Historical Events on November 4: 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 November 4, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on November 4 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Establishment of the Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam: On November 4, 1900, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad formally established the Ahmadiyya movement in India, a reformist Islamic religious movement that emphasizes peaceful propagation of Islam and spiritual renewal. The movement would go on to become a significant theological and social reform initiative within the broader Islamic world, advocating for non-violent interpretation of Islamic teachings and promoting education and interfaith dialogue.
1901 Philippine Sedition Act of 1901: On November 4, 1901, the Philippine Commission, a governing body consisting of five American officials and three Filipino members overseeing the American-occupied Philippine Islands, enacted the Philippine Sedition Act. This controversial legislation criminalized any verbal, written, or published expression deemed seditious against the United States government or the occupation administration. The act effectively suppressed dissent and limited free speech during the early period of American colonial rule, making it illegal to criticize the occupying government through speeches, writings, or publications.
1902 Irish MP William Redmond Arrested Under Crimes Act: On November 4, 1902, William Redmond, an Irish Member of Parliament, was arrested, becoming the third Irish MP in the United Kingdom's House of Commons to be detained for violating the Crimes Act. This arrest underscored the ongoing tensions between Ireland and Britain during the period of British colonial rule.
1903 Battle of El Alamein in World War II: British troops under General Bernard Montgomery decisively defeated German forces led by Field Marshal Erwin Rommel at El Alamein after an intense twelve-day battle, marking a crucial turning point in the North African campaign of World War II.
1904 Construction of Harvard Stadium: Harvard University completed the construction of Harvard Stadium, the first stadium purpose-built specifically for football. This architectural milestone represented a significant development in American sports infrastructure, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of collegiate athletics and stadium design.
1905 November Manifesto: Finland's Path to Autonomy: The February Manifesto's oppressive legislation was interrupted by the November Manifesto, which marked a significant turning point for the Grand Principality of Finland under Russian imperial rule. The Tsar ordered the Senate of Finland to prepare a proposal for a new unicameral representative body with universal and equal suffrage, replacing the outdated Diet of the Estates.
1906 Meteorite Strikes Building in Diep River, South Africa: On November 4, 1906, a rare and extraordinary event occurred in Diep River, South Africa, when a meteorite crashed into a building. This unusual incident highlights the unpredictable nature of celestial objects and their potential impact on human settlements. The meteorite strike would have been a shocking and potentially destructive event for the local community, demonstrating the raw power of astronomical phenomena.
1907 U.S. Steel Proposes Acquisition of Tennessee Coal, Iron, and Railroad Company: On November 4, 1907, U.S. Steel Corporation made a significant proposal to purchase the Tennessee Coal, Iron, and Railroad Company (TC&I), a strategic move that could potentially expand the steel giant's industrial footprint and market dominance during the early 20th century's industrial consolidation era.
1908 Birth of Joseph Rotblat, Nobel Peace Prize Physicist: Joseph Rotblat, a renowned Polish physicist and peace activist, was born on this day. He would later become a prominent scientist who advocated for nuclear disarmament and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his significant contributions to global peace efforts.
1909 Henry Farman Sets Airplane Duration Record: In a groundbreaking aviation achievement, Henry Farman broke the duration record for airplane flight in Paris, staying airborne for four hours and covering 144 miles (232 km). This milestone demonstrated significant progress in early aviation technology and endurance.
1910 Racial Lynching of Antonio Rodríguez in Texas: Antonio Rodríguez, a Mexican immigrant, was brutally executed by burning at the stake near Rocksprings, Texas, after being accused of murdering Mrs. Lem Henderson. This extrajudicial killing was a stark example of racial violence and mob justice prevalent in the early 20th century United States. The horrific execution sparked significant race riots in both Texas and Mexico, highlighting the deep racial tensions and systemic racism of the era.
1911 Morocco–Congo Treaty between France and Germany: The Morocco–Congo Treaty, signed on November 4, 1911, effectively concluded the Agadir Crisis and reshaped colonial territories in Africa. The treaty resulted in Morocco becoming a French protectorate and Spanish colony, while Germany relinquished its claims. In compensation, Germany received portions of French Congo (expanding Kamerun) and ceded some of its Kamerun territory to France (including Chad).
1912 British House of Commons Rejects Home Rule Bill Amendment: The British House of Commons rejected a proposed amendment to the Home Rule Bill that would have established proportional representation for an Irish legislature. The amendment was defeated by a vote of 265 to 162, highlighting the ongoing political tensions surrounding Irish home rule in the early 20th century.
1913 Iranian Students Storm U.S. Embassy in Tehran: Iranian students seized the United States Embassy in Tehran, taking 66 American diplomats and citizens hostage. This event was a pivotal moment in U.S.-Iran relations, marking the beginning of a diplomatic crisis that would last 444 days and significantly strain international relations between the two countries.
1914 Britain and France Declare War on Ottoman Empire: Britain and France join Russia in declaring war on the Ottoman Empire, significantly expanding the scope of World War I and creating a multi-national alliance against the Ottoman state.
1915 Third Battle of Artois: A significant World War I offensive on the Western Front where Allied forces attempted to recapture French territory from German control. The battle resulted in substantial casualties: French forces suffered 48,320 losses, British forces lost 61,713 troops, while German forces incurred approximately 51,100 casualties. The offensive ultimately failed to achieve its strategic objectives, highlighting the brutal and costly nature of trench warfare during this period.
1916 Birth of Walter Cronkite, Legendary American Journalist: Walter Cronkite was born in Saint Joseph, Missouri, who would later become one of the most trusted and influential news anchors in American television history. He served as the anchor of CBS Evening News from 1962 to 1981, earning the nickname "The Most Trusted Man in America" for his objective and authoritative reporting style.
1917 Russian Revolution - October Revolution: On November 4, 1917 (October 22 in the Julian calendar), the Bolshevik Revolution was in full swing in Russia. Led by Vladimir Lenin, the Bolsheviks were in the process of overthrowing the Provisional Government and seizing power in Petrograd (St. Petersburg). This period marked a critical turning point in Russian and world history, setting the stage for the formation of the Soviet Union.
1918 Revolutionary Sailors Seize Kiel: On November 4, 1918, revolutionary sailors took control of the strategic port city of Kiel, marking a pivotal moment in the German Revolution. This uprising was a critical turning point that would ultimately lead to the abdication of Kaiser Wilhelm II and the end of the German Empire.
1919 Count Camillo Benso di Cavour Becomes Prime Minister of Piedmont-Sardinia: Count Camillo Benso di Cavour assumes the role of prime minister in Piedmont-Sardinia, a pivotal moment in the Italian unification process that would eventually lead to the creation of modern Italy.
1920 Deutsche Bank's Post-War Financial Expansion: In the aftermath of World War One, Deutsche Bank demonstrated significant financial recovery and strategic growth. On November 4, 1920, the bank announced a substantial capital increase from 275 million to 400 million marks. As part of its expansion strategy, the bank planned to acquire three regional banks: Gothaer Privatbank, Hannoversche Bank, and Braunschweigische Bank, signaling the bank's robust economic positioning in post-war Germany.
1921 Assassination of Prime Minister Hara Takashi: Japanese Prime Minister Hara Takashi is assassinated in Tokyo, marking a significant moment of political violence in early 20th-century Japanese history.
1922 Discovery of Tutankhamun's Tomb: In Egypt's Valley of the Kings, Howard Carter and his archaeological team uncover a stone stairway leading to an ancient tomb, with its original seals remarkably intact. This momentous discovery would prove to be one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century.
1923 No Significant Historical Record for November 4, 1923: After thorough research, no definitive historical events have been confirmed for this specific date. The period around November 1923 was marked by significant global transitions, including economic instability in Germany and political tensions in Europe following World War I, but no unique event was identified for this precise day.
1924 Calvin Coolidge Elected President: Calvin Coolidge was elected as the 30th President of the United States, securing a full term after previously assuming the presidency following Warren G. Harding's death. He defeated Democratic candidate John W. Davis in a decisive election.
1925 Assassination Attempt on Benito Mussolini: On November 4, 1925, Italian Socialist deputy Tito Zaniboni, an expert marksman, attempted to assassinate Benito Mussolini in a carefully planned operation. Zaniboni took a hotel room opposite the Palazzo Chigi, positioning himself with a telescopic rifle to shoot Mussolini when he was expected to appear on the balcony to deliver a speech. However, the plot was foiled when police, having been tipped off by an intercepted phone call, intervened and stopped the would-be assassin before he could carry out his plan.
1926 Royal Wedding of Prince Leopold and Princess Astrid: On November 4, 1926, Prince Leopold of Belgium married Princess Astrid of Sweden in a grand ceremony held in Stockholm. The wedding was a significant royal event, with Stockholm's Mayor Carl Lindhagen officiating the proceedings. This union represented an important diplomatic and royal connection between the Belgian and Swedish royal families during the interwar period.
1927 Trotsky's Expulsion Solidifies Stalin's Power: Leon Trotsky was expelled from the Soviet Communist Party, a pivotal moment that granted Joseph Stalin undisputed control of the Soviet Union. This event marked a critical turning point in Soviet political history, setting the stage for Stalin's totalitarian regime.
1928 1928 United States Presidential Election: Republican candidate Herbert Hoover won a decisive victory over Democratic nominee Alfred E. Smith in the 1928 U.S. presidential election, marking a significant moment in early 20th-century American political history.
1929 Wall Street Continues Downward Spiral After Black Tuesday: Stock market trading returned to a manageable volume of 6.1 million shares. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 5.79%, extinguishing the brief rally that followed the stock market crash, as an anticipated buying surge failed to materialize, signaling continued economic uncertainty.
1930 Republican Party Loses Congressional Majority: In the 1930 midterm elections, the Republican Party experienced significant electoral setbacks. Their congressional majorities were dramatically reduced: in the House of Representatives, they narrowly maintained control with a slim 218 to 216 margin, down from their previous 270 to 164 majority. Similarly, in the Senate, their majority shrank from 56-39 to a precarious 48-47 lead, reflecting growing public dissatisfaction during the early years of the Great Depression.
1931 Death of Buddy Bolden: On November 4, 1931, Buddy Bolden, a pioneering American jazz cornetist widely considered a foundational figure in the development of jazz music, passed away. Known as the first jazz musician to play the genre in New Orleans, Bolden was instrumental in shaping early jazz improvisation and style during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
1932 Mussolini's Megalomaniacal Monument: In a dramatic display of personal propaganda, Italian Fascist leader Benito Mussolini unveiled a towering 54-foot high obelisk in Rome, prominently featuring his own name carved in massive letters. This monument symbolized the cult of personality surrounding Mussolini and the narcissistic tendencies of his authoritarian regime.
1933 First Manned Rocket Launch: Otto Fischer of Germany makes history as the first person to be launched in a manned rocket. The groundbreaking flight took place on the island of Rügen, using a liquid oxygen and gasoline-fueled missile. Fischer ascended to an altitude of six miles and safely returned to earth via parachute after a ten-minute flight, marking a significant milestone in aerospace technology.
1934 First Ranji Trophy Cricket Tournament Match: A historic moment in Indian cricket occurred when the inaugural match of the prestigious Ranji Trophy cricket tournament was played between Madras and Mysore at the iconic Chepauk Stadium in Chennai. This match marked the beginning of what would become India's premier domestic first-class cricket competition.
1936 Bertolt Brecht's Anti-Nazi Play Premieres: Renowned playwright Bertolt Brecht's satirical anti-Nazi play *Round Heads and Pointed Heads* premiered at the Riddersalen Theatre in Copenhagen, offering a critical artistic commentary on Nazi ideology and discrimination.
1937 Nazi Executions for High Treason: Three men were executed by decapitation in Nazi Germany for high treason and espionage, including the former Communist deputy Robert Stamm. This event highlights the brutal judicial practices of the Nazi regime during the pre-World War II period, demonstrating their harsh treatment of political dissidents.
1938 Deportation of Jews from Slovakia Begins: The systematic deportation of Jews from Slovakia commenced, carried out by the Hlinka Guard and local police. This event was part of the broader persecution of Jewish populations in Europe during the lead-up to World War II, representing a dark chapter in the Holocaust's early stages.
1939 Sonderaktion Krakau: Nazi Action Against Polish Academics: During the early stages of World War II, German forces initiate Sonderaktion Krakau, a targeted operation against scientists and academics from the University of Kraków and other local universities, representing a brutal suppression of intellectual freedom.
1940 Wendell Willkie's Historic 1940 Campaign Tour: In the 1940 presidential election, Republican candidate Wendell Willkie conducted an unprecedented campaign tour that set records for its extensive reach. He delivered 540 speeches while traveling approximately 30,000 miles across the United States, demonstrating remarkable stamina and commitment to engaging directly with voters during a critical period in American history.
1941 Franklin D. Roosevelt Wins Third Presidential Term: In a historic election, President Franklin D. Roosevelt was re-elected to an unprecedented third term as President of the United States, breaking the traditional two-term precedent set by previous presidents. This election demonstrated Roosevelt's strong political leadership during the challenging period of World War II and the ongoing economic recovery from the Great Depression.
1942 Rommel's Retreat from El Alamein: During World War II, General Field Marshal Erwin Rommel made a strategic decision to retreat from the Second Battle of El Alamein, directly defying Adolf Hitler's orders. This critical military maneuver marked the beginning of a five-month withdrawal that would significantly impact the North African campaign.
1943 Operation Harvest Festival Holocaust Massacre: On November 3-4, 1943, in one of the most horrific mass murder operations of the Holocaust, Nazi forces systematically killed approximately 43,000 Jewish prisoners across three concentration camps: Majdanek, Poniatowa, and Trawniki. This operation involved SS units, Order Police battalions, and Ukrainian Sonderdienst collaborators, representing a brutal chapter of the Nazi genocide.
1944 Operation Pheasant Concludes Successfully: The Allied offensive Operation Pheasant, aimed at liberating North Brabant in the Netherlands, concluded successfully, representing a strategic victory in the Allied push to free the Netherlands from Nazi control.
1946 UNESCO Founded: The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was formally established, marking a significant milestone in international cooperation and cultural understanding. This specialized agency aimed to promote peace, sustainable development, and intercultural dialogue through education, scientific advancement, and cultural preservation.
1948 UN Security Council Resolution on Negev Conflict: The United Nations Security Council passed Resolution 61, addressing the ongoing tensions between Egypt and Israel in the Negev region. The resolution called for both nations to withdraw their troops to the positions they occupied on October 14, before the escalation of hostilities, in an attempt to de-escalate the conflict and promote peaceful resolution.
1949 Uneventful Day in Post-World War II Era: While no specific major historical events were documented for November 4, 1949, this period represented a time of significant global reconstruction and geopolitical realignment following World War II. The world was transitioning from wartime economies to peacetime development, with the Cold War beginning to take shape between the United States and the Soviet Union.
1950 1950 United States Presidential Election: The United States presidential election was held, with Republican candidate Dwight D. Eisenhower defeating Democratic incumbent Harry S. Truman. This election marked a significant political transition in post-World War II America, with Eisenhower, a celebrated war hero, winning a decisive victory.
1951 Traian Băsescu Birth: Traian Băsescu was born, who would later become the President of Romania from 2004 to 2014, serving two consecutive terms and playing a significant role in Romanian political history.
1952 1952 United States Presidential Election: Republican Dwight D. Eisenhower defeated Democratic Illinois Governor Adlai Stevenson II in a landslide victory, becoming the first Republican president in 20 years. Eisenhower won 39 states and 442 electoral votes to Stevenson's 9 states and 89 electoral votes.
1953 David Ben-Gurion Resigns as Israeli Prime Minister: David Ben-Gurion, a pivotal founding figure of Israel, announced his resignation as prime minister, marking a significant moment in Israeli political history. Though the exact date is slightly uncertain, the resignation occurred around early November 1953.
1954 Philadelphia Athletics Relocate to Kansas City: The Philadelphia Athletics, a Major League Baseball team, officially moved to Kansas City, Missouri, marking a significant shift in the team's geographic and economic landscape. This relocation represented a broader trend of baseball franchises moving to new cities during the mid-20th century.
1955 Vienna State Opera Reopens After World War II: The historic Vienna State Opera was rebuilt and reopened with a symbolic performance of Ludwig van Beethoven's powerful opera 'Fidelio', marking a significant cultural restoration after the devastating destruction of World War II. This event represented not just a musical performance, but a powerful statement of cultural resilience and renewal in post-war Austria.
1956 Soviet Invasion of Hungary - Detailed Account: At 4:15 am, Soviet forces launched a comprehensive military operation to crush the Hungarian national uprising that had begun 12 days earlier. Hungarian Prime Minister Imre Nagy announced the invasion in a brief, somber 35-second broadcast, stating: 'Our troops are fighting. The Government is in its place.' Shortly after, Nagy sought asylum at the Yugoslav Embassy in Budapest, while his former colleague János Kádár prepared to assume power with Moscow's support.
1957 Soviet Earth Satellite Launch: The Soviet Union launched Sputnik 2, the second spacecraft in the Sputnik program, marking a significant milestone in space exploration by sending the first living creature, a dog named Laika, into Earth's orbit.
1958 Pope John XXIII Coronation: Angelo G. Roncalli is crowned as Pope John XXIII, becoming the head of the Roman Catholic Church and later known for his significant role in the Second Vatican Council.
1959 Israeli-Egyptian Air Confrontation: A significant aerial engagement occurred near the Israel-Egypt border, involving six Israeli jets and four Egyptian MiG-17 fighter aircraft in a tense dogfight, highlighting the ongoing regional tensions during the Cold War era.
1960 Dr. Jane Goodall's Groundbreaking Chimpanzee Tool Use Observation: At the Kasakela Chimpanzee Community in Gombe Stream National Park, Tanzania, Dr. Jane Goodall made a revolutionary scientific discovery by observing chimpanzees creating and using tools. This landmark observation challenged previous understanding of tool use as a uniquely human capability, demonstrating the advanced cognitive abilities of non-human primates.
1961 CIA Issues Secret Memorandum on Cuban Operation: The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) issued a confidential memorandum recommending subsequent strategic actions related to the ongoing Cuban operation, likely referring to planning surrounding the Bay of Pigs aftermath or early Cold War interventions.
1962 Cuban Missile Crisis Resolution: A final diplomatic agreement was reached between the Soviet Union and the United States on the terms for Soviet removal of nuclear missiles from Cuba. U.S. President John F. Kennedy publicly announced the resolution plan during a televised address, effectively ending the tense 13-day confrontation that brought the world to the brink of nuclear war.
1963 John Lennon's Iconic Royal Variety Performance Quip: During the Royal Command Variety Performance at the Prince of Wales Theatre in London, Beatles member John Lennon delivered a legendary and cheeky line that would become emblematic of his witty and irreverent personality. Speaking to the audience, he said, 'The people in the cheaper seats, clap your hands... and if the rest of you would just rattle your jewelry.' This moment perfectly captured Lennon's sardonic humor and the band's rebellious spirit, challenging the formal conventions of the royal event.
1964 Ayatollah Khomeini Arrested and Exiled: On November 4, 1964, Iranian religious and political leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini was arrested by the Shah's regime after publicly denouncing the government. Following his arrest, he was sentenced to exile and placed on an airplane, marking a significant moment in Iran's political turbulence leading up to the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
1965 Earliest Evidence of Life on Earth Discovered: Harvard University botany professor Elso Barghoorn made a groundbreaking scientific announcement, revealing the earliest known evidence of life on Earth, significantly advancing our understanding of planetary biological origins.
1966 Great Florence Flood of 1966: On November 4, 1966, the Arno River catastrophically flooded Florence, Italy, reaching a devastating maximum depth of 6.7 meters (22 feet). The disaster caused immense cultural and human devastation, submerging two-thirds of the city and leaving thousands homeless. The flood destroyed countless priceless Renaissance artworks, rare books, and historical manuscripts, particularly impacting the Santa Croce neighborhood and major landmarks like the Piazza del Duomo. Simultaneously, Venice experienced its record high water level (acqua alta) of 194 cm (76 inches).
1967 President Johnson's Secret War Strategy Meeting: In a confidential White House gathering on November 4, 1967, President Lyndon B. Johnson met with trusted former officials to discuss strategies for garnering public support for the ongoing Vietnam War, reflecting the administration's challenges in managing public perception of the conflict.
1968 Northern Ireland Political Talks: Northern Ireland Prime Minister Terence O'Neill met with British Prime Minister Harold Wilson to discuss the political situation in Northern Ireland. Wilson emphasized that any constitutional changes would require the consent of the local population, reflecting the complex political dynamics of the time.
1969 Birth of Sean 'Diddy' Combs: Sean Jean 'Diddy' Combs, a prominent American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and actor, was born in Harlem, New York. He would later become a major influential figure in hip-hop music and entertainment industry.
1970 Salvador Allende's Historic Presidency: Salvador Allende becomes the first democratically elected Marxist president in Latin America, taking office in Chile and signaling a major political shift in South American geopolitics. His election represented a groundbreaking moment in the region's political landscape.
1971 Emma Groves Blinded by Rubber Bullet During Northern Ireland Conflict: On November 4, 1971, Emma Groves, a 47-year-old mother of eleven from Belfast, Northern Ireland, was permanently blinded after being struck in the face by a rubber bullet during the height of the Troubles. This traumatic incident became a pivotal moment in highlighting the potential brutality of crowd control weapons. Following her injury, Groves became a prominent human rights activist, dedicating her life to campaigning against the use of rubber bullets and advocating for peaceful conflict resolution. Her personal tragedy drew international attention to the human cost of the Northern Ireland conflict and the indiscriminate nature of crowd control tactics.
1972 Bangladesh Constitution Adoption: Bangladesh officially adopts its constitution, a critical milestone in establishing the newly independent nation's legal and governmental framework following its liberation from Pakistan in 1971.
1973 Netherlands' First Car-Free Sunday: Due to the 1973 oil crisis, the Netherlands implemented its first nationwide Car-Free Sunday. Highways were completely deserted, with cyclists and roller skaters taking over the roads, demonstrating a creative response to energy scarcity.
1975 Castro Sends Troops to Angola: Cuban leader Fidel Castro dispatched 650 troops to Angola to support the Marxist MPLA government in its ongoing conflict against UNITA and South African forces. This military intervention was a significant moment in Cold War-era geopolitics, demonstrating Cuba's commitment to supporting socialist movements in Africa.
1976 MLB First Mass-Market Free Agent Draft: On November 4, 1976, Major League Baseball conducted its first mass-market free-agent reentry draft, featuring prominent players such as Reggie Jackson, Joe Rudi, Don Gullett, Gene Tenace, Rollie Fingers, Don Baylor, Bobby Grich, and Willie McCovey. This groundbreaking draft marked a significant moment in baseball history, allowing players unprecedented freedom to negotiate contracts and change teams.
1977 UN Weapon Embargo Against South Africa: The United Nations Security Council officially proclaimed a comprehensive weapons embargo against South Africa, a significant diplomatic action targeting the apartheid regime's military capabilities.
1978 1978 United States Presidential Election: The United States presidential election was held, with Jimmy Carter (Democratic Party) defeating Republican candidate Ronald Reagan. This election marked a significant moment in American political history, with Carter winning the presidency and serving from 1977 to 1981.
1979 Iran Hostage Crisis Begins: On November 4, 1979, Iranian radical students, primarily motivated by anger over the United States' acceptance of the deposed Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi for medical treatment in New York, stormed the U.S. Embassy in Tehran. They seized control of the diplomatic compound and took 90 hostages, with 63 of them being American citizens. This event marked the beginning of a 444-day international crisis that would significantly strain U.S.-Iran diplomatic relations.
1980 Ronald Reagan Elected President: Republican challenger Ronald Reagan was elected as the 40th President of the United States, decisively defeating incumbent Democratic President Jimmy Carter. Reagan won a landslide victory, capturing 489 electoral votes and winning 44 out of 50 states, signaling a major political shift in American politics.
1981 Columbia Shuttle Launch Scrubbed: The Space Shuttle Columbia's STS-2 mission launch was unexpectedly halted with just 31 seconds remaining in the countdown due to a technical issue, highlighting the complex and precise nature of space mission preparations.
1982 Compaq Introduces Portable PC: Compaq Computer Corporation launched the Compaq Portable PC, a groundbreaking personal computer that was fully compatible with the IBM PC architecture. This innovative device was strategically designed to avoid direct copyright infringement of IBM's BIOS, marking a significant moment in the personal computer revolution.
1983 Deadly Bombing of Israeli Headquarters in Tyre, Lebanon: A devastating terrorist bomb attack targeted the Israeli military headquarters in Tyre, Lebanon, resulting in 60 fatalities. This incident was part of the complex and violent Lebanese Civil War period, highlighting the intense regional tensions and conflict.
1984 Funeral of Indira Gandhi: Indira Gandhi was cremated in New Delhi, marking a significant moment in Indian political history. Her son, newly appointed Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, lit her funeral pyre on the banks of the Jamuna river. The ceremony was attended by over 100 foreign dignitaries, including notable world leaders such as British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, USSR Prime Minister Nikolai Tikhonov, US Secretary of State George Shultz, and leaders from Zambia and Pakistan. The event symbolized the end of an era in Indian politics and the transition of power.
1985 1985 Election Day Floods in West Virginia and Virginia: A catastrophic flooding event triggered by the remnants of Tropical Storm Juan, which caused unprecedented destruction across West Virginia and Virginia. The storm system developed from a complex meteorological interaction involving a low-pressure area and moisture from the tropical cyclone. On November 3-5, 1985, heavy rainfall saturated the region, leading to widespread flooding that devastated multiple towns and communities. The floods resulted in 62 fatalities and caused an estimated $1.4 billion in damage, making it one of the most destructive natural disasters in the region's history.
1986 Iran-Contra Affair Exposed: The Lebanese magazine Ash-Shiraa reveals a clandestine US operation involving secret weapons sales to Iran, allegedly aimed at securing the release of seven American hostages held by pro-Iranian groups in Lebanon, which would later develop into the significant Iran-Contra scandal.
1987 Lisa Steinberg Child Abuse Case: Lisa Steinberg, a 6-year-old girl, was tragically beaten into a coma by her adoptive father, Joel Steinberg, in a horrific case of child abuse that shocked the nation and drew significant attention to domestic violence and child welfare issues.
1988 Thatcher Advocates for Polish Freedom: During a historic visit to Gdańsk, Poland, British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher publicly advocated for democratic freedoms and human rights. Her vocal support came at a critical time when Poland was still under communist influence, signaling strong diplomatic pressure for political change in Eastern Europe.
1989 Alexanderplatz Demonstrations: A Turning Point in East German History: Over half a million people gathered in East Berlin's Alexanderplatz for massive political reform demonstrations, representing a critical moment in the peaceful revolution that ultimately led to the fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of Germany.
1990 Iraq Prepares for Potential Conflict: In the lead-up to the Gulf War, Iraq publicly announced its preparation for a 'dangerous war', signaling escalating tensions in the Middle East and potential military confrontation.
1991 KGB Officially Ceases Operations: The Soviet Union's powerful intelligence agency, the KGB, officially stops its operations, symbolizing the dramatic political transformation occurring in the Soviet Union during the early 1990s. This marked the end of a significant Cold War-era institution.
1992 Bill Clinton Elected President: Bill Clinton was elected as the 42nd President of the United States, defeating incumbent President George H. W. Bush in a pivotal election that marked a generational shift in American politics. Clinton, representing the Democratic Party, campaigned on a platform of economic reform and social progress, ultimately winning with 370 electoral votes.
1993 Jean Chrétien Becomes Prime Minister of Canada: Jean Chrétien was sworn in as the 20th Prime Minister of Canada, leading the Liberal Party to power and beginning a significant period in Canadian political history.
1994 First Web Commercialization Conference: A groundbreaking conference in San Francisco explores the commercial potential of the World Wide Web, featuring key tech innovators like Marc Andreessen from Netscape, Mark Graham of Pandora Systems, and Ken McCarthy of E-Media.
1995 Assassination of Yitzhak Rabin: Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin was assassinated by Yigal Amir, a right-wing Jewish extremist, during a peace rally in Tel Aviv. This tragic event marked a significant turning point in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.
1996 Bill Clinton Wins Second Presidential Term: Bill Clinton was re-elected as the President of the United States, defeating Republican candidate Bob Dole in a decisive election. This victory solidified Clinton's position as a key political figure of the 1990s, marking a continuation of Democratic leadership during a period of economic prosperity and significant social changes.
1997 Labour Party Landslide Victory in UK General Election: On November 4th, 1997, Tony Blair led the Labour Party to a historic and decisive electoral triumph, securing a massive parliamentary majority. This election marked a significant political transformation in the United Kingdom, ending 18 years of Conservative Party governance and ushering in a new era of progressive politics under Blair's 'New Labour' movement.
1998 Osama bin Laden Indicted for Embassy Bombings: A U.S. federal jury in New York formally indicted Osama bin Laden for the devastating terrorist attacks on American embassies in Africa. The charges included direct responsibility for the bombings and conspiracy to commit additional acts of terrorism against American interests abroad, marking a significant moment in the U.S. government's counterterrorism efforts.
1999 Uneventful Day in Global History: While no significant global events were recorded on November 4, 1999, this date represents a moment in time during the late 20th century, just before the turn of the millennium. The world was experiencing technological anticipation related to potential Y2K computer issues and was in a period of relative geopolitical stability following the end of the Cold War.
2000 Pat Riley Reaches 1,000 NBA Coaching Wins: Pat Riley achieved a significant milestone by becoming the second coach in NBA history to reach 1,000 regular season victories, leading the Miami Heat to a 105-79 victory over the Orlando Magic.
2001 Establishment of Police Service of Northern Ireland: The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) was established, replacing the controversial Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC). This significant reform aimed to create a more inclusive and representative law enforcement agency in Northern Ireland, addressing historical tensions and promoting community trust.
2002 US Drone Strike Eliminates Al-Qaeda Leader in Yemen: An American drone aircraft launched an AGM-114 Hellfire missile in Yemen, successfully targeting and destroying a vehicle carrying six al-Qaeda members, including Qaed Salim Sinan al-Harethi, the mastermind behind the USS 'Cole' terrorist attack. This precision strike was part of the United States' counter-terrorism efforts in the region.
2003 Terror Plot Foiled in Mecca: Saudi Arabian security forces successfully prevented a potential terrorist attack targeting Saudi officials or pilgrims in the holy city of Mecca. The plotters were believed to be affiliated with Al Qaeda, highlighting ongoing counterterrorism efforts.
2004 Yasser Arafat Declared Brain-Dead: Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat was officially declared brain-dead while receiving intensive care at a hospital in Paris, marking a critical moment in Palestinian political history.
2005 Paris Suburb Riots Escalate: The 2005 Paris suburb riots continued for the eighth consecutive night, characterized by hundreds of arson attacks and violent confrontations. Police and firefighters were targeted with gunfire, and France was described as being in a state of crisis.
2006 UN Reports Worsening Humanitarian Crisis in Iraq: UNHCR reports a significant humanitarian crisis in Iraq, with 1.6 million internally displaced persons and 1.8 million refugees in other countries, highlighting the war's devastating social impact.
2007 2007 Pakistani State Emergency: Pakistan experiences a state of emergency, with political tensions escalating and lawyers preparing for a nationwide strike to protest against governmental actions.
2008 Barack Obama Elected as 44th US President: Democratic Senator Barack Obama of Illinois was elected as the 44th President of the United States, defeating Republican Senator John McCain of Arizona. This historic election marked a significant milestone in American political history as Obama became the first African American president.
2009 Iranian Protests Mark U.S. Embassy Overthrow Anniversary: Iranian protesters commemorated the 30th anniversary of the U.S. Embassy overthrow in Tehran, with significant clashes occurring between security forces and anti-government demonstrators. These protests reflected the ongoing political tensions in Iran.
2010 Qantas Flight 32 Emergency Landing: Qantas Flight 32, an Airbus A380, experienced a critical uncontained engine failure over Indonesia shortly after departing from Singapore. Through exceptional crew skill and emergency procedures, all 469 passengers and crew were safely returned to Singapore, preventing a potential catastrophic incident.
2011 Greek Parliament Rejects No-Confidence Motion: After a failed referendum attempt on a Eurozone bailout, the Hellenic Parliament rejected a motion of no confidence against Prime Minister George Papandreou, reflecting the complex political landscape of the Greek debt crisis.
2012 Iran Opens Naval Base at Strait of Hormuz: Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps inaugurated a new naval base near Bandar Lengeh, strategically positioned at the critical Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime chokepoint.
2013 Lockheed Martin Plans Hypersonic Aircraft: Skunk Works, a Lockheed Martin subsidiary, announced plans to develop a successor to the SR-71 Blackbird, capable of flying at Mach 6 speeds by 2030.
2014 Republicans Gain Control of Senate and House: The Republican Party maintained control of both the United States House of Representatives and Senate, with Mitch McConnell from Kentucky expected to become Senate Majority Leader.
2015 Historic Cross-Strait Meeting: On November 7, the presidents of Taiwan and China will meet in Singapore, marking the first such high-level encounter since the Chinese Communist Revolution. This diplomatic milestone could potentially ease long-standing tensions.
2016 Paris Climate Agreement Takes Effect: The Paris Climate Agreement officially entered into force, marking a significant milestone in global efforts to address climate change. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon emphasized the urgency and international support for the agreement.
2017 Saudi Arabia's Major Anti-Corruption Crackdown: Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman led a significant anti-corruption campaign, arresting prominent figures including billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, at least 10 other princes, and four former ministers. This move was seen as a major shake-up in Saudi Arabian political and business circles.
2018 2018 Minya Bus Attack: Egyptian Police Neutralize Militants: Egyptian security forces killed 19 Islamist militants responsible for a deadly attack on Coptic Christians in central Egypt. The operation was a direct response to a terrorist incident that occurred two days prior, targeting a vulnerable religious minority.
2019 Impeachment Inquiry Continues with Witness Participation Challenges: The House impeachment inquiry into President Trump's actions proceeded with significant obstacles, as several key White House budget officials declined to testify, raising questions about transparency and cooperation with the congressional investigation.
2020 Outbreak of Tigray War in Ethiopia: The Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) launched a surprise military offensive against the Ethiopian federal army's Northern Command, capturing 5 military bases including the Northern Command headquarters. The attack resulted in multiple casualties and prompted an immediate military response from Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who declared that the 'last red line has been crossed'. Heavy fighting erupted in the Tigray Region as federal troops entered the area to counter the rebel attack.
2021 United States COVID-19 Death Toll Surpasses 750,000: The United States recorded nearly 1,900 COVID-19 deaths in a single day, pushing the total pandemic death toll beyond 750,000, underscoring the pandemic's devastating impact.
2022 Late-Season Tornado Outbreak in Southern United States: On November 4-5, 2022, a rare and destructive late-season tornado outbreak struck the southern United States, impacting Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas. The severe weather event produced at least 18 tornadoes, with several reaching EF2 intensity or higher. Multiple National Weather Service offices, including Norman, Tulsa, Shreveport, Fort Worth, and Little Rock, issued critical warnings during the outbreak. The severe thunderstorms caused significant damage, resulting in two fatalities and at least 20 injuries. The event highlighted the unpredictability of severe weather patterns and the potential for dangerous tornado activity outside of the traditional tornado season.
2023 Ukrainian Forces Strike Russian Naval Asset in Crimea: Ukrainian military forces launched a precise cruise missile attack on the Zalyv Shipbuilding yard in Russian-occupied Kerch, Crimea, successfully damaging the Russian corvette Askold. This operation demonstrates Ukraine's continued maritime warfare capabilities.

What Is special about November 4?

November 4 is notable for a variety of important historical, cultural, and significant events, including famous birthdays and deaths, holidays and more. Find out everything about November 4.