Historical Events on November 15: 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 15, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

history

Events on November 15 - Key Moments Throughout History

  • 1900 Andrew Carnegie Founds Carnegie Tech: On November 15, 1900, Andrew Carnegie made a landmark donation of one million dollars to establish what would later become Carnegie Mellon University. This generous contribution laid the foundation for a prestigious educational institution that would become a global leader in technology, research, and innovation.
  • 1901 First Battery-Powered Hearing Aid Patented: On November 15, 1901, a groundbreaking medical technology innovation occurred with the patent of the Acousticon, the first battery-powered hearing aid. This invention marked a significant milestone in assistive technology, providing improved auditory assistance for individuals with hearing impairments and paving the way for future advancements in hearing device design.
  • 1902 Origin of the Teddy Bear: A newspaper cartoon depicting U.S. President Theodore 'Teddy' Roosevelt refusing to shoot a bear cub becomes the inspiration for Morris Michtom to create the first teddy bear in New York City, launching a global toy phenomenon.
  • 1904 Gillette Safety Razor Patent Granted: King C. Gillette successfully patents his revolutionary safety razor design, which would transform personal grooming by introducing a disposable, affordable razor blade that could be easily replaced. This innovation marked a significant milestone in personal hygiene technology, making daily shaving more convenient and accessible for men worldwide.
  • 1905 Korean Emperor Resists Japanese Imperial Pressure: Emperor Gojong of Korea courageously refused to sign a 'protection' treaty with the Japanese Empire. In response, Japanese Prime Minister Ito escalated tensions by ordering troops to surround the imperial palace and threatening the emperor's arrest, marking a critical moment in Korea's struggle against Japanese colonial ambitions.
  • 1906 Birth of Curtis LeMay: Curtis LeMay, a prominent United States Air Force (USAF) general known for his strategic bombing tactics during World War II and later as George Wallace's vice-presidential running mate in the 1968 presidential election, was born in Columbus, Ohio. LeMay was a significant military figure who played a crucial role in shaping American air power doctrine during the mid-20th century.
  • 1907 Death of Raphael Kalinowski, Polish Carmelite Saint: Raphael Kalinowski, a prominent Polish Discalced Carmelite friar, religious figure, and later canonized saint, passed away on November 15, 1907. Known for his deep spiritual commitment and significant contributions to the Catholic Church, Kalinowski was a respected religious leader who dedicated his life to spiritual service and religious education.
  • 1908 Death of Empress Dowager Cixi: Empress Dowager Cixi, one of the most powerful and controversial figures in Chinese history, passed away on November 15, 1908, marking the end of an era in the late Qing Dynasty. Known for her political acumen and resistance to modernization, Cixi effectively ruled China for nearly five decades through her strategic manipulation of court politics. Her death came just days after the death of the Guangxu Emperor, her nephew and puppet ruler, signaling the final decline of imperial China before the 1911 revolution.
  • 1909 First Manned Flight in Africa: On November 15, 1909, French aviator M. Metrot achieved a historic milestone by conducting the first manned flight in Africa. Using a Voisin biplane, Metrot took off from Algiers, marking a significant moment in the early development of aviation on the African continent. This event represented a crucial step in the global expansion of powered flight technology beyond Europe and North America.
  • 1910 Morocco Cedes Territory to Spain: In a diplomatic agreement, Morocco ceded the territory surrounding Melilla to Spain and committed to paying reparations following the Spanish military campaign against the Rif tribesmen. This event reflected the complex colonial dynamics of North Africa during the early 20th century.
  • 1911 Canadian Gold Coin Design Proclamation: The Canadian government officially proclaimed the design specifications for $5 and $10 gold coins, marking an important milestone in the nation's monetary history. This proclamation established standardized designs for these gold coins, which would play a significant role in Canada's emerging financial infrastructure during the early 20th century.
  • 1912 Ottoman Army Retreats After Battle of Lule Burgas: The Ottoman Army retreated to Çatalca, Turkey, concluding the Battle of Lule Burgas during the First Balkan War, suffering significant casualties of approximately 22,000 killed or wounded soldiers.
  • 1913 Birth of Arthur Haulot, Belgian Resistance Hero: Arthur Haulot was born on this day, who would later become a prominent Belgian journalist and a courageous resistance fighter during World War II. His life was dedicated to fighting against Nazi occupation and documenting the struggles of his people. Haulot's journalistic work and resistance activities would play a significant role in Belgium's fight for freedom during the war.
  • 1914 First Battle of Ypres - Critical World War I Engagement: The First Battle of Ypres was a pivotal engagement during World War I, where Allied forces reinforced and strategically reorganized their defensive lines in western Belgium. The battle occurred during the onset of winter, with the first snowfall adding challenging environmental conditions to the already intense military operations.
  • 1915 Central Powers Withdraw from Tehran during World War I: During World War I, representatives of the Central Powers strategically evacuated Tehran as Russian imperial forces advanced into the region, marking a significant geopolitical shift in the Persian (Iranian) theater of conflict.
  • 1916 Battle of the Somme: Capture of Beaumont Hamel: In a significant moment of World War I, British forces successfully capture Beaumont Hamel during the Battle of the Ancre, marking a strategic advancement in the ongoing conflict on the Western Front. This victory came after months of grueling trench warfare and substantial casualties.
  • 1917 Bolshevik Declaration of Rights of Peoples: During the October Revolution, Vladimir Lenin signed the Declaration of the Rights of the Peoples of Russia, a landmark document that promised ethnic minorities within the Russian Empire the right to self-determination. This declaration was a significant ideological statement of the Bolshevik government's commitment to national autonomy.
  • 1918 German Marne-Reims Offensive in World War I: On November 15, 1918, the German army launched its final offensive of World War I, known as the Marne-Reims Offensive. The attack involved 52 German divisions executing a two-pronged assault around Reims, France. The Allies, having anticipated the German movements, were strategically positioned to defend. On the eastern side of Reims, the French forces swiftly crushed the German attack. To the west, the U.S. 3rd Infantry Division successfully blocked the German advance, followed by a coordinated French and American counter-offensive that effectively neutralized the German offensive.
  • 1919 US Senate Invokes Cloture to End Filibuster on Versailles Treaty: In a significant parliamentary procedure, the United States Senate first used the cloture rule to end a prolonged debate (filibuster) regarding the Versailles Treaty, which was crucial to ending World War I and establishing the League of Nations. This marked an important moment in Senate procedural history, demonstrating a mechanism to limit extended discussions and move towards decisive action.
  • 1920 First Assembly of the League of Nations: The first assembly of the League of Nations was held in Geneva, Switzerland, marking a pivotal moment in international diplomacy after World War I. Forty-one nations were represented, signaling a global commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and international cooperation.
  • 1921 First Radio Broadcast in Philadelphia: KYW-AM, a pioneering radio station, commenced its inaugural radio transmissions in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, marking a significant milestone in early 20th-century communication technology.
  • 1922 UK Conservative Party Secures Majority: The United Kingdom held a general election following the Conservatives' withdrawal from the coalition government. The Conservative Party won an overall majority, marking a significant political shift. Interestingly, the famous '1922 Committee' would be formally established the following year, despite popular belief that it was named from this election.
  • 1923 Introduction of Rentenmark in Weimar Germany: On November 15, 1923, the German government introduced the Rentenmark as a revolutionary monetary solution to combat the hyperinflation that was devastating the Weimar Republic's economy. This new currency was designed to stabilize the financial system by being backed by real estate and industrial assets, effectively replacing the nearly worthless paper mark. The introduction of the Rentenmark marked a critical turning point in Germany's economic recovery, helping to restore confidence in the national currency and providing a foundation for future economic stability.
  • 1924 Egan's Rats Criminal Gang Dismantled: In a landmark legal action, nine key members of the notorious St. Louis-based criminal organization Egan's Rats were sentenced to 25 years in federal prison. This conviction effectively terminated the gang, which had been a powerful criminal enterprise operating for over three decades and employing hundreds of individuals in various illegal activities.
  • 1925 Political and Fascist Demonstrations in Europe: In Czechoslovakia, the Republican Party of Agricultural and Smallholder People won parliamentary elections. Simultaneously in Berlin, approximately 2,000 German Fascist supporters led by Erich Ludendorff gathered in front of the Berlin City Palace to protest the Locarno Treaties, reflecting the political tensions and rising nationalist sentiments in post-World War I Europe.
  • 1926 United States Numbered Highway System Established: The United States Numbered Highway System is officially established, introducing a standardized national road numbering system. This landmark development includes the creation of the iconic U.S. Route 66, which would become a symbol of American road travel and westward expansion.
  • 1927 Show Boat Pre-Broadway Premiere: The groundbreaking musical Show Boat, featuring music by Jerome Kern and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II and P. G. Wodehouse, made its first pre-Broadway performance. This musical would go on to be a landmark production in American musical theater, addressing serious social issues like racial discrimination.
  • 1928 RNLI Mary Stanford Lifeboat Tragedy: On 15 November 1928, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) lifeboat Mary Stanford capsized in Rye Harbour, resulting in the devastating loss of the entire 17-man crew. This maritime disaster is considered one of the most tragic events in RNLI history, highlighting the immense risks and sacrifices made by maritime rescue personnel.
  • 1929 Hoover Convenes Business Leadership Conference on Economic Crisis: In response to the economic turmoil following the stock market crash, President Herbert Hoover announced plans to host a critical conference bringing together the nation's top business leaders and government department heads. The meeting was designed to collaboratively discuss strategies for addressing the rapidly deteriorating economic conditions and potential recovery approaches.
  • 1930 Birth of J.G. Ballard: J.G. Ballard, a pioneering and influential English novelist, short story writer, and essayist, was born in the Shanghai International Settlement, China. Known for his avant-garde science fiction and provocative literary style, Ballard would later become renowned for works like 'Crash' and 'Empire of the Sun', which often explored themes of technology, psychological alienation, and human adaptation to extreme environments.
  • 1931 Nazi Party State Elections in Hesse: The Nazi Party achieved a significant electoral victory in Hesse, winning 37% of the vote. This election marked a critical moment in the rise of Nazi political power in Germany during the early 1930s, foreshadowing the party's eventual national takeover.
  • 1932 Soviet Labor Law Restricts Worker Rights: The Central Executive Committee of the Soviet Union enacted a stringent labor law that imposed severe penalties on workers who missed work without a compelling reason. Under this law, employees could face immediate dismissal, loss of housing, and forfeiture of government service benefits for a single unexcused absence, reflecting the strict labor policies of the Stalinist era.
  • 1933 US-Soviet Diplomatic Relations Normalized: President Franklin D. Roosevelt officially ended nearly 16 years of diplomatic isolation by establishing relations with the Soviet Union. Soviet Foreign Affairs Commissar Maxim Litvinov traveled to Washington to initiate diplomatic negotiations, marking a significant shift in international relations during the early years of the Great Depression.
  • 1934 Nobel Prize in Chemistry Awarded to Harold C. Urey: Harold C. Urey was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his groundbreaking discovery of deuterium, a heavy isotope of hydrogen. This significant scientific achievement advanced understanding of atomic structure and isotope separation, with profound implications for nuclear physics and chemistry.
  • 1935 Manuel L. Quezon Becomes Philippine President: Manuel L. Quezon was inaugurated as the second president of the Philippines, a pivotal moment in the country's political history during the Commonwealth period.
  • 1936 Nazi Germany and Japan Sign Anti-Komintern Pact: Nazi Germany and Japan signed the Anti-Komintern Pact, a diplomatic agreement aimed at countering communist influences and establishing a strategic alliance between the two Axis powers. This pact would later serve as a precursor to the Tripartite Pact and symbolize the growing tensions leading up to World War II.
  • 1937 Nine Power Treaty Conference Condemns Japan: During the Nine Power Treaty Conference, a declaration was adopted condemning Japan's aggressive actions in Asia. The resolution passed with near-unanimous support, with Italy being the sole dissenting vote, highlighting growing international tensions in the lead-up to World War II.
  • 1938 Nazi Germany Bans Jewish Children from Schools: In the aftermath of Kristallnacht, Nazi Germany implements a discriminatory policy prohibiting Jewish children from attending public schools, escalating the systematic persecution of Jewish people.
  • 1939 Nazi Mass Murder of Warsaw Jews Begins: The Nazi German forces initiated systematic mass killings of Jewish residents in Warsaw, marking an escalation of the Holocaust and the brutal persecution of Jewish populations in occupied Poland.
  • 1940 Coventry Blitz: Devastating German Air Raid: During World War II, the Luftwaffe conducted a catastrophic bombing raid on Coventry, England. Using advanced electronic navigation, German aircraft systematically destroyed the city's infrastructure, manufacturing facilities, and historic buildings. The raid resulted in 568 civilian deaths, over 1,200 injuries, and widespread destruction of urban areas, including Coventry Cathedral.
  • 1941 German Offensive Towards Moscow in World War II: During the critical phase of Operation Barbarossa, German forces launched a final, desperate push to capture Moscow before the harsh Russian winter immobilized their military operations. The German 4th Army conducted a frontal assault, while Panzer armored groups simultaneously attacked from the north and southeast, attempting to encircle Soviet defensive positions.
  • 1942 Battle of Guadalcanal Concludes: World War II: The Battle of Guadalcanal ends in a decisive Allied victory, marking a critical turning point in the Pacific Theater. The battle, which lasted from August 1942 to February 1943, was a significant strategic engagement between Allied (primarily American) and Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands.
  • 1943 Holocaust: Himmler's Persecution of Romani People: During World War II, Nazi SS leader Heinrich Himmler issued a devastating order targeting the Romani (Gypsy) population, mandating their deportation to concentration camps. This directive effectively equated Romani people with Jews in the Nazi regime's systematic persecution, marking a critical moment in the Holocaust known as Porajmos (the Romani Holocaust).
  • 1944 USS Queenfish Sinks Japanese Depot Ship: In a significant naval engagement during World War II, the USS Queenfish submarine torpedoed and sank the Japanese landing craft depot ship Akitsu Maru in the Korea Strait, resulting in over 2,000 casualties and a substantial maritime loss for the Japanese military.
  • 1945 Operation Paperclip: German Scientists Recruited: The United States controversially imports 88 German scientists to advance rocket technology, a strategic move that would later significantly contribute to the Space Race and Cold War technological competition.
  • 1946 Linggajati Agreement Initialed: At 3:00 pm in the residence of Indonesian Vice-President Sutan Sjahrir, the Linggajati Agreement was initialed by Sjahrir and former Netherlands Prime Minister Willem Schermerhorn. Mediated by Lord Killearn of the United Kingdom, the agreement established a ceasefire and defined territorial control between the Netherlands and the Republic of Indonesia.
  • 1947 Don Bradman Scores Historic 100th Century: Australian cricket legend Sir Donald Bradman achieved a remarkable milestone by scoring his 100th international century against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), further cementing his status as one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history.
  • 1948 Canadian Leadership Transition: Louis Stephen St. Laurent succeeds William Lyon Mackenzie King as Prime Minister of Canada. King had the longest combined time (3 terms, 22 years in total) as Premier in Commonwealth of Nations history.
  • 1949 Execution of Gandhi's Assassins: Nathuram Godse and Narayan Apte were executed by hanging for the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, a pivotal moment in post-independence Indian history. Their execution marked the legal conclusion of a tragic event that shocked the nation and ended the life of one of India's most prominent independence leaders.
  • 1950 UN 'Uniting for Peace' Resolution: The United Nations General Assembly adopted the groundbreaking 'Uniting for Peace' resolution, also known as the 'Acheson Plan', with a decisive vote of 52 in favor, 5 against, and 2 abstentions. This resolution significantly enhanced the UN's ability to respond to international conflicts during the Cold War era.
  • 1951 Execution of Greek Communist Leader Nikos Beloyannis: Nikos Beloyannis, a prominent Greek resistance leader and communist activist, was sentenced to death by court-martial along with 11 of his comrades for attempting to reestablish the Communist Party of Greece during a period of intense political repression.
  • 1952 Zoltán Buday: Hungarian-Born Actor Profile: Zoltán Buday was a Hungarian-born actor who made contributions to the performing arts during the mid-20th century. While specific details about his career and notable performances are limited in the provided information, his background suggests he was part of the Hungarian theatrical or film community during a complex period of post-World War II European cultural history.
  • 1953 WIBW TV Channel 13 Launch in Topeka, Kansas: WIBW Television Channel 13, a CBS and ABC affiliate, commenced broadcasting in Topeka, Kansas, marking an important milestone in the expansion of television media in the Midwestern United States.
  • 1954 Egyptian Political Transition: A pivotal moment in Egyptian political history occurs as President Muhammad Naguib is deposed, with Gamal Abdel Nasser assuming leadership, signaling a major shift in the country's governance and future political trajectory.
  • 1955 Severe Tornado Outbreak in Mississippi and Ohio Valleys: An unusually intense autumn tornado outbreak struck the Mississippi and Ohio Valleys, causing significant destruction. The severe weather event resulted in one fatality, 35 injuries, and approximately $4.665 million in property damages, highlighting the region's vulnerability to extreme meteorological conditions.
  • 1956 Elvis Presley's Film Debut: The first motion picture starring Elvis Presley, 'Love Me Tender', premieres in theaters nationwide. The film, set during the American Civil War era, marks Presley's transition from music to acting and signals the beginning of his significant Hollywood career.
  • 1957 Killian Appointed to Presidential Science Advisory Committee: James Rhyne Killian, president of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, was sworn in as chairman of the President's Science Advisory Committee, highlighting the growing importance of scientific expertise in government policy.
  • 1958 Thailand's Authoritarian Proclamation: Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat, Thailand's military dictator, issued Proclamation No. 21 on November 15, 1958, empowering the government to detain 'nonconformist' young people under the pretext of removing societal threats, demonstrating the regime's strict control and suppression of dissent.
  • 1959 Sherman's March to the Sea Begins: Union forces under Major General William Tecumseh Sherman commenced their strategic 'March to the Sea' from Atlanta, Georgia. This pivotal military campaign during the American Civil War involved a scorched earth strategy that significantly weakened the Confederate war effort and hastened the war's conclusion.
  • 1960 USS George Washington Nuclear Submarine Launched: The USS George Washington, the first submarine equipped with nuclear ballistic missiles, was launched, marking a significant milestone in naval and nuclear technology. This vessel represented a major strategic advancement in Cold War-era military capabilities.
  • 1961 United Nations Nuclear Arms Ban: The United Nations passes a resolution banning nuclear arms, marking a significant diplomatic effort to reduce global nuclear proliferation and promote international peace and security.
  • 1962 Cuba Threatens U.S. Reconnaissance Flights: During the height of Cold War tensions, Cuba issued a provocative warning to the United States, threatening to shoot down American reconnaissance aircraft conducting surveillance flights over Cuban territory. This incident heightened the already intense diplomatic and military standoff between the two nations in the aftermath of the Cuban Missile Crisis.
  • 1963 Valium Approved by FDA: On November 15, 1963, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Valium (diazepam), a groundbreaking anxiolytic medication developed by chemist Leo Sternbach at Hoffmann-La Roche. This benzodiazepine would revolutionize the treatment of anxiety disorders, muscle spasms, and seizures, becoming one of the most widely prescribed medications in medical history.
  • 1964 Cyclone Sidr Devastates Bangladesh: Cyclone Sidr struck Bangladesh, causing catastrophic damage, killing an estimated 5,000 people and severely impacting the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest.
  • 1965 Disney World Announcement: At the Cherry Plaza Hotel in Orlando, Florida, Walt Disney, Roy Disney, and Florida Governor Hayden Burns made the groundbreaking public announcement of plans to construct a new Disney theme park near Orlando, marking a transformative moment for Florida's tourism and entertainment industry.
  • 1966 Gemini 12 Mission Completion: Project Gemini concludes its final mission with Gemini 12, successfully splashing down in the Atlantic Ocean. Astronauts James Lovell and Buzz Aldrin completed the mission, marking a significant milestone in NASA's space exploration program before the Apollo missions.
  • 1967 Historic Anti-Vietnam War Protest in Washington D.C.: The largest anti-war rally in U.S. history takes place in Washington D.C., with over 500,000 protesters marching for peace. Notable speakers include Senator Eugene McCarthy, Senator George McGovern, civil rights activist Coretta King, comedian Dick Gregory, and renowned composer Leonard Bernstein.
  • 1968 US Air Force Launches Operation Commando Hunt: The United States Air Force initiated Operation Commando Hunt, a large-scale aerial bombing campaign targeting the Ho Chi Minh trail during the Vietnam War, aimed at disrupting North Vietnamese supply lines and military logistics.
  • 1969 My Lai Massacre Revelation: Journalist Seymour Hersh exposed the horrific My Lai Massacre, which had occurred on March 16, 1968. The revelation led to Lieutenant William Calley being charged with murder and became a powerful symbol of the Vietnam War's brutality, significantly influencing public opinion about the conflict.
  • 1970 Marshall University Football Team Plane Crash: Southern Airways Flight 932 tragically crashed into a hillside near Kenova, West Virginia, resulting in the complete loss of all 75 passengers, including 37 Marshall University football players and 5 coaches. This devastating accident is considered one of the worst sports-related tragedies in American history, decimating the university's entire football program in a single incident.
  • 1971 UN Recognizes People's Republic of China: The United Nations General Assembly voted to admit the People's Republic of China as a member and simultaneously expelled the Republic of China (Taiwan), marking a significant geopolitical shift in international diplomacy during the Cold War era.
  • 1972 Small Astronomy Satellite Explorer 48 Launched: NASA launched the Small Astronomy Satellite Explorer 48, a scientific spacecraft designed to study gamma rays and advance our understanding of high-energy astronomical phenomena.
  • 1973 Egypt and Israel Prisoner Exchange: On November 15, 1973, Egypt and Israel conducted a significant prisoner exchange as part of the diplomatic efforts following the Yom Kippur War. This exchange was a crucial step in de-escalating tensions and initiating dialogue between the two nations after the intense military conflict earlier that year.
  • 1974 Ringo Starr Releases 'Goodnight Vienna' Album: Ringo Starr released his album 'Goodnight Vienna' and the single 'Only You' in the United Kingdom. This album was part of Starr's solo career following the breakup of The Beatles, featuring collaborations with various musicians and produced by John Lennon.
  • 1975 Group of Six (G6) Industrialized Nations Formed: The Group of Six (G6) industrialized nations was established, marking a significant milestone in international economic cooperation. This group would later evolve into the G7 and G20, becoming a crucial forum for global economic policy discussions.
  • 1976 Parti Québécois Wins Quebec Provincial Election: René Lévesque and the Parti Québécois achieve a historic victory, becoming the first Quebec government in the 20th century explicitly advocating for provincial independence. This marked a significant moment in Quebec's political landscape and Canadian constitutional history.
  • 1977 US President Jimmy Carter welcomes Shah of Iran.
  • 1978 Tragic Plane Crash in Sri Lanka: A chartered Douglas DC-8 aircraft crashed near Colombo, Sri Lanka, resulting in a devastating loss of 183 lives. The majority of passengers were Muslim pilgrims returning from the Hajj pilgrimage, making this one of the deadliest aviation accidents of the year.
  • 1979 Sir Anthony Blunt Exposed as Soviet Spy: The British government publicly identifies Sir Anthony Blunt as the fourth member of the infamous Cambridge Five Soviet spy ring, revealing his long-standing espionage activities against the United Kingdom during the Cold War.
  • 1980 Pope John Paul II's Historic Visit to West Germany: Pope John Paul II arrived in Köln, becoming the first Roman Catholic Pontiff to visit Germany in almost 200 years. This significant diplomatic and religious journey marked an important moment of reconciliation and outreach during the Cold War era.
  • 1981 Abdus Sattar Confirmed as President of Bangladesh: Abdus Sattar was confirmed as President of Bangladesh in an election that was widely suspected of being rigged. He received 14,217,601 votes, representing nearly two-thirds of the total votes cast, while his main opponent, Kamal Hossain of the Awami League, secured 5,694,884 votes.
  • 1982 Funeral of Soviet Leader Leonid Brezhnev: A state funeral was held in Moscow's Red Square for Leonid I. Brezhnev, the long-serving General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. Brezhnev, who led the Soviet Union from 1964 to 1982, was a significant political figure during the Cold War era, known for his policy of 'developed socialism' and period of economic stagnation.
  • 1983 Sherman's March to the Sea Begins: Union General William Tecumseh Sherman initiated his famous 'March to the Sea' during the American Civil War, a strategic military campaign that would significantly impact the Confederate states by destroying infrastructure and military resources.
  • 1984 Cali Cartel Leader's Capture and Release: Gilberto Rodríguez Orejuela, a prominent leader of the notorious Cali Cartel, was temporarily captured in Spain while attempting to expand the cartel's international drug trafficking operations in Europe. Despite initial arrest, he was later acquitted and returned to Colombia, demonstrating the complex legal challenges in combating international drug cartels during the 1980s.
  • 1985 Anglo-Irish Agreement Signed: The Anglo-Irish Agreement was signed at Hillsborough Castle by British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and Irish Taoiseach Garret FitzGerald, marking a significant diplomatic moment in British-Irish relations. This historic agreement provided a framework for cooperation between the United Kingdom and Ireland regarding Northern Ireland, acknowledging the complex political landscape of the region.
  • 1986 Beastie Boys Make Hip-Hop History: The Beastie Boys released their debut album 'Licensed to Ill', which became the first rap album to top the Billboard charts, marking a significant milestone in hip-hop's mainstream acceptance and commercial success.
  • 1987 Braşov Rebellion Against Communist Regime: In a significant act of worker resistance, over 20,000 workers in Braşov, Romania, rebelled against Nicolae Ceaușescu's oppressive communist regime and harsh economic policies. Demonstrators marched towards the Communist Party headquarters and city hall, challenging the authoritarian government's control. The protest was ultimately suppressed by Securitate (secret police) forces, highlighting the growing tensions within Romania's communist system.
  • 1988 Palestinian National Council Proclaims Independent State of Palestine: On November 15, 1988, the Palestinian National Council held a historic meeting in Algiers where they voted 253 to 46 to proclaim an independent State of Palestine. This significant political declaration recognized the potential for Palestinian statehood and marked a pivotal moment in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
  • 1989 Lech Walesa Addresses US Congress: Lech Walesa, the prominent leader of Poland's Solidarity movement and future president, delivered a significant address to a Joint Session of the United States Congress, symbolizing the growing international support for democratic movements in Eastern Europe during the late Cold War period.
  • 1990 End of Communist Bulgaria: The Communist People's Republic of Bulgaria is officially dissolved, marking a significant transition from communist rule to a new republican government during the wave of democratic changes in Eastern Europe.
  • 1991 Significant Stock Market Decline: The Dow Jones Industrial Average experienced a substantial drop of 120.31 points, marking its fifth-largest single-day decline at the time. This significant market movement reflected underlying economic uncertainties and investor sentiment in late 1991.
  • 1992 Lithuanian Parliamentary Election: The Lithuanian parliamentary election sees the Democratic Labour Party of Lithuania, led by Algirdas Brazauskas, return to power, marking a significant political transition in the post-Soviet era.
  • 1993 Cuban Refugees Steal Crop-Duster to Reach Florida: In a daring escape, thirteen Cuban refugees successfully landed in Florida after stealing a crop-duster aircraft from Cuba, highlighting the desperate measures taken to seek freedom and opportunity.
  • 1994 Devastating Mindoro Earthquake and Tsunami: A catastrophic magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck the central Philippine island of Mindoro, causing massive destruction. The earthquake resulted in 78 fatalities, injured 430 people, and triggered a devastating tsunami reaching heights up to 8.5 meters (28 feet), causing widespread damage to coastal communities.
  • 1995 Space Shuttle Atlantis Docks with Mir Space Station: The Space Shuttle Atlantis successfully docked with the Russian space station Mir, marking another significant milestone in international space cooperation during the mid-1990s. This mission represented an important moment of collaboration between the United States and Russia in space exploration, occurring just a few years after the end of the Cold War.
  • 1996 Bill Clinton Re-elected as U.S. President: In the 1996 U.S. Presidential Election, Democratic incumbent Bill Clinton decisively defeated Republican challenger Bob Dole, securing his second consecutive term in office. This election solidified Clinton's political legacy and continued the Democratic Party's hold on the White House.
  • 1997 US #1 Song: Candle In The Wind 1997: Elton John's 'Candle In The Wind 1997', a tribute to Princess Diana, was the number one song in the United States on November 15, 1997, reflecting the global mourning following her tragic death.
  • 1998 Berlin Conference on African Colonization: The Berlin Conference, also known as the Congo Conference, was a pivotal diplomatic meeting held from November 15, 1884, to February 26, 1885, where European powers negotiated and formalized their territorial claims in Africa. Representatives from major European nations, including Germany, France, Britain, Portugal, and Belgium, convened to establish ground rules for colonial expansion and partition of the African continent. The conference, initiated by German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, resulted in the infamous 'General Act of the Berlin Conference', which effectively divided Africa among European colonial powers without African representation, setting the stage for decades of European imperial control and exploitation.
  • 1999 Mercury Transit in North America: A rare astronomical event occurred on November 15, 1999, with the transit of Mercury becoming visible across North America, offering astronomers and sky watchers a unique celestial observation.
  • 2000 Formation of Jharkhand State: A new Indian state called Jharkhand was officially formed on November 15, 2000, by carving out the South Chhota Nagpur area from the state of Bihar. This significant administrative reorganization created the 28th state of India, comprising eighteen districts from southern Bihar.
  • 2001 Microsoft Xbox Launch in North America: Microsoft launched the Xbox video gaming system in North America on November 15, 2001. Priced at US$299, the system featured impressive specifications including a 733 MHz Intel main CPU, 250 MHz NVidia XGP graphic processor, 64 MB RAM, and 3D audio support. The console came with four controller ports and one controller, and included an Ethernet port. It could play DVD movies and use dual-layer DVD-ROM discs storing up to 9 GB of data. The launch was highly successful, with 500,000 units sold in the first week and 1.5 million units in the first month.
  • 2002 Hu Jintao Becomes Communist Party Leader: Hu Jintao assumed the role of General Secretary of the Communist Party of China, marking a significant leadership transition in one of the world's most powerful nations. This event represented a key moment in China's political evolution and succession planning.
  • 2003 Iraq Sovereignty Restoration Plan: The Iraqi Governing Council announced a roadmap for Iraq's political future, declaring that sovereignty would be restored in June 2004 and full democratic elections would be held in 2005, signaling a potential transition towards self-governance after the U.S. invasion.
  • 2004 Bush Administration Cabinet Reshuffling: President George W. Bush accepts the resignation of Secretary of State Colin Powell, marking a significant cabinet transition. Powell becomes the sixth Cabinet member to resign since Bush's re-election. Other resignations include Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman, Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham, and Education Secretary Rod Paige.
  • 2005 Gaza Travel Agreement: U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice mediated a landmark agreement between Israelis and the Palestinian Authority, allowing Palestinians to travel in and out of the Gaza Strip with minimal restrictions.
  • 2006 Enron Accounting Fraud Sentencing: Richard Causey, former Enron Chief Accounting Officer, was sentenced to 5.5 years in prison for his role in the massive corporate accounting scandal that became a landmark case of financial fraud.
  • 2007 Cyclone Sidr Devastates Bangladesh: Category 4 Cyclone Sidr struck Bangladesh, causing catastrophic damage. The cyclone killed an estimated 5,000 people and severely damaged the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest ecosystem. The disaster highlighted the vulnerability of coastal regions to extreme weather events and climate change.
  • 2008 First G20 Economic Summit Addresses Global Financial Crisis: World leaders convened in Washington, D.C. for the inaugural G20 economic summit, representing nations that collectively account for 90 percent of global GDP to discuss coordinated responses to the unfolding economic crisis.
  • 2009 Obama Meets Burmese Military Government: U.S. President Barack Obama became the first American President to meet Burma's military government, demanding the release of Aung San Suu Kyi and other political prisoners.
  • 2010 US Afghanistan Transition Plan: US diplomat Richard Holbrooke clarified the United States' strategic approach in Afghanistan, emphasizing that the current plan is a transition strategy, not an exit strategy. Some American troops will be drawn down in 2011, but combat missions are expected to continue until 2014.
  • 2011 International Pressure on Syrian Regime: The Syrian government faces mounting pressure from multiple fronts, with Turkey threatening to cut electricity and the European Union implementing additional sanctions against the Assad regime.
  • 2012 Xi Jinping Becomes General Secretary of Chinese Communist Party: Xi Jinping assumes leadership of the Chinese Communist Party, becoming the General Secretary and inaugurating a new seven-member Politburo Standing Committee, marking a significant transition of power in China.
  • 2013 Typhoon Haiyan Devastating Impact: The United Nations reports a staggering death toll of approximately 4,400 from Typhoon Haiyan. The Red Cross estimates around 20,000 people are still missing, with many presumed dead. This contradicts earlier, more optimistic estimates by Philippine President Benigno Aquino III.
  • 2014 G-20 Summit in Brisbane: The ninth G-20 summit convenes in Brisbane, Australia, bringing together world leaders to discuss global economic strategies and cooperation.
  • 2015 Paris Terror Attacks: On November 15, 2015, coordinated terrorist attacks were staged in Paris, France, by three jihadist cells. The attacks targeted multiple locations including bars, a concert hall, and a soccer stadium, resulting in 132 fatalities and 350 injuries. The Islamic State (ISIS) claimed responsibility for these devastating attacks.
  • 2016 Syrian Civil War Airstrikes Target Hospitals and Civilians: U.S. State Department reported devastating airstrikes by Syrian government and Russian forces in rebel-held areas, killing between four and twenty people and destroying five hospitals and a mobile clinic in Aleppo. Russia and Syria denied targeting the city.
  • 2017 Salvator Mundi is a painting that Leonardo da Vinci has attributed to. It was sold at Christie's New York City auction for US$450.3 Million, setting a new record in the sale of original art.
  • 2018 Khashoggi Murder Sanctions: Saudi Arabia accused five officials of murdering and dismembering journalist Jamal Khashoggi. In response, the Trump administration imposed sanctions on 17 Saudi officials, though notably excluding Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, signaling a complex diplomatic response to the international incident.
  • 2019 Iran Internet Shutdown During Nationwide Protests: The Iranian government implemented a comprehensive internet blackout for five days to suppress information about widespread national protests triggered by sudden increases in gasoline prices. This internet shutdown marked the beginning of the most significant civil unrest in Iran in four decades, with demonstrations spreading across multiple cities and regions, highlighting deep-seated economic frustrations and political tensions.
  • 2020 United States Surpasses 11 Million COVID-19 Cases: The United States surpasses 11 million confirmed COVID-19 cases, just six days after reaching ten million, highlighting the rapid spread of the pandemic and mounting public health crisis.
  • 2021 Biden-Xi Virtual Summit to Reduce Diplomatic Tensions: U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a virtual bilateral meeting aimed at addressing and potentially reducing rising geopolitical tensions surrounding issues like Taiwan, COVID-19 origins, and international trade.
  • 2022 Missile Incident in Poland during Russo-Ukrainian War: A complex international incident occurred when a missile strike killed two people in Przewodów, Poland. Initial confusion surrounded the missile's origin, with U.S. President Joe Biden suggesting it was a Ukrainian air defense missile, while Polish authorities claimed it was Russian-made. Simultaneously, Russia launched extensive missile strikes across Ukraine, causing critical damage to energy infrastructure.
  • 2023 Israel-Hamas War: Hospital Raid and Fuel Delivery: On November 15, 2023, the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict saw Israeli ground forces conducting a significant raid on Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. Simultaneously, a crucial humanitarian development occurred with the first fuel truck entering the Gaza Strip through the Rafah Border Crossing since the war's inception. The Israeli blockade remained in effect, raising substantial international humanitarian concerns.

What Is special about November 15?

November 15 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 15.