Written by Iormina Crowe
Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
Every day is filled with historical events that have shaped the world we live in. March 18th is no exception. From significant milestones to notable achievements, this date holds a rich tapestry of facts and events that have left an indelible mark on history. Whether it be major discoveries, momentous occasions, or significant births and deaths, March 18th has seen it all. By exploring the annals of time, we can gain a deeper understanding of the past and appreciate the interconnectedness between different eras. Join us as we delve into the fascinating events and facts that have taken place on this day throughout history. From groundbreaking scientific advancements to monumental cultural shifts, March 18th has truly been a day where the course of history has been influenced.
Key Takeaways:
- March 18th marks significant historical events, from the founding of American Express to the first spacewalk. It’s a day of scientific breakthroughs, political milestones, and cultural impacts, shaping our understanding of history.
- On March 18th, notable figures like Grover Cleveland and John Updike were born, while events like the assassination of King George I of Greece and the annexation of Crimea took place. It’s a day filled with diverse and impactful occurrences.
HISTORICAL EVENTS
- 1229: Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor, declares himself King of Jerusalem during the Sixth Crusade.
- 1766: The British Parliament repeals the Stamp Act, one of the key causes of the American Revolution.
- 1850: American Express is founded in Buffalo, New York as an express mail business.
- 1911: The notorious Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in New York City claims the lives of 146 garment workers, leading to significant changes in workplace safety regulations.
- 1965: The first spacewalk, performed by Soviet cosmonaut Alexei Leonov, takes place during the Voskhod 2 mission.
SCIENTIFIC BREAKTHROUGHS
- 1869: Scottish physician Joseph Lister publishes an article on the use of antiseptic in surgery, revolutionizing medical practices and reducing infection rates.
- 1931: The electron microscope, capable of producing detailed images at the atomic level, is demonstrated by German physicists Ernst Ruska and Max Knoll.
- 1953: James Watson and Francis Crick announce their discovery of the double helix structure of DNA, unveiling one of the greatest breakthroughs in molecular biology.
- 1965: Russian cosmonauts Alexei Leonov and Pavel Belyayev successfully dock their Voskhod 2 spacecraft with another vehicle in space, demonstrating the feasibility of manned space rendezvous.
- 1990: The largest art heist in history takes place when two thieves disguised as police officers steal 13 artworks, including works by Vermeer and Rembrandt, from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston.
POLITICAL MILESTONES
- 1314: Jacques de Molay, the last Grand Master of the Knights Templar, is burned at the stake in Paris on orders of King Philip IV of France.
- 1913: King George I of Greece is assassinated in Thessaloniki, leading to political instability in the country.
- 1965: The Soviet Union’s highest political body, the Supreme Soviet, approves a new constitution, emphasizing the leading role of the Communist Party.
- 1990: East Germany holds its first free parliamentary elections, marking a significant step towards reunification with West Germany.
- 2014: Crimea officially becomes part of the Russian Federation following a controversial referendum.
CULTURAL EVENTS
- 1922: The British Broadcasting Company (BBC) is formed, marking the beginning of regular radio broadcasting in the United Kingdom.
- 1959: The film “Some Like It Hot,” starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon, is released, becoming a classic of American cinema.
- 1974: The notorious art heist known as the “Great Train Robbery” takes place in England, with thieves making off with millions of pounds worth of cash and valuables.
- 1989: Madonna’s album “Like a Prayer” is released, sparking controversy with its religious imagery and provocative themes.
- 2000: The TV show “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” premieres in the United Kingdom, becoming a global phenomenon.
BIRTHS
- 1837: Grover Cleveland, 22nd and 24th President of the United States.
- 1932: John Updike, American author known for his novels and short stories.
- 1950: Brad Dourif, American actor known for his role as Wormtongue in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.
- 1963: Vicky Pattison, English television personality and presenter.
- 1990: Lily Collins, English-American actress known for her roles in films such as “Mirror Mirror” and “To the Bone.”
NOTABLE DEATHS
- 1955: Charlie Parker, American jazz saxophonist and composer.
- 1978: Leopold Stokowski, British conductor known for his work with the Philadelphia Orchestra and his contributions to film music.
- 1994: Jacques Ellul, French philosopher and sociologist known for his work on the concept of technological society.
- 2009: Natasha Richardson, English actress known for her roles in films such as “The Parent Trap” and “Maid in Manhattan.”
- 2018: Stephen Hawking, British theoretical physicist known for his contributions to the fields of cosmology and black holes.
Conclusion
March 18th has been a significant date in history, witnessing a wide range of events and milestones. From historical events such as the declaration of Frederick II as the King of Jerusalem and the repeal of the Stamp Act, to scientific breakthroughs like the discovery of the double helix structure of DNA, this date has seen remarkable achievements. It has also been marked by political milestones such as the assassination of King George I of Greece and the annexation of Crimea. In the cultural realm, the establishment of the BBC and the release of iconic films like “Some Like It Hot” have left a lasting impact. Additionally, notable births and deaths on this day have shaped various fields, including literature, music, and cinema. March 18th serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of human history and its continuous development.
FAQs
Q: What other significant events happened on March 18th?
A: Apart from the mentioned events, there have been numerous other noteworthy occurrences throughout history on March 18th. Some examples include the birth of American poet John Masefield in 1878, the establishment of the first modern “talkie” theater in California in 1923, and the assassination of Russian revolutionary leader Grigory Rasputin in 1917.
Q: Are there any famous personalities born on March 18th?
A: Yes, there are several notable individuals who were born on March 18th, including American actress and singer Vanessa Williams, American musician and frontman of Maroon 5, Adam Levine, and American television personality, model, and businesswoman, Giuliana Rancic.
Q: Are there any interesting cultural traditions associated with March 18th?
A: While there aren’t any specific cultural traditions tied to March 18th on a global scale, different regions and communities may have their own unique customs or celebrations taking place on this day. It can vary based on local culture and religious observances.
Q: Has March 18th always been recognized as an important date in history?
A: No, the significance of March 18th as a historical date has developed over time, as various events and milestones have taken place on this day. It is through the collective remembrance and recognition of these events that March 18th has gained importance in shaping our understanding of history.
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