The pages of history are filled with days that have left an indelible mark on the world. Join us as we journey through time to explore the major historical milestones that shaped the world on August 17.
Major Historical Events on August 17- Today in History
The Disappearance of the Lost Colony – 1590 AD
John White returned to Roanoke Island, off the coast of present-day North Carolina, only to find that the colony he had left three years prior had vanished without a trace. This mysterious event is now known as the Lost Colony, and it remains one of America’s oldest unsolved mysteries.
The Launch of the First Practical Steamboat – 1807 AD
The Clermont, designed by American engineer Robert Fulton, embarked on its maiden voyage as the first serviceable steamboat. This historic journey marked the beginning of a new era in transportation, revolutionizing travel and commerce along America’s rivers.
Marcus Garvey: A Visionary Leader – 1887 AD
Born in Jamaica, Marcus Garvey emerged as a charismatic Black leader who co-founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA). His vision for a Black-governed nation in Africa and his advocacy for racial pride made him a pivotal figure in the global civil rights movement.
The Klondike Gold Rush Begins – 1896 AD
George Washington Carmack struck gold in Bonanza Creek, a tributary of the Klondike River in what is now Yukon, Canada. His discovery in 1896 ignited the Klondike Gold Rush, drawing thousands of prospectors to the remote region in search of fortune.
Hazel Bishop: Pioneer of Long-Lasting Lipstick – 1906 AD
American chemist Hazel Bishop, born in Hoboken, New Jersey, revolutionized the cosmetics industry by creating the first kiss-proof lipstick. Her innovation led to the founding of her own makeup company, forever changing the way women use lipstick.
Robert De Niro: A Legend is Born – 1943 AD
Robert De Niro, born in New York City, became renowned for his intense portrayals of complex and often violent characters. His dedication to his craft earned him critical acclaim, making him one of the most respected actors in Hollywood history.
George Orwell’s “Animal Farm” Published – 1945 AD
English author George Orwell published Animal Farm, an anti-utopian satire that quickly became a literary classic. The novella’s powerful critique of totalitarianism resonated globally, cementing Orwell’s place in literary history.
Indonesia Declares Independence – 1945 AD
On this day in 1945, Sukarno declared Indonesia’s independence from the Netherlands. After a four-year struggle, the Dutch transferred sovereignty, and Sukarno became Indonesia’s first president, leading the nation through its early years of independence.
First Transatlantic Balloon Flight Completed – 1978 AD
Ben L. Abruzzo, Maxie Anderson, and Larry Newman completed the first successful transatlantic balloon flight in the Double Eagle II. Their daring journey across the Atlantic Ocean in 1978 became a milestone in aviation history.
Devastating Earthquake in Turkey – 1999 AD
A catastrophic 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck near İzmit, Turkey, killing over 17,000 people and leaving approximately 500,000 homeless. The disaster highlighted the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity and spurred improvements in earthquake preparedness.
Michael Phelps Breaks Olympic Records – 2008 AD
At the 2008 Beijing Olympics, American swimmer Michael Phelps made history by winning eight gold medals, the most ever won by an athlete in a single Games. His victory in the 4 × 100-metre medley relay sealed his legacy as one of the greatest Olympians of all time.
Also Read: Major Historical Events on August 16- Today in History
