of actor Vic Morrow and two child actors during the filming of the Twilight Zone movie.
  • 1988 Reagan's Historic Moscow Summit: U.S. President Ronald Reagan begins his first visit to the Soviet Union, arriving in Moscow for a landmark superpower summit with Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. This visit represents a significant diplomatic breakthrough during the late Cold War era, symbolizing improving relations between the two superpowers.
  • 1989 NATO-Soviet Nuclear Missile Negotiations: NATO agreed to meet with the Soviet Union to discuss potential reductions in short-range nuclear cruise missiles in Europe, signaling a diplomatic approach to arms control during the late Cold War period.
  • 1990 Boris Yeltsin Elected President of Russian Republic: In a pivotal moment of political transformation, Boris Yeltsin is democratically elected as President of the Russian Republic, marking a significant step in Russia's transition from Soviet rule towards a more democratic system. This election would prove crucial in the eventual dissolution of the Soviet Union.
  • 1991 US Supreme Court Ruling on Prosecutor Accountability: In the landmark case Burns v. Reed, the US Supreme Court ruled that prosecutors can be sued for legal advice they provide to police, establishing a new precedent for legal accountability.
  • 1992 Tim Raines Reaches 700 Career Stolen Bases Milestone: Chicago White Sox outfielder Tim Raines achieved a remarkable career milestone by stealing his 700th base, solidifying his reputation as one of the most prolific base stealers in Major League Baseball history.
  • 1993 Neo-Nazi Attack in Solingen: A horrific hate crime occurred when Neo-Nazis murdered five Turkish women in Solingen, Germany, highlighting the ongoing racial tensions and xenophobic violence in post-reunification Germany.
  • 1994 Hungarian Socialist Party Parliamentary Victory: Hungary's Socialist Party secured a significant victory in the parliamentary elections, marking a pivotal moment in the country's post-communist political transition. The election represented a key democratic process in Hungary's evolving political landscape following the fall of the Soviet Union.
  • 1995 First Successful Mount Everest Summit: Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay achieved the first confirmed successful ascent of Mount Everest, completing a historic mountaineering feat that had challenged explorers for decades. Their achievement came just days after a previous expedition by Tom Bourdillon and Charles Evans had narrowly missed reaching the summit.
  • 1996 Benjamin Netanyahu Becomes Israeli Prime Minister: Conservative politician Benjamin Netanyahu was elected as Israel's prime minister, marking a significant shift in the country's political landscape. His election was controversial, as he was widely criticized for potentially obstructing the peace process initiated by his predecessor, Yitzhak Rabin. Netanyahu's leadership would have profound implications for Israeli-Palestinian relations and Middle Eastern geopolitics.
  • 1997 New Human Species Discovery: Spanish scientists announced the discovery of a previously unknown human species based on a 780,000-year-old fossil, providing significant insights into human evolutionary history and prehistoric human diversity.
  • 1998 RMS Empress of Ireland Disaster: The RMS Empress of Ireland, a Canadian Pacific Ocean liner, sank tragically in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, resulting in the devastating loss of 1,024 lives. This maritime disaster is considered one of the worst peacetime shipwrecks in Canadian history, occurring during a dense fog that contributed to a catastrophic collision.
  • 1999 Olusegun Obasanjo Becomes Civilian President: Olusegun Obasanjo is inaugurated as President of Nigeria, becoming the first democratically elected civilian head of state after 16 years of consecutive military rule, symbolizing a critical moment in Nigeria's political history.
  • 2001 Supreme Court Ruling on Casey Martin's Golf Cart Use: In a landmark decision, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that professional golfer Casey Martin, who suffers from a degenerative leg condition, can use a golf cart during professional tournaments. The 7-2 decision affirmed Martin's right to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act, setting a significant precedent for disability rights in sports.
  • 2002 Bush Administration Protects Everglades Ecosystem: President George W. Bush announced a strategic initiative to purchase back rights for natural gas and oil development in critical areas of the Everglades National Park. This environmental conservation effort aims to protect the unique and fragile ecosystem of the Florida wetlands from potential industrial exploitation.
  • 2003 Saudi Arabia Arrests Al-Qaeda Members: Saudi Interior Minister Prince Nayef announced the arrest of 11 al-Qaeda members in Medina, connected to the May 12 bombings in Riyadh. One of the arrested, Sheikh Muhammed Ali Hassan al-Mouyad, was identified as a major fund-raiser. The U.S. Justice Department indicated it would seek their extradition.
  • 2004 National World War II Memorial Dedication: The National World War II Memorial was officially dedicated in Washington, D.C., commemorating the sacrifices of American soldiers during World War II. The ceremony was a significant national event, attended by approximately 200,000 people, symbolizing the nation's gratitude to the veterans who fought for freedom.
  • 2005 French Referendum Rejects EU Constitution: In a significant political moment, French voters decisively rejected the draft European Union constitution, with 55% voting against the proposed treaty. This referendum sent shockwaves through European political circles and challenged the vision of a unified European political structure.
  • 2006 Al-Haditha Civilian Killings Investigation: The Times reported an investigation into a controversial incident in al-Haditha, Iraq, where US Marines were accused of covering up the killing of 24 civilians following an attack that resulted in a soldier's death. This event highlighted potential war crimes and raised serious questions about military conduct during the Iraq War.
  • 2007 Nigeria's First Civilian-to-Civilian Power Transfer: Umaru Yar'Adua was inaugurated as President of Nigeria at the Abuja Eagle Square, marking a historic moment as the first peaceful civilian-to-civilian transfer of power in the country's political history.
  • 2008 Bear Stearns Acquisition by JPMorgan: Bear Stearns shareholders approve the sale of the 85-year-old investment banking company to JPMorgan Chase & Company at $9.32 per share, a dramatic fall from its peak of $173 in January 2007, reflecting the unfolding financial crisis.
  • 2009 UN Conference on Disarmament: The Conference on Disarmament adopts its 2009 Programme of Work, establishing a Working Group to negotiate a treaty banning nuclear weapons.
  • 2010 BP Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill Crisis: BP's attempts to stop the massive Gulf of Mexico oil leakage are failing, marking the worst oil spillage in American history and posing significant environmental threats to marshlands and beaches.
  • 2011 Syrian Uprising Continues: The 2011 Syrian uprising intensifies as government forces attack towns like Rastan, using tanks and military force to suppress pro-democracy protests, resulting in civilian casualties.
  • 2012 Syrian Diplomatic Expulsions: In response to the horrific Houla massacre, numerous Arab and Western countries collectively expelled Syrian diplomats, escalating international condemnation of the Syrian government's actions during the ongoing civil war.
  • 2013 War Crimes Sentencing at International Tribunal: Jadranko Prlic, a former Bosnian official, was sentenced to 25 years imprisonment by the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia for war crimes committed during the Yugoslav Wars.
  • 2014 Ebola Outbreak Response in Sierra Leone: Medical teams from Doctors Without Borders and the World Health Organisation arrive in Sierra Leone to combat an escalating Ebola outbreak, marking a critical international health intervention.
  • 2015 US Removes Cuba from Terrorism List: The United States officially removed Cuba from its State Sponsors of Terrorism List, marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough and a key step in normalizing relations between the two countries after decades of tension.
  • 2016 Migrant Crisis in Mediterranean: The United Nations reported a potential tragedy involving 700 migrants who may have drowned in three shipwrecks off the Italian coast, drawing attention to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Mediterranean.
  • 2017 Canadian Indigenous Residential Schools: Trudeau Seeks Papal Apology: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau formally requested Pope Francis to publicly apologize for the Roman Catholic Church's historical involvement in the systemic abuse of Indigenous children in Canadian residential schools, continuing efforts for reconciliation and acknowledgment of past injustices.
  • 2018 US-China Trade Dispute Escalation: The United States government announced a significant 25% tariff on $50 billion worth of Chinese goods categorized as having 'industrially important technology'. The announcement included plans to publish a complete product list on June 15 and notify investors of investment restrictions and enhanced export controls by June 30.
  • 2019 Pediatrician Arrested for Child Sexual Abuse: Ricardo Russo, a 55-year-old pediatrician and Chief of the Immunology Department at Hospital Garrahan in Buenos Aires, was arrested on serious charges of sexually abusing minors and possessing and distributing child pornography involving children and babies with disabilities. The case attracted international attention, with both U.S. FBI and Brazilian prosecutors involved.
  • 2020 George Floyd Protests at the White House: On May 29, 2020, massive protests erupted in Washington, D.C. following the death of George Floyd, reaching the White House gates and causing significant tension. Demonstrators clashed with the United States Secret Service, resulting in over 60 agents being injured, with 11 requiring hospitalization. The intensity of the protests prompted the Secret Service to relocate President Donald Trump to the White House underground bunker for safety. Trump later attempted to downplay the incident by claiming he was merely conducting an 'inspection'. The protests caused substantial damage to national monuments, including the Lincoln Memorial and National World War II Memorial. Additionally, intentional fires were set, notably at St. John's Episcopal Church in Lafayette Square, symbolizing the deep-seated anger and frustration over systemic racial injustice.
  • 2021 Kamloops Residential School Mass Grave Discovery: In a deeply disturbing revelation, the remains of 215 Indigenous children were discovered at the site of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School in British Columbia, Canada. This discovery highlighted the tragic legacy of Canada's residential school system, which forcibly separated Indigenous children from their families and communities, resulting in widespread cultural trauma and loss of life.
  • 2023 China Announces Ambitious Lunar Astronaut Mission: China revealed plans to send astronauts to the moon before 2030, signaling its growing capabilities in space exploration and positioning itself as a major player in international space research.

What Is special about May 29?

May 29 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 29.