On February 4, throughout history, significant events have shaped the course of nations and individuals. These events range from political developments and scientific achievements to cultural milestones and acts of courage. Each year, February 4 serves as a reminder of the impactful moments that have left their mark on the world. Explore the annals of history as we revisit key events from this date, shedding light on their historical significance and enduring legacy.
Major Historical Events on February 4 – Today in History
1555 – John Rogers Protestant
Martyr John Rogers, a reformer and Bible translator, became the first Protestant martyr during the reign of Mary I when he was burned at the stake in Smithfield, London.
1586 – Robert Dudley as Governor-General
Robert Dudley, the Earl of Leicester, assumed the role of governor-general for the States General of the United Provinces (Netherlands).
1784 – Ireland’s First Unmanned Balloon Flight
The first unmanned balloon flight took place in Ireland, marking an early step in the history of aviation.
1787 – Consecration of Anglican Bishops
The first Anglican bishops of New York and Pennsylvania were consecrated in London, establishing a stronger presence of the Anglican Church in the United States.
1822 – Free Blacks Settle in Liberia
Free American Blacks established a settlement in Liberia, West Africa, seeking a better life and escaping racial discrimination in the United States.
1847 – Birth of the US Telegraph Company
The first US telegraph company was established in Maryland, laying the foundation for the rapid expansion of telecommunication networks.
1859 – Discovery of the Codex Sinaiticus
Constantin von Tischendorf discovered one of the oldest known copies of the Bible, the “Codex Sinaiticus,” in Egypt, which he later took with him.
1901 – Emperor Franz Joseph I’s Speech
Emperor Franz Joseph I of the Austro-Hungarian Empire delivered a speech condemning nationalistic demands and calling for economic and social reforms.
1915 – Pellagra Experiments Begin
Experiments to find the cause of pellagra, a nutritional deficiency disease, began at Mississippi State Penitentiary.
1920 – First Flight from London to South Africa
The first flight from London to South Africa departed, although it took 1½ months to complete the journey in the early days of aviation.
1930 – Tieless, Soundless, Shockless Streetcar Tracks
New Orleans introduced the first tieless, soundless, and shockless streetcar tracks, improving the quality of urban transportation.
1936 – Synthesis of Radioactive Substance
Scientists achieved the first synthesis of a radioactive substance, radium E, marking a significant milestone in nuclear science.
1948 – Henri Oreiller’s Olympic Success
French alpine skier Henri Oreiller won gold in the men’s downhill and combined gold at the St. Moritz Winter Olympics, becoming one of the most successful athletes at the Games.
1952 – Jackie Robinson’s Historic Role
Jackie Robinson made history as the first African American executive of a major US TV and radio station, serving as Director of Community Activities at radio WNBC-NY and TV station WNBT.
1956 – Soviet Union’s Ice Hockey Triumph
The Soviet Union won its first-ever Olympic ice hockey gold medal by defeating Canada 2-0 at Cortina d’Ampezzo, while the United States took silver and Canada claimed bronze.
1969 – Record NBA Crowd
A record crowd of 41,163 spectators watched a doubleheader featuring the Cincinnati Royals and Detroit Pistons, as well as the San Diego Rockets and Boston Celtics.
1971 – Founding of the NASDAQ
The NASDAQ stock exchange, the second-largest in the world, was founded in New York City, providing a platform for electronic trading of securities.
1973 – World Record in Indoor Running
Manfred Kokot set a world record by running 50 meters indoors in just 5.61 seconds, showcasing his exceptional speed.
1985 – UN Treaty Against Torture
Twenty countries signed a United Nations treaty outlawing torture, emphasizing the global commitment to human rights and humanitarian principles.
1990 – Anders Holmertz’s Swimming Record
Swimmer Anders Holmertz set a world record in the 400m freestyle with a time of 3:40.81, showcasing his incredible prowess in the pool.
1991 – Alex Trebek’s Game Show Hosting
Alex Trebek made history by becoming the first person to host three American game shows simultaneously, including “Jeopardy!,” “Classic Concentration,” and “To Tell the Truth.”
1999 – Shooting of Amadou Diallo
Amadou Diallo, an unarmed West African immigrant, was tragically shot dead by four plainclothes New York City police officers during a drug bust, sparking outrage and discussions on race relations.
2004 – Launch of Facebook
Mark Zuckerberg launched Facebook from his Harvard dormitory room, setting the stage for the social media revolution.
2014 – Satya Nadella Becomes CEO of Microsoft
Satya Nadella succeeded Steve Ballmer as the CEO of Microsoft, leading one of the world’s largest technology companies.
2016 – Solar Plant Near Ouarzazate
Morocco’s King Mohammed VI inaugurated the world’s largest solar plant near Ouarzazate, with plans to power one million homes upon completion in 2018.
2021 – Historic Face and Hand Transplant
A groundbreaking surgical procedure involving a face and double hand transplant was successfully performed on 22-year-old Joe DiMeo in New York, marking a significant medical achievement.
2021 – Conviction of Ugandan War Crimes
The International Criminal Court convicted Ugandan Lord’s Resistance Army commander Dominic Ongwen of war crimes and crimes against humanity, including forced pregnancy, in a legal landmark.
2023 – Chinese Surveillance Balloon Incident
A Chinese surveillance balloon drifted across the US eastern seaboard, prompting its interception by US fighter jets and sparking political controversy.
Also Read: Major Historical Events on February 2 – Today in History
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