Major Historical Events on July 16- Today in History

Every calendar date has its own historical footprint. Join us as we explore the Major Historical Events on July 16 throughout the years.

The Schism of 1054 – 1054 AD

Cardinal Humbert of Silva Candida excommunicated Patriarch Michael Cerularius, who then excommunicated the cardinal, resulting in the Great Schism between the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches.

Richard II Ascends the Throne – 1377 AD

Richard II was officially crowned King of England, nearly a month after the death of his grandfather, Edward III, marking the beginning of his turbulent reign.

Birth of Ida B. Wells-Barnett – 1862 AD

Ida B. Wells-Barnett, a pioneering American journalist and anti-lynching crusader, was born in Holly Springs, Mississippi, and later became a key figure in the civil rights movement.

Death of Mary Todd Lincoln – 1882 AD

Mary Todd Lincoln, the former First Lady and widow of President Abraham Lincoln, passed away at the age of 63, leaving behind a legacy marked by personal tragedy and public scrutiny.

First Parking Meters in Oklahoma City – 1935 AD

The world’s first parking meters were installed in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, designed by Carl C. Magee to reduce traffic congestion and regulate parking.

Joe DiMaggio’s Hitting Streak – 1941 AD

Joe DiMaggio, the legendary American baseball player, set an MLB record by hitting in 56 consecutive games, a milestone that remains unbroken.

First Atomic Bomb Test – 1945 AD

The United States conducted the first atomic bomb test in 1945 near Alamogordo, New Mexico, which preceded the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, hastening the end of World War II.

Publication of The Catcher in the Rye – 1951 AD

J.D. Salinger’s novel “The Catcher in the Rye,” featuring the iconic and rebellious teen Holden Caulfield, was published and became a classic of American literature.

Opening of the Mont Blanc Tunnel – 1965 AD

The Mont Blanc Tunnel, linking France and Italy, officially opened, becoming the world’s longest vehicular tunnel at that time, stretching 7.3 miles (11.7 km).

Apollo 11 Moon Landing – 1969 AD

Apollo 11 launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, and four days later, astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to walk on the Moon.

Saddam Hussein’s Presidency – 1979 AD

Saddam Hussein became president of Iraq, initiating a 24-year reign characterized by brutal internal repression and costly wars with neighboring countries.

Death of John F. Kennedy Jr. – 1999 AD

John F. Kennedy Jr., along with his wife and her sister, died in a plane crash off Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, ending the life of the prominent publisher and son of President John F. Kennedy.

Jacques Rogge’s Election – 2001 AD

Jacques Rogge of Belgium was elected president of the International Olympic Committee, succeeding Juan António Samaranch and ushering in a new era for the organization.

Opening of Millennium Park – 2004 AD

Chicago’s Millennium Park was officially opened, featuring architectural marvels like Frank Gehry’s outdoor concert facility and becoming a major urban attraction.

Death of George A. Romero – 2017 AD

George A. Romero, famed for his influential horror film “Night of the Living Dead” and its sequels, passed away at age 77, leaving a lasting impact on the genre.

Also Read: MAJOR HISTORICAL EVENTS ON JULY 15- TODAY IN HISTORY