1816: Frederick I, the Massive King of Stuttgart
The first king in the history of the German Württemberg dynasty died on this day in 1816. His name was Frederick I, and he belonged to the dynasty which had ruled Württem...
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758: Arabs Attack a Chinese City (Gunagzhou)
The incredible momentum of the Arab expansion was amply demonstrated on this day in 758. The Arabs attacked the far-off Chinese city of Guangzhou, also known as Canton. T...
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1998: Oldest Astronaut Launched into Space (77-year-old former Senator John Glenn)
The oldest astronaut in history was sent into space on this day in 1998. It was 77-year-old John Glenn, who had previously already become a famous American astronaut. Nam...
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1897: Birth of Nazi Propaganda Minister Joseph Goebbels
One of the most infamous Nazis and one of Hitler’s closest associates, Dr. Joseph Goebbels, was born on this day. He was born in western Germany, in the town of Rhe...
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1923: How did Turkey Become a Republic?
This day is celebrated as Republic Day in Turkey, because on that day in 1923 Turkey was officially declared a republic. The first President of Turkey was the famous Must...
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1959: Sisavang Vong: King of Laos who had around 15 Wives and 50 Children
Sisavang Vong, King of Laos, died on this day in 1959. In his time, he was known as something of a “playboy”. He had around 15 wives, two of whom were his half-sisters, w...
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1618: Walter Raleigh Executed
The well-known English explorer and aristocrat, Sir Walter Raleigh, was executed on this day. He was one of the most famous people at the court of Queen Elizabeth I, and...
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1636: Harvard University Founded
The oldest university in the USA was founded on this day in 1636. It was originally called the New Collage, and was renamed in 1639, in honor of John Harvard, who had lef...
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