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

Events on September 5 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Galveston Hurricane of 1900: Deadly Intensification: The Great Galveston hurricane continued to strengthen in the Gulf of Mexico on September 5, 1900, setting the stage for what would become the deadliest natural disaster in United States history. The storm would make landfall on September 8, causing catastrophic damage to Galveston, Texas, and resulting in an estimated 6,000-12,000 fatalities.
1901 Assassination of President McKinley at Pan-American Exposition: President William McKinley was fatally shot by anarchist Leon Czolgosz during an afternoon public reception at the Temple of Music building at the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York. This tragic event would lead to Vice President Theodore Roosevelt becoming the 26th President of the United States.
1902 Anglo-Chinese Commercial Treaty Signed: The United Kingdom and the Chinese Empire signed a significant commercial treaty in Shanghai, further establishing diplomatic and trade relations between the two nations during the early 20th century. This treaty likely outlined trade regulations, tariffs, and mutual economic cooperation.
1903 Pope Pius X Portrait Commission: Irish painter Henry Jones Thaddeus was granted official permission to create a portrait of Pope Pius X, marking a significant artistic and ecclesiastical moment in early 20th-century religious portraiture.
1905 Treaty of Portsmouth Ends Russo-Japanese War: The Treaty of Portsmouth was signed by representatives of the Empire of Japan and the Russian Empire to end the Russo-Japanese War, following mediation by U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. As part of the peace agreement, Russia ceded half of the island of Sakhalin to Japan, along with seaport and railway rights in Manchuria.
1906 1906 San Francisco Earthquake: On April 18, 1906, at 5:12 am PDT, a massive Mw 7.9 earthquake devastated San Francisco and the surrounding region. The earthquake ruptured 296 miles (477 km) of the northern San Andreas Fault, causing extensive damage from Shelter Cove in Humboldt County to San Juan Bautista in San Benito County. Ground shaking was reported as far as 370 miles (600 km) north in the town of Eureka, making it one of the most destructive natural disasters in U.S. history.
1907 Bellingham Riots: Anti-Asian Labor Tensions: The Bellingham Riots of 1907 represented a significant moment of racial tension and labor conflict in the Pacific Northwest. On the day following the initial riot, local newspapers analyzed the events, and city officials deliberated potential responses. The Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) publicly distanced itself from the anti-Asian violence, asserting that such actions contradicted the principles of organized labor and worker solidarity.
1908 Nap Rucker's No-Hitter: Brooklyn Dodgers pitcher Nap Rucker achieved a remarkable no-hitter against the Boston Doves, winning the game 6-0. This was a significant athletic achievement in Major League Baseball during the early 20th century.
1909 Tsar Nicholas II's Visit to Sevastopol with Potential Assassination Attempt: On September 5, 1909, Tsar Nicholas II arrived in Sevastopol, the strategic naval port in Crimea. Intelligence reports suggested a potential assassination attempt was narrowly averted due to a missed train, highlighting the volatile political climate and ongoing tensions during the late Imperial Russian period.
1910 Marie Curie's Groundbreaking Radium Isolation: Marie Curie, the pioneering physicist and chemist, presented a revolutionary scientific breakthrough to the French Academy of Sciences at the Sorbonne. She successfully developed a process to isolate pure radium from its ore, a critical advancement in understanding radioactive elements and laying groundwork for future scientific and medical research.
1911 Devastating Yangtze River Flood of 1911: In September 1911, a catastrophic flood along China's Yangtze River resulted in an estimated 200,000 fatalities. Western missionaries were instrumental in bringing global attention to this massive natural disaster, reporting the scale of destruction and human loss to the international community. The flood was one of the deadliest natural disasters in early 20th-century China, highlighting the region's vulnerability to extreme hydrological events.
1912 Racial Tension in Forsyth County: Ellen Grice, a 22-year-old white woman in Forsyth County, alleges a Black man attacked her home while her husband was absent. This accusation leads to the arrest of five Black men, reflecting the deeply racist legal and social dynamics of early 20th-century America, where unsubstantiated claims could result in immediate and unjust persecution of Black individuals.
1913 Birth of Frank Thomas, Pioneering Animator: Frank Thomas, a renowned American animator who would later become a key figure in Disney's golden age of animation, was born. Thomas would go on to have a distinguished career, passing away in 2004 after contributing significantly to the art of animation.
1914 First Battle of the Marne - A Turning Point in World War I: On September 5, 1914, the First Battle of the Marne began northeast of Paris, marking a critical moment in World War I. French and British allied forces launched a decisive counter-offensive against the advancing German armies, successfully halting their rapid invasion of France. This battle effectively disrupted the German Schlieffen Plan, which had aimed for a quick victory by rapidly defeating France before turning to fight Russia.
1915 Czar Nicholas II Takes Command of Russian Army: In a desperate move during World War I, Russian Czar Nicholas II assumes personal command of the Russian Army, hoping to boost morale and reverse military fortunes. The Russian forces have suffered catastrophic losses, including over 1,400,000 casualties and 750,000 soldiers captured during Austro-German offensives in Galicia and Poland.
1916 First Airship Shot Down Over British Territory: Lieutenant Leefe Robinson of the Royal Flying Corps achieved a historic military aviation milestone by shooting down the German Army airship SL 11 near London, killing its entire 16-person crew. He was later awarded the Victoria Cross for this remarkable feat.
1917 United States Army Establishes Camp Devens: The United States Army established Camp Devens in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, as a critical temporary training base for soldiers mobilizing and preparing for service during World War I.
1918 Lenin Publishes Decree on Red Terror: The Bolshevik government under Vladimir Lenin officially published the 'Decree on Red Terror', authorizing widespread and systematic use of violence against perceived political opponents during the Russian Civil War.
1919 Wilson Advocates for League of Nations in St. Louis Speech: In a pivotal address at a St. Louis coliseum, President Woodrow Wilson passionately articulated his vision for the League of Nations, a groundbreaking international organization designed to prevent future global conflicts through diplomatic cooperation and collective security. Wilson argued that such a multilateral institution was essential to maintaining lasting peace in the aftermath of World War I, emphasizing the need for nations to resolve disputes through dialogue rather than armed conflict.
1920 Mexican Presidential Election of 1920: Presidential elections commenced in Mexico, marking a significant political transition following years of revolutionary turmoil. This election represented a critical moment in Mexico's democratic development after the tumultuous period of the Mexican Revolution.
1921 Virginia Rappe Tragedy: A deeply disturbing incident occurred involving actress Virginia Rappe, who was fatally injured during a party hosted by film comedian Roscoe 'Fatty' Arbuckle. This event would lead to a major Hollywood scandal and criminal trial that significantly impacted the film industry's public image.
1922 Jimmy Doolittle's Historic Cross-Country Flight: Aviation pioneer Jimmy Doolittle embarked on the first single-day transcontinental flight across the United States, departing from Pablo Beach, Florida at 10:03 p.m. and heading towards Rockwell Field in San Diego, California in a modified DH-4B aircraft. This groundbreaking journey marked a significant milestone in early 20th-century aviation technology and long-distance flight capabilities.
1923 US Asiatic Fleet Provides Humanitarian Aid in Japan: Following the devastating Great Kanto Earthquake, the U.S. Asiatic Fleet arrived in Yokohama, Japan, to offer critical medical assistance and essential supplies, demonstrating international humanitarian cooperation in the aftermath of a major natural disaster.
1924 American Round-the-World Flight Completion: The three remaining planes of the American round-the-world flight expedition (Chicago, New Orleans, and Boston II) successfully returned to U.S. airspace, landing near Brunswick, Maine in dense fog. This marked a significant milestone in early 20th-century aviation exploration.
1925 Bobby Jones Wins 29th US Amateur Golf Championship: Bobby Jones, a legendary amateur golfer, secured victory in the 29th United States Amateur Golf Championship, further solidifying his reputation as one of the most talented golfers of the early 20th century. Jones was known for his exceptional skill and would later become a pivotal figure in golf history, helping to establish the Masters Tournament and achieving the rare 'Grand Slam' in 1930.
1926 Wanhsien Incident: British Naval Confrontation with Chinese Forces: On September 5, 1926, a significant maritime conflict occurred in Wanhsien, China, involving a camouflaged and armored British merchant ship, SS Kiawo, and Chinese-occupied vessels. The incident escalated when the SS Kiawo attempted to board a Chinese merchant ship, provoking return fire from Chinese troops on shore. British gunboats Cockchafer and Widgeon engaged in the conflict, ultimately shelling both merchant ships to prevent their continued use by Chinese forces after hostages were evacuated. The confrontation resulted in substantial casualties: approximately 22 British personnel killed, 250 Chinese military personnel dead, and 100 civilian casualties, highlighting the intense military tensions during this period of colonial interactions in China.
1927 Epic Baseball Marathon: Red Sox vs Yankees: In an extraordinary baseball game, the Boston Red Sox defeated the New York Yankees in a grueling 18-inning match with a final score of 12-11. This marathon game showcased exceptional endurance and competitive spirit, highlighting the intense rivalry between these two legendary baseball teams.
1928 Kostaq Kota Assumes Prime Ministership of Albania: On September 5, 1928, Kostaq Kota was appointed as the Prime Minister of Albania, marking a significant moment in the country's political leadership during the interwar period. Kota's appointment came at a time of political transition and emerging national identity for Albania.
1929 Prophetic Warning of Stock Market Crash: American business theorist Roger Babson delivered a prescient speech at a business conference in Wellesley, Massachusetts, warning about excessive speculation and borrowing in the financial markets. His ominous prediction foreshadowed the impending stock market crash that would trigger the Great Depression.
1930 Argentine Presidential Resignation amid Political Unrest: Hipólito Yrigoyen, a prominent Argentine political leader, resigned from the presidency following a week of intense and violent anti-government demonstrations. This event signaled significant political instability in Argentina during the early 20th century and marked a pivotal moment in the country's democratic transition.
1931 Tragic Death of Scottish Soccer Player John Thomson: John Thomson, a promising young Scottish soccer player, tragically died during a Celtic-Rangers match in a fatal on-field accident. Thomson, who was only 22 years old at the time of his death, was a talented goalkeeper for Celtic Football Club. His untimely passing shocked the Scottish sporting community and became a significant moment in soccer history.
1932 Dissolution of French Upper Volta Colonial Territory: In a significant administrative reorganization, the French colonial administration dismantled the territory of Upper Volta (modern-day Burkina Faso), redistributing its lands among three neighboring French colonial territories: Ivory Coast, French Sudan (now Mali), and Niger. This territorial restructuring reflected the arbitrary colonial boundaries and administrative strategies of the French colonial empire in West Africa, which often prioritized administrative convenience over local ethnic and cultural considerations.
1933 Cuban Revolution of 1933: Presidential Transition: On September 5, 1933, during a pivotal moment in Cuban political history, President Carlos Manuel de Céspedes y Quesada was informed by members of the revolutionary junta that they were prepared to take control of the government. In response, he peacefully vacated the Presidential Palace, marking a significant shift in Cuba's political landscape.
1934 Hitler Proclaims 'Thousand Year Reich': During the 8th Nuremberg Rally, Adolf Wagner read a proclamation written by Hitler that first established the concept of a 'Thousand Year Reich'. Hitler declared that the Nazi revolution was complete and proclaimed there would be no more revolutions in Germany for the next 1,000 years, signaling the Nazi Party's intent to establish long-term totalitarian control.
1935 Roosevelt Investigates Veterans' Hurricane Safety: President Franklin D. Roosevelt initiated a formal investigation to determine why adequate safety precautions were not implemented to protect veterans working in relief camps during a hurricane. This action underscored the administration's commitment to the welfare of veterans and the importance of emergency preparedness during the Great Depression era.
1936 RMS Queen Mary's Maiden Voyage: The iconic British luxury liner RMS Queen Mary departs Southampton on her historic first transatlantic crossing, representing a pinnacle of maritime engineering and passenger travel in the 1930s.
1937 Argentine Presidential Election of 1937: Roberto María Ortiz was elected as the President of Argentina in a notable democratic transition, succeeding Agustín Pedro Justo and representing a period of political change in the country.
1938 Final Nazi Party Congress at Nuremberg: The annual Nuremberg Rally began, marking the last Nazi Party Congress ever held. This event symbolized the peak and impending decline of Nazi political spectacles, which had been instrumental in showcasing the party's power and ideology.
1939 United States Declares Neutrality in World War II: The United States formally declares its neutrality in the escalating global conflict, marking an initial stance of non-intervention at the war's outbreak.
1940 The Blitz Begins: Nazi Germany Bombs London: Nazi Germany commenced its strategic bombing campaign against London, marking the start of 57 consecutive nights of aerial bombardment. This marked a critical phase of the Battle of Britain and represented a significant escalation in the air war.
1941 Pavoloch Massacre: Einsatzgruppen (Nazi mobile killing units) conducted a mass execution, murdering approximately 1,500 people in Pavoloch, representing a horrific example of Nazi atrocities during the Holocaust.
1942 Tragic Liquidation of Wolbrom's Jewish Community: In a horrific act of Nazi persecution, the Jewish community of Wolbrom, Poland was forcibly rounded up by German forces and local collaborators. This devastating event marked the complete destruction of a once-thriving Jewish community, representing one of the many tragic episodes of the Holocaust. The community, which had a rich cultural and social history, was systematically erased, leaving behind only memories and historical records.
1943 Italy Signs Secret Armistice in World War II: On September 5, 1943, a pivotal secret armistice was signed between Italy and the Allied Powers, effectively marking Italy's withdrawal from World War II. This momentous diplomatic event signaled a critical turning point in the war, as Italy shifted allegiance from the Axis powers to the Allies, dramatically altering the geopolitical landscape of the conflict.
1944 Liberation of Brussels: Allied forces successfully liberated Brussels, Belgium, a crucial strategic victory that marked a significant turning point in the Western European theater of World War II.
1945 Gouzenko Defection Marks Cold War Beginning: Soviet embassy clerk Igor Gouzenko defected to Canada, revealing extensive Soviet espionage networks in North America. This pivotal moment is widely considered the symbolic start of the Cold War, exposing Soviet intelligence operations and dramatically shifting geopolitical tensions.
1946 Trans-Luxury Airlines Flight 850 Crash: A tragic aviation accident occurred when Trans-Luxury Airlines Flight 850, traveling from New York to San Francisco, crashed into a hillside near Elko, Nevada. Of the 22 people on board, 21 perished, with a remarkable survival of a 2-year-old boy who sustained only minor injuries.
1948 Robert Schuman Becomes Prime Minister of France: Robert Schuman assumed the role of Prime Minister of France, marking a significant moment in post-World War II French political leadership. As a key political figure, Schuman would play a crucial role in shaping France's recovery and international relations during a pivotal period of European reconstruction.
1949 Camden Mass Shooting: Howard Unruh's Deadly Rampage: On September 5, 1949, Howard Unruh, a World War II veteran, committed a horrific mass shooting in Camden, New Jersey, killing 13 of his neighbors with a Luger pistol he had kept as a war souvenir. This tragic event marked him as the first documented single-episode mass murderer in United States history, shocking the nation and highlighting emerging issues of post-war psychological trauma.
1950 Battle of Yongsan in Korean War: The Battle of Yongsan, a significant engagement during the Korean War, concluded with a decisive victory for the United Nations forces. This battle was a crucial moment in the conflict, demonstrating the strategic capabilities of UN troops.
1951 Mo Connolly Wins 65th US Women's Tennis Championship: In a remarkable display of skill, Mo Connolly defeated Shirley J. Fry to claim the 65th US Women's Tennis Championship. Connolly's victory solidified her reputation as a dominant force in women's tennis during the early 1950s.
1952 Puerto Rican Marine Fernando Luis García Killed in Korean War: Fernando Luis García, a brave Puerto Rican marine, was killed in action during the Korean War on September 5, 1952. His sacrifice represents the significant contribution of Puerto Rican service members to the United States military efforts during this conflict, highlighting the island's commitment to national defense despite not being a state.
1953 UN Rejects Soviet Proposal for China's Membership: The United Nations declined the Soviet Union's proposal to accept China as a member, reflecting the complex geopolitical tensions of the Cold War period.
1954 KLM Flight 633 Crash in Shannon, Ireland: On September 5, 1954, KLM Flight 633, a Lockheed L-1049 Super Constellation, crashed into the River Shannon shortly after takeoff from Shannon Airport in County Clare, Ireland. The tragic accident resulted in the deaths of 28 out of 56 passengers on board, marking a significant aviation disaster of the mid-1950s.
1955 Don Newcombe Sets Pitcher Home Run Record: Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Don Newcombe achieved a remarkable milestone by hitting his 7th home run of the season, setting a new National League record for pitchers and demonstrating exceptional batting skill for a pitcher.
1956 USS Suffolk County Naval Ship Launched: The De Soto County-class tank landing ship USS Suffolk County (LST-1173) is ceremonially launched at the Boston Naval Shipyard. Mrs. Thomas P. O'Neill, Jr. performs the traditional ship launching ceremony, marking an important moment in US naval expansion during the Cold War era.
1957 Batista Suppresses Cienfuegos Uprising: Cuban dictator Fulgencio Batista's military forces brutally bomb an anti-government uprising in Cienfuegos, intensifying the growing resistance against his authoritarian regime. This violent suppression further fuels the Cuban Revolution's momentum and public opposition to Batista's rule.
1958 First Color Video Recording on Magnetic Tape: A groundbreaking technological achievement was demonstrated in Charlotte, North Carolina, with the first successful color video recording on magnetic tape, a pivotal moment in video and broadcasting technology.
1959 Laos Declares State of Emergency: The Kingdom of Laos proclaimed a state of emergency following escalating tensions with rebels from North Vietnam. UN Secretary General Dag Hammarskjöld interrupted his international tour to return to New York and convene an urgent meeting to address the emerging crisis.
1960 Muhammad Ali Wins Olympic Gold Medal: Cassius Clay (later known as Muhammad Ali) wins the gold medal in the light heavyweight boxing competition at the 1960 Rome Olympic Games, marking a significant milestone in his legendary boxing career.
1961 US Underground Nuclear Testing Initiated: The United States, under President John F. Kennedy's administration, commences underground nuclear weapons testing. These tests were part of the ongoing Cold War nuclear arms race and strategic military development programs.
1962 Ken Hubbs Sets MLB Defensive Record: Cubs player Ken Hubbs established a remarkable defensive record at second base, achieving 78 consecutive errorless games and 418 consecutive errorless chances. His streak was broken in the 4th game on September 5, 1962.
1963 Christine Keeler Perjury Arrest and Conviction: Christine Keeler, a prominent British model and showgirl involved in the infamous Profumo Affair, was arrested for perjury on September 5, 1963. Her legal troubles stemmed from providing false testimony related to her high-profile affair with John Profumo, a government minister that had caused a major political scandal. On December 6 of the same year, she was sentenced to 9 months in prison for her false statements.
1965 Founding of Mujahedin-e Khalq Organization (MEK): Three Iranian graduates from Tehran University College of Engineering founded the Mujahedin-e Khalq Organization (MEK), a political group established to oppose the authoritarian regime of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The organization emerged during a period of significant political tension in Iran, seeking to challenge the monarchy's policies through revolutionary ideology.
1966 Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Telethon Raises $1 Million: Jerry Lewis hosted his first Muscular Dystrophy Labor Day telethon, successfully raising $1 million for muscular dystrophy research and support, marking a significant milestone in charitable fundraising for medical research.
1967 Death of Ilse Koch, Nazi War Criminal: Ilse Koch, the 60-year-old German war criminal infamously known as 'The Bitch of Buchenwald' for her cruel actions in Nazi concentration camps, committed suicide by hanging herself in the Bavarian prison of Aichach.
1968 Pan Am Flight Hijacking Tragedy in Karachi: A devastating hijacking incident resulted in the deaths of 21 passengers aboard a Pan Am jet in Karachi, Pakistan, highlighting the escalating global terrorism challenges of the late 1960s.
1969 My Lai Massacre: William Calley Charged with War Crimes: U.S. Army Lieutenant William Calley was formally charged with six specifications of premeditated murder for the systematic killing of 109 Vietnamese civilians during the infamous My Lai Massacre, a pivotal moment in exposing war crimes during the Vietnam War.
1970 Operation Jefferson Glenn in Vietnam War: During the Vietnam War, the United States 101st Airborne Division and the South Vietnamese 1st Infantry Division launched Operation Jefferson Glenn in Thua Thien-Hue Province, representing a coordinated military effort to combat North Vietnamese forces.
1971 Tragic Alaskan 727 Plane Crash: A devastating plane crash in the Chilkoot Mountains of Alaska results in the loss of 109 lives, marking one of the deadliest aviation accidents of the year.
1972 Munich Massacre at 1972 Summer Olympics: On September 5, 1972, the Palestinian terrorist group Black September launched a horrific attack during the Munich Olympic Games, taking eleven Israeli athletes and coaches hostage. The tragic event resulted in the death of all eleven Israeli team members, marking one of the most devastating terrorist incidents in Olympic history.
1973 Gambling Fraud Exposed: The New York Times revealed a significant sports betting scandal, reporting that almost all Superfecta races at Yonkers, Roosevelt, and Monticello racetracks from January to March 1973 were systematically fixed, exposing widespread corruption in horse racing.
1974 Bicentennial Reconvening of First Continental Congress: A commemorative two-day event was held at Carpenters' Hall in Philadelphia, marking the bicentennial of the First Continental Congress. Governors from 12 of the 13 original American colonies attended, with Massachusetts Governor Francis Sargent absent due to a political campaign. U.S. President Gerald Ford delivered a keynote speech at the concluding banquet, emphasizing the historical significance of the original congressional gathering.
1975 Sinai Interim Agreement: Egypt and Israel signed the Sinai Interim Agreement, establishing a 25-kilometer wide buffer zone in the Sinai Peninsula to be monitored by United Nations Emergency Force troops, representing a significant diplomatic breakthrough in Middle Eastern relations.
1976 Jerome Kern Musical Concludes Broadway Run: Revival of Jerome Kern and Schuyler Greene's musical 'Very Good Eddie' completes its successful Broadway run at the Booth Theater, closing after an impressive 307 performances.
1977 NASA Launches Voyager 1 Spacecraft: NASA launched the Voyager 1 spacecraft from Cape Canaveral, Florida, marking a significant milestone in space exploration. This groundbreaking mission was designed to explore Jupiter, Saturn, and eventually venture beyond our solar system, becoming humanity's most distant emissary into deep space.
1978 Camp David Accords Peace Conference Begins: On September 5, 1978, a historic peace conference commenced at Camp David, Maryland, bringing together Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin, and U.S. President Jimmy Carter. This landmark diplomatic meeting aimed to negotiate a comprehensive peace treaty between Egypt and Israel, marking a significant moment in Middle Eastern diplomatic relations.
1979 Ann Meyers Breaks Basketball Barrier: Ann Meyers makes history by becoming the first woman signed to an NBA player's contract, receiving $50,000 from the San Diego Sails of the American Basketball Association (ABA), a groundbreaking moment for women in professional sports.
1980 Edward Gierek Resigns from Polish Communist Party: Edward Gierek, the long-standing leader of the Polish United Workers' Party, resigns from his position amid growing political and economic challenges in Poland. This resignation marks a significant moment in Poland's late communist era political landscape.
1981 Greenham Common Women's Peace Camp Established: The first women arrived at what would become the historic Greenham Common Women's Peace Camp in the United Kingdom, marking a significant moment of feminist and anti-nuclear protest. The camp would become a powerful symbol of peaceful resistance against nuclear weapons during the Cold War era.
1982 Johnny Gosch Kidnapping: Iowa paperboy Johnny Gosch was kidnapped, a tragic event that would become one of the most publicized child abduction cases in American history, sparking nationwide discussions about child safety and criminal investigations.
1983 Space Shuttle Challenger Mission 8 Lands: The 8th Space Shuttle Mission, featuring the Challenger spacecraft, successfully lands at Edwards Air Force Base. This mission represents another milestone in NASA's Space Shuttle program, demonstrating the growing capabilities of reusable spacecraft technology.
1984 Space Shuttle Discovery's 41-D Mission Concludes: The 12th Space Shuttle Mission (41-D) successfully completes its maiden voyage, landing at Edwards Air Force Base, marking another milestone in NASA's space exploration program.
1985 John Howard Becomes Australian Opposition Leader: John Howard replaced Andrew Peacock as the Leader of the Opposition in the Australian Federal Parliament, marking a significant moment in Australian political history. This leadership change would later prove pivotal, as Howard would eventually become Prime Minister from 1996 to 2007.
1986 Pan Am Flight 73 Hijacking: Pan Am Flight 73, carrying 358 passengers, was hijacked at Karachi International Airport by four armed members of the Abu Nidal terrorist organization. The incident resulted in a tragic confrontation where 19 people lost their lives during a rescue attempt by Pakistani authorities.
1987 Gary Hart Admits to Marital Infidelity: Presidential candidate Gary Hart publicly admits to cheating on his wife during an appearance on 'Nightline', a revelation that significantly damaged his political career.
1988 Major Financial Acquisition in US Savings and Loan Industry: The Robert M. Bass Group secured a significant financial deal, agreeing to purchase American Savings and Loan Association, the largest bankrupt thrift in the United States, with $2 billion in federal aid.
1989 South African Election Under Apartheid: The final South African general election held under the apartheid system saw the National Party return to power with a significantly reduced majority, signaling the impending political transformation of the country.
1990 Eastern University Massacre: On September 5, 1990, Sri Lankan Army soldiers conducted a brutal massacre of 158 Tamil civilians at the Eastern University in Batticaloa, Sri Lanka, during the ongoing Sri Lankan Civil War. This tragic event represents one of the most significant atrocities committed during the conflict, highlighting the extreme violence and human rights violations that characterized the war.
1991 Soviet Union's Political Restructuring: The Congress of People's Deputies of the Soviet Union self-dissolves, being replaced by the Supreme Soviet of the Soviet Union and the State Council, signaling major political changes.
1992 Turkish Army Ammunition Depot Explosion: A catastrophic accidental explosion at a Turkish Army ammunition store in Afyon, western Turkey, results in a tragic loss of 25 military personnel and leaves four others wounded. The incident highlights the inherent risks in military ammunition storage and handling procedures.
1993 Noureddine Morceli Sets Mile World Record: Algerian athlete Noureddine Morceli achieved a groundbreaking world record in the mile, further cementing his status as one of the most exceptional middle-distance runners of his era.
1994 Political Assassination of John Newman: John Newman, a New South Wales State Member of Parliament representing Cabramatta, was fatally shot outside his home in a shocking incident that marked Australia's first political assassination since 1977. The murder sent significant ripples through Australian political circles, highlighting rare political violence in the country.
1995 Uneventful Day in Global History: On September 5, 1995, no significant global events were documented. While this might appear unremarkable, such days are a reminder that not every moment in history is marked by dramatic occurrences. Daily life continued its routine course across various regions, with people engaging in their usual personal and professional activities.
1996 Hurricane Fran Devastates North Carolina: Hurricane Fran made a catastrophic landfall near Cape Fear, North Carolina as a powerful Category 3 storm with sustained winds of 115 mph (185 km/h). The hurricane caused extensive destruction, resulting in over $3 billion in damages (equivalent to $4.79 billion in present-day terms) and tragically claiming 27 lives, primarily in North Carolina. Due to its significant impact, the name 'Fran' was permanently retired from future hurricane naming lists.
1997 Death of Mother Teresa: Mother Teresa (Annai Theresa), a Roman Catholic nun renowned for her humanitarian work, passed away. She dedicated her life to serving the poorest of the poor in Calcutta, India, and was globally recognized for her compassionate service and commitment to alleviating human suffering.
1998 North Korea Solidifies Military Dictatorship: On September 5, 1998, North Korea formally consolidated its political structure as a military dictatorship, marking a significant moment in the nation's post-Korean War governance. This event symbolized the complete entrenchment of the Kim dynasty's authoritarian rule, with the military playing a central role in state administration and national policy-making.
1999 Ontario Highway 401 Multi-Vehicle Collision: On September 5, 1999, a catastrophic multi-vehicle crash occurred on Ontario Highway 401, involving 87 vehicles and resulting in 8 tragic fatalities. The massive pile-up was likely caused by poor visibility conditions, potentially due to fog or smoke, which created a dangerous driving environment. This incident highlighted the critical importance of road safety, emergency response protocols, and driver awareness during challenging weather conditions.
2000 The Haverstraw: Ossining Ferry embarks on its maiden voyage.
2001 Scientific Breakthrough: Black Hole Evidence Presented: At a pivotal scientific conference in Washington, D.C., researchers presented compelling observational evidence supporting the existence of a supermassive black hole at the center of the Milky Way Galaxy. The presentation of energy flare observations provided substantial scientific validation for long-standing theoretical predictions about galactic black hole structures.
2002 Failed Assassination Attempt on Afghan President Hamid Karzai: On September 5, 2002, an assassination attempt targeting Afghan President Hamid Karzai was thwarted in Kandahar. The incident highlighted the volatile security situation in Afghanistan during the early post-Taliban period, with insurgent groups attempting to destabilize the new government.
2003 Charles Taylor's Financial Corruption Exposed: A UN investigation reveals that former Liberian president Charles Taylor fled the country with approximately $3 million in international aid money, with additional evidence suggesting he may have stolen or diverted up to $100 million from Liberia, highlighting systemic corruption in the nation's leadership.
2004 Major Earthquakes Strike Western Japan: Two powerful earthquakes hit western Japan on the same day, with magnitudes of 6.9 and 7.3 on the Richter scale. Tsunami warnings were issued for the Pacific coast, with potential wave heights between 3-7 feet.
2005 John Roberts Nominated as Chief Justice: President George W. Bush nominates John G. Roberts to be the Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court, following the recent death of William Rehnquist. This nomination represents a significant moment in the U.S. judicial leadership transition.
2006 2006 Israel-Lebanon Conflict: A significant military conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, characterized by intense fighting and international diplomatic tensions. The conflict resulted in substantial casualties and widespread destruction.
2007 Nuclear Weapons Mishandling Incident: A serious breach in nuclear weapons protocol was reported when a United States Air Force B52 bomber transported six nuclear warheads from Minot Air Force Base to Barksdale Air Force Base, violating established handling procedures. The incident prompted an investigation and the removal of the squadron commander.
2008 McCain-Palin Republican Presidential Ticket: Arizona Senator John McCain is officially nominated as the Republican Party's presidential candidate, with Alaska Governor Sarah Palin selected as his vice presidential running mate for the 2008 United States presidential election.
2009 Lockerbie Bomber Release Controversy: British Justice Secretary Jack Straw revealed in an interview that the release of the Lockerbie bomber was influenced by trade negotiations with Libya and strategic oil interests, sparking significant international debate.
2010 Baghdad Ministry of Defence Complex Explosion: A significant explosion struck the Ministry of Defence Complex in Baghdad, causing substantial damage and raising concerns about ongoing security challenges in Iraq.
2011 Severe Humanitarian Crisis in Somalia: The 2011 Somalian Famine reached critical levels, claiming the lives of 30,000 children and numerous adults, with the crisis expanding to the Bay Region, highlighting a severe humanitarian emergency.
2012 Eurozone Bailout Negotiations with Greece: The troika (European Commission, European Central Bank, and IMF) demanded stringent terms for Greece's next bailout installment, including extending the maximum weekly work day to six days. Netherlands' Prime Minister Mark Rutte ruled out a third bailout loan, while Labour Party's Diederik Samsom discussed potential eurozone exemption for Greece.
2013 Last Witness to Hitler's Suicide Dies: Rochus Misch, the last living witness to Adolf Hitler's suicide in the Fuhrerbunker, passed away at the age of 96, marking the end of a direct connection to one of history's most significant moments.
2014 Ebola Outbreak Escalates in West Africa: The World Health Organization reported 1,900 deaths from the Ebola virus out of 3,500 infected cases across Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, and Sierra Leone, signaling a critical public health emergency.
2015 Migrant Crisis: Arrival in Austria: Approximately 6,500 migrants, predominantly from Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan, arrived in Vienna after traveling through Hungary. Austria and Germany temporarily modified their asylum system rules, allowing these migrants to either register in Austria or proceed to Germany.
2016 Failed Syria Ceasefire Negotiations: During the 2016 G20 Hangzhou summit, U.S. President Barack Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin failed to reach an agreement on a cease-fire in the Syrian civil war, underscoring the complex international diplomatic challenges.
2017 Rohingya Persecution in Myanmar: Over 123,000 Rohingya refugees fled Myanmar to Bangladesh due to escalating violence by the Myanmar Army. Aung San Suu Kyi faced international criticism for her perceived inaction and support of the military's actions.
2018 Anonymous Trump Administration Official Criticizes President in NYT Op-Ed: The New York Times published an anonymous editorial by a senior Trump administration official, criticizing President Donald Trump and alleging that unnamed officials were working internally to stabilize the administration despite the president's perceived challenges.
2019 UK Parliament Blocks No-Deal Brexit: Britain's House of Commons passed a bill preventing a no-deal Brexit, delivering a significant parliamentary defeat to Prime Minister Boris Johnson and complicating the United Kingdom's exit strategy from the European Union.
2020 French Military Casualties in Kidal Region: Two French soldiers were killed when their armored military vehicle struck an improvised explosive device (IED) in the Kidal Region of Mali. This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges and risks faced by international military personnel operating in the region.
2021 Taliban Establish Interim Government in Afghanistan: Following their takeover of Afghanistan, the Taliban announced an interim government led by Mullah Muhammad Hassan Akhund, signaling the completion of their political transition and raising international concerns about human rights and governance.
2022 Devastating Earthquake in Sichuan, China: A powerful magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck Sichuan province in China, resulting in at least 93 confirmed fatalities and 25 people reported missing. The earthquake caused significant destruction and prompted immediate rescue and relief efforts in the affected region.
2023 North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un to Visit Russia: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un plans to make a rare diplomatic trip to Russia this month for a high-stakes meeting with President Vladimir Putin, with discussions centered on potential weapons sales to support Russia's ongoing military campaign in Ukraine.

What Is special about September 5?

September 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 September 5.