1856: Treaty of Paris ends Crimean War.
An international alliance led by the French and British Empire won the Crimean War against Russia. The treaty marked the end of Russian expansionism in the region and influenced European power dynamics.
1867: United States purchases Alaska from Russia.
The United States acquired Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million. This purchase expanded the U.S. territory by over 586,000 square miles and is often referred to as "Seward's Folly" or Seward's Icebox."
1945: Soviet Union captures Königsberg (present-day Kaliningrad).
As part of the East Prussia Offensive during World War II, the Soviet Union forces took control of Königsberg, a crucial German city. The battle resulted in heavy casualties and marked a turning point in the war on the Eastern Front.
1981: Assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan.
President Ronald Reagan was shot and injured during an assassination attempt outside of the Washington Hilton Hotel. The incident left Reagan with serious injuries, but he survived. John Hinckley Jr. was found not guilty by reason of insanity and spent years in a mental institution.
2003: Launch of the Space Shuttle Columbia.
The Space Shuttle Columbia embarked on its 28th mission, marking the final journey before its tragic disintegration upon re-entry on February 1, 2003. The Columbia crew was performing research and conducting experiments onboard until the end of the mission.
2018: March For Our Lives student movement.
Triggered by the deadly school shooting in Parkland, Florida, a student-led movement called "March For Our Lives" was formed. This national protest advocated for stricter gun control policies to reduce gun violence in schools and communities, inspiring future youth activism.