Historical Events on September 18: 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 18, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on September 18 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 First Primary Election in the United States: On September 18, 1900, Minnesota implemented the nation's first statewide primary election, marking a significant milestone in American democratic processes. This groundbreaking event, stemming from a legislative act passed in 1899, allowed voters to directly participate in selecting political candidates, fundamentally transforming the traditional party nomination system. The primary election represented a crucial step towards more transparent and democratic candidate selection, giving ordinary citizens a greater voice in the political process.
1901 Assassination of President William McKinley: U.S. President William McKinley was fatally shot by anarchist Leon Czolgosz while attending the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York. The shooting occurred on September 6, 1901, and McKinley succumbed to his wounds on September 14, 1901. This tragic event marked a significant moment in American political history, leading to Theodore Roosevelt's ascension to the presidency and sparking discussions about presidential security and anarchist movements.
1902 Robert Peary's Arctic Expedition Returns to North America: U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander Robert Peary and his expedition team arrived in Sydney, Nova Scotia, marking the conclusion of a challenging four-year Arctic exploration journey. Peary was a pioneering polar explorer known for his ambitious attempts to reach the North Pole, and this return voyage represented a significant milestone in his quest for Arctic exploration and geographical discovery.
1903 Chick Fraser No-Hitter Against Chicago Cubs: On September 18, 1903, Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Chick Fraser achieved a remarkable feat by throwing a no-hitter against the Chicago Cubs, winning the game 10-0. This dominant performance was a significant moment in early 20th-century baseball history, showcasing Fraser's exceptional pitching skills and the Phillies' offensive power.
1904 First Automobile Crossing of Canadian Rockies: A pioneering automotive journey marked the first successful crossing of the challenging Canadian Rocky Mountain terrain by automobile, demonstrating the emerging technological capabilities of early 20th-century transportation.
1905 Political Transition in Manila's Governance: Arsenio Cruz Herrera, Manila's first mayor, resigned from his position due to persistent conflicts with the U.S. Governor-General, reflecting the complex political dynamics during the American colonial period in the Philippines.
1906 1906 Hong Kong Typhoon Disaster: On September 18, 1906, a catastrophic typhoon struck Hong Kong, accompanied by a devastating tsunami. The natural disaster resulted in an estimated 10,000 fatalities, making it one of the deadliest tropical cyclones in the region's history. The typhoon caused widespread destruction of infrastructure, homes, and maritime vessels, leaving the city in complete devastation and triggering significant humanitarian challenges.
1907 Birth of Edwin McMillan, Nobel Prize-Winning Chemist: Edwin McMillan was born on September 18, 1907. He was a distinguished American chemist who would later be awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his groundbreaking work in nuclear physics. McMillan made significant contributions to the understanding of nuclear reactions and particle physics during his distinguished scientific career. He passed away in 1991, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in scientific research.
1908 Winston Churchill Marries Clementine Hozier: Winston Churchill married Clementine Hozier on September 12, 1908, marking the beginning of a significant personal and political partnership. Their marriage would span decades and play a crucial role in Churchill's personal life and political career.
1909 Record-Breaking Baseball Crowd at Shibe Park: On September 18, 1909, Shibe Park in Philadelphia witnessed a historic moment in baseball attendance. A record-breaking crowd of 35,409 spectators packed the stadium to watch the Philadelphia Athletics defeat the Detroit Tigers 2-0. The game was a masterful pitching performance by Charles 'Chief' Bender, a Native American pitcher who would later be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. This event highlighted the growing popularity of baseball in the early 20th century and the emerging star power of players like Bender.
1910 Telephone Transmission Breakthrough: On September 18, 1910, U.S. Army Brigadier General George Owen Squier made a groundbreaking technological demonstration by introducing the first system for multiplexing telephone transmissions. This innovation allowed multiple telephone conversations to be simultaneously transmitted over the same set of wires, significantly advancing telecommunications technology.
1911 Assassination Attempt on Russian Premier Stolypin: At the Kiev Opera House, Russian Premier Peter Stolypin was the target of a dramatic assassination attempt, reflecting the intense political tensions and revolutionary climate in early 20th-century Imperial Russia.
1912 Uneventful Day in World History: September 18, 1912, appears to be a relatively quiet day with no significant recorded historical events. While no major global occurrences were documented, this period was part of the late pre-World War I era, characterized by growing international tensions and rapid technological and social changes.
1913 South Africa Natives Land Act of 1913: The Parliament of South Africa passed the Natives Land Act, a deeply discriminatory legislation that severely restricted land ownership for Black South Africans. This act was a cornerstone of the apartheid system, forcibly limiting Black people to owning land only in designated 'black territories', which comprised a mere fraction of the country's total land area. The law systematically dispossessed Black South Africans of their ancestral lands and laid the groundwork for future racial segregation policies.
1914 German Eastern Front Command Appointment: General Paul von Hindenburg is named commander of German armies on the Eastern Front during World War I, a strategic military leadership appointment that would significantly impact the war's military operations.
1915 DUPE: German Army Detachment D Formation: During World War I, the Imperial German Army established Army Detachment D for strategic operations on the Eastern Front, reflecting the complex military reorganization during the conflict.
1916 Battle of Transylvania during World War I: During World War I, the Romanian Army concluded the third phase of its offensive against Austria-Hungary when German and Austro-Hungarian forces successfully halted the Romanian military advance in Transylvania. This battle was a critical moment in the Romanian campaign, demonstrating the complex military dynamics of the Eastern Front during the conflict.
1917 Birth of Francis Parker Yockey, Controversial Political Theorist: Francis Parker Yockey was born, who would later become a significant yet highly controversial political philosopher and author. Best known for his seminal work 'Imperium', Yockey was a radical right-wing intellectual who developed complex geopolitical theories that challenged mainstream political thought. His writings heavily criticized liberal democracy and promoted a form of cultural and racial nationalism that drew inspiration from European fascist ideologies.
1918 Battle of Épehy: The Battle of Épehy was a crucial engagement during World War I on September 18, 1918. The British Fourth Army, led by General Henry Rawlinson, launched a strategic attack against German defensive positions in front of the Hindenburg Line. The 12th (Eastern) Division successfully captured the village of Épehy. Australian divisions played a pivotal role, achieving a decisive victory by capturing 4,243 prisoners, 76 guns, 300 machine-guns, and 30 trench mortars. The Allies suffered 1,260 casualties (265 killed, 1,057 wounded, 2 captured), but ultimately secured a significant strategic triumph with 11,750 prisoners and 100 guns captured.
1919 Dutch Women's Suffrage Milestone: The Dutch 2nd Chamber officially accepts female suffrage, marking a pivotal moment in the Netherlands' democratic evolution and women's political rights.
1920 Finland and Sweden Seek League of Nations Arbitration: Finland and Sweden agreed to refer their territorial dispute over the Aland Islands to arbitration by the League of Nations. This diplomatic resolution demonstrated the emerging international mechanism for peaceful conflict resolution in the early 20th century, highlighting the League's role in managing potential regional tensions.
1921 Founding of the Republic of the Rif: On September 18, 1921, the Republic of the Rif (Tagduda en Arif) was established in Ajdir, Morocco, marking a significant moment of Berber self-governance and resistance against colonial powers. Led by Muhammad ibn Abd al-Karim al-Khattabi, this secessionist state represented an important indigenous movement challenging Spanish and French colonial control in North Africa. The republic, though short-lived, symbolized the Berber people's struggle for autonomy and cultural preservation during a period of intense colonial occupation.
1922 Hungary Joins the League of Nations: On September 18, 1922, the Kingdom of Hungary was officially admitted as a member of the League of Nations, marking a significant diplomatic milestone for the country in the post-World War I era. This admission represented Hungary's reintegration into the international community following the Treaty of Trianon, which had dramatically reshaped the country's territorial and political landscape.
1923 NAACP Protests Discriminatory Deportation in Pennsylvania: The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) joined forces with the governor of Pennsylvania to publicly condemn the Johnstown mayor's inflammatory remarks regarding the proposed deportation of Black and Mexican residents, highlighting ongoing racial tensions and discrimination in the early 1920s.
1924 U.S. Military Withdrawal from Dominican Republic: The United States military occupation of the Dominican Republic concludes after eight years of continuous presence, marking a significant moment in Caribbean geopolitical history and Dominican sovereignty restoration.
1925 Publication of The Great Gatsby: F. Scott Fitzgerald's seminal novel 'The Great Gatsby' is published, marking a pivotal moment in American literary history. The book would later become a quintessential exploration of the Jazz Age, wealth, and the American Dream, capturing the decadence and disillusionment of the 1920s.
1926 Great Miami Hurricane of 1926: A catastrophic hurricane struck Miami and southern Florida, causing unprecedented destruction. The storm decimated coastal infrastructure, including hotels, piers, marinas, and mansions. The hurricane resulted in 400 confirmed fatalities and left approximately 50,000 people homeless, marking one of the most devastating natural disasters in Florida's history.
1927 Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS) Launches: The Columbia Phonographic Broadcasting System, later known as CBS, is formed and begins broadcasting with 47 radio stations, marking a significant milestone in American media history.
1928 Walt Disney Trademark for Mickey Mouse: Walt Disney successfully registers the trademark for his iconic character Mickey Mouse, marking a significant milestone in animation and entertainment history.
1929 Cubs Clinch National League Pennant: On September 18, 1929, the Chicago Cubs secured the National League pennant after defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates. This victory positioned the Cubs for the upcoming World Series and marked a significant moment in their baseball season. The Cubs, under manager Joe McCarthy, were a dominant team in the late 1920s, featuring star players like Hack Wilson and Kiki Cuyler.
1930 Einstein's Cautious Perspective on Nazi Rise: Renowned physicist Albert Einstein offered a nuanced view of the Nazi Party's electoral success, suggesting their rise was more a symptom of economic despair and youth unemployment rather than inherent anti-Semitism. He expressed hope that this political 'fever' would quickly subside.
1931 Mukden Incident: Japan's False Flag Operation in Manchuria: On September 18, 1931, Japanese military personnel orchestrated a sophisticated false flag operation by detonating a small quantity of dynamite near a railway line owned by Japan's South Manchuria Railway close to Mukden (now Shenyang). Although the explosion was intentionally weak and failed to significantly damage the track, the Imperial Japanese Army strategically used this manufactured event to accuse Chinese dissidents of sabotage, thereby creating a pretext for a full-scale military invasion and subsequent occupation of Manchuria.
1932 Formation of Saudi Arabia: King Ibn Saud successfully united several kingdoms of the Arabian Peninsula, officially establishing the modern nation of Saudi Arabia through strategic political consolidation and diplomatic negotiations. This momentous event marked the birth of a new sovereign state that would become a significant geopolitical and economic power in the Middle East.
1933 Tennessee Valley Authority Established: On September 18, 1933, as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal economic recovery program, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) was officially established. This groundbreaking federal corporation was designed to provide electricity, flood control, and economic development to the economically depressed Tennessee Valley region. The TVA represented a significant government intervention in regional economic planning and infrastructure development, becoming a model for large-scale public works projects during the Great Depression.
1934 Soviet Union Joins the League of Nations: On September 18, 1934, the Soviet Union was admitted to the League of Nations, marking a significant diplomatic milestone. The general assembly adopted a resolution that not only admitted the USSR but also granted it a permanent seat on the League's Board. This event represented a major shift in international relations, as the Soviet Union transitioned from being an isolated revolutionary state to a recognized participant in global diplomacy.
1935 Mussolini Rejects League of Nations Peace Proposal: In a defiant diplomatic moment, Italian dictator Benito Mussolini categorically rejected the League of Nations' peace proposal concerning the territories of Danakil and Ogaden. Mussolini dismissed the diplomatic overture with contempt, declaring that he would not be treated like 'a fool', signaling his aggressive stance towards international mediation and foreshadowing his expansionist ambitions in the Horn of Africa.
1936 Maritime Disaster and Hurricane Strike on US East Coast: On September 18, 1936, two significant events occurred: a tragic maritime collision on the Nile River resulted in 45 fatalities when a pleasure boat and a cargo ship crashed into each other. Simultaneously, a powerful tropical hurricane made landfall at Cape Hatteras, causing significant damage along the eastern seaboard of the United States.
1938 Munich Crisis Diplomatic Negotiations: A critical meeting between British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, French Premier Édouard Daladier, and Foreign Minister Georges Bonnet reveals the reluctance of both governments to engage militarily over the Sudetenland crisis. The Soviet Union conditionally pledges support for Czechoslovakia, dependent on France's commitment to Czech independence.
1939 German-Soviet Invasion and Partition of Poland: Russian and German military forces converge in Poland, meeting at strategic locations like Vilna and Brest-Litovsk. A joint German-Soviet military commission convenes to draft plans for the systematic partition of Polish territory, marking a critical moment in the early stages of World War II.
1940 Sinking of the City of Benares: The British passenger ship *City of Benares* was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean by the German submarine *U-48*, resulting in significant loss of life and highlighting the brutal nature of naval warfare during World War II.
1941 Soviet Union Implements Nationwide Military Conscription: During World War II, the Soviet Union announced a comprehensive military conscription policy, mandating all males between the ages of 16 and 50 to be eligible for military service. This massive mobilization was a critical response to the German invasion and demonstrated the Soviet Union's total commitment to defending its territory against Nazi aggression.
1942 Nazi Extermination Order Approved: On September 18, 1942, Nazi Minister of Justice Otto Thierack approved a horrific order for the 'extermination of asocials through labour', representing a deeply disturbing escalation of Nazi genocidal policies during World War II.
1943 Nazi Attempt to Deport Danish Jews During World War II: During World War II, Adolf Hitler ordered the deportation of Danish Jews. However, this attempt was ultimately unsuccessful due to significant resistance and protection efforts by Danish citizens and authorities.
1944 Surrender of Brest Inner City Garrison: The German garrison in the inner city of Brest, France, surrendered to Allied forces, representing another significant victory in the Allied push across France during World War II.
1945 MacArthur Relocates Headquarters to Tokyo: General Douglas MacArthur, Supreme Commander of the Allied Powers, officially moves his general headquarters from Manila, Philippines, to Tokyo, Japan, signaling a significant transition in the post-World War II occupation and reconstruction of Japan.
1946 Joe Louis Wins Heavyweight Boxing Title: Joe Louis, the legendary African American boxer known as the 'Brown Bomber', successfully defended his heavyweight championship by knocking out Tami Mauriello in a single round. This victory further solidified Louis's reputation as one of the most dominant boxers of his era.
1947 United States Department of Defense Established: The United States Department of Defense officially begins operations, transitioning from the previously known National Military Establishment. This marked a significant reorganization of the country's military administrative structure.
1948 Assassination of UN Mediator Count Bernadotte: Count Folke Bernadotte, the United Nations Mediator in Palestine, was assassinated in Jerusalem, highlighting the extreme tensions and violence in the region during this period.
1949 Major League Baseball Grand Slam Record: On September 18, 1949, a historic baseball game occurred where four grand slam home runs were hit, setting a remarkable Major League Baseball record. This extraordinary event showcased exceptional batting performance and remains a rare achievement in baseball history.
1950 Dharma Transmission of Nakagawa Soen: Nakagawa Soen, a prominent Zen Buddhist teacher, receives his official dharma transmission, a significant spiritual milestone in Buddhist monastic tradition where a master formally recognizes and empowers a student to continue teaching and transmitting Buddhist teachings.
1951 A Streetcar Named Desire Film Release: The film adaptation of 'A Streetcar Named Desire' is released, featuring iconic performances by Marlon Brando as Stanley Kowalski and Vivien Leigh as Blanche DuBois. The movie, directed by Elia Kazan, becomes a landmark in cinema history, capturing the raw emotional intensity of Tennessee Williams's original play.
1952 Korean War Ceasefire Negotiations Stall: Negotiations aimed at establishing a ceasefire in the Korean War were postponed on September 18, 1952, prolonging the conflict and demonstrating the challenges of diplomatic resolution during this tense period of the Cold War.
1953 Uneventful Day in Global History: On September 18, 1953, no major historical events were recorded or documented. While this day might seem unremarkable, it represents a moment of relative global calm during the early years of the Cold War era.
1954 Finnish President Receives Soviet Honor: Finnish President J.K. Paasikivi becomes the first Western head of state to be awarded the highest honor of the Soviet Union, the Order of Lenin, marking a significant diplomatic milestone during the Cold War era.
1955 Ed Sullivan Show Debuts: The popular television program 'Toast of the Town' is renamed 'The Ed Sullivan Show', which would become one of the most iconic entertainment programs in American television history, running until 1971.
1956 Mao Zedong Discusses North Korean Political Tensions: In a significant diplomatic conversation, Chairman Mao Zedong reveals tensions with North Korea following the arrest of Korean Workers' Party members, including Pak Il-u. The discussion highlights the complex relationship between the Chinese Communist Party and North Korea during the Cold War period.
1957 Wagon Train TV Series Premiere: The popular US Western television drama 'Wagon Train' made its debut, marking a significant moment in television entertainment history. The series, which followed the adventures of a wagon train traveling west during the pioneer era, would become a landmark show in the Western genre.
1958 Launch of BankAmericard: A Financial Revolution: On September 18, 1958, Bank of America introduced the BankAmericard in Fresno, California, in a groundbreaking marketing initiative known as the 'Fresno Drop'. This innovative credit card became the first widely distributed consumer credit card in the United States, marking a significant milestone in financial technology. The BankAmericard would later evolve into the global payment network Visa, fundamentally transforming consumer spending and banking practices.
1959 Memphis State University Desegregates: Memphis State University (now the University of Memphis) admitted its first eight African American students, known as the 'Memphis State 8'. While they began classes without incident, they faced significant campus segregation and restrictions, marking an important moment in the Civil Rights Movement.
1960 Castro's UN Diplomatic Visit: Fidel Castro, the revolutionary leader of Cuba, arrived in New York City as the head of the Cuban delegation to the United Nations General Assembly. This visit was significant during the height of Cold War tensions, marking a pivotal moment in international diplomacy between Cuba and the United States.
1961 UN Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld Dies in Plane Crash: Dag Hammarskjöld, the second Secretary-General of the United Nations, tragically died in a plane crash near Ndola, Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) while attempting to negotiate a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in the Katanga region of the Congo. His death was a significant loss for international diplomacy and the United Nations, as he was widely respected for his commitment to peace and conflict resolution.
1962 U.S. Marine Corps First Combat Helicopter Mission in Vietnam: U.S. Marine Corps helicopters conducted their first combat mission from Da Nang, South Vietnam, airlifting South Vietnamese troops. This event marked an escalation of U.S. military involvement in the Vietnam War.
1963 Swissair Flight 306 Tragic Crash: Swissair Flight 306, a Sud Aviation Caravelle jet airliner, catastrophically crashed shortly after takeoff from Zurich Airport. The aircraft caught fire and plummeted near the town of Dürrenäsch, resulting in the tragic loss of all 80 passengers and crew members on board. This devastating accident marked one of the most significant aviation disasters in Swiss history.
1964 North Vietnamese Army Infiltration Begins: On September 18, 1964, the North Vietnamese Army commenced strategic infiltration operations into South Vietnam, escalating tensions during the early stages of the Vietnam War. This marked a significant military movement that would have profound implications for the conflict.
1965 Mickey Mantle Day at Yankee Stadium: Baseball legend Mickey Mantle celebrated a significant milestone by playing his 2,000th game at Yankee Stadium, honoring his remarkable career with the New York Yankees.
1966 Black Panther Party Founded: Bobby Seale and Huey P. Newton establish the Black Panther Party in Oakland, California, a pivotal moment in the African American civil rights movement focused on combating police brutality and systemic racism.
1967 Groundbreaking Soap Opera Challenges Racial Boundaries: "Love Is a Many Splendored Thing" makes television history by becoming the first soap opera to portray an interracial relationship. The controversial storyline prompted CBS censors to attempt to halt the show, leading to creator Irna Phillips' resignation in protest of the network's conservative stance.
1968 Funny Girl Film Premiere: The iconic biopic "Funny Girl" premiered, directed by William Wyler and starring Barbra Streisand and Omar Sharif. The film chronicles the life of comedienne Fanny Brice and would become a significant cultural milestone.
1969 Tiny Tim and Miss Vicky get engaged
1970 Death of Jimi Hendrix: Legendary rock guitarist Jimi Hendrix died in London from drug-related complications at the young age of 27, marking a tragic end to one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. His groundbreaking electric guitar techniques and innovative musical style had revolutionized rock and blues music in the late 1960s.
1971 First Cup Noodle Launched by Momofuku Ando: Momofuku Ando revolutionized instant food technology by introducing Cup Noodles, packaging instant ramen in a convenient, waterproof polystyrene container. This innovative design allowed consumers to prepare and eat noodles directly from the cup by simply adding hot water, transforming quick meal preparation worldwide.
1972 Japanese Apology for World War II Atrocities: Former Japanese Foreign Minister Zentaro Kosaka publicly apologized in Beijing for Japan's wartime atrocities against China, representing an important diplomatic gesture of reconciliation.
1973 East and West Germany Join United Nations: On September 18, 1973, both East Germany (German Democratic Republic) and West Germany (Federal Republic of Germany) were simultaneously admitted as member states to the United Nations, marking a significant diplomatic milestone during the Cold War era. This admission represented an important step in international recognition of both German states and their potential for diplomatic engagement.
1974 Hurricane Fifi Devastates Honduras: Hurricane Fifi struck Honduras with catastrophic 110 mph winds, causing massive destruction and resulting in approximately 5,000 fatalities. This natural disaster was one of the deadliest hurricanes in Honduran history, leaving widespread devastation in its wake.
1975 Fugitive Patricia Hearst is captured in San Francisco.
1976 Funeral of Mao Zedong: The state funeral of Mao Tse Tung (Mao Zedong), the founding father of the People's Republic of China and leader of the Chinese Communist Party, takes place in Beijing, marking the end of an era in Chinese political history.
1977 Voyager I Captures Historic Earth-Moon Photograph: NASA's Voyager I spacecraft took the first distant photograph capturing both the Earth and Moon together, marking a significant milestone in space exploration and our understanding of planetary imaging.
1978 Camp David Accords Signed: United States President Jimmy Carter mediated historic peace negotiations between Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, resulting in a landmark agreement that established a framework for peace between Israel and Egypt. This diplomatic breakthrough was a significant milestone in Middle East relations, marking the first formal peace treaty between Israel and an Arab state.
1979 Bolshoi Ballet Dancers Defect from Soviet Union: Renowned Bolshoi Ballet dancers Leonid and Valentina Kozlov dramatically defected from the Soviet Union, marking a significant cultural and political moment during the Cold War era. Their escape represented not just a personal artistic choice, but also a symbolic act of resistance against Soviet artistic restrictions.
1980 Les Misérables Musical Premiere in Paris: The iconic musical Les Misérables opens at the Palais des Sports in Paris, marking an important moment in musical theater history.
1981 France Abolishes Capital Punishment: On September 18, 1981, the French Assemblée Nationale (National Assembly) voted to abolish capital punishment, marking a significant milestone in the country's human rights and judicial reform. This historic decision effectively ended the death penalty in France, reflecting a growing global trend towards more humane criminal justice practices.
1982 Sabra and Shatila Massacre: On September 18, 1982, Lebanese Christian Phalangist militia conducted a horrific massacre of Palestinian civilians in the Sabra and Shatila refugee camps in West Beirut. The killings were carried out with the tacit approval of Israeli troops who were occupying the area. The massacre was a brutal act of retaliation following the assassination of pro-Israel president-elect Bachir Gemayel, and was rooted in the complex sectarian tensions of the Lebanese Civil War. Estimates suggest between 700-3,000 Palestinian civilians were killed during this tragic event, which is widely considered one of the most notorious war crimes of the 20th century.
1983 Lebanese-Syrian Military Conflict: Tensions escalated as Lebanese and Syrian armies engaged in a military battle, highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East during the early 1980s.
1984 UN General Assembly Arms Negotiation Appeal: The 39th session of the United Nations General Assembly opened with a diplomatic plea for the United States and Soviet Union to resume arms control negotiations during the Cold War era.
1985 Steve Jobs Resigns from Apple Computer: Steve Jobs voluntarily steps down from his position at Apple Computer, marking a significant moment in the company's early history and his personal career trajectory.
1986 Motorola 68030 Microprocessor Announcement: Motorola announces the advanced Motorola 68030 microprocessor, a significant technological milestone featuring approximately 300,000 transistors. This high-performance processor represented a major leap forward in computing technology, offering improved processing capabilities and complexity compared to its predecessors.
1987 US and Soviet Union Sign Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty: On September 18, 1987, the United States and the Soviet Union signed a historic arms control agreement to eliminate intermediate-range nuclear missiles, marking a significant milestone in reducing Cold War tensions and nuclear proliferation.
1988 Myanmar Military Coup Ends Pro-Democracy Movement: The State Law and Order Restoration Council (Tatmadaw) brutally suppresses pro-democracy uprisings, resulting in thousands of deaths, primarily among monks, students, and civilians. This violent intervention marks a significant setback for democratic aspirations in Myanmar.
1989 East German Border Crossings Open: The East German government announced the opening of border crossings, a pivotal moment signaling the imminent collapse of the Berlin Wall and the end of the Cold War, ultimately leading to German reunification.
1990 Atlanta Selected for 1996 Summer Olympics: In Tokyo, Japan, the International Olympic Committee officially selected Atlanta, Georgia, as the host city for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, which would mark the centennial celebration of the modern Olympic Games.
1991 Yugoslavia Initiates Naval Blockade in Adriatic: As tensions escalated during the Yugoslav Wars, the government initiated a naval blockade of seven Adriatic port cities, signaling increasing military and political conflict in the region.
1992 National Reconnaissance Office Declassification: The United States government officially acknowledged the existence of the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), a secretive intelligence agency that had been operating since 1960. This declassification revealed significant details about the nation's intelligence gathering capabilities during the Cold War era.
1993 Yankees Dramatic Rally Against Red Sox: In a thrilling comeback, the New York Yankees overcame a 3-1 deficit in the ninth inning, scoring three runs with two outs to defeat the Boston Red Sox 4-3. A controversial time-out call to Mike Stanley provided a crucial second chance during the rally.
1994 Haiti's Military Leadership Transition: Haiti's military leaders reached an agreement to peacefully transfer power and depart from their positions by October 15th, marking a potential turning point in the country's political landscape.
1995 Art Modell Meets Baltimore About Browns Relocation: Art Modell held a pivotal meeting with Baltimore officials to discuss the potential relocation of the Cleveland Browns NFL franchise, a controversial decision that would ultimately result in the team moving to Baltimore and becoming the Ravens.
1996 North Korean Submarine Incident in South Korea: On September 18, 1996, a North Korean Sang-O class submarine ran aground in South Korean waters. The incident escalated dramatically when the South Korean military encountered the crew, whom they identified as spies, resulting in the fatal elimination of the submarine's personnel.
1997 Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention Adoption: The international community takes a significant step towards humanitarian protection by adopting the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, aiming to prohibit the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of anti-personnel landmines.
1998 FDA Approves New AIDS Medication: The Food and Drug Administration approves a once-daily, easier-to-swallow medication designed to improve treatment adherence and quality of life for AIDS patients, marking a significant advancement in HIV/AIDS medical care.
1999 Law & Order: Special Victims Unit Premieres: NBC launched 'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit', a groundbreaking crime drama series focusing on sexually based offenses. Created by Dick Wolf, the show would go on to become one of the longest-running primetime live-action series in television history, addressing complex social issues through compelling storytelling.
2000 U.S. Challenges Russian Technology Sale to Iran: The United States government has formally opposed Russia's potential sale of laser technology to Iran, expressing serious concerns that the technology could be used to develop nuclear fuel, which poses significant international security risks.
2001 2001 Anthrax Attacks: First Letter Sent: On September 18, 2001, the first anthrax letter was mailed from Trenton, New Jersey, marking the beginning of a series of bioterrorism attacks that would create widespread panic and national security concerns in the United States. The letters were sent to major news media outlets, including ABC News, CBS News, and NBC News, targeting high-profile communication centers in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
2002 Tamil Tigers Negotiate Autonomy in Sri Lanka: After three days of intense negotiations in Sattahip, Thailand, the Tamil Tigers reached a significant political agreement. They accepted a compromise that granted them limited autonomy in the north-west and north-east regions of Sri Lanka, potentially marking a turning point in the long-standing ethnic conflict.
2003 Iran Defies IAEA Nuclear Resolution: Iranian officials publicly signaled their refusal to comply with a United Nations nuclear watchdog resolution, which demanded disclosure of their atomic program. Parliamentary speaker Mehdi Karrubi, an ally of President Mohammad Khatami, characterized the resolution as 'political' and emphasized Iran's resistance to external pressure.
2004 UN Resolution on Darfur Conflict: The United Nations Security Council passed a critical resolution threatening Sudan with potential sanctions if they fail to halt the activities of Arab militias in Darfur. The resolution was passed with 11 votes in favor, with Algeria, Russia, and Pakistan abstaining, signaling international concern over the humanitarian crisis.
2005 German Federal Election Results: Detailed results of the German federal elections: CDU/CSU received 35.2% (225 seats), SPD 34.3% (222 seats), FDP 9.8% (61 seats), Left Party 8.7% (54 seats), and Green Party 8.1% (51 seats). Potential coalition negotiations expected.
2006 Pope Benedict XVI Islam Controversy: Pope Benedict XVI's controversial remarks sparked international tensions, leading to condemnation from Islamic leaders and potential protests across the Muslim world.
2007 Federal Reserve Interest Rate Reduction: The United States Federal Reserve triggered stock market rallies by reducing key short-term interest rates by half a percentage point, responding to economic uncertainties.
2008 SEC Implements Emergency Short Selling Ban: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission declared an emergency ban on short selling financial sector stocks, a dramatic intervention aimed at stabilizing financial markets during the ongoing economic crisis.
2009 Ahmadinejad's Holocaust Denial: Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad sparked international controversy by calling the Holocaust a "myth" and describing Israel's existence as an "insult to human dignity" during a Quds Day rally in Tehran.
2010 Afghanistan Election Challenges: Afghan voters braved Taliban threats during elections, achieving a 40% voter turnout despite significant security challenges. Some provinces like Nuristan remained closed due to security concerns.
2011 Israeli Embassy Attack in Cairo: Thousands of Egyptian protesters violently attacked the Israeli Embassy in Cairo, breaching protective walls and entering the offices. Demonstrators threw embassy documents into the street, tore down the Israeli flag, and engaged in violent confrontations with riot police using Molotov cocktails and stones. The incident resulted in at least two protester deaths and approximately 1,200 injuries, highlighting the intense regional tensions.
2012 Senkaku Islands Territorial Dispute: Escalating tensions between China and Japan over the disputed Senkaku Islands, with multiple incidents of maritime confrontation, including Chinese surveillance ships entering the islands' contiguous zone and dispatching 1,000 fishing vessels to assert territorial claims.
2013 Obama Calls for Gun Control After Naval Base Shooting: Following a tragic mass shooting at a naval base in Washington, D.C. that claimed 13 lives, President Obama urges Congress to reconsider gun control legislation.
2014 Scottish Independence Referendum: Scotland votes against independence from the United Kingdom, with 55% of voters choosing to remain part of the UK, marking a significant moment in British political history.
2015 Russia's Military Intervention in Syria: Russia deployed its first fighter jets to Syria, marking a significant escalation in the Syrian Civil War. U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry agreed to military-to-military talks with Russia. Simultaneously, Syrian Air Force raids on Palmyra killed at least 26 people.
2016 Uri Attack in Jammu and Kashmir: A significant terrorist attack by the Jaish-e-Mohammed group on an Indian Army base near the Pakistan border, resulting in the deaths of 19 Indian soldiers and all four attackers. This was one of the deadliest attacks on Indian security forces in the Kashmir region.
2017 Hurricane Maria Devastates Dominica: Hurricane Maria passed over the Caribbean island of Dominica as a catastrophic Category 5 hurricane, causing unprecedented destruction by demolishing 90% of structures and resulting in 27 fatalities.
2018 US-China Trade War Escalation: China added US$60 billion of US products to its import tariff list in retaliation for recent US tariffs on Chinese imported goods worth US$200 billion, further intensifying the ongoing trade tensions between the two economic superpowers.
2019 Saudi Arabia Accuses Iran of Oil Facility Drone Attack: Saudi Arabia's Defense Ministry officially accused Iran of orchestrating a sophisticated drone attack on critical Saudi oil infrastructure, escalating regional tensions and potentially threatening global oil supply chains.
2020 Death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg: Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a pioneering legal icon and champion of gender equality and women's rights, passed away at her home in Washington, D.C. at age 87 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Her death marked the end of an extraordinary judicial career that transformed American civil rights law and advanced gender equality through landmark Supreme Court decisions.
2021 Pentagon Acknowledges Civilian Casualties in Kabul Drone Strike: The U.S. Department of Defense officially admitted that a drone strike conducted in Kabul on August 29, 2021, tragically resulted in the deaths of 10 civilians, including seven children. This acknowledgment underscores the complexities and potential human cost of military operations in conflict zones.
2022 President Biden Pays Respects to Queen Elizabeth II: U.S. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden viewed the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II lying in state at Westminster Hall in London, symbolizing international mourning and diplomatic solidarity.
2023 Groundbreaking Archaeological Discovery of Ancient Wooden Construction: Archaeologists have uncovered the earliest known evidence of human wood construction near Kalambo Falls in Zambia, revealing sophisticated building techniques dating back approximately 500,000 years. This remarkable finding suggests that early human ancestors possessed advanced cognitive skills and technological capabilities far earlier than previously understood, challenging existing narratives about prehistoric human development.

What Is special about September 18?

September 18 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 18.