Historical Events on September 14: 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 14, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on September 14 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Wilbur Wright's First Kitty Hawk Visit: Wilbur Wright made his inaugural visit to Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, arriving on the shantyboat *Curlicue*. This trip was a crucial preliminary step in the Wright brothers' pioneering aviation experiments that would ultimately lead to the first controlled, sustained flight of a powered, heavier-than-air aircraft.
1901 Assassination of President William McKinley: U.S. President William McKinley died after being mortally wounded on September 6 by anarchist Leon Czolgosz. His death led to Vice President Theodore Roosevelt succeeding him as President of the United States. McKinley was shot at the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York, and succumbed to his wounds eight days later due to gangrene from the bullet injuries.
1902 Dublin Protesters Gather at Phoenix Park Against British Acts: On September 14, 1902, a significant political demonstration took place in Dublin's Phoenix Park, where protesters assembled to voice their opposition to the British government's Criminal Law and Infirmary Acts. These acts were perceived as oppressive measures that infringed upon Irish civil liberties and social welfare rights during the period of British colonial rule in Ireland.
1903 Joseph Chamberlain's Political Shift: Joseph Chamberlain dramatically resigned from his position as British Colonial Secretary to publicly campaign for Imperial Preference, a significant political strategy aimed at strengthening economic ties within the British Empire.
1904 Birth of Frank Amyot, Canadian Olympic Canoeist: Frank Amyot was a prominent Canadian sprint canoeist who made significant contributions to Canadian sports history. Born on September 14, 1904, he would go on to become an accomplished athlete, representing Canada in international competitions during the early to mid-20th century. Amyot was known for his exceptional skills in sprint canoeing and helped elevate the sport's profile in Canada.
1905 Death of Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza: Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza, the renowned 53-year-old Italian-born French explorer who played a crucial role in French colonial expansion in Africa, died from a tropical illness contracted during his extraordinary diplomatic mission. He is famously known as the namesake of Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of Congo.
1906 Theodore Roosevelt Awarded Nobel Peace Prize: President Theodore Roosevelt was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize for his diplomatic mediation in resolving the Russo-Japanese War. Through skillful negotiations at the Portsmouth Conference in Portsmouth, New Hampshire in 1905, Roosevelt successfully facilitated peace talks between Russia and Japan, helping to end the conflict and prevent further bloodshed. This marked the first time an American president received the prestigious international peace award, highlighting Roosevelt's commitment to diplomatic resolution of international disputes.
1908 Handel Completes Messiah Oratorio: Renowned Baroque composer George Frideric Handel completed his monumental oratorio 'Messiah' in an extraordinary burst of creative energy, composing the entire work in just 23 days. This masterpiece, which would become one of the most celebrated musical compositions in Western classical music, was written in 1741 and first performed in Dublin, Ireland in 1742. The work, based on biblical texts, is particularly famous for its 'Hallelujah' chorus and is traditionally performed during the Christmas and Easter seasons.
1909 Birth of Peter Scott: Pioneering Naturalist and Conservationist: Peter Scott was born on this date, who would become a renowned British naturalist, wildlife artist, conservationist, and explorer. Throughout his life, Scott made significant contributions to wildlife preservation, founding the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and playing a crucial role in environmental conservation efforts. His work bridged scientific research, artistic representation, and global environmental advocacy.
1910 Huo Yuanjia's Nationalist Martial Arts Victory: Huo Yuanjia achieved a remarkable victory by defeating challengers from France, Britain, Russia, and Japan, significantly boosting Chinese national pride and challenging Western perceptions of Chinese martial prowess.
1911 Assassination of Pyotr Stolypin: Pyotr Stolypin, a prominent Russian Prime Minister known for his significant reforms and attempts to modernize the Russian Empire, was assassinated by Mordka (Dmitry) Bogrov during a public event. The assassination took place at the Kiev Opera House in the presence of Tsar Nicholas II, marking a pivotal moment in late Imperial Russian political history.
1912 Groundbreaking of the Trans-Australian Railway: On September 14, 1912, a significant milestone in Australian infrastructure was achieved with the groundbreaking ceremony for the Trans-Australian Railway. Governor-General Sir Ronald Munro Ferguson presided over the event, symbolically turning the first sod to mark the commencement of this ambitious transcontinental railway project. This railway would eventually connect the eastern and western parts of Australia, playing a crucial role in the nation's transportation and economic development.
1913 President McKinley Dies from Assassination Wounds: President William McKinley succumbed to gunshot wounds eight days after being assassinated in Buffalo, New York, marking a significant moment in American presidential history and leading to Theodore Roosevelt's presidency.
1914 First Battle of the Masurian Lakes: In a significant Eastern Front engagement, the Russian First Army of the Neman River was forced to withdraw from East Prussia, suffering catastrophic losses of over 100,000 casualties. This battle represented a major German victory and a devastating defeat for Russian forces.
1915 Funeral of William Cornelius Van Horne: The funeral train of prominent Canadian railway executive William Cornelius Van Horne departed from Windsor Station in Montreal at 11:00 AM, traveling to Joliet, Illinois for his final interment. Van Horne was a pivotal figure in Canadian railway development, having played a crucial role in the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway and significantly contributing to the country's transportation infrastructure and economic expansion.
1916 Italian Troops Capture Austrian Machine Gun in Isonzo Battle: During the Seventh Battle of the Isonzo, a significant engagement of World War I, Italian troops successfully captured an Austrian machine gun. This battle was part of the broader Italian Front conflict between the Kingdom of Italy and Austria-Hungary, characterized by challenging mountain warfare in the rugged terrain of the Isonzo River region.
1917 Establishment of the Russian Republic: On September 14, 1917, the Provisional Government formally proclaimed Russia as a republic, marking a significant transition from the centuries-old imperial system to a democratic form of governance. This momentous event occurred during a turbulent period of Russian history, following the February Revolution that had already overthrown the Tsarist monarchy.
1918 British Evacuation of Baku During World War I: On September 14, 1918, British military forces began their strategic withdrawal from the strategically important city of Baku, located on the western coast of the Caspian Sea. This evacuation occurred during the tumultuous period of World War I, when the region was experiencing significant geopolitical tensions and military conflicts involving Ottoman, British, and local Azerbaijani forces.
1919 Treaty of Saint-Germain Ends Austrian Empire: On September 14, 1919, the Treaty of Saint-Germain was signed, marking a pivotal moment in European geopolitical history. This treaty formally concluded World War I for Austria-Hungary and effectively dissolved the centuries-old Austrian Empire. The agreement dramatically reshaped Central European borders, significantly reducing Austria's territorial holdings and explicitly prohibiting its unification with Germany. These provisions directly led to the establishment of the First Austrian Republic, fundamentally transforming the region's political landscape in the aftermath of World War I.
1920 First Cross-Country Airmail Delivery in U.S.: Edison 'Monte' Mouton made history by completing the first transcontinental airmail delivery in the United States. Landing at San Francisco's Marino Field at 2:33 PM, he concluded a relay that began on September 8, marking a significant milestone in American postal and aviation history.
1921 Hitler's First Imprisonment for Political Violence: On September 14, 1921, Adolf Hitler was sentenced to one month in jail for his involvement in a violent political altercation. This early legal consequence was related to his growing involvement in the Nazi Party and emerging pattern of using physical intimidation in political conflicts. The incident highlighted Hitler's aggressive political tactics and foreshadowed the violent methods he would later employ in his rise to power.
1922 US Naval Rescue Operation in Smyrna: On September 14, 1922, the USS Litchfield and other US naval vessels conducted a critical humanitarian rescue mission, successfully evacuating approximately 20,000 refugees from the burning city of Smyrna by 10 o'clock in the morning. This rescue effort was a crucial intervention during the chaotic aftermath of the Greco-Turkish War.
1923 Spanish Military Coup and Dictatorship: Miguel Primo de Rivera, a Spanish military general, successfully stages a coup and establishes a dictatorial regime in Spain, effectively ending the constitutional monarchy and democratic governance of the time.
1924 Walter Johnson Wins American League MVP: Walter Johnson, the legendary pitcher for the Washington Senators, was awarded the American League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, recognizing his exceptional performance during the 1924 baseball season. Known as 'The Big Train', Johnson was renowned for his powerful fastball and remarkable pitching skills.
1925 The Jazz Singer Broadway Premiere: The groundbreaking stage production of *The Jazz Singer* opened on Broadway, featuring George Jessel in the lead role. This theatrical performance would later become famous through Al Jolson's iconic film adaptation in 1927. The production was significant in exploring themes of Jewish-American identity and the cultural tensions of assimilation during the early 20th century.
1926 Locarno Treaties Ratification: The Locarno Treaties of 1925, a series of diplomatic agreements aimed at stabilizing post-World War I European relations, were officially ratified in Geneva and came into effect. These treaties sought to normalize diplomatic relations between European powers and establish mechanisms for peaceful conflict resolution.
1927 Devastating Japanese Earthquake: A significant underwater earthquake struck Japan, resulting in the tragic loss of over 100 human lives. The seismic event caused widespread destruction, likely triggering tsunamis and significant infrastructure damage in the affected coastal regions.
1928 France and Germany Negotiate European Reparations Commission: On September 14, 1928, France and Germany reached a diplomatic agreement to establish a joint European commission. The primary objective of this commission was to definitively determine the reparations owed by Germany following World War I, including establishing a precise financial figure, payment methodology, and payment schedule. This negotiation represented a critical step in post-World War I economic reconciliation between two historically antagonistic European powers.
1929 British Army Withdrawal from Rhineland: The British Army completed its withdrawal of remaining troops from the occupied Rhineland, marking a significant milestone in post-World War I European geopolitics and the gradual normalization of relations between Germany and occupying powers.
1930 Nazi Party's Rise in German Politics: In a significant political shift, the National Socialist German Workers' Party (Nazi Party) dramatically increased their parliamentary representation, winning 107 seats in the German federal election. This election marked a critical turning point in Weimar Republic politics, signaling the growing popularity of Adolf Hitler's radical nationalist movement.
1931 Nazi Party Gains Significant Electoral Power: In a pivotal moment for German political history, the Nazi Party achieved a remarkable electoral breakthrough, becoming the second largest political party in Germany. This electoral success marked a critical turning point in Adolf Hitler's rise to power, signaling growing public support for the Nazi ideology during the tumultuous Weimar Republic period.
1932 Execution of Paul Gorguloff, Assassin of French President: On September 14, 1932, Paul Gorguloff, the 37-year-old assassin of French President Paul Doumer, was executed by guillotine. This event marked the judicial conclusion of a high-profile political assassination that had shocked the French nation.
1933 Reichstag Fire Shadow Trial Begins in London: The shadow trial related to the Reichstag fire commenced in London, examining the controversial event that played a crucial role in the Nazi Party's rise to power in Germany.
1934 President Roosevelt's Yacht Excursion and Naval Escort: On September 14, 1934, President Franklin D. Roosevelt departed from Hyde Park, New York, to attend Cup Races aboard his personal yacht, the Nourmahal. In a display of presidential maritime privilege, Roosevelt requested a naval destroyer to accompany and escort his yacht. The USS Cuyahoga was assigned to provide this escort duty, traveling from Poughkeepsie to ensure the president's safe and ceremonial passage.
1935 Hitler Addresses Hitler Youth at Nuremberg Rally: Adolf Hitler delivered a provocative speech to 50,000 Hitler Youth at the Nuremberg Rally, emphasizing militaristic and authoritarian principles. He proclaimed that 'friendship will be accorded only to the strong' and criticized democratic processes, instead promoting unquestioning obedience and national strength. This speech was a critical moment in Nazi indoctrination of youth.
1936 Assassination of Raoul Villain by Spanish Republicans: Raoul Villain, the French nationalist who assassinated prominent French Socialist leader Jean Jaurès in 1914 at the onset of World War I, was himself killed by Spanish Republicans on the island of Ibiza during the Spanish Civil War. This event represents a form of retributive justice, occurring 22 years after Villain's original crime.
1937 Death of Tomáš Masaryk, First Czechoslovak President: Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, the founding president of Czechoslovakia, passed away at the age of 87. A philosopher, sociologist, and political leader, Masaryk was instrumental in establishing Czechoslovakia as an independent state after World War I and served as its first president from 1918 to 1935.
1938 Graf Zeppelin II Maiden Flight: The Graf Zeppelin II, the world's largest airship at the time, successfully completed its maiden flight, marking a significant milestone in aviation technology and airship development.
1939 German Forces Encircle Warsaw: German military troops successfully complete the strategic encirclement of Warsaw, Poland, effectively trapping Polish defenders and isolating the city from potential reinforcements.
1940 Battle of Britain Day: A pivotal day in the Battle of Britain where the Luftwaffe launched a massive offensive, sending approximately 500 bombers to attack London. The Royal Air Force successfully defended British airspace, shooting down 61 German planes while losing 31, dealing a significant psychological and tactical defeat to the German air force.
1941 German Army Encircles Soviet Armies near Kiev: During Operation Barbarossa, the German Army Group Center successfully encircled two Soviet armies near Kiev, marking a significant tactical victory for the Wehrmacht on the Eastern Front of World War II.
1942 German Occupation of Stalingrad Train Station: German troops successfully occupied the train station Stalingrad-1, marking a significant tactical advancement in their offensive against Soviet forces during the Battle of Stalingrad, a turning point in World War II's Eastern Front.
1943 Wehrmacht Atrocities in Viannos, Greece: During World War II, the Wehrmacht initiated a brutal three-day retaliatory operation in the Greek region of Viannos, resulting in a devastating death toll that would eventually exceed 500 civilians. This operation was part of the Nazi German military's systematic repression and terror tactics in occupied territories.
1944 Soviet Baltic and Riga Offensives Begin: The Soviet military launched simultaneous offensives in the Baltic region and towards Riga, representing a significant strategic push against German-occupied territories.
1945 Post-World War II Period - Quiet Day: September 14, 1945, was a relatively uneventful day in the immediate aftermath of World War II. Just a month after Japan's formal surrender on September 2, the world was in a period of transition and recovery. While no specific major historical events were recorded for this particular date, it represents a time of global reconstruction, diplomatic realignment, and the beginning of the post-war era.
1946 Military Casualties Report: A military division reported significant casualties on September 14, 1946, as documented in the Camp Bowie Blade. The total casualties numbered 27,343, which included 3,974 killed, 19,052 wounded, and 4,317 missing in action. This report likely reflects ongoing military operations or the aftermath of World War II.
1947 Sam Neill Born: Sam Neill, a renowned New Zealand actor, was born on this date. Neill would go on to become an internationally recognized film and television actor, famously known for his roles in 'Jurassic Park', 'The Hunt for Red October', and 'Peaky Blinders'.
1948 Indian Army Captures Aurangabad in Operation Polo: The Indian Army successfully captured the city of Aurangabad during Operation Polo, a significant military operation that played a crucial role in the integration of the Hyderabad State into the Indian Union after India's independence.
1949 Dewey Orders Investigation into Peekskill Riots: New York Governor Thomas E. Dewey initiated a special grand jury investigation into the Peekskill riots of September 4, alleging Communist involvement in provoking the disturbance. The riots were a significant moment of racial and political tension in post-World War II America.
1950 Inchon Landing Bombardment during Korean War: On September 14, 1950, U.S. naval and air forces conducted an extensive bombardment of Inchon, South Korea, strategically preparing for the amphibious landing of U.S. Marines scheduled for the following day. This preparatory bombardment was a critical military operation during the Korean War, aimed at weakening North Korean defensive positions.
1951 Notable Births on September 14, 1951: On September 14, 1951, two significant individuals were born: Jean Smart, a renowned American actress known for her versatile roles in television and film, and Salva Kiir Mayardit, the first President of South Sudan who played a crucial role in the country's independence and political development.
1952 Uneventful Day in 1952: While no specific major historical events were recorded for September 14, 1952, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. The mid-20th century was a period of significant global transformation, including the Cold War, decolonization, and technological advancements. Without more context, this date appears to have been a relatively quiet day in world history.
1953 Khrushchev Rises to Power in USSR: Nikita Khrushchev was elected First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, marking a significant leadership transition in the post-Stalin era. This event would herald major political and ideological shifts in Soviet governance and international relations.
1954 Soviet Nuclear Test at Totskoye: In a highly controversial top-secret nuclear test, the Soviet Union conducted a military exercise where a Tu-4 bomber dropped a 40-kiloton atomic weapon just north of Totskoye village in the Orenburg region. This test was part of the Soviet Union's strategic nuclear weapons development and military preparedness during the Cold War era.
1955 First Prefrontal Lobotomy Performed: A groundbreaking and controversial medical procedure, the first prefrontal lobotomy was performed in Washington D.C., representing a significant but ethically problematic moment in psychiatric treatment history. This surgical intervention was intended to treat severe mental disorders by disrupting neural pathways in the brain's prefrontal cortex.
1956 First Prefrontal Lobotomy in Washington, D.C.: On September 14, 1956, medical history was marked by a significant and controversial neurosurgical procedure: the first prefrontal lobotomy performed in Washington, D.C. This surgical intervention involved cutting connections in the brain's prefrontal cortex, which was at the time considered a treatment for various mental health conditions. The procedure, pioneered by neurologist Walter Freeman, was intended to alleviate severe psychiatric symptoms but was later widely criticized for its invasive nature and potential for causing significant cognitive and personality changes.
1957 UN Resolution Condemning Soviet Invasion of Hungary: The United Nations Security Council passed a resolution deploring and condemning the Soviet Union's military intervention in Hungary, highlighting international condemnation of the Soviet actions.
1958 German Post-War Rocket Achievement: German engineer Ernst Mohr successfully launched two pioneering rockets that reached the upper atmosphere, marking a significant milestone in Germany's post-World War II aerospace development. These rockets represented the first German rocket launches since the end of the war, symbolizing the country's technological recovery and renewed scientific ambitions.
1959 Soviet Luna 2 Becomes First Spacecraft to Reach the Moon: The Soviet probe Luna 2 successfully crashed onto the lunar surface, marking a historic milestone in space exploration. This achievement represented the first time a human-made object reached another celestial body, signaling a major breakthrough in the Space Race between the Soviet Union and the United States.
1960 OPEC Foundation: Representatives from Iraq, Iran, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela formally established the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in Baghdad, creating a powerful international oil cartel to coordinate petroleum policies and protect member states' interests.
1961 Turkish Military Government Sentences Political Opponents: Following a military coup, the new Turkish military government sentences 15 members of the previous government to death, signaling a dramatic and brutal political transition. This event highlights the political instability and harsh power dynamics in Turkey during the early 1960s.
1963 Tokyo Convention on Aircraft Offenses Signed: The Tokyo Convention, formally known as the 'Convention on Offences and Certain Other Acts Committed On Board Aircraft', was signed in Tokyo. This international treaty was a significant milestone in aviation law, establishing standardized protocols for managing criminal and disruptive behaviors during international flights.
1964 Second Vatican Council Third Period Opens: The Third Period of the Second Vatican Council commenced, marking a significant moment in modern Catholic Church history. This session was crucial for discussing and implementing substantial reforms that would modernize church practices and doctrine.
1965 Fourth Period of Second Vatican Council Opens: The Fourth Session of the Second Vatican Council (Vatican II) commenced, marking a significant moment in modern Catholic Church history. This final period would continue discussions on crucial ecclesiastical reforms and theological perspectives that would reshape Catholic practices and global religious understanding.
1967 Ilse Koch Dies by Suicide in Prison: Ilse Koch, a notorious Nazi war criminal infamously known as 'The Bitch of Buchenwald' for her cruel treatment of concentration camp prisoners, died by suicide at age 60 in the Bavarian prison of Aichach.
1968 USSR's Zond 5 Lunar Mission: The Soviet Union launched Zond 5, a groundbreaking spacecraft that became the first to successfully circumnavigate the Moon and return to Earth, marking a significant milestone in the Space Race.
1969 US Draft Lottery Date Selection: The US Selective Service selected September 14th as the first draft lottery date for the Vietnam War. On December 1, 1969, men aged 19-26 would be assigned draft priority based on their birthdates, a pivotal moment in the military conscription process during the Vietnam conflict.
1970 Abraham Zapruder, JFK Assassination Witness, Dies: Abraham Zapruder, the Dallas dress manufacturer who captured the only close-up motion picture footage of President John F. Kennedy's assassination, died of cancer in Dallas at age 65. His 8mm film became a crucial piece of historical evidence and was instrumental in subsequent investigations of the tragic event.
1971 Soviet Lunar Rover Lunokhod 1 Mission Ends: The Soviet Union's lunar rover Lunokhod 1 permanently ceased transmission, marking the conclusion of its mission ten months after successfully making a soft landing on the Moon's surface. This mission represented a significant milestone in lunar exploration during the Space Race.
1972 West Germany and Poland Establish Diplomatic Relations: In a historic moment of post-World War II reconciliation, West Germany and Poland officially restored diplomatic relations, marking a significant step towards healing the deep wounds of the past. This diplomatic breakthrough came more than 33 years after the outbreak of World War II, with East Germany having previously been an obstacle to such normalization.
1973 Laos Political Transformation: The Government of Laos made a significant political compromise by agreeing to include the Communist Pathet Lao group in a coalition government, marking a potential step towards national reconciliation and political inclusivity.
1974 Nelson's Landing Marina Flash Flood Tragedy: A devastating flash flood struck Nelson's Landing Marina in Nevada, resulting in the tragic loss of 10 human lives. The sudden and powerful water surge completely destroyed the marina, highlighting the destructive potential of rapid water events in vulnerable geographical areas.
1975 Pope Paul VI Canonizes Elizabeth Ann Seton: Pope Paul VI officially canonized Elizabeth Ann Bayley Seton as the first American-born saint in the Roman Catholic Church, marking a significant milestone in American Catholic history. Seton, a pioneering educator and religious leader, was recognized for her profound spiritual contributions and her work in establishing Catholic schools in the United States.
1976 National Emergencies Act Signed into Law: President Gerald Ford signed the National Emergencies Act, a significant legislative measure that established a framework for declaring and terminating national emergencies. The act provided a systematic process for managing presidential emergency powers, ensuring automatic review and potential termination of existing states of emergency to prevent indefinite extensions.
1977 1977 Colombian National Civil Strike: A massive nationwide civil strike erupted in Colombia, protesting against President Alfonso López Michelsen's policies. The strike involved widespread civil unrest, with violent confrontations between protesters and riot police in Bogotá and other major cities. The protests resulted in significant casualties: 33 people killed, nearly 3,000 injured, and thousands arrested. Detainees were held in unconventional locations like the Plaza de Toros de Santa Maria bullfighting ring and El Campin soccer stadium.
1978 Extensive PIRA Bombing Campaign in Northern Ireland: The Provisional Irish Republican Army (PIRA) launched a massive coordinated bombing campaign across multiple towns in Northern Ireland, detonating over 50 bombs within a five-day period. The attacks resulted in 37 injuries and represented a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict known as 'The Troubles'.
1979 Assassination of Afghan President Nur Muhammad Taraki: Afghan leader Nur Muhammad Taraki was assassinated upon the direct order of Hafizullah Amin, who subsequently seized power and became the new General Secretary of the People's Democratic Party of Afghanistan. This political upheaval marked a significant moment of internal conflict within the Afghan communist regime.
1980 Dwight Clark NFL Reception Streak Begins: NFL player Dwight Clark initiated an impressive streak of 105 consecutive game receptions, showcasing his remarkable consistency and skill.
1981 People's Court TV Show Premiere: Judge Joseph Wapner's People's Court debuts on television, introducing a groundbreaking format of televised small claims court proceedings that would influence future reality court shows.
1982 Assassination of Lebanese President-elect Bachir Gemayel: Bachir Gemayel, the President-elect of Lebanon, was assassinated in Beirut, marking a significant moment of political turmoil in Lebanon's history. The assassination occurred shortly after his election, disrupting the country's political landscape and potentially escalating tensions in the region.
1983 US House Condemns Soviet Downing of Korean Air Lines Flight 007: The United States House of Representatives unanimously voted 416-0 to pass a resolution strongly condemning the Soviet Union for shooting down Korean Air Lines Flight 007 on September 1st, 1983. This resolution represented a significant diplomatic response to the international incident that resulted in the deaths of 269 civilians, including a US Congressman, and heightened Cold War tensions.
1984 P.W. Botha Becomes South African State President: P. W. Botha was inaugurated as the first executive State President of South Africa, a significant political transition during the apartheid era that would have lasting implications for the country's governance and social structure.
1985 Penang Bridge Opens: The Penang Bridge, the longest bridge in Malaysia, connects the island of Penang to the mainland, significantly improving transportation infrastructure and regional connectivity. This engineering marvel spans approximately 13.5 kilometers, facilitating easier movement between Penang Island and the mainland of Peninsular Malaysia.
1986 Walter Payton Reaches Career Milestone: NFL legend Walter Payton scored his 100th career rushing touchdown and surpassed the 15,000-yard career milestone in a 13-10 overtime victory against the Philadelphia Eagles at Soldier Field, Chicago.
1987 Ivan Lendl Wins US Open Men's Tennis Championship: Czech tennis star Ivan Lendl defeated Sweden's Mats Wilander in a grueling four-hour and forty-seven-minute match to win his third consecutive US Open Men's Tennis title. The match score was 6-7, 6-0, 7-6, 6-4.
1988 Soviet Nuclear Test at Semipalatinsk Test Site: The Soviet Union conducted a nuclear weapons test at the Semipalatinsk Test Site located in northeastern Kazakhstan. This test was part of the ongoing nuclear arms race during the Cold War era, demonstrating the USSR's continued nuclear weapons development and strategic capabilities. The Semipalatinsk Test Site was a primary location for Soviet nuclear testing, with hundreds of nuclear and thermonuclear detonations performed between 1949 and 1989, causing significant environmental and health consequences for the local population.
1989 Hurricane Hugo Devastates Caribbean and Southeastern US: Hurricane Hugo caused massive destruction across the Caribbean and southeastern United States from September 17-22, resulting in at least 71 deaths and approximately $8 billion in damage. This was one of the most destructive hurricanes of the 1980s.
1990 First Successful Somatic Gene Therapy: On September 14, 1990, a groundbreaking medical milestone was achieved with the first successful somatic gene therapy performed on a human patient. This revolutionary treatment marked a significant advancement in genetic medicine, offering potential hope for treating genetic disorders by introducing therapeutic genes into a patient's cells.
1991 Marshall Faulk Sets NCAA Rushing Record: Marshall Faulk, a freshman at San Diego State University, achieved an extraordinary performance, rushing for 386 yards and scoring 7 touchdowns as the Aztecs defeated Pacific with a dominant score of 55-34. This remarkable game established a significant NCAA rushing record for the young athlete.
1992 Bosnia and Herzegovina Constitutional Court Ruling on Croatian Republic of Herzeg-Bosnia: The Constitutional Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina officially declared the breakaway Croatian Republic of Herzeg-Bosnia as illegal, a significant legal decision during the complex political landscape of the Bosnian War.
1993 Lufthansa Flight 2904 Crash in Warsaw: On September 14, 1993, Lufthansa Flight 2904, an Airbus A320, experienced a catastrophic landing accident at Okęcie International Airport (now Warsaw Chopin Airport). The aircraft overshot the runway and crashed into an adjacent embankment, resulting in two fatalities. The incident highlighted critical aviation safety concerns and prompted investigations into landing procedures and aircraft performance.
1994 MLB Players' Strike Cancels 1994 Season: On September 14, 1994, Major League Baseball owners unanimously voted to cancel the remainder of the 1994 baseball season, including the prestigious World Series. This unprecedented decision came as a result of an ongoing labor dispute between team owners and players, marking the first time since 1904 that the World Series would not be played.
1995 Body Worlds Exhibition Opens in Tokyo: On September 14, 1995, the groundbreaking Body Worlds exhibition opened in Tokyo, Japan. Created by anatomist Dr. Gunther von Hagens, this controversial and innovative exhibition featured preserved human bodies using a plastination technique, offering an unprecedented, educational look into human anatomy and physiology.
1996 United States Wins First World Cup of Hockey: The United States national hockey team won the inaugural 1996 World Cup of Hockey by defeating Canada in a thrilling championship match, marking a significant moment in international ice hockey competition.
1997 49th Primetime Emmy Awards: The 49th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards celebrated outstanding achievements in television. Notable winners included the drama series 'Law & Order', comedy series 'Frasier', with Dennis Franz and Gillian Anderson receiving individual acting awards.
1998 Microsoft Becomes America's Most Valuable Company: At the close of stock market trading, Microsoft emerged as America's most valuable company, with a market capitalization of US$261.1 billion. Despite a stock market plunge that affected both Microsoft and General Electric, Microsoft demonstrated remarkable resilience, positioning itself at the top of corporate valuations.
1999 Pacific Island Nations Join United Nations: On September 14, 1999, three small Pacific island nations - Kiribati, Nauru, and Tonga - officially became members of the United Nations, expanding global representation and diplomatic engagement for these small but strategically important countries in the Pacific region.
2000 Microsoft Windows Millennium Edition Launch: Microsoft officially launched Windows Millennium Edition (Windows Me), the final operating system in the Windows 9x series. The release was commercially successful, with 400,000 retail upgrade copies sold in the first month, marking a significant moment in consumer computing history.
2001 President Bush at Ground Zero: US President George W. Bush stood alongside firefighters and rescue workers at Ground Zero in New York, symbolizing national unity and support in the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attacks.
2002 Anti-War Protests in California: Significant anti-war demonstrations took place in San Francisco and Los Angeles, with hundreds of protesters publicly expressing their opposition to the potential U.S. invasion plan. These protests reflected growing public dissent and concern about potential military intervention.
2003 US Military Interrogation Techniques in Iraq: Lieutenant General Ricardo Sanchez authorized controversial interrogation techniques for American forces in Iraq, including the use of dogs, sensory manipulation, and stress positions. These methods would later become a significant point of ethical and legal debate regarding military interrogation practices.
2004 Powell Questions Iraq War Rationale: U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell publicly stated that he had seen no direct connection between Saddam Hussein and the 9/11 attacks, challenging a central argument for the Iraq invasion.
2005 Largest UN World Summit in History: The United Nations World Summit, held from September 14-16 in New York City, brought together over 170 heads of state and government to discuss critical global issues, marking the largest such gathering in UN history.
2006 Senate Approves Terrorist Detainee Rights Bill: The U.S. Senate approved a bill providing more rights to terrorist detainees. The White House and CIA agreed to sign the bill, effectively ending a classified CIA interrogation program that had been challenged by a recent Supreme Court decision.
2007 Northern Rock Bank Run Crisis: The British government announced emergency funding for Northern Rock bank through the Bank of England, triggering a widespread bank run by panicked depositors. This event marked the first significant bank run in the United Kingdom in 150 years.
2008 AIG Emergency Loan Request: During the height of the 2008 financial crisis, American International Group (AIG) requested a substantial $40 billion emergency loan from the United States Federal Reserve, signaling the severe financial distress facing major financial institutions at the time.
2009 Patrick Swayze Dies of Pancreatic Cancer: Patrick Swayze, a beloved American actor known for iconic roles in 'Dirty Dancing' and 'Ghost', passed away at the age of 57 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. His remarkable career and personal strength during his illness made him a respected figure in Hollywood.
2010 Julia Gillard Sworn in as Australian Prime Minister: Julia Gillard was officially sworn in as the Prime Minister of Australia by the Governor-General, marking a significant moment in Australian political leadership.
2011 World Bank President Warns of Global Economic Danger: Robert Zoellick, President of the World Bank, expressed serious concerns about the global economic situation, emphasizing the critical need for decisive action from major economic powers like the United States, European Union, and Japan.
2012 According to a Camp Leatherneck spokesperson, at least two American Marines were killed and 16 Taliban fighters were injured in an attack by the Taliban on Camp Bastion in Afghanistan's Helmand Province.
2013 Syria Chemical Weapons Agreement: Russia and the United States reached a landmark diplomatic agreement on Syria's chemical weapons. The deal required Syria to declare the comprehensive size and location of its chemical weapons stockpile within one week, with international inspectors scheduled to arrive by November to expedite the disarmament process.
2014 Australia Joins Anti-ISIS Coalition: Australia commits combat planes and special forces to the Middle East to support international efforts against the Islamic State, marking significant military involvement.
2015 First Direct Detection of Gravitational Waves: The first direct observation of gravitational waves was made by the LIGO and Virgo scientific collaborations, confirming a major prediction of Einstein's general theory of relativity. This groundbreaking discovery opened a new era of gravitational wave astronomy, allowing scientists to observe cosmic events previously undetectable.
2016 Corruption Charges Against Lula Da Silva: Brazilian prosecutors filed corruption charges against former President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva and his wife Marisa Leticia Lula Da Silva. The case will be supervised by federal judge Sergio Moro, as part of the ongoing Operation Car Wash investigation.
2017 Democrats and Trump Negotiate DACA Compromise: Democratic leaders Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer announced a potential agreement with President Trump to protect undocumented immigrants under DACA, proposing legislation that includes enhanced border security without funding for a border wall.
2018 Paul Manafort Pleads Guilty in Mueller Investigation: Paul Manafort, former campaign chairman for Donald Trump, pleaded guilty to money laundering and foreign lobbying charges brought by Special Counsel Robert Mueller. As part of the plea agreement, Manafort agreed to cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
2019 Drone Attack on Saudi Oil Facilities: On September 14, 2019, a significant drone strike targeted critical Saudi Arabian oil infrastructure, causing substantial disruption to the country's oil production. The Houthi rebels from Yemen initially claimed responsibility for the attack, which struck two major Saudi oil refineries and temporarily reduced the nation's oil production capacity by approximately 50%. However, subsequent investigations by the United States and European powers suggested Iranian involvement, escalating regional tensions and highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics of the Middle East.
2020 Historic Afghan Peace Negotiations Begin: Afghan government representatives and Taliban negotiators commenced direct peace talks, marking a significant diplomatic milestone brokered by the Trump administration to potentially end the two-decade-long conflict and facilitate U.S. troop withdrawal.
2021 North Korea Missile Test Near Japan: North Korea conducted a provocative missile test, launching two short-range ballistic missiles that landed just outside Japan's territorial waters, escalating regional tensions.
2022 Death of Queen Elizabeth II: State Funeral Preparations: Queen Elizabeth II's funeral preparations commenced with her coffin being transported from Buckingham Palace on a gun carriage of The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery. The procession moved to Westminster Hall, where she would lie in state for four days. Thousands of mourners formed an extensive queue stretching along the River Thames, demonstrating the profound national grief.
2023 Catastrophic Libya Flooding Disaster: Storm Daniel caused devastating floods in Libya, with authorities warning the potential death toll could reach 20,000, representing a massive humanitarian crisis.

What Is special about September 14?

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