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

Events on September 15 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Founding of Rikken Seiyūkai Political Party in Japan: On September 15, 1900, the Rikken Seiyūkai (Constitutional Democratic Party), also known as 'Friends of Constitutional Government', was established as a significant political organization in Japan. Led by the influential statesman and former Prime Minister Itō Hirobumi, the party represented a pivotal moment in Japan's political modernization during the Meiji era. The party aimed to promote constitutional governance and played a crucial role in shaping Japan's emerging parliamentary system.
1901 Assassination of President William McKinley: On September 15, 1901, anarchist Leon Czolgosz shot President William McKinley at the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York. The shooting occurred during a public reception, where Czolgosz approached McKinley and fired two shots at close range. McKinley was critically wounded and died eight days later on September 23, marking a significant moment in American presidential history and leading to increased security measures for future presidents.
1902 Uneventful Day in 1902: While no specific major historical events were recorded for September 15, 1902, this date falls during the early years of the 20th century, a period of significant global transformation marked by technological innovation, colonial expansions, and emerging geopolitical tensions.
1903 Founding of Grêmio Foot-Ball Porto-Alegrense: A significant moment in Brazilian football history: Grêmio Foot-Ball Porto-Alegrense was established in Porto Alegre, Brazil, marking the beginning of a prominent football club that would become a major force in Brazilian sports.
1904 Wright Brothers' First Airplane Flight: On September 15, 1904, Wilbur Wright successfully conducted an early experimental flight, marking a significant milestone in aviation history. This flight was part of the Wright brothers' systematic development of powered, controlled aircraft at their workshop near Dayton, Ohio. Using their custom-built Wright Flyer II, Wilbur demonstrated increasing mastery of controlled flight, building upon their groundbreaking first powered flight at Kitty Hawk in 1903.
1905 Uneventful Day in 1905: While no major historical events were recorded on September 15, 1905, this does not diminish the broader historical context of the early 20th century. This period was marked by significant global transformations, including technological innovations, geopolitical shifts, and social changes that would shape the modern world.
1906 Uneventful Day in Global History: While no specific significant historical events were recorded for September 15, 1906, this date falls during the early 20th century, a period of significant global transformation. The world was experiencing rapid industrialization, colonial expansions, and emerging technological innovations. The absence of a notable event does not diminish the broader historical context of this era.
1907 Birth of Fay Wray - Hollywood Actress: Fay Wray was born in Alberta, Canada. She would later become a famous actress, best known for her iconic role in the classic 1933 film 'King Kong', which established her as a pioneering figure in early Hollywood cinema.
1908 Uneventful Day in 1908: While no major historical events were recorded for September 15, 1908, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. Many days in history pass without dramatic global events, yet local and personal histories continue to unfold. The early 20th century was a period of significant global transformation, with technological innovations, social changes, and geopolitical shifts happening rapidly.
1909 First Airplane Flight in Russia by Georges Legagneux: On September 15, 1909, French aviator Georges Legagneux achieved a historic milestone by performing the first airplane flight in Russia. Using a French-built Voisin biplane, he demonstrated the emerging technology of powered flight at the Khodynka airfield near Moscow. This event marked a significant moment in Russian aviation history, introducing the revolutionary technology that would soon transform transportation, warfare, and global connectivity.
1910 First General Elections in the Union of South Africa: The Boers and Afrikaners successfully participated in and won the inaugural general elections following the formation of the Union of South Africa, marking a significant milestone in the country's political transition and representation of Afrikaner political power.
1911 Thomas W. Burgess Swims Across the English Channel: On September 15, 1911, Thomas W. Burgess achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the second person in history to successfully swim across the English Channel. After 15 previous unsuccessful attempts, Burgess completed the challenging swim from South Foreland to Cape Grisnez, taking 22 hours and 35 minutes. He arrived at the French coast at 9:50 a.m., breaking a 36-year gap since Matthew Webb's historic first crossing in 1875. This accomplishment was a significant milestone in long-distance open water swimming, demonstrating extraordinary endurance and determination.
1912 Balkan Conflict Erupts: Tensions between the Ottoman Empire and Montenegro escalate into open warfare in Albania, marking another volatile moment in the complex geopolitical landscape of the Balkan region during the early 20th century. This conflict was part of the broader instability preceding the Balkan Wars.
1913 John N. Mitchell Birth: John N. Mitchell was born, who would later become the United States Attorney General during the Nixon administration and become a key figure in the Watergate scandal. He was ultimately convicted for his role in the political corruption and served time in prison.
1914 Battle of Aisne in World War I: The Battle of Aisne was a significant engagement during World War I, marking a critical moment in the early stages of the conflict. Following the Battle of the Marne, German forces retreated to the Aisne River and established defensive positions, leading to a strategic confrontation between German and French-British Allied forces. This battle represented a pivotal transition from mobile warfare to trench warfare, which would characterize much of World War I.
1915 Launch of New Youth Magazine: Chen Duxiu, a prominent intellectual and key figure in the Chinese cultural reform movement, established the influential New Youth (Xin Qingnian) magazine in Shanghai. This publication became a critical platform for progressive intellectuals to challenge traditional Confucian values and promote modern, Western-inspired ideas of science, democracy, and cultural transformation.
1916 Battle of Flers–Courcelette in World War I: On September 15, 1916, during World War I, the French Sixth Army, British Fourth and Reserve Armies, along with the Canadian Corps and New Zealand Division, launched a major offensive against the German First Army near Flers, France. The Allied forces successfully captured the German-held villages of Courcelette and Martinpuich in a significant strategic operation.
1917 Russia Proclaims Republic During Revolutionary Period: Alexander Kerensky, a key figure in the Russian Revolution, proclaimed Russia a republic, marking a significant transition from the imperial system towards a democratic governance model during the tumultuous year of 1917.
1918 Vardar Offensive Begins During World War I: The Vardar Offensive commenced, a critical military campaign on the Macedonian Front during World War I. This strategic operation would last approximately one week and ultimately lead to Bulgaria's surrender and exit from the war, significantly impacting the conflict's trajectory.
1919 Devastating Florida Keys Hurricane of 1919: A catastrophic Category 4 hurricane struck the Florida Keys, causing widespread destruction across the Gulf Coast region. The powerful storm devastated coastal communities, resulting in approximately 600 fatalities and extensive property damage. The hurricane's intense winds and storm surge wreaked havoc on maritime infrastructure, agricultural lands, and urban centers in Florida, Texas, and surrounding areas, marking it as one of the most deadly hurricanes of the early 20th century.
1921 Japan-China Diplomatic Communication on Shandong: Japan formally presented a diplomatic note to the Republic of China outlining terms for the restoration of Japanese control over the Shandong Peninsula, reflecting the complex geopolitical tensions of the early 1920s.
1922 The Unusual Straw Hat Riot of 1922: The Straw Hat Riot erupted in New York City, stemming from strict, unwritten social fashion rules of the era. At the time, there was a rigid social norm dictating that men should stop wearing straw hats after Labor Day. Those who continued to wear straw hats past this date were subject to public ridicule and even physical harassment, leading to a bizarre urban conflict that highlighted the social tensions and fashion etiquette of the early 1920s.
1923 Oklahoma Governor Declares State of Emergency Against KKK: Governor Jack C. Walton of Oklahoma declares a state of siege and martial law in an effort to combat the Ku Klux Klan's terror activities. He also suspends the writ of habeas corpus in Tulsa County, demonstrating the severity of the situation.
1924 The Dawes Plan Takes Effect: The Dawes Plan was a significant economic strategy implemented to restructure Germany's reparations payments to the Allied Powers following World War I. Developed by an international committee led by American banker Charles G. Dawes, the plan aimed to stabilize the German economy and ensure consistent war reparation payments. By providing a more flexible payment schedule and arranging international loans, the Dawes Plan helped prevent economic collapse in Germany and promoted post-war financial recovery.
1925 Uneventful Day in 1925: While no specific significant historical events were recorded for September 15, 1925, this day represents a typical moment in the interwar period between World War I and World War II. The mid-1920s were characterized by global economic recovery, cultural shifts, and emerging technological innovations.
1926 Assassination Attempt on Benito Mussolini: On September 15, 1926, an unsuccessful assassination attempt was made against Benito Mussolini, the fascist leader of Italy. This event highlighted the political tensions and opposition to Mussolini's regime during the early years of his leadership.
1928 Discovery of Penicillin: Sir Alexander Fleming, a Scottish scientist, made a groundbreaking discovery in his laboratory at St. Mary's Hospital in London. While examining bacterial cultures, he noticed a unique mold that was killing the surrounding bacteria. This accidental observation would later revolutionize modern medicine, leading to the development of antibiotics and saving millions of lives worldwide.
1929 Murder of Labor Activist Ella Mae Wiggins: On September 15, 1929, seven men were charged in connection with the fatal shooting of Ella Mae Wiggins, a prominent labor activist and textile worker during the tumultuous period of labor struggles in the American South. Despite the initial charges, the five men who went to trial in March were ultimately acquitted, highlighting the systemic challenges and racial tensions faced by labor organizers during this era.
1930 DUPE: British Railway Station Closures: Due to economic depression and the increasing popularity of motor bus travel, Britain announced the closure of 90 railway stations to passenger traffic. This event reflected the changing transportation landscape and economic challenges of the early 1930s.
1931 Invergordon Mutiny in the British Royal Navy: On September 15, 1931, a significant labor protest erupted in the British Royal Navy when sailors began striking against substantial salary reductions. The mutiny, which took place at the Scottish port of Invergordon, involved approximately 1,000 sailors from the Atlantic Fleet who collectively refused to follow orders in response to severe pay cuts implemented during the economic challenges of the Great Depression.
1932 German Work Week Reduction: Chancellor Franz von Papen issued a decree establishing a 40-hour work week in Germany, an innovative labor policy aimed at mitigating unemployment during the early years of the Great Depression. This progressive measure sought to distribute available work more evenly among workers and provide economic relief during a challenging economic period.
1933 Mysterious Disappearance of Mabel Smith Douglass: Mabel Smith Douglass's capsized boat was discovered on Lake Placid, New York, marking the beginning of a decades-long mystery. Her body would not be found until nearly 30 years later, creating a haunting narrative of an unsolved disappearance.
1934 Australian Federal Election of 1934: The Australian federal election was held on September 15, 1934, with the incumbent United Australia Party (UAP), led by Prime Minister Joseph Lyons, successfully retaining power. This election reinforced the political stability of the UAP during the interwar period and demonstrated Lyons' continued popularity among the electorate.
1935 Nuremberg Laws Enacted in Nazi Germany: On September 15, 1935, the Nazi regime officially implemented the Nuremberg Laws, a set of deeply discriminatory antisemitic legislation that systematically stripped German Jews of their citizenship rights and legal protections. These laws formalized racial discrimination, defining Jewish identity and establishing a legal framework for persecution, marking a critical escalation of state-sponsored racism in Nazi Germany.
1936 German Propaganda Campaign Against Czechoslovakia: In September 1936, Nazi Germany initiated a strategic propaganda campaign targeting Czechoslovakia, alleging that the country was collaborating with the Soviet Union by providing airfields and harboring Soviet military aircraft. This propaganda effort was part of Adolf Hitler's broader geopolitical strategy to create tension and potentially justify future territorial aggression against Czechoslovakia.
1937 Birth of Robert Lucas Jr.: Robert Lucas Jr., a prominent American economist who would later win the Nobel Prize, was born in Yakima, Washington. He is renowned for his significant contributions to economic theory, particularly in rational expectations and macroeconomics.
1938 Munich Agreement Negotiations Begin: British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain met with Adolf Hitler at the Berghof in Germany, marking a critical moment in pre-World War II diplomacy. During this meeting, Chamberlain agreed to Hitler's demand to annex the Sudetenland, a decision that would significantly impact European geopolitics.
1939 German Wehrmacht Besieges Warsaw: During World War II, various elements of the German Wehrmacht surrounded Warsaw and demanded its surrender. The Polish forces categorically refused, marking the beginning of an intense siege that would become a significant moment in the early stages of the war.
1940 Battle of Britain Day: Decisive Air Battle: On September 15, 1940, the German Luftwaffe launched its largest and most concentrated attack against London, hoping to draw out the Royal Air Force (RAF) into a decisive battle. Approximately 1,500 aircraft participated in intense air battles lasting until dusk. RAF Fighter Command successfully repelled the German raids, with Luftwaffe formations dispersed by cloud cover and failing to inflict severe damage on London. This pivotal engagement led Hitler to postpone Operation Sea Lion (the planned invasion of Britain). After being defeated in daylight, the Luftwaffe shifted to night bombing campaigns, known as the Blitz, which continued until May 1941.
1941 Hitler's Rocket Program Reactivation: Adolf Hitler re-activated the rocket research program at the Peenemünde Army Research Center, a critical development in military technology during World War II.
1942 Japanese Submarine I-19 Devastating Torpedo Attack: On September 15, 1942, Japanese submarine I-19 executed one of the most effective torpedo attacks of World War II. The submarine fired a salvo that mortally damaged the aircraft carrier USS Wasp and destroyer USS O'Brien, and also damaged the battleship North Carolina. The destroyer Lansdowne was dispatched to rescue 447 crew members from the Wasp before the carrier was scuttled.
1943 Allied Forces Secure Critical Salerno Beachhead: In a strategically crucial operation during the Italian Campaign of World War II, Allied forces successfully established and secured a beachhead at Salerno through coordinated artillery, naval, and air support, marking a significant milestone in the invasion of mainland Italy.
1944 Quebec Conference (Octagon): President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Prime Minister Winston Churchill met in Quebec for a critical strategic planning conference, discussing Allied war strategy and post-war geopolitical arrangements.
1945 US Fifteenth Air Force Inactivated: The US Fifteenth Air Force, which played a crucial strategic role in bombing missions over Nazi-occupied Europe from Italy during World War II, was officially inactivated.
1946 Establishment of People's Republic of Bulgaria: On September 15, 1946, the People's Republic of Bulgaria was officially proclaimed in Sofia, marking a significant political transformation. Vasil Kolarov became the nation's first President, signaling the country's shift towards a communist political system in the post-World War II era.
1947 Typhoon Kathleen Devastates Japan: Typhoon Kathleen struck the Kanto Region of Japan, causing catastrophic damage and resulting in the tragic loss of 1,077 lives. This natural disaster highlighted the vulnerability of coastal regions to extreme weather events and prompted significant improvements in disaster preparedness and response strategies.
1948 US Air Force Speed Record: US Air Force Major Richard L. Johnson established a new flight airspeed record, flying an F-86 at 670.981 miles per hour, demonstrating significant advancements in aviation technology.
1949 The Lone Ranger Television Series Debut: The iconic television series 'The Lone Ranger', based on the popular radio show, premiered on the American Broadcasting Company (ABC) network. This Western adventure series, starring Clayton Moore as the masked hero, would become a significant part of American popular culture in the late 1940s and early 1950s, captivating audiences with its tales of justice and heroism in the Old West.
1950 Korean War: Inchon Landing: United Nations forces led by General Douglas MacArthur launched a critical amphibious invasion at Inchon (Incheon), a strategic port near Seoul. This bold military operation effectively reversed the tide of the Korean War, forcing North Korean troops to retreat and marking a pivotal moment in the conflict.
1951 Emil Zatopek Sets World Record in 20km Run: Czech long-distance runner Emil Zatopek achieved a remarkable world record in the 20-kilometer distance, further solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest runners of the 20th century. Known as the 'Czech Locomotive', Zatopek was famous for his unique, seemingly uneconomical running style and extraordinary endurance.
1952 Formation of the European Parliamentary Assembly: The European Parliamentary Assembly, which would later be known as the European Parliament from March 1962, was officially established in Strasbourg, marking a significant milestone in European political integration.
1953 NBA Adopts 10-Point-Must Scoring System in Boxing: The National Boxing Association (NBA) officially implements the 10-point-must scoring system, which standardizes how judges evaluate and score boxing rounds. Under this system, the winner of a round typically receives 10 points, while the losing fighter receives 9 points or fewer, creating a more consistent method of judging boxing matches.
1954 Marilyn Monroe's Iconic Skirt Moment: On the set of 'The Seven Year Itch', Marilyn Monroe filmed her legendary scene where her white dress billows up over a subway grate, creating one of the most famous images in cinema history. This moment, captured by director Billy Wilder, would become an enduring symbol of 1950s pop culture and Monroe's sex symbol status.
1955 Publication of Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov: Vladimir Nabokov's controversial and groundbreaking novel 'Lolita' is published in Paris by Olympia Press, marking a significant moment in 20th-century literature. The book would later become a landmark work that challenged societal norms and literary conventions.
1956 First Soviet Commercial Jet Airliner Takes Flight: The Tupolev Tu-104, a groundbreaking Soviet passenger jet, was introduced into commercial service by Aeroflot, marking a significant milestone in aviation history. This aircraft represented a major technological leap for the Soviet Union, demonstrating their capability to develop advanced commercial jet transportation. The inaugural flight connected Moscow's Vnukovo Airport with the distant Siberian cities of Omsk and Irkutsk, showcasing the aircraft's impressive range and performance capabilities.
1957 West German Parliamentary Election of 1957: On September 15, 1957, West Germany held its third parliamentary election, with Chancellor Konrad Adenauer's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) securing a decisive victory. This election reinforced Adenauer's leadership and continued commitment to rebuilding West Germany after World War II, solidifying the country's post-war democratic transformation.
1958 Newark Bay Train Disaster: On September 15, 1958, a catastrophic train accident occurred when a Central Railroad of New Jersey commuter train ran through an open drawbridge at Newark Bay, resulting in a tragic loss of life. The train plunged into the water, killing multiple passengers. Investigations later revealed critical failures in bridge signaling and train control systems.
1959 Luna 2: First Lunar Impact: The Soviet spacecraft Luna 2 (Lunik 2) makes history by becoming the first human-made object to successfully impact the lunar surface. This remarkable achievement represents a significant milestone in space exploration and an important propaganda victory for the Soviet Union during the Cold War Space Race.
1960 OPEC Foundation Conference in Baghdad: The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) was officially established during a landmark conference in Baghdad, bringing together representatives from five key oil-producing nations: Iraq, Iran, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela. This meeting would fundamentally reshape global energy politics and economic dynamics in the decades to follow.
1961 Hurricane Carla Devastates Texas Coast: Hurricane Carla, an extremely powerful Category 4 hurricane, struck the Texas Gulf Coast with catastrophic winds of 175 miles per hour, causing massive destruction and becoming one of the most significant hurricanes in US history.
1962 Soviet Ship Poltava Heads to Cuba, Escalating Cold War Tensions: The Soviet ship Poltava was en route to Cuba, marking a critical moment in the early stages of the Cuban Missile Crisis. This maritime movement was part of a larger Soviet strategic deployment that would soon bring the world to the brink of nuclear conflict.
1963 16th Street Baptist Church Bombing: A horrific racist terrorist attack by Ku Klux Klan members at the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, killed four young African-American girls: Addie Mae Collins, Cynthia Wesley, Carole Robertson, and Denise McNair. This brutal act of violence became a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement, drawing national and international condemnation.
1964 Beatles Perform in Cleveland: The Beatles played a concert at the Public Auditorium in Cleveland, Ohio, continuing their groundbreaking tour and further solidifying their status as a global musical phenomenon.
1965 China-India Border Tensions: China issues diplomatic protests against perceived Indian provocations along their shared border region, highlighting ongoing geopolitical tensions between the two nations during the mid-1960s.
1966 Johnson Calls for Gun Control After University of Texas Shooting: In response to a tragic sniper attack at the University of Texas at Austin, President Lyndon B. Johnson drafted a letter to Congress, urging immediate action on gun control legislation to prevent future violence.
1967 Ilse Koch, Nazi War Criminal, Dies by Suicide: Ilse Koch, the notorious Nazi concentration camp guard infamously known as 'The Bitch of Buchenwald' for her extreme cruelty, committed suicide by hanging herself in the Bavarian prison of Aichach at the age of 60.
1968 Soviet Zond 5 Lunar Mission: The Soviet Union launched the Zond 5 spacecraft, marking the first successful lunar fly-around mission with a planned Earth reentry. The spacecraft carried biological specimens including turtles, worms, and plant seeds, which survived the journey and re-entry on September 21.
1970 King Hussein Establishes Military Government: In response to escalating tensions with Palestinian guerrillas, King Hussein of Jordan formed a military government and appointed Muhammad Daoud as prime minister, signaling a significant political and military restructuring.
1971 Greenpeace's First Protest Voyage Against Nuclear Testing: The first Greenpeace ship departed from Vancouver, Canada, on a historic mission to protest the upcoming Cannikin nuclear weapon test in Alaska, marking a significant moment in environmental activism and anti-nuclear movement.
1972 Watergate Burglars Indicted: Five men, including Bernard Barker, Virgilio Gonzalez, Eugenio Martínez, James W. McCord, and Frank Sturgis, were indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in the June break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters during the Watergate scandal.
1973 OPEC Supports Oil Price Negotiations: OPEC supports collective price negotiations, designating six Gulf countries to negotiate with oil companies, marking a significant moment in global energy politics and setting the stage for future oil market dynamics.
1974 Air Vietnam Flight Hijacking and Crash: Air Vietnam Flight 727 was hijacked and subsequently crashed while attempting to land, resulting in the tragic loss of 75 passengers and crew members. The incident highlights the volatile security challenges facing aviation during the mid-1970s.
1975 First College Football Holy War: Notre Dame defeated Boston College 17-3 in the inaugural College Football Holy War, marking a significant moment in the historic rivalry between these two prominent collegiate football programs.
1976 Groundbreaking Theater Premiere: Ntozake Shange's powerful and revolutionary play 'For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow is Enuf' premiered in New York City on September 15, 1976. This landmark theatrical work addressed critical issues of race, gender, and identity, becoming a seminal piece in African American literature and performance art.
1977 First Live Telephone Traffic via Optical Fiber: A groundbreaking telecommunications milestone occurred when an Italian company in Turin successfully transmitted live telephone traffic using optical fiber technology, marking a significant advancement in communication infrastructure.
1978 Muhammad Ali Wins Third World Heavyweight Title: At the Superdome in New Orleans, Muhammad Ali defeated Leon Spinks in a rematch, becoming the first boxer in history to win the world heavyweight title three times. Ali, at age 36, secured a unanimous decision in a 15-round bout, reclaiming the championship he had previously lost to Spinks on February 15.
1979 John McEnroe Triumphs at U.S. Open: 20-year-old John McEnroe achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the youngest male champion in U.S. Open history. He defeated Vitas Gerulaitis in a commanding straight-sets performance with scores of 7-5, 6-3, and 6-3, signaling the emergence of a new tennis superstar.
1980 Paul McCartney Releases 'Temporary Secretary': Paul McCartney released his innovative electronic-influenced single 'Temporary Secretary' on September 15, 1980, as part of his experimental post-Beatles solo career. The track, featuring quirky synthesizer sounds and unconventional lyrics, was ahead of its time and showcased McCartney's willingness to explore new musical territories.
1981 Sandra Day O'Connor Approved for Supreme Court: The United States Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously approves Sandra Day O'Connor to become the first female justice on the United States Supreme Court, marking a historic milestone for gender representation in the highest judicial body.
1982 Israeli Forces Enter West Beirut: During the Lebanon War, Israeli military forces began advancing into West Beirut, a significant military operation that escalated tensions in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Lebanese and Palestinian forces.
1983 Michael Stewart Killed by NYC Police: On September 15, 1983, Michael Stewart, a young African American artist and graffiti writer, was brutally beaten by New York City transit police after being caught creating graffiti in the subway. The incident sparked significant controversy and highlighted issues of police brutality and racial discrimination in law enforcement.
1984 Prince Harry Born: Prince Henry Charles Albert David of Wales, also known as Prince Harry, was born as the third in line to the British throne. He is the younger son of Prince Charles (now King Charles III) and Princess Diana.
1985 Robert Bork Supreme Court Confirmation Hearings Begin: The Senate Judiciary Committee commenced hearings for Robert Bork's controversial Supreme Court nomination, which would become a pivotal moment in judicial appointment history.
1986 Paris Terrorist Bombing: A terrorist bomb attack occurred in Paris, resulting in one fatality. The incident highlighted the ongoing security challenges and terrorist threats facing the French capital during the mid-1980s.
1987 US-Soviet Nuclear Risk Reduction Treaty Signing: United States Secretary of State George Shultz and Soviet Foreign Minister Eduard Shevardnadze signed a landmark treaty establishing joint centers aimed at reducing the risk of nuclear war. This diplomatic effort represented a significant step towards de-escalating Cold War tensions and improving communication between the two superpowers.
1988 Lillehammer Wins 1994 Winter Olympics Bid: In a surprising turn of events, Lillehammer, Norway, is selected to host the 1994 Winter Olympics, defeating Anchorage, Alaska in the bidding process.
1989 U.S. Congress Acknowledges Terry Anderson's Beirut Captivity: On September 15, 1989, the United States Congress officially recognized the ongoing captivity of Terry Anderson, an Associated Press journalist who had been held hostage in Beirut, Lebanon. Anderson was kidnapped by Hezbollah militants on March 16, 1985, and would remain in captivity for nearly seven years, becoming one of the longest-held hostages in modern history. The congressional recognition highlighted the diplomatic tensions and humanitarian concerns surrounding his prolonged detention.
1990 France Commits Troops to Persian Gulf: France announces a significant military deployment of 4,000 troops to the Persian Gulf region, likely in response to the ongoing tensions surrounding Iraq's invasion of Kuwait.
1991 Swedish Parliamentary Election: General elections were held for the Swedish Parliament, marking a significant political shift as Carl Bildt became the country's first Conservative Prime Minister in 63 years. This election represented a notable change in Sweden's traditional political landscape.
1992 George Soros' Pound Sterling Speculation: George Soros' Quantum Fund initiates a massive sell-off of pound sterling, a strategic financial maneuver that would subsequently lead to the pound's dramatic exit from the European Exchange Rate Mechanism (ERM). This event earned Soros the legendary title 'the man who broke the Bank of England'.
1993 Assassination of Anti-Mafia Priest Giuseppe Puglisi: Father Giuseppe 'Pino' Puglisi, a courageous Catholic priest known for his strong stance against Mafia influence in Palermo, was brutally murdered in front of his church. His famous last words, "I've been expecting you," symbolized his fearless confrontation of organized crime. His assassination highlighted the dangerous reality of anti-Mafia activism in Sicily during the early 1990s.
1994 Tragic Terrorist Attack in Algeria: Muslim fundamentalist extremists committed a horrific act of violence, kidnapping and brutally beheading 16 innocent citizens in Algeria, highlighting the severe political instability and terrorist threats in the region during this period.
1995 Hurricane Marilyn Devastates Caribbean: Hurricane Marilyn struck the U.S. Virgin Islands and eastern Puerto Rico on September 15-16, 1995. The hurricane caused extensive damage, with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) estimating total losses at $2.1 billion. The city of Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas was particularly hard-hit, suffering significant infrastructure and economic damage.
1996 Operation PACIFIC HAVEN: Kurdish Refugee Evacuation: The United States Air Force conducted a humanitarian mission, airlifting thousands of Kurdish refugees from Northern Iraq to Andersen Air Force Base in Guam, facilitating their processing and potential resettlement.
1997 Oprah Winfrey Extends Talk Show Contract: Media icon Oprah Winfrey announced she would continue her highly popular television talk show through the year 2000, ensuring her continued influence in entertainment and media.
1998 WorldCom and MCI Communications Merger: WorldCom and MCI Communications completed a landmark telecommunications merger, creating MCI WorldCom, a telecommunications giant that would later become infamous for one of the largest corporate bankruptcies in United States history. The merger represented a significant consolidation in the telecommunications industry during the late 1990s, reflecting the rapid technological and business transformations of that era.
1999 Walt Disney World Closes Due to Hurricane Floyd: On September 15, 1999, Walt Disney World in Florida experienced an unprecedented event: a full closure due to the imminent threat of Hurricane Floyd. This was the first time in the park's 28-year history that such a comprehensive shutdown occurred. As a partial reopening measure, Disney's Animal Kingdom resumed operations at 12:00 PM, allowing resort guests limited access. The closure underscores the serious nature of the hurricane and the park's commitment to visitor safety.
2000 2000 Sydney Olympic Games: The Games of the XXVII Olympiad were held in Sydney, Australia from September 15 to October 1, 2000. This was a significant international sporting event that brought together athletes from around the world to compete in various Olympic disciplines.
2001 President Bush Declares War on Terror: In the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attacks, President George W. Bush formally declared that the United States was at war with terrorism, marking a pivotal moment in modern geopolitical history that would reshape global security and international relations.
2002 US Presidential Leadership in 2002: George W. Bush was serving as the President of the United States on September 15, 2002, during a critical period in post-9/11 American foreign policy.
2003 Truck Bombing in Ingushetia: A Chechen suicide attack involving a truck bomb occurs near the Federal Security Service branch in Magas, the capital of Ingushetia, which borders separatist Chechnya. The attack results in three fatalities and over 20 injuries.
2004 Hurricane Ivan Evacuation: The United States issues widespread evacuation orders as Hurricane Ivan approaches the Gulf Coast, with New Orleans facing significant risk of catastrophic flooding due to potential levee breaches.
2005 Bush Addresses Hurricane Katrina Devastation: President George W. Bush delivers an emotional address from Jackson Square, New Orleans, acknowledging the unprecedented devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina and pledging full support for the city's recovery.
2006 Pope Benedict XVI Islam Controversy: Pope Benedict XVI faced widespread criticism in the Islamic world for remarks quoting Byzantine Emperor Manuel II Palaiologos about Muhammad and Islam, triggering street protests in parts of South Asia.
2007 Northwest Passage Opens: Climate change dramatically manifested as the Northwest Passage, historically impassable, became navigable due to extensive Arctic Ocean sea ice melting, connecting North America, Asia, and Europe.
2008 Lehman Brothers Bankruptcy Triggers 2008 Financial Crisis: Lehman Brothers, a 158-year-old American investment bank, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, marking the largest bankruptcy in U.S. history. With assets of approximately US$639 billion and only US$30 billion in equity, the collapse signaled the deepening of the subprime mortgage crisis and sparked a global financial meltdown.
2009 Bernanke Signals End of Economic Recession: Federal Reserve Chairman Ben S. Bernanke announced that the worst U.S. economic recession since the 1930s was likely over, while cautioning that economic growth might not be robust enough to quickly reduce unemployment.
2010 Anti-American Protests in Kabul: A violent demonstration against the United States erupted in Kabul, partially triggered by the 2010 Qur'an burning controversy. The protest resulted in five Afghan National Police officers being injured and two protesters shot.
2011 UNICEF Child Mortality Report: UNICEF released a significant report showing a substantial decline in child mortality rates. In 1990, over 12 million children under five died, which decreased to 7.6 million by 2010, indicating global improvements in child healthcare.
2012 Syrian Civil War Developments: On September 15, 2012, significant developments occurred in the Syrian Civil War, including the defection of a Syrian Air Force officer who was a relative of President Assad, highlighting internal fractures within the Syrian government. Additionally, UN Special Envoy Lakhdar Brahimi described the crisis as a 'very serious and dangerous' threat to world peace.
2013 Japan Shuts Down Last Nuclear Reactor: Japan completely halted its nuclear power generation by shutting down its final nuclear reactor for scheduled inspection, with no immediate plans for restart following the Fukushima Daiichi disaster.
2014 Tragic Migrant Ship Sinking Off Malta's Coast: Approximately 500 migrants drowned after people traffickers intentionally sank their ship off Malta's coast, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Mediterranean migration routes.
2015 Hungary Declares Emergency During Migration Crisis: Hungary declared an emergency in two southeastern regions and implemented stricter laws to prevent asylum-seekers from entering the country, highlighting the intense challenges of the European migration crisis.
2016 Sandra Bland Case Settlement: Texas authorities agreed to pay $1.9 million to Sandra Bland's family following her controversial death in Waller County jail in July 2015, where she was found hanged and no indictments were issued, highlighting ongoing concerns about racial justice and police custody practices.
2017 Hurricane Irma Depopulates Barbuda: During the 2017 Atlantic hurricane season, Hurricane Irma completely wiped out Barbuda's population, a historic event not seen in 300 years. The island was entirely depopulated in the wake of this devastating hurricane.
2018 Hurricane Florence Impacts North Carolina: Hurricane Florence made landfall in North Carolina on September 14, 2018, continuing its destructive path on September 15, causing widespread flooding and extensive damage across the region.
2019 Drone Attacks on Saudi Aramco Oil Facilities: On September 15, 2019, sophisticated drone attacks targeted critical Saudi Aramco oil facilities in Abqaiq and Khurais, Saudi Arabia. These precision strikes caused significant disruption to the country's oil production infrastructure, leading to a substantial reduction in global oil supply. The attacks triggered an immediate surge in international oil prices and dramatically escalated geopolitical tensions, particularly between Saudi Arabia and Iran, with both countries trading accusations about the origin of the attack.
2020 Pennsylvania Coronavirus Restrictions Struck Down: U.S. District Judge William Stickman IV ruled against Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf's COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, declaring them unconstitutional. The judicial decision challenged the state's emergency powers and pandemic response measures.
2021 AUKUS Security Alliance Formed: U.S. President Joe Biden, U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced the formation of a strategic security alliance called AUKUS. The partnership aims to counter China's growing geopolitical and military influence in the Indo-Pacific region. A key component of the alliance is Australia's planned acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines, marking a significant shift in regional defense dynamics.
2022 Ukrainian Kharkiv Counteroffensive and Mass Grave Discovery: During the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War, Ukrainian forces successfully launched a significant counteroffensive in the Kharkiv region, reclaiming territories previously occupied by Russian forces. In a grim discovery, a mass grave containing over 440 bodies was found in the recently liberated city of Izium, highlighting the human cost of the conflict.
2023 Hunter Biden Indicted on Federal Gun Charges: In a significant legal development, Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, was indicted by a Delaware grand jury on federal gun-related charges. The indictment stems from allegations that he illegally possessed a firearm while being a known drug user in 2018 and provided false information on the federal firearms purchase form. The case, initially part of a potential plea agreement that collapsed, was pursued by special counsel David Weiss, who subsequently brought the matter before a grand jury. Beyond the current gun charges, Biden may also face potential separate tax-related legal proceedings.

What Is special about September 15?

September 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 September 15.