Historical Events on November 5: 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 5, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on November 5 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 First Chemical Synthesis of Epinephrine: On November 5, 1900, Japanese chemist Jōkichi Takamine made a groundbreaking scientific achievement by applying for a patent on the first chemical synthesis of epinephrine, a critical human hormone. Takamine named this synthesized compound 'adrenaline', which would later become a pivotal medical breakthrough in understanding human physiology and developing treatments for various medical conditions.
1901 UK-Brazil Boundary Arbitration Treaty: The United Kingdom and Brazil signed a landmark treaty agreeing to international arbitration to resolve the boundary dispute between northern Brazil and British Guiana (now Guyana). The King of Italy, Victor Emmanuel III, was appointed as the arbitrator. After his initial decision on June 6, 1904, and subsequent corrections, the nations finalized the boundary along the Essequibo and Courantyne Rivers with a treaty on April 22, 1926.
1902 British Financial Aid to South African Colonies: The United Kingdom's House of Commons approved a substantial financial aid package of $40 million to support Britain's South African colonies, reflecting the ongoing economic and political engagement in the region during the post-Boer War period.
1903 Racial Tension in Bronxville, New York: Edward Green, an African-American man, was nearly lynched in Bronxville, New York, but was ultimately acquitted. This event underscores the racial tensions and systemic racism prevalent in early 20th-century America.
1904 Birth of Cooney Weiland, Canadian Ice Hockey Player: Cooney Weiland was born on November 5, 1904, and would become a notable figure in Canadian ice hockey. Throughout his career, he made significant contributions to the sport and was remembered as a prominent player until his death in 1985.
1905 Wright Brothers Protect Wright Flyer III Technology: Orville and Wilbur Wright dismantled their revolutionary Wright Flyer III airplane and placed it in storage to prevent competitors from learning its advanced technological design and innovations. This strategic move demonstrated their commitment to protecting their groundbreaking aviation intellectual property.
1906 Birth of Fred Lawrence Whipple, Renowned Astronomer: Fred Lawrence Whipple was an influential American astronomer born on November 5, 1906. He is best known for his groundbreaking work in understanding comets and developing the 'dirty snowball' model, which describes comets as being composed of ice, dust, and rocky particles. Whipple made significant contributions to astronomy, including developing meteor tracking techniques and working on spacecraft tracking during the early space age.
1907 Devastating Earthquake in Michoacán, Mexico: On November 5th, 1907, a significant seismic event struck the Mexican state of Michoacán, causing substantial geological disruption and likely widespread damage to local communities. The earthquake was part of the region's complex tectonic activity, situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where the Cocos Plate interacts with the North American Plate. While specific details about casualties and structural damage are limited in the original record, such geological events typically had profound impacts on local populations during the early 20th century.
1909 Uneventful Day in World History: On November 5, 1909, no significant global events were recorded. This day appears to have been relatively quiet in terms of historical developments, with no major political, scientific, social, or cultural milestones documented.
1910 Portuguese Political Prisoner Amnesty: On November 5, 1910, following the recent Portuguese Republican Revolution that overthrew the monarchy, the new republican government implemented a significant criminal justice reform. The government granted a comprehensive amnesty to all political prisoners and reduced the sentences of other criminals by one-third, signaling a progressive approach to justice and a symbolic gesture of reconciliation in the aftermath of political upheaval.
1911 First Transcontinental Airplane Flight Completed: Calbraith Rodgers successfully completed the first transcontinental airplane flight across the United States, arriving in Pasadena, California after a remarkable 49-day journey. Starting from Sheepshead Bay, New York on September 17, Rodgers covered 3,220 miles with 69 stops, marking a significant milestone in early aviation history.
1912 1912 United States Presidential Election: In a historic three-way race, Democratic challenger Woodrow Wilson secured a decisive victory over Progressive candidate Theodore Roosevelt and Republican incumbent William Howard Taft. This election was notable for its complex political dynamics, with Roosevelt splitting the Republican vote by running as a Progressive Party candidate.
1913 First Successful Insulin Treatment for Diabetes: Canadian scientists Frederick Banting and Charles Best reported the first successful insulin treatment for diabetes, a groundbreaking medical discovery that would revolutionize the management of this chronic disease and save millions of lives.
1914 World War I: Allied Powers Declare War on Ottoman Empire: On November 5, 1914, France and the British Empire officially declared war on the Ottoman Empire, marking a significant expansion of World War I's geopolitical landscape. This declaration brought the Ottoman Empire into direct conflict with the Allied Powers and dramatically altered the war's strategic dynamics.
1915 Sinking of British Steamer Tara: The British armed boarding steamer Tara was torpedoed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea near Sollum by the German submarine SM U-35. The attack resulted in the tragic loss of 12 crew members, exemplifying the naval warfare tactics of World War I's submarine campaigns.
1916 Battle of Verdun Developments: During the prolonged Battle of Verdun, a major engagement of World War I, French forces successfully gained ground against German troops, representing a strategic moment in the conflict.
1917 Lenin Calls for October Revolution: Vladimir Lenin issued a call for the October Revolution, a critical moment that would ultimately lead to the Bolsheviks seizing power in Russia and fundamentally transforming the country's political landscape.
1918 German Armistice Negotiations Initiated in World War I: President Woodrow Wilson formally communicated to the German leadership that armistice discussions could commence, predicated on his renowned Fourteen Points diplomatic framework. Critically, Wilson stipulated that the actual armistice negotiations must be conducted through Marshal Ferdinand Foch, the Supreme Allied Commander, signaling the Allies' unified strategic approach to ending World War I.
1919 Maine Ratifies 19th Amendment, Advancing Women's Suffrage: On November 5, 1919, the Maine House of Representatives voted to ratify the 19th Amendment to the United States Constitution, becoming the 19th state to approve women's right to vote. This milestone was a critical step in the long-fought women's suffrage movement, which had been campaigning for decades to secure equal voting rights for women across the United States.
1920 Jack Dempsey and Georges Carpentier Sign Contract for the Fight of the Century: At a press conference held in the crowded ballroom of the Hotel Claridge in New York City, world heavyweight boxing champion Jack Dempsey and world light heavyweight champion Georges Carpentier formally signed a contract to face each other in an eagerly-anticipated boxing match. This event was groundbreaking, as each fighter would receive an unprecedented sum of $500,000 (equivalent to $7.6 million in 2023). While the contract was signed on November 5, 1920, the actual bout was scheduled for July 2, 1921, in Jersey City, New Jersey, and would become one of the most significant sporting events of the early 20th century.
1921 Mongolia-Soviet Russia Treaty Signed: A pivotal diplomatic agreement is signed between Mongolia and Soviet Russia, providing Soviet support to the Mongolian government against potential external threats. This treaty marks an important moment in Mongolia's geopolitical positioning during the early 20th century, solidifying Soviet influence in the region.
1922 Demonstration for Dutch University in Ghent: On November 5, 1922, a significant demonstration took place in Ghent, Belgium, advocating for the establishment of a Dutch-language university in the city. This event was part of the broader linguistic and cultural tensions in Belgium during the early 20th century, reflecting the growing demand for educational institutions that represented the Dutch-speaking Flemish population.
1923 Uneventful Day in 1923: While no specific major historical events were recorded for November 5, 1923, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. The early 1920s were a period of significant global transitions, including the aftermath of World War I, economic restructuring, and emerging political movements across Europe and the world.
1924 Winston Churchill Appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer: In a surprising political move, Stanley Baldwin appointed Winston Churchill as British Chancellor of the Exchequer, despite Churchill's lack of financial experience. This appointment would prove to be a significant moment in Churchill's political career, setting the stage for his future leadership.
1925 Mussolini Suppresses Socialist Parties: Benito Mussolini, the fascist leader of Italy, officially disbanded Italian socialist political parties, further consolidating his authoritarian control and eliminating political opposition. This action was a critical step in transforming Italy from a democratic system to a totalitarian fascist state.
1926 British Coal Miners' Lockout Negotiations Resume: On November 5, 1926, critical negotiations reopened in Britain between the government and the Miners' Federation to resolve the prolonged coal miners' labor dispute. The talks represented a significant attempt to end the months-long industrial conflict that had been causing substantial economic and social disruption in the United Kingdom. The miners had been locked out by mine owners following wage disputes and disagreements about working conditions, reflecting the broader industrial tensions of the interwar period.
1927 Guide Dogs Introduced to American Public: The Saturday Evening Post published a groundbreaking article titled 'The Seeing Eye', which introduced Americans to the revolutionary concept of guide dogs for visually impaired individuals. Written by Dorothy Harrison Eustis, the article shed light on the potential of specially trained dogs to assist and enhance mobility for blind people.
1928 Devastating Mount Etna Eruption Destroys Sicilian Landscape: On November 5, 1928, Mount Etna, one of Europe's most active volcanoes, experienced a catastrophic lateral eruption that dramatically transformed the northeastern Sicilian landscape. A significant lateral fault opened midway up the volcano's northeast slope, triggering widespread destruction. The eruption obliterated critical infrastructure, including roads and a section of the historic Circumetnea railway track. Approximately 2,000 acres of centuries-old vineyards and prime agricultural land were completely consumed by molten lava. Most tragically, the entire village of Mascali was buried under volcanic rock, marking a devastating moment in the region's geological and human history.
1929 British House of Commons Recognizes Soviet Union: On November 5, 1929, the British House of Commons voted to officially recognize the Soviet Union, with a decisive vote of 324 to 199. This diplomatic milestone represented a significant shift in international relations, acknowledging the Soviet state and potentially opening channels for future political and economic engagement.
1930 3rd Academy Awards Ceremony: The 3rd Academy Awards were held at the Ambassador Hotel in London, with the groundbreaking war film 'All Quiet on the Western Front' winning the top award for Outstanding Production, marking a significant moment in early cinema history.
1931 Mahatma Gandhi's Historic Meeting with King George V: Mahatma Gandhi attended a formal reception at Buckingham Palace and met with King George V for five minutes. In a striking display of cultural contrast, Gandhi wore his customary attire of a simple loin cloth and shawl, standing out dramatically among the other guests dressed in elaborate silken finery. This moment symbolized Gandhi's commitment to simplicity and his defiance of colonial social norms.
1932 Lancashire Cotton Workers Strike Concludes: On November 5, 1932, a significant labor dispute involving 200,000 cotton workers in Lancashire, England, came to an end after five days of strike action. The workers reluctantly agreed to wage cuts, reflecting the economic hardships of the Great Depression era.
1933 Spanish Basque Autonomy Vote: On November 5, 1933, Basque voters in the provinces of Vizcaya, Alava, and Guipuzcoa approved a historic resolution seeking autonomy within the Spanish state, reflecting the region's strong desire for self-governance.
1934 Churchill Warns of German Re-armament: Winston Churchill delivered a critical warning to the British government about Germany's secret, illegal, and rapid re-armament. His speech highlighted growing concerns about Nazi Germany's military preparations and the potential threat to European stability, presaging the approaching World War II.
1935 Maryland Court of Appeals Landmark Civil Rights Decision: The Maryland Court of Appeals orders the University of Maryland to admit Donald Murray, an African American student, marking a significant early legal victory in the fight against racial segregation in higher education.
1936 Nazi Germany's New Penal Code: On November 5, 1936, Nazi Germany implemented a new penal code that significantly expanded legal restrictions on free speech. The code introduced severe penalties for individuals who criticized or slandered Adolf Hitler or the memory of former President Paul von Hindenburg, further consolidating the Nazi regime's control over public discourse and suppressing potential political opposition.
1937 Hitler's Secret War Planning Meeting: Adolf Hitler convened a critical strategic meeting with top military leadership, including Minister of War Field Marshal von Blomberg, General von Fritsch, Admiral Erich Raeder, and General Hermann Göring. During this confidential gathering, Hitler articulated Germany's expansionist objectives, emphasizing the preservation of racial ideology and outlining aggressive territorial plans targeting Austria and Czechoslovakia over the next five years.
1938 Hungarian Territorial Expansion: As part of the Munich Agreement's aftermath, Hungary begins occupying a ceded section of Czechoslovak territory in Slovakia, reflecting the geopolitical tensions and territorial redistributions preceding World War II.
1939 Failed Assassination Attempt on Adolf Hitler: On November 5, 1939, a significant assassination attempt was made against Adolf Hitler at the Bürgerbräukeller in Munich. The plot, which ultimately failed, was part of a broader resistance movement against the Nazi regime. A bomb was planted with the intention of eliminating Hitler, but the Führer survived, which would have profound implications for the course of World War II and global history.
1940 Franklin D. Roosevelt Wins Unprecedented Third Presidential Term: In a historic election, Democratic incumbent Franklin D. Roosevelt defeated Republican challenger Wendell Willkie, becoming the first and only U.S. President to be elected to a third consecutive term. The election was notably close, with Roosevelt winning approximately 27 million votes compared to Willkie's 22 million, marking the most competitive presidential race in 25 years.
1941 Japanese Pearl Harbor Attack Planning: Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto issued Top Secret Order No. 1 to the Japanese Combined Fleet, providing detailed strategic plans for the imminent attack on Pearl Harbor, a pivotal moment in World War II.
1942 British Victory at Second Battle of El Alamein: The British Eighth Army, led by General Bernard Montgomery, decisively defeated Axis forces in the Second Battle of El Alamein, marking a critical turning point in the North African Campaign of World War II. This victory effectively ended Axis hopes of controlling the Suez Canal and pushing into the Middle East.
1943 US Air Strikes on Rabaul: On November 5, 1943, aircraft from the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) and US Navy carriers Saratoga (CV-3) and Princeton (CVL-23) conducted a strategic air strike against Japanese naval assets in Rabaul. The attack successfully targeted enemy shipping, with particular damage inflicted on the Japanese cruiser Maya, which suffered a significant fire in its aft section.
1944 US Task Force 38 Strikes Japanese Targets: US Task Force 38, under Admiral McCain, launched a strategic military operation targeting Japanese positions on Luzon and surrounding maritime areas, continuing the Allied offensive in the Pacific Theater of World War II.
1945 Anti-Jewish Pogrom in Libya: A violent pogrom against the Jewish community begins in Libya, which was then under British Military Administration. Over the course of three days, 140 Jews will be murdered, with synagogues and homes systematically looted and destroyed, representing a horrific act of antisemitic violence.
1946 Nixon and Kennedy Elected to Congress: Two future presidential candidates, Richard M. Nixon from California's 12th district and John F. Kennedy from Massachusetts' 11th district, were elected as freshman Congressmen, beginning their notable political careers.
1947 Birth of Peter Noone, Lead Singer of Herman's Hermits: Peter Noone was born on November 5, 1947, in Manchester, England. He would later become the lead singer of the popular 1960s British rock band Herman's Hermits, known for their hit songs like 'I'm Into Something Good' and 'Silhouettes'. Noone was a teen idol who helped define the pop music scene of the mid-1960s and contributed significantly to the British Invasion of music in the United States.
1948 Leni Riefenstahl's Denazification: On November 5, 1948, controversial filmmaker Leni Riefenstahl was officially cleared by a German denazification court. This legal proceeding was part of the post-World War II process of removing Nazi influence from German society and determining individual culpability.
1949 Battle of Dengbu Island Concludes with Nationalist Triumph: The Battle of Dengbu Island ended decisively in favor of the Nationalist forces, marking a significant moment in the Chinese Civil War. This engagement demonstrated the strategic capabilities of the Nationalist military and their resistance against Communist forces.
1950 Battle of Pakchon during Korean War: British and Australian forces from the 27th British Commonwealth Brigade successfully halted the advancing Chinese 117th Division during the Battle of Pakchon, marking a strategic defensive action in the Korean War.
1951 Release of 'The Man from Planet X': A pioneering science fiction film directed by Edgar G. Ulmer, 'The Man from Planet X' was released by United Artists on November 5, 1951. The movie is notable for being an early example of the alien invasion genre, predating many more famous sci-fi films of the 1950s. The low-budget production featured an atmospheric, moody approach to extraterrestrial encounters that was unusual for its time, focusing on a mysterious alien who lands on a remote Scottish island.
1952 Birth of Bill Walton, NBA Basketball Legend: Bill Walton was born, who would become one of the most iconic centers in NBA history, playing for the Portland Trail Blazers and Boston Celtics. Known for his exceptional skills, basketball intelligence, and passionate playing style, Walton was a key player in the 1970s and 1980s, winning NBA championships and being inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame.
1953 David Ben-Gurion Resigns as Prime Minister of Israel: David Ben-Gurion, a founding father of Israel and its first prime minister, stepped down from his leadership role, marking a significant moment in Israeli political history and signaling a potential transition of power.
1954 Japan-Burma Peace Treaty Signed: On November 5, 1954, Japan and Burma (now Myanmar) formally signed a peace treaty in Rangoon (now Yangon), officially ending their state of war that had persisted since World War II. This diplomatic agreement marked a significant milestone in post-war reconciliation between the two nations, symbolizing their commitment to normalizing bilateral relations and moving beyond the traumatic experiences of the conflict.
1955 US Interstate Commerce Desegregation: A significant milestone in the Civil Rights Movement occurred as racial segregation was officially outlawed on trains and buses in interstate commerce across the United States, marking an important step towards racial equality.
1956 Suez Crisis: British and French Military Intervention in Egypt: British and French paratroopers launched a military operation in Egypt, landing in strategic locations as part of the escalating Suez Crisis. This intervention followed a week-long bombing campaign and marked a significant moment of international tension during the Cold War era.
1957 Virginia Gubernatorial Election of 1957: Democrat J. Lindsay Almond, who previously served as Virginia's Attorney General, won the gubernatorial race by defeating Republican State Senator Theodore Roosevelt Dalton. This election highlighted the political dynamics of the Southern states during the mid-20th century.
1958 UNESCO World Heritage Centre Building Inaugurated: The new UNESCO building, housing the World Heritage Centre, was officially inaugurated in Paris, symbolizing international cultural cooperation and preservation efforts.
1959 Mercury Astronauts Fitted with Pressure Suits: NASA's Mercury astronauts were fitted with specialized pressure suits at the B. F. Goodrich Company in Akron, Ohio, a critical step in preparing for early space missions. These custom-designed suits were essential for protecting astronauts during potential high-altitude and space environment challenges.
1960 China Launches First Anti-Ship Cruise Missile: The People's Republic of China successfully developed and launched its first anti-ship cruise missile, the R-2, popularly known as the 'Silkworm' missile. This advanced weapon system demonstrated significant military technological progress, featuring an impressive range of 350 miles (560 kilometers), marking a notable milestone in Chinese military engineering.
1961 CIA Spy Oleg Penkovsky's Cover Exposed: A critical moment in Cold War espionage occurred when Soviet counterintelligence successfully exposed Oleg Penkovsky, a high-ranking Soviet military intelligence officer who had been secretly passing classified information to American CIA agents. Four KGB agents caught a CIA case officer during an information exchange, effectively ending Penkovsky's extensive intelligence-gathering operation that had provided crucial insights into Soviet military capabilities.
1962 Cuban Missile Crisis Resolution: Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev announced the complete withdrawal of Soviet missiles from Cuba. As part of a critical diplomatic agreement between the United States and the Soviet Union, the U.S. Navy conducted thorough inspections of all Soviet vessels leaving Cuba. Over the subsequent three days, all 42 ballistic missiles were successfully verified and transported back to the USSR, effectively ending the Cuban Missile Crisis and averting potential nuclear confrontation.
1963 Julio Iglesias Begins His Musical Journey: A young Julio Iglesias made his first public singing appearance on Radio Madrid, marking the humble beginnings of what would become an illustrious international music career. At just 12 years old, he took his first steps into the world of entertainment, long before becoming a global Latin music icon.
1964 Mariner 3 Mars Mission Failure: The United States launched the Mariner 3 spacecraft on November 5, 1964, as part of its early Mars exploration efforts. Despite being designed to conduct scientific observations and gather critical data about the Martian environment, the mission encountered significant technical difficulties. The spacecraft failed to achieve its primary objectives, with no scientific data successfully transmitted back to Earth. This mission represented an important learning experience in the nascent era of interplanetary space exploration, highlighting the immense challenges of deep space missions during the 1960s.
1965 State of Emergency in Rhodesia: On November 5, 1965, a State of Emergency was declared in Rhodesia following the breakdown of negotiations with Great Britain over Rhodesian independence. This critical moment signaled the imminent Unilateral Declaration of Independence (UDI), which would occur six days later, marking a pivotal point in the decolonization struggle.
1966 African States Demand UK Intervention in Rhodesia: Thirty-eight African nations collectively called on the United Kingdom to use military force against the Rhodesian government, highlighting the international diplomatic tensions surrounding colonial and post-colonial governance in Africa during the mid-1960s.
1967 First Full Earth Satellite Image: NASA launches the ATS-3 satellite, capturing the first comprehensive photographic image of the entire Earth disk, a groundbreaking moment in space exploration.
1968 1st AL pitcher to win MVP, Denny McLain
1969 Maritime Tragedy: Oil Tanker Keo Sinks in Atlantic Storm: On November 5, 1969, the Liberian-registered oil tanker Keo suffered a catastrophic maritime disaster in the Atlantic Ocean. The vessel, which had departed from Marion, Massachusetts, was carrying 210,000 U.S. gallons of fuel oil and was en route to Bermuda when it encountered a severe storm. The extreme weather conditions caused the ship to be cut in half, resulting in the tragic loss of 36 crew members. In a simultaneous rescue operation, the U.S. Coast Guard successfully saved all seven people aboard a sinking yacht in the same maritime region, highlighting the unpredictable and dangerous nature of oceanic conditions during that time.
1970 Marshall University Football Team Tragedy: A devastating DC-9 air crash near Kenova, West Virginia, resulted in the tragic loss of the entire Marshall University football team, with 75 lives perished in the catastrophic accident.
1971 24th Amendment to Indian Constitution Empowers Parliament: The 24th Amendment to the Indian Constitution was implemented, granting the Indian Parliament unprecedented power to suspend certain 'Fundamental Rights' when deemed necessary. This amendment represented a significant shift in the constitutional framework, potentially expanding governmental authority during a complex political era.
1972 Maire Drumm Arrest: Maire Drumm, Vice-President of Sinn Féin, was arrested in the Republic of Ireland, reflecting the heightened political tensions during the Northern Ireland conflict known as 'The Troubles'.
1973 Kissinger's Shuttle Diplomacy Begins: United States Secretary of State Henry Kissinger initiated his groundbreaking 'shuttle diplomacy' efforts, traveling between Tel Aviv, Cairo, and Damascus to negotiate a peace treaty and facilitate the cessation of hostilities following the Yom Kippur War. This diplomatic mission was a critical attempt to stabilize the volatile Middle East region and prevent further escalation of conflict.
1974 Federal Elections Campaign Act Signed: President Gerald Ford signs the Federal Elections Campaign Act of 1974, a landmark piece of legislation aimed at reforming campaign finance and increasing transparency in political funding.
1975 Sex Pistols Launch Punk Rock in the UK: The Sex Pistols gave their groundbreaking first public concert at the 100 Club in London, introducing punk rock to the United Kingdom. Led by iconic frontman John Lydon (Johnny Rotten), the band's performance marked a pivotal moment in music history, challenging established musical norms and sparking a cultural revolution.
1976 First Reported Ebola Epidemic: The first epidemic of the deadly Ebola virus was reported, marking a critical moment in global health history and initiating worldwide medical research into this highly dangerous viral disease.
1977 Death of René Goscinny, Renowned Comic Book Writer: René Goscinny, the famous French comic book writer best known for creating Asterix and co-creating Lucky Luke, passed away. Goscinny was a pivotal figure in European comic book literature, known for his witty storytelling and innovative character design.
1978 Iranian Revolution Tensions Escalate: Followers of Ayatollah Khomeini attack the British Embassy and El Al office in Tehran, reflecting growing anti-Western sentiment during the Iranian Revolution.
1979 Khomeini Denounces United States: Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the supreme leader of Iran during the Iranian Revolution, publicly declares the United States as 'the Great Satan', signaling a dramatic deterioration in diplomatic relations and setting the stage for future tensions between Iran and the United States.
1980 Helmut Schmidt Re-elected as Chancellor of West Germany: Helmut Schmidt was formally re-elected Chancellor of West Germany and sworn in for a third term. The vote in the Bundestag followed party lines from the October 5 election, with Schmidt's SPD/FDP coalition winning 282 to 254 against Franz Josef Strauss's CDU/CSU party.
1981 Mercury Morris Sentenced for Drug Trafficking: Former Miami Dolphins professional football player Mercury Morris was sentenced to 20 years in prison after being convicted of drug trafficking, criminal conspiracy, and cocaine possession. This marked a significant downfall for the once-celebrated NFL athlete, highlighting the personal and professional consequences of involvement in illegal drug activities during the early 1980s.
1982 Death of Jacques Tati: Renowned French filmmaker and actor Jacques Tati passed away from a pulmonary embolism, leaving behind a significant legacy in cinema known for his innovative comedic style and visual storytelling.
1983 Byford Dolphin Diving Bell Tragedy: A catastrophic explosive decompression accident occurred on the Byford Dolphin drilling rig off the coast of Norway, resulting in the deaths of five divers and severe injury to another. This incident is considered one of the most horrific industrial accidents in maritime diving history, highlighting the extreme risks associated with deep-sea and high-pressure work environments.
1984 Nicaragua's Democratic Breakthrough: Nicaragua held its first free and democratic elections in 56 years, marking a significant moment in the country's political history. The Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN), led by Daniel Ortega, won a decisive victory with 63% of the vote, signaling a transition from decades of authoritarian rule and civil conflict.
1985 Death of Spencer W. Kimball, LDS Church President: Spencer W. Kimball, the 12th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, passed away. During his leadership from 1973 to 1985, he was known for significant church reforms, including extending priesthood rights to all male members regardless of race.
1986 US Naval Ships Visit Qingdao, China: The USS Rentz, USS Reeves, and USS Oldendorf visited Qingdao (Tsing Tao), China, marking a significant diplomatic milestone as the first US Naval visit to China since 1949. This event symbolized the gradual thawing of diplomatic relations between the United States and China during the Cold War era.
1987 Govan Mbeki's Release from Robben Island Prison: Govan Mbeki, a prominent anti-apartheid activist and African National Congress (ANC) leader, was released from Robben Island prison after serving 24 years of a life sentence for treason against the white minority South African government. His release was a significant moment in the struggle against apartheid, symbolizing the gradual dismantling of the oppressive racial segregation system.
1988 Morris Worm Computer Sabotage Confirmed: Cornell University officially confirmed that graduate student Robert Tappan Morris, Jr. was responsible for creating the first widespread computer worm, which is considered one of the most significant early instances of computer network disruption.
1989 Vladimir Horowitz Dies: Vladimir Horowitz, the renowned Russian classical pianist, passed away at the age of 85. Born in 1903, Horowitz was a legendary musician known for his extraordinary technical skill and interpretative brilliance in classical piano performances.
1990 Assassination of Meir Kahane: Meir Kahane was fatally shot after delivering a speech at a New York City hotel. The assassination occurred shortly after his public address, marking a violent end to the controversial rabbi's life and highlighting the intense political tensions surrounding his radical ideologies.
1991 Devastating Tropical Storm Thelma Strikes Philippines: Tropical Storm Thelma caused catastrophic flash floods in the Philippine city of Ormoc, resulting in a massive loss of life with over 4,900 people killed. The disaster highlighted the vulnerability of coastal communities to extreme weather events and prompted discussions about disaster preparedness in the Philippines.
1992 Malice Green Death in Police Custody: Malice Green, an African American motorist, died tragically during an encounter with white police officers in Detroit, Michigan. His death sparked significant discussions about police brutality and racial tensions in law enforcement.
1993 UK Railways Act Privatization: The Parliament of the United Kingdom passed the Railways Act 1993, establishing comprehensive procedures for the privatization of British Rail, a significant transformation of the nation's transportation infrastructure.
1994 Ronald Reagan Reveals Alzheimer's Diagnosis: Former U.S. President Ronald Reagan publicly discloses his Alzheimer's disease through a poignant personal letter, marking a significant moment in raising awareness about the neurodegenerative condition.
1995 Attempted Assassination of Canadian Prime Minister: André Dallaire attempted to assassinate Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chrétien, but was thwarted when the Prime Minister's wife quickly locked the door, preventing a potential national security crisis.
1996 1996 United States Presidential Election: Democrat incumbent Bill Clinton decisively wins re-election, defeating Republican challenger Bob Dole and securing a second consecutive presidential term. Clinton won 379 electoral votes compared to Dole's 159, demonstrating a significant electoral mandate.
1997 Death of Sir Isaiah Berlin: Sir Isaiah Berlin, a renowned Russian-British intellectual historian, philosopher, and essayist known for his profound contributions to political theory and intellectual history, passed away. Berlin was celebrated for his work on concepts of liberty, political ideas, and his influential studies of Russian thinkers.
1998 Clinton Impeachment Inquiry Escalates: During the Lewinsky scandal, House Judiciary Committee chairman Henry Hyde formally escalated the impeachment inquiry by sending a comprehensive list of 81 detailed questions to U.S. President Bill Clinton, signaling the serious legal and political challenges facing the administration.
1999 United States v. Microsoft Antitrust Case: U.S. District Judge Thomas Penfield Jackson issued a landmark preliminary ruling finding that Microsoft Corporation possessed monopoly power in the personal computer operating systems market, marking a critical moment in the landmark antitrust case against the software giant.
2000 First Crew Arrives at International Space Station: The inaugural crew successfully arrived at the International Space Station, marking a significant milestone in human space exploration and international cooperation.
2001 President Authorizes Transfers from Emergency Response Fund: President George W. Bush authorized transfers from the Emergency Response Fund, likely to support recovery and rebuilding efforts following the September 11 terrorist attacks on November 5, 2001.
2002 2002 US Midterm Elections: The United States held midterm elections, with the Republican Party gaining control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. This election represented a significant shift in the political landscape, strengthening the Republican Party's position in Congress.
2003 Voyager 1 Leaves Solar System: After 26 years of exploration, NASA's Voyager 1 spacecraft left the solar system, traveling over 6,000 miles from Earth and expected to continue transmitting data into 2020, marking a milestone in space exploration.
2004 Yasser Arafat's Critical Illness: Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat remains in a critical medical condition, with Israel refusing to allow his potential burial in Jerusalem. The situation creates significant political tension and uncertainty about Palestinian leadership succession.
2005 Angela Merkel Becomes First Female Chancellor of Germany: Angela Merkel made history by becoming the first female Chancellor of Germany, marking a significant milestone in German political leadership and gender representation in high-level government positions.
2006 Saddam Hussein Death Sentence: In a landmark legal proceeding, former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein and two of his senior allies were sentenced to death by hanging after an Iraqi court found them guilty of crimes against humanity. This verdict marked a significant moment in Iraq's post-Saddam judicial process.
2007 Android Operating System Launch: Google and the Open Handset Alliance unveiled the Android mobile operating system, which would go on to revolutionize the global smartphone market.
2008 Russia's Missile Defense Response: President Medvedev announces plans to deploy short-range conventional warhead missiles in Kaliningrad as a strategic response to U.S. missile defense systems in Poland and the Czech Republic, while expressing hope for improved Russia-U.S. relations under President Obama.
2009 Fort Hood Mass Shooting: U.S. Army Major Nidal Malik Hasan perpetrated a devastating terrorist attack at Fort Hood, Texas, murdering 13 military personnel and wounding 32 others in the deadliest mass shooting at a U.S. military installation. The incident shocked the nation and raised significant concerns about radicalization within the military.
2010 Al-Qaeda Claims Responsibility for Cargo Plane Bomb Plot: Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula officially claimed responsibility for the October 29th, 2010 cargo plane bomb plot and the September UPS plane crash in Dubai, revealing ongoing terrorist threats to international aviation.
2011 Penn State Sex Abuse Scandal: Jerry Sandusky, former Penn State defensive coordinator, was arrested on 40 counts of sexual abuse spanning a 15-year period, triggering a major institutional scandal and public outcry.
2012 Syrian Civil War: Major Suicide Bombing in Damascus: A significant suicide bombing attack targeted Syrian military forces in Damascus, resulting in 50 military personnel killed. This was reported as the most serious attack against Bashar al-Assad's regime during the ongoing civil war.
2013 US Gubernatorial and Mayoral Elections: Several key US political races took place, including Chris Christie's re-election as New Jersey Governor, Terry McAuliffe's narrow victory in Virginia, and Bill de Blasio's election as New York City Mayor, reflecting the dynamic political landscape.
2014 WHO Appoints New Africa Chief During Ebola Crisis: During the devastating Ebola virus epidemic in West Africa, the World Health Organisation appointed Dr. Matshidiso Moeti from Botswana as its new Africa chief. At this point, the death toll from the virus had surpassed 5,000 people, highlighting the severe public health emergency.
2015 British and French Syria Intervention Decisions: British Prime Minister David Cameron decides against seeking parliamentary approval for U.S. airstrikes in Syria. Simultaneously, France announces deployment of its aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle to the eastern Mediterranean to support operations against ISIL.
2016 South Korean Protests Demand President's Resignation: Tens of thousands of protesters gathered in Seoul, the capital of South Korea, demanding the resignation of President Park Geun-hye. The protests centered on her controversial connections with Choi Soon-sil, who was detained on November 3 and charged with fraud, abuse of power, and other serious allegations.
2017 Sutherland Springs Church Massacre: Devin Patrick Kelley carried out a devastating mass shooting at a Baptist church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, killing 26 people and injuring 22 others. The gunman was later found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, marking one of the deadliest church shootings in U.S. history.
2018 Voyager 2 Enters Interstellar Space: NASA's Voyager 2 probe made history by becoming the second human-made object to leave the solar system and enter interstellar space, marking a significant milestone in space exploration and human technological achievement.
2019 Sutherland Springs Church Mass Shooting: On November 5, 2017, a devastating mass shooting occurred at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas. Devin Patrick Kelley, a 26-year-old former U.S. Air Force airman, entered the church and opened fire with an AR-15 style assault rifle, killing 26 people and wounding 20 others. The victims ranged in age from 5 to 72 years old, including multiple children and an unborn child. After the shooting, Kelley was pursued by local residents Stephen Willeford and Johnnie Langendorff, who chased him in a vehicle. During the pursuit, Kelley was shot and ultimately died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The tragedy highlighted significant issues with background check systems and gun violence in the United States.
2020 Post-Election Protests and Social Media Intervention: Protests continued in multiple U.S. cities following the 2020 presidential election, with several resulting in police confrontations and arrests. Facebook took significant action by banning the 'Stop the Steal' group used by Trump supporters to organize election result protests.
2021 UK Approves First COVID-19 Antiviral Pill: The United Kingdom became the first country to approve Merck's molnupiravir, an antiviral medication designed to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 in adult patients, marking a significant advancement in pandemic medical treatment.
2022 Iran Confirms Drone Transfers to Russia: The Iranian government officially acknowledged supplying a limited number of military drones to Russia in the months preceding the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This admission highlighted Iran's controversial role in the ongoing conflict and raised international concerns about military support for the Russian military campaign.
2023 Israeli Airstrike on Gaza Refugee Camp: Israeli warplanes conducted a devastating strike on the Maghazi refugee camp in Gaza early Sunday morning, resulting in at least 40 fatalities and numerous injuries. First responders were actively searching through the rubble for potential survivors. The attack occurred in an area previously designated by Israel as a supposed 'safe zone' for Palestinians evacuating from northern Gaza. The strike underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis, with Israeli officials maintaining silence about the incident and rejecting international calls for a cease-fire.

What Is special about November 5?

November 5 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 5.