Xylina Flynn

Written by Xylina Flynn

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

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Source: Facts.net

Welcome to our daily series, where we take a journey through time and explore the significant events that occurred on this day. On February 18th, numerous fascinating moments and achievements have left an indelible mark in history. From groundbreaking discoveries to notable births and momentous occasions, this day has witnessed a plethora of noteworthy events across the centuries. Join us as we delve into the past to uncover the facts and highlights of February 18th throughout history. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply curious about the pivotal moments that shaped our world, this article will provide you with a fascinating glimpse into the significance of this day. So, let’s embark on this historical journey and discover the intriguing events that happened today in history.

Key Takeaways:

  • On February 18th, significant events like the establishment of judicial review, the discovery of Pluto, and the first Ironman Triathlon took place, shaping history and science.
  • Notable births, cultural events, and the passing of influential individuals add richness to February 18th, showcasing a tapestry of historical, scientific, political, and personal milestones.
Table of Contents

HISTORICAL EVENTS

  • 1803: The U.S. Supreme Court, in the landmark case of Marbury v. Madison, establishes the principle of judicial review.
  • 1861: Jefferson Davis is inaugurated as the President of the Confederate States of America.
  • 1930: Pluto, the ninth planet of our solar system, is discovered by astronomer Clyde Tombaugh at the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona.
  • 1977: The Space Shuttle Enterprise, a prototype of the Space Shuttle program, makes its maiden atmospheric flight attached to a Boeing 747.
  • 2001: FBI agent Robert Hanssen is arrested and charged with spying for the Soviet Union and Russia for over 22 years.

SCIENTIFIC BREAKTHROUGHS

  • 1546: Italian physician and anatomist, Andreas Vesalius, publishes his groundbreaking work “De Humani Corporis Fabrica,” revolutionizing the study of human anatomy.
  • 1876: Inventor Thomas Edison receives a patent for his phonograph, an early device for recording and playing back sound.
  • 1930: American astronomer Clyde Tombaugh discovers Pluto, the ninth planet of our solar system, at the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona.
  • 1955: The first successful isolation of the polio virus is announced by Dr. Jonas Salk at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.
  • 1997: Scientists at the Roslin Institute in Scotland announce the successful cloning of a mammal, resulting in the birth of Dolly the sheep.

POLITICAL MILESTONES

  • 1229: The Sixth Crusade: Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor, signs a ten-year truce with al-Kamil, Sultan of Egypt, marking the end of the Fifth Crusade.
  • 1885: Mark Twain publishes “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” a novel widely regarded as one of the greatest American novels of all time.
  • 1929: The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre: Seven members of Chicago’s North Side Gang are assassinated in a garage, a brutal event that raises public awareness of organized crime in America.
  • 1978: The first Ironman Triathlon is held on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, consisting of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a marathon 26.2-mile run.
  • 2005: The Kyoto Protocol, an international treaty aimed at curbing global greenhouse gas emissions, enters into force after ratification by Russia.

CULTURAL EVENTS

  • 1516: Mary I of England, the first queen regnant of England, is born in Greenwich.
  • 1848: Louis Comfort Tiffany, an American artist known for his work in stained glass, is born in New York City.
  • 1954: The first Church of Scientology is established in Los Angeles, California, by science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard.
  • 1977: The first episode of “The Love Boat” is aired on television, going on to become a popular show that ran for 10 seasons.
  • 1996: The comedy film “Happy Gilmore,” starring Adam Sandler, is released in theaters, becoming a box office success and a cult classic.

BIRTHS

  • 1516: Mary I of England, also known as “Bloody Mary,” the first queen regnant of England.
  • 1838: Ernst Mach, Austrian physicist and philosopher known for his work in the field of supersonic motion and the “Mach number.”
  • 1848: Louis Comfort Tiffany, American artist known for his work in stained glass.
  • 1950: Cybill Shepherd, American actress and singer known for her roles in “The Last Picture Show” and the TV series “Moonlighting.”
  • 1984: Matt Cutts, American software engineer and SEO expert, known for his work at Google and as the creator of the “Google Webmaster Tools” website.

NOTABLE DEATHS

  • 1519: Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor, known for his efforts to strengthen the central authority of the empire.
  • 1564: Michelangelo, Italian sculptor, painter, and architect, considered one of the greatest artists of all time.
  • 1930: William Howard Taft, 27th President of the United States and the tenth Chief Justice of the United States.
  • 2001: Dale Earnhardt, American racing driver and seven-time NASCAR Winston Cup Series champion.
  • 2013: Mindy McCready, American country music singer known for hits like “Ten Thousand Angels.”

Conclusion

February 18th is a significant date in history, with notable events spanning various fields. From the establishment of judicial review in 1803 to the discovery of Pluto in 1930, this day marks pivotal moments in American history and scientific breakthroughs. The political milestones include agreements, publications, and events that have shaped politics and public awareness. Cultural events and births of influential individuals add to the richness of February 18th. As we remember those who passed away, we also celebrate the contributions they made during their lives. Overall, February 18th represents a tapestry of historical, scientific, political, cultural, and personal milestones that continue to shape the world we live in.

FAQs

Q: What other significant historical events happened on February 18th?

A: Some other significant historical events that happened on February 18th include the signing of the Treaty of Fort Laramie in 1868, the publication of Karl Marx’s “The Communist Manifesto” in 1848, and the Battle of Milne Bay in 1942 during World War II.

Q: Are there any famous birthdays on February 18th?

A: Yes, some notable births on February 18th include the author Toni Morrison, actor John Travolta, and artist Yoko Ono.

Q: What scientific breakthroughs have occurred on February 18th?

A: On February 18th, notable scientific breakthroughs include the discovery of the element plutonium by Glenn T. Seaborg in 1941 and the successful landing of NASA’s robotic rover, Perseverance, on Mars in 2021.

Q: Are there any cultural events associated with February 18th?

A: Yes, February 18th is celebrated as National Drink Wine Day in the United States, highlighting the cultural significance of wine and its enjoyment.

Q: Who are some famous individuals who died on February 18th?

A: Some famous individuals who passed away on February 18th include abolitionist Frederick Douglass, British author Graham Greene, and American musician Clarence Clemons.

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