Historical Events on September 26: 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 26, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on September 26 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Uneventful Day in History: September 26, 1900, appears to be a relatively unremarkable day with no significant recorded historical events. While this might seem mundane, such days are a reminder that not every moment in history is marked by dramatic occurrences. The turn of the century was a period of gradual technological, social, and political transformation, with many incremental changes happening behind the scenes.
1901 Assassination of President William McKinley: U.S. President William McKinley died from complications of an assassination attempt, passing away eight days after being shot by anarchist Leon Czolgosz in Buffalo, New York. His death led to Theodore Roosevelt becoming president and marked a significant moment in American political history.
1902 President Roosevelt's Narrow Escape from Fatal Accident: U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt survived a potentially fatal streetcar collision in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. Tragically, his bodyguard, Secret Service agent William Craig, was killed in the incident, highlighting the risks faced by public figures during the early 20th century.
1903 Sherlock Holmes Returns in 'The Adventure of the Empty House': Sir Arthur Conan Doyle revived his legendary detective Sherlock Holmes with the publication of 'The Adventure of the Empty House' in Collier's magazine on September 26, 1903. This story marked Holmes' dramatic return after his presumed death at Reichenbach Falls, reigniting public fascination with the iconic detective.
1904 Pelorus Jack: First Marine Animal Protected by Law: New Zealand makes history by individually protecting the Pelorus Jack dolphin through a specific Order in Council under the Sea Fisheries Act, marking an early milestone in marine conservation.
1905 Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity Introduced: On September 26, 1905, Albert Einstein published his groundbreaking third paper in the Annals of Physics, presenting the special theory of relativity. This revolutionary scientific work fundamentally transformed our understanding of space, time, and the relationship between energy and matter. The paper challenged classical Newtonian physics by proposing that the speed of light is constant and that time and space are not absolute but relative, depending on the observer's frame of reference.
1906 Pittsburgh Pirates Pitcher Throws No-Hitter Against Philadelphia Phillies: On September 26, 1906, Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Lefty Leifield achieved a remarkable feat by throwing a no-hitter against the Philadelphia Phillies. In a shortened six-inning game, Leifield completely dominated the Phillies' batting lineup, securing an impressive 8-0 victory without allowing a single hit. This performance was particularly notable given the brevity of the game and the pitcher's complete control over the opposing team.
1907 Odessa Pogrom of 1907: On September 26, 1907, a violent anti-Jewish riot known as the Odessa pogrom occurred in Odessa, then part of the Russian Empire (now Ukraine). This tragic event was part of a series of antisemitic attacks that targeted Jewish communities, resulting in significant violence, property destruction, and human suffering.
1908 Ed Reulbach's Historic Double Shutout: On September 26, 1908, Chicago Cubs pitcher Ed Reulbach achieved a remarkable and unprecedented feat in Major League Baseball history by throwing two complete shutout games against the Brooklyn Dodgers in a single day. This extraordinary performance remains unmatched in professional baseball, showcasing Reulbach's exceptional pitching skill and endurance during the early 20th century.
1909 Birth of NASCAR Founder Bill France Sr.: William Henry Getty France, known professionally as Bill France Sr., was born on September 26, 1909, in Washington, D.C. He would go on to become a pivotal figure in American motorsports, founding the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) in 1948. France transformed stock car racing from a regional, often dangerous sport into a nationally recognized and professionally organized motorsport entertainment industry.
1910 Suppression of Press Freedom in Travancore: Indian journalist Swadeshabhimani Ramakrishna Pillai was arrested and exiled by the government of Travancore for publishing critical articles that challenged the ruling establishment. His arrest represented a significant moment of press censorship and political repression in early 20th century Kerala, highlighting the tensions between colonial-era governance and emerging journalistic freedoms.
1911 Italy's Ultimatum to Ottoman Empire over North African Territories: On September 26, 1911, the Italian government formulated a provocative diplomatic ultimatum to the Ottoman Empire, demanding the cession of territories in North Africa, specifically targeting Libya. This aggressive diplomatic maneuver was part of Italy's colonial expansionist ambitions during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The ultimatum was a prelude to the Italo-Turkish War (1911-1912), which would ultimately result in Italy's conquest of Ottoman-controlled Libya and the establishment of Italian colonial control in the region.
1912 Hurricane Helene Devastates Southeastern United States: On September 26, 1912, Hurricane Helene made a catastrophic landfall in Florida's Big Bend region as a powerful Category 4 hurricane. The storm cut a destructive path through multiple southeastern U.S. states, leaving unprecedented damage and loss of life in its wake. Particularly hard-hit was North Carolina, where approximately half of the total 230 fatalities occurred. The hurricane's extreme wind speeds and storm surge caused widespread destruction of infrastructure, agricultural lands, and coastal communities.
1914 Federal Trade Commission Established: The United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) was officially formed to regulate interstate commerce, marking a significant milestone in consumer and market protection. This independent government agency would play a crucial role in monitoring business practices and preventing unfair trade methods.
1915 Sir A. J. Murray Appointed Chief of the Imperial General Staff: On September 26, 1915, Lieutenant-General Sir A. J. Murray was formally appointed as the Chief of the Imperial General Staff (CIGS), succeeding Lieutenant-General Sir Wolfe Murray, who had resigned from the position the previous day. This appointment occurred during a critical period of World War I, when military leadership and strategic planning were of paramount importance to the British war effort.
1916 British Forces Advance in Battle of Morval during World War I: During the Battle of Morval in the Somme campaign, British forces successfully captured the strategically important French villages of Combles and Gueudecourt from German control, marking a significant Allied advance on the Western Front.
1917 Battle of Polygon Wood during World War I: The Battle of Polygon Wood was a significant engagement during World War I, fought between Allied forces (British and Australian troops) and the German army near Ypres, Belgium. The battle was part of the larger Ypres Campaign and represented a strategic effort by Allied forces to gain ground in the Western Front.
1918 Meuse-Argonne Offensive Begins: The Meuse-Argonne Offensive was a critical military campaign launched by the United States Army against German forces during World War I. On September 26, 1918, over 1.2 million American soldiers initiated one of the largest and most significant offensives in American military history. This massive operation was strategically designed to break through the formidable German defensive lines and ultimately contribute to the Allied victory in the war.
1919 President Woodrow Wilson Suffers Serious Health Crisis: On September 26, 1919, President Woodrow Wilson experienced a significant stroke that effectively incapacitated him, marking a critical moment in American presidential history. The stroke occurred during his intense nationwide tour promoting the League of Nations, which was a key part of his post-World War I diplomatic vision. This medical emergency would dramatically impact Wilson's presidency, leaving his wife Edith to effectively manage many presidential responsibilities in what some historians describe as a 'stealth presidency'.
1920 First American Professional Football Association (APFA) Game: On September 26, 1920, the first official game featuring an APFA team was played at Rock Island's Douglas Park. A crowd of 800 spectators watched the Rock Island Independents defeat the St. Paul team, marking a significant moment in early professional American football history.
1921 Swedish Social Democratic Party Gains Power in Riksdag Election: The Swedish parliamentary election saw the Social Democratic Party significantly increase its representation, expanding from 75 to 93 seats in the Riksdag, indicating a growing shift towards social democratic policies in Sweden.
1922 U.S. Bureau of Prohibition Policy Shift: The U.S. Bureau of Prohibition implemented a significant policy change, restricting the enforcement of prohibition laws to within the United States' national borders. This decision marked a notable shift in the approach to alcohol regulation during the Prohibition era, potentially signaling a more localized strategy for managing illegal alcohol distribution and consumption.
1923 Stresemann Ends Reparations Resistance: Chancellor Gustav Stresemann officially resumed Germany's reparation payments to the Allied powers, marking a significant diplomatic shift in the aftermath of World War I and the Treaty of Versailles.
1924 Hindustan Times: First Indian-Owned English Newspaper: On September 26, 1924, the Hindustan Times became a landmark publication in Indian media history by being the first English-language newspaper to be owned by an Indian. This milestone represented a significant moment in the country's journey towards media independence and self-representation during the late colonial period.
1925 Italian Submarine Sebastiano Veniero Tragedy: The Italian submarine Sebastiano Veniero was lost off the coast of Sicily in a tragic maritime incident, resulting in the death of 54 crew members. This devastating event highlighted the inherent risks of submarine operations in the early 20th century.
1926 Ford's Labor Revolution: Henry Ford introduced groundbreaking labor reforms by establishing an eight-hour workday and a five-day workweek, a move that would dramatically transform industrial labor practices and worker rights in the United States.
1927 St. James Theatre Opens in Broadway's Theater District: The historic St. James Theatre, a landmark Broadway venue, officially opened its doors at 246 West 44th Street in the heart of New York City's Theater District. This prestigious performance space would go on to become one of the most significant theaters in the Broadway theater community, hosting numerous acclaimed plays and musicals throughout the 20th century.
1928 Pacific Settlement of International Disputes Act Concluded: The General Act for the Pacific Settlement of International Disputes was formally concluded in Geneva, representing a significant diplomatic effort to establish peaceful mechanisms for resolving international conflicts through negotiation and arbitration rather than military confrontation.
1929 John Schrober Becomes Chancellor of Austria: On September 26, 1929, John Schrober assumed the role of Chancellor of Austria during a politically turbulent period in the country's history. This transition of leadership occurred during the interwar period, a time of significant economic and political instability in Europe following World War I. Schrober's appointment came at a critical moment when Austria was struggling with economic challenges, political polarization, and the lingering effects of the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
1930 Deadly Police Crackdown on Indian Independence Protesters: On September 26, 1930, a violent confrontation erupted between British colonial police and pro-independence demonstrators near Panvel in British India. The incident resulted in fifteen protesters being fatally shot, highlighting the intense tensions and brutal suppression of the Indian independence movement during the late colonial period. This event underscores the growing resistance against British colonial rule and the significant human cost of the struggle for national self-determination.
1931 Marriage of Claus von Stauffenberg: On September 26, 1931, Earl Claus von Stauffenberg married Freiin Nina von Lerchenfeld in a ceremony that united two prominent aristocratic families of Bavaria. Claus von Stauffenberg, who would later become famous for his role in the July 20 plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler, began his personal life with this significant union.
1932 Birth of Manmohan Singh: Manmohan Singh, who would later become the Prime Minister of India, was born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, a village located in British India (now part of Pakistan). He was a distinguished economist and politician who served as the 13th Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014, representing the Indian National Congress party.
1933 Machine Gun Kelly Surrenders to FBI: Notorious gangster George 'Machine Gun' Kelly surrendered to FBI agents in Memphis, Tennessee, dramatically shouting the now-famous line, "Don't shoot, G-Men!" This moment became iconic in law enforcement history, popularizing the term 'G-Men' as a nickname for FBI agents.
1934 Launch of RMS Queen Mary: The iconic British ocean liner RMS Queen Mary was launched at John Brown & Company shipyard in Clydebank, Scotland. This massive passenger ship was a symbol of British maritime engineering and luxury, measuring 1,019 feet long and weighing 80,774 gross tons. She would go on to become one of the most famous transatlantic ocean liners of the 1930s and 1940s, serving both as a passenger vessel and a troop transport during World War II.
1935 Nazi Racial Segregation in Education: Nazi Culture Minister Bernhard Rust issued a comprehensive decree mandating complete racial segregation in German schools, to be fully implemented by spring 1936. This directive was a critical component of the Nazi regime's systematic discrimination and persecution of Jewish and other minority students, effectively institutionalizing racial discrimination in the education system.
1936 Stalin Appoints Yezhov to NKVD: Joseph Stalin appointed Nikolai Yezhov as the new head of the NKVD (Soviet secret police). This appointment would prove pivotal, as Yezhov would become a key architect of the Great Purge, dramatically expanding the scope of political repression and mass executions during Stalin's regime.
1937 Assassination in Nazareth: British District Commissioner for the Galilee, Lewis Yelland Andrews, and his bodyguard were fatally gunned down in Nazareth. This event highlighted the escalating tensions in British-controlled Palestine during the late 1930s.
1938 Hitler's Territorial Claims Speech: In a provocative speech to the Nazi party in Berlin, Adolf Hitler declared his intentions regarding Czechoslovakia, asserting that resolving the Czech/German territorial dispute would be his final territorial demand in Europe. He emphasized that once the Czechs peacefully addressed minority issues, he would lose interest in the Czech state.
1939 First German Aircraft Shot Down by British Forces in WWII: On September 26, 1939, the Luftwaffe attempted to attack the British Home Fleet between Scotland and the Skaggerak. During this engagement, a Dornier Do 18 was shot down by a Blackburn Skua fighter from the aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal, marking the first German aircraft destroyed by British forces in World War II.
1940 Japanese Invasion of French Indo-China: Japanese military forces launched a strategic invasion of French Indo-China (modern-day Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia), marking a significant expansion of Japanese territorial ambitions in Southeast Asia during World War II.
1941 Holocaust Atrocity in Kaunas, Lithuania: On September 26, 1941, a horrific Holocaust event occurred in Kaunas, Lithuania, where 1,608 Jewish residents were forcibly loaded into trucks and transported to the city's outskirts. This action was part of the systematic Nazi persecution and mass murder of Jewish populations during the Holocaust, representing a tragic moment of ethnic violence and genocide during World War II.
1942 Holocaust: Nazi Deportation Planning Memorandum: Senior SS official August Frank issued a detailed memorandum outlining the systematic process for the 'evacuation' of Jewish populations, which was a euphemistic term for deportation to concentration camps and eventual genocide. This document represents a chilling bureaucratic record of the Nazi regime's methodical planning of the Holocaust.
1943 Nazi Officer's Controversial Gold Ransom for Jewish Lives: SS officer Herbert Kappler attempted a controversial negotiation with Rome's Jewish community leaders, Dante Almansi and Ugo Foà, demanding 50 kilograms of gold in exchange for sparing the local Jewish population from Nazi deportation. This event highlights the desperate and morally complex negotiations during the Holocaust.
1944 Battle of Arnhem Concludes in Allied Defeat: The Battle of Arnhem concluded with a decisive German victory, as German forces successfully linked up on both sides of the Lower Rhine river and eliminated the last pockets of British resistance, dealing a significant blow to the Allied Operation Market Garden.
1945 Japanese Surrender in Andaman Islands: The Japanese garrison surrendered the Andaman Islands to the Anglo-Indian sloop Narbada, marking the end of Japanese occupation in this strategic archipelago following World War II.
1946 Greek Monarchy Referendum: In a significant political event, Greek voters participated in a referendum on September 26, 1946, deciding the future of their monarchy. The referendum resulted in a decisive victory for the monarchists, with 1,136,289 votes in favor of keeping the monarchy, compared to 524,771 votes against. This paved the way for King George II to return from exile on September 27, marking a crucial moment in post-World War II Greek political history.
1947 World Series Sponsorship Announcement: On September 26, 1947, Happy Chandler, the Commissioner of Baseball, officially announced that Ford Motor Company and Gillette Safety Razor Company would be the primary sponsors of the World Series broadcast. This marked a significant moment in sports marketing, as it represented one of the earliest high-profile corporate sponsorships of a major sporting event.
1948 Berlin Blockade Diplomatic Tensions: The Soviet Union escalated the Berlin Blockade crisis by demanding control of all land and air traffic between Berlin and western Germany. In response, the foreign ministers of the United States, Britain, and France declared further negotiations impossible and announced their intention to refer the matter to the UN Security Council, marking a critical moment in Cold War diplomatic relations.
1949 Samuel Putnam's Don Quixote Translation Published: Viking Press released Samuel Putnam's groundbreaking new translation of Miguel de Cervantes' classic novel *Don Quixote*, which was widely acclaimed for its contemporary English rendering. This translation made the seminal work more accessible to modern readers, bridging literary traditions across centuries.
1950 UN Troops Recapture Seoul in Korean War: United Nations forces successfully recaptured Seoul, the capital of South Korea, from North Korean forces during the Korean War, representing a critical strategic turning point in the conflict.
1951 First Artificial Heart Demonstration: Professor Youngblood successfully demonstrates an early prototype of an artificial heart in Paris, marking a significant milestone in medical technology and cardiovascular research.
1952 Death of George Santayana: Renowned Spanish-American philosopher, novelist, and poet George Santayana passed away on September 26, 1952, in Rome, Italy. Known for his influential works in philosophy, including 'The Life of Reason' and famous quotes like 'Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it', Santayana left an indelible mark on 20th-century intellectual thought.
1953 Earl Warren Appointed Chief Justice: President Dwight D. Eisenhower appointed Earl Warren as Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court, a pivotal moment in American judicial history.
1954 Devastating Typhoon Marie Sinks Japanese Ferry and Causes Mass Destruction: On September 26, 1954, Typhoon Marie struck Japan, causing catastrophic maritime and urban destruction. The Japanese ferry Tōya Maru sank in the Tsugaru Strait, resulting in 1,505 confirmed fatalities. Seven ships were wrecked and at least nine others seriously damaged during this tragic maritime disaster.
1955 Black Monday: Stock Market Crash of 1955: On September 26, 1955, the New York Stock Exchange experienced its most significant stock price decline since the catastrophic crash of 1929. This sudden and dramatic market downturn sent shockwaves through the financial world, causing substantial investor panic and economic uncertainty.
1956 Elvis Presley's Homecoming Concert in Tupelo: Elvis Presley performed a memorable homecoming concert at the Mississippi-Alabama Fair and Dairy Show in his hometown of Tupelo, Mississippi. The event was a significant cultural moment, featuring a parade and drawing thousands of enthusiastic fans. During two performances, Elvis electrified the audience with hit songs like 'Hound Dog' and 'Don't Be Cruel', showcasing his rising stardom and deep connection to his roots.
1957 West Side Story Broadway Premiere: Leonard Bernstein, Stephen Sondheim, and Jerome Robbins' groundbreaking musical 'West Side Story' opens at the Winter Garden Theater in New York City, marking a significant moment in American musical theater history.
1958 Communist China Expands Maritime Territory: On September 26, 1958, the People's Republic of China unilaterally expanded its territorial waters from 3 to 12 nautical miles. This proclamation included waters surrounding the mainland and several strategic offshore islands such as Quemoy, Matsu, and others. The move was a significant geopolitical statement during the Cold War, asserting China's maritime sovereignty and potentially increasing tensions with neighboring countries and international maritime powers.
1959 Typhoon Vera Devastates Japan: Typhoon Vera, the most powerful typhoon in Japan's recorded history, made catastrophic landfall, resulting in 4,580 confirmed deaths and displacing approximately 1.6 million people. The category 5 storm caused unprecedented destruction across multiple Japanese prefectures, marking one of the most significant natural disasters in mid-20th century Japan.
1960 First Televised Presidential Debate in US History: On September 26, 1960, a groundbreaking moment in American political communication occurred when presidential candidates Richard M. Nixon and John F. Kennedy participated in the first televised presidential debate in Chicago, Illinois. This historic event marked a significant shift in how political campaigns would be conducted, with television becoming a crucial medium for reaching voters.
1961 Bob Dylan's Public Debut: Bob Dylan makes his first public performance, marking the beginning of what would become one of the most influential musical careers in American history. This moment signaled the emergence of a transformative folk and rock musician who would significantly impact cultural and social movements.
1962 Silent Spring Publication Launches Environmental Movement: Rachel Carson's groundbreaking book 'Silent Spring' is released, critically examining the environmental impacts of pesticide use and catalyzing the modern environmental conservation movement.
1963 Lee Harvey Oswald's Mexico Trip: Lee Harvey Oswald, who would later be known for assassinating President John F. Kennedy, traveled by Continental Trailways bus to Mexico. This journey was part of his complex and mysterious movements in the months leading up to the Kennedy assassination, which would become a subject of extensive historical investigation.
1964 MLB Record: Most Players in a Single Game: On September 26, 1964, the Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies set a Major League Baseball record by using a combined total of 43 players during a single 9-inning game, showcasing an extraordinary level of player substitution and strategic management.
1965 Beatles Receive Order of British Empire: Queen Elizabeth II honored the Beatles by decorating them with the prestigious Order of the British Empire, recognizing their immense cultural impact and contribution to music and British popular culture.
1966 Zhou Enlai Calls for Restraint During Cultural Revolution: Chinese Prime Minister Zhou Enlai issued a critical directive to the Red Guards, ordering them to cease attacks on Mrs. Soong Ching-ling (widow of Sun Yat-sen) and to stop their violent actions and destruction of cultural artifacts, signaling a potential moderation of the Cultural Revolution's extreme tactics.
1967 The Beatles Release Abbey Road Album: The Beatles released Abbey Road, which would become their final recorded album, marking a pivotal moment in music history. This iconic record, featuring legendary tracks like 'Come Together' and 'Here Comes the Sun', represented the band's last collaborative studio work before their eventual dissolution.
1968 End of Theatre Censorship in Britain: A significant milestone in British cultural freedom occurs with the official end of theatre censorship, allowing playwrights and theatrical productions greater artistic expression and removing long-standing restrictions on dramatic content.
1969 The Beatles Release Abbey Road Album: The Beatles released their iconic album 'Abbey Road' in the United Kingdom, marking a significant moment in music history. This album, which would be their last recorded studio album, featured legendary tracks like 'Come Together', 'Something', and 'Here Comes the Sun'. The album's distinctive cover, featuring the band walking across a zebra crossing outside Abbey Road Studios, became one of the most recognizable images in popular music.
1970 Diplomatic Discussions in Chile: Korry conducted diplomatic discussions in Santiago, Chile, providing insights into the political climate during a critical period in Chilean history.
1971 Rashad al-Shawwa Appointed Mayor of Gaza City: Rashad al-Shawwa, a popular Egyptian Arab, was appointed as Mayor of Gaza City by the Israeli military government on September 26, 1971. This appointment occurred during a complex period of Israeli administration in the Gaza Strip following the 1967 Six-Day War.
1972 American Museum of Immigration Dedicated: On September 26, 1972, the American Museum of Immigration was officially dedicated at the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor. This museum was established to commemorate and celebrate the diverse immigrant heritage of the United States, highlighting the contributions of various immigrant groups to the nation's cultural and economic development.
1973 Concorde Sets Transatlantic Speed Record: The Concorde supersonic passenger airliner completed a groundbreaking flight from Washington, D.C. to Paris, France in an unprecedented 3 hours and 33 minutes, demonstrating the remarkable technological capabilities of this advanced aircraft.
1974 United States Nuclear Test in Nevada: On September 26, 1974, the United States conducted a nuclear test at the Nevada Test Site, continuing Cold War-era weapons development and testing programs. This underground nuclear test was part of ongoing strategic nuclear research and development during the height of the Cold War tensions.
1975 Historic Late-Night Baseball Doubleheader: The Philadelphia Phillies and New York Mets played an extraordinary doubleheader that extended into the early morning hours, concluding at 3:15 AM. This unusual marathon baseball game is a notable event in sports history, demonstrating the endurance and dedication of players and fans.
1976 Chinese Nuclear Test: The People's Republic of China conducted a nuclear test at the Lop Nor testing site, demonstrating its nuclear capabilities during the Cold War era.
1977 Laker Airways Skytrain Service Launch: Sir Freddie Laker revolutionized transatlantic travel by introducing the groundbreaking low-cost 'Skytrain' service between London and New York, marking a significant milestone in affordable international air transportation.
1978 Landmark Court Decision on Women in Sports Journalism: New York District Court Judge Constance Baker Motley issued a groundbreaking ruling that women sportswriters cannot be banned from locker rooms, marking a significant step towards gender equality in sports media.
1979 United States Conducts Nuclear Test in Nevada: The United States performed a nuclear test at the Nevada Test Site, continuing its Cold War-era nuclear weapons development and testing program.
1980 Oktoberfest Terror Attack in Munich: A devastating far-right terrorist bombing occurred at the Oktoberfest festival in Munich, West Germany. A bomb exploded near the main entrance, resulting in 13 fatalities (including the perpetrator) and 213 injuries. This attack was a shocking act of right-wing extremist violence that traumatized the community and highlighted the ongoing threat of terrorism in post-war Germany.
1981 Assassination of Ayatollah Madani: Iranian Ayatollah Mir Asadollah Madani was assassinated during Friday prayers in Tabriz. A man carrying a grenade approached Madani near the end of the service and detonated the explosive, killing Madani, the assassin, and six other worshippers. Madani had become the Imam for Tabriz following the 1979 assassination of Ayatollah Mohammad Ali Qazi Tabatabaei.
1982 Daring High-Altitude Parachute Jump by Rich Collins: Australian parachutist Rich Collins experienced a harrowing high-altitude jump where thermal currents carried him to 2,800 meters. Facing potential oxygen deprivation and near-blackout conditions, Collins demonstrated remarkable quick thinking by releasing his main parachute and deploying his reserve chute, successfully landing and surviving the dangerous descent.
1983 Stanislav Petrov Prevents Nuclear War: Soviet Air Force officer Stanislav Petrov made a critical decision during the Cold War by identifying a false alarm of an incoming nuclear missile as a computer error, thereby preventing a potential nuclear confrontation between the United States and Soviet Union.
1984 Hong Kong Handover Agreement: The United Kingdom and the People's Republic of China signed a historic initial agreement to transfer sovereignty of Hong Kong, with the handover scheduled for 1997, marking a significant moment in post-colonial geopolitical relations.
1985 Tunisia Severs Diplomatic Ties with Libya: On September 26, 1985, Tunisia officially terminated its diplomatic relations with Libya, marking a significant moment of tension in North African geopolitical relations. This diplomatic rupture was likely due to ongoing political conflicts and regional power struggles between the two neighboring countries, potentially involving disputes over territorial boundaries, ideological differences, or strategic regional interests.
1986 William Rehnquist Sworn in as Chief Justice: William Hubbs Rehnquist was officially sworn in as the 16th Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court, marking a significant moment in the judicial history of the United States. Rehnquist, who had previously served as an Associate Justice since 1972, was elevated to the Chief Justice role, succeeding Warren E. Burger.
1987 NASA Space Shuttle STS-26 Launch: NASA successfully launched Space Shuttle STS-26, marking a significant milestone in space exploration following the Challenger disaster earlier that year. This mission represented NASA's return to spaceflight after a critical safety review.
1988 Ben Johnson Olympic Doping Scandal: Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson was stripped of his Olympic gold medal in the 100-meter sprint at the Seoul Olympics after failing a drug test, marking a significant moment in sports history and highlighting the ongoing challenge of performance-enhancing drug use in competitive athletics.
1989 Soviet Call for Chemical Weapons Destruction: Soviet Foreign Minister Eduard Shevardnadze made a landmark diplomatic statement calling for the complete destruction of Soviet and US chemical weapons. This proposal was a significant step towards arms control and reduction during the late Cold War period, reflecting growing international cooperation.
1990 US Presidential Leadership in 1990: George H. W. Bush was serving as the 41st President of the United States on September 26, 1990. During this period, he was actively managing foreign policy challenges, including the buildup to the Gulf War and navigating post-Cold War geopolitics.
1991 US Military Deployment to Saudi Arabia amid Iraq Tensions: In response to escalating tensions in the Middle East, the United States deployed Patriot missile defense systems and military troops to Saudi Arabia. This strategic move came after Iraq's defiance of United Nations inspectors, who were being detained in a Baghdad compound, signaling increasing geopolitical pressure in the region following the Gulf War.
1992 Nigerian Air Force C-130 Hercules Crash in Lagos: A tragic aviation disaster occurred when a Nigerian Air Force Lockheed C-130 Hercules crashed in Ejigbo, Lagos, resulting in the deaths of 159 people. The crash was a significant loss of life and highlighted potential safety issues in military aviation.
1993 Cleveland Indians' Final Game at Cleveland Stadium: The Cleveland Indians played their last game at the historic Cleveland Stadium, defeating the Milwaukee Brewers 6-4 in an emotionally charged farewell to a legendary sports venue that had been home to the team for decades.
1994 US Military Aircraft Land in Ukraine: A historic moment in post-Cold War military cooperation: A B-52 Stratofortress, B-1 Lancer, and KC-10 Extender landed at Poltava Air Base in Ukraine, marking the first time American bombers had been stationed there since World War II.
1995 Giulio Andreotti Mafia Trial Commences: The landmark trial against former Italian Prime Minister Giulio Andreotti begins in Rome, with serious allegations of his alleged connections to organized crime. This high-profile legal proceeding would become a significant moment in Italy's ongoing struggle against Mafia influence in political circles.
1996 Hurricane Helene Strikes Florida: Hurricane Helene made a devastating landfall in Florida's Big Bend region as a powerful Category 4 hurricane, causing significant damage and posing substantial risks to coastal communities. The storm's intensity highlighted the destructive potential of Atlantic hurricanes.
1997 Central Italy Earthquake Devastates Assisi: On September 26, 1997, two powerful earthquakes with magnitudes of 5.7 and 6.4 struck central Italy, causing significant destruction. The seismic event resulted in eleven fatalities, over 100 injuries, and approximately 80,000 homes being destroyed. A particularly notable consequence was the partial collapse of the historic Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi, which damaged priceless medieval frescoes and architectural heritage.
1998 Rare Simultaneous Atlantic Hurricane Event: In a remarkable meteorological occurrence, four hurricanes - Georges, Ivan, Jeanne, and Karl - were simultaneously spinning in the Atlantic basin. This event was historically significant, as it was the first time such a phenomenon had been observed since 1893, underscoring the complex and unpredictable nature of Atlantic hurricane seasons.
1999 Tōkai-mura Nuclear Accident: Japan experienced its most severe nuclear accident to date in Tōkai-mura, a critical incident that highlighted significant safety concerns in nuclear energy management and triggered international discussions about nuclear facility protocols.
2000 Greek Ferry Disaster off Paros: The Greek passenger ferry MS Express Samina sank off the coast of Paros island in the Aegean Sea, resulting in a tragic maritime disaster. Of the approximately 500 passengers and crew on board, 80 people lost their lives, making it one of the most significant maritime accidents in Greek maritime history. The sinking raised serious questions about maritime safety standards and vessel maintenance.
2001 UPN debuts Enterprise, the fifth Star Trek television series.
2002 US Congress Authorizes Military Action Against Iraq: The United States Congress passed a joint resolution authorizing President George W. Bush to use military force against Iraq as he deemed appropriate and necessary, a significant step towards the eventual 2003 Iraq War.
2003 US Sets Deadline for Iraqi Constitution: U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell responded to international demands for rapid self-rule in Iraq, maintaining the United States' six-month deadline for Iraqi leaders under coalition occupation to draft a new constitution, which would pave the way for elections and a new national leadership.
2004 Powell Warns of Deteriorating Iraq Situation: U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell publicly acknowledged the worsening situation in Iraq and outlined efforts to disrupt potential upcoming elections, highlighting the complex geopolitical challenges.
2005 Landmark Intelligent Design Court Case: The Kitzmiller et al. case began in Harrisburg District Court, Pennsylvania, representing the first direct legal challenge to a school district's curriculum requiring the teaching of intelligent design instead of evolution.
2006 Thai Military Coup: Thai military stages a coup in Bangkok, suspending the Constitution and declaring martial law, dramatically altering the country's political landscape.
2007 Myanmar Government Violently Suppresses Pro-Democracy Protests: After a month of peaceful pro-democracy demonstrations focusing on fuel price increases, the Myanmar government brutally cracked down on protesters. Government forces shot at crowds, raided pagodas, and arrested monks. These protests, the largest in the country in 20 years, drew international condemnation due to the government's extreme violence.
2008 Washington Mutual Bank Seizure: The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) seizes Washington Mutual and sells the majority of the bank to JPMorgan Chase, marking a significant moment in the ongoing subprime mortgage crisis.
2009 Typhoon Ketsana Devastates Philippines: Typhoon Ketsana struck the Philippines, causing catastrophic damage with 246 deaths and nearly US$100 million in economic losses. The disaster resulted in the worst flooding in 40 years, leaving approximately 300,000 people homeless and destroying over 3,000 houses.
2010 Brandenburg Bus Crash: A tourist bus from Poland crashed into a bridge pillar at Schoenefelder Kreuz, Brandenburg, resulting in at least 12 fatalities and 40 injuries. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk visited the crash site to meet survivors.
2011 2011 Libyan Civil War: NTC Forces Enter Sirte: The National Transitional Council (NTC) and its loyal forces launched a decisive three-day assault on Muammar Gaddafi's stronghold of Sirte, marking a critical turning point in the Libyan Civil War. This operation signaled the imminent collapse of Gaddafi's regime and the potential end of his 42-year authoritarian rule.
2012 Syrian Civil War Escalates with Deadly Damascus Explosions: Twin explosions near the Syrian Armed Forces headquarters in central Damascus killed at least four military guards. Press TV correspondent Maya Nasser was fatally shot by a sniper while reporting on the scene. Qatar called for Arab world intervention in Syria, and local activists reported the Syrian army killed over 40 civilians in Thiabieh, a Damascus suburb.
2013 US and Russia Collaborate on Syria Chemical Weapons Resolution: Russia and the United States reached an agreement to draft a United Nations Security Council resolution targeting Syria's chemical weapons, marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough in addressing the Syrian conflict.
2014 UK Parliament Approves Air Strikes Against ISIS: The United Kingdom's Parliament is recalled to debate British participation in military operations against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIS). In a decisive vote of 524 to 43, the Parliament approves air strikes against ISIS in Iraq.
2015 2015 Hajj Stampede Tragedy: A devastating stampede near Mecca during the Hajj pilgrimage results in 769 fatalities and 934 injuries, marking one of the deadliest incidents in Hajj history.
2016 Colombian Peace Agreement Signing: Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos and FARC leader Rodrigo Londono (also known as Timochenko) signed a historic peace agreement in Cartagena, officially ending the longest-running armed conflict in the Western Hemisphere. The comprehensive peace accord was set to be put to a national referendum on October 2, marking a potential turning point in Colombia's complex political and social landscape.
2017 Saudi Arabia Allows Women to Drive: King of Saudi Arabia issued a historic decree authorizing women to obtain driving licenses before June 2018, ending the world's last nationwide ban on women driving.
2018 Skripal Poisoning Investigation: Bellingcat, an investigative website, released information identifying Anatoliy Chepiga, a decorated Colonel from the Main Intelligence Directorate, as a suspect in the poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal.
2019 WHO Launches Massive Measles Vaccination Campaign in DRC: The World Health Organization initiated an urgent mass vaccination program targeting 800,000 children in the Democratic Republic of Congo to combat the world's largest ongoing measles epidemic, which had already claimed over 3,500 lives.
2020 Charlie Hebdo Stabbing Attack in Paris: An 18-year-old Pakistan-born suspect named Ali H. was identified after conducting a stabbing attack outside the former headquarters of Charlie Hebdo. The suspect confessed to the attack, claiming it was in retaliation for the magazine's republication of Muhammad caricatures earlier in the year, reigniting tensions around freedom of expression and religious sensitivities.
2021 German Federal Election Results: In a significant political shift, the center-left Social Democrats won the most seats in the German federal election, marking the end of Angela Merkel's era and potentially signaling a new political direction for Germany.
2022 Chinese Foreign Minister's UN Address on Ukraine: At the United Nations General Assembly, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi delivered a significant diplomatic address, advocating for peace negotiations to resolve the Ukraine conflict. He emphasized the critical need to address the legitimate security concerns of all parties involved, signaling China's diplomatic approach to the ongoing international crisis.
2023 Major Antitrust Lawsuit Against Amazon: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and 17 U.S. states have filed a significant antitrust lawsuit against Amazon, alleging monopolistic practices. This legal action represents a major challenge to one of the world's largest tech and e-commerce companies, potentially reshaping digital marketplace regulations.

What Is special about September 26?

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