July 31 has witnessed a series of pivotal moments that have shaped the course of history. Join us as we explore the major historical events that took place on July 31, shedding light on the moments that have left an indelible mark on the world.
Major Historical Events on July 31- Today in History
Death of St. Ignatius of Loyola – 1556 AD
St. Ignatius of Loyola, the influential founder of the Jesuit order in the Roman Catholic Church, passed away in Rome, marking a significant moment in religious history.
Treaty of Breda Ends the Second Anglo-Dutch War – 1667 AD
The Treaty of Breda concluded the Second Anglo-Dutch War, resulting in the transfer of New Netherland (now New York and New Jersey) to England, reshaping colonial North America.
Birth of Civil Rights Leader Whitney M. Young, Jr. – 1921 AD
Whitney M. Young, Jr., born in Lincoln Ridge, Kentucky, became a pivotal figure in the fight for African American equality in industry and government, leading the National Urban League from 1961 to 1971.
Idlewild Airport Dedicated by President Truman – 1948 AD
President Harry S. Truman dedicated Idlewild Airport, later renamed John F. Kennedy International Airport in 1963, as New York International Airport, enhancing New York City’s global connectivity.
Birth of J.K. Rowling, Creator of Harry Potter – 1965 AD
J.K. Rowling, the celebrated British author behind the Harry Potter series, was born, setting the stage for a literary phenomenon that would captivate readers worldwide.
First Use of the Lunar Roving Vehicle – 1971 AD
On this day in 1971, Apollo 15 astronauts James B. Irwin and David Scott used the battery-powered Lunar Roving Vehicle to explore the Moon’s Hadley-Apennine site, enhancing lunar exploration.
Closure of the Last Playboy Club in the U.S. – 1988 AD
The last remaining Playboy Club in the United States, located in Lansing, Michigan, has closed its doors, marking the end of an era for the iconic franchise known for its glamorous nightlife and cultural impact since its inception in the 1960s.
Fidel Castro Transfers Power to Raúl Castro – 2006 AD
Due to health issues, Cuban leader Fidel Castro temporarily handed over power to his brother RaĂşl, who acted as president until officially assuming the role in 2008.
Passing of American Novelist Gore Vidal – 2012 AD
Gore Vidal, the renowned American novelist, playwright, and essayist known for his sharp wit and intellectual prowess, died at the age of 86, leaving a lasting legacy in literature.
Michael Phelps’ Unprecedented Olympic Achievement – 2012 AD
At the London Summer Games, American swimmer Michael Phelps won his 19th career Olympic medal by helping the U.S. team secure victory in the 4 × 200-metre freestyle relay, surpassing Soviet gymnast Larisa Latynina’s record.
Death of Theatrical Legend Harold Prince – 2019 AD
Harold Prince, the legendary American theatrical producer and director, passed away at 91. He held a record 21 Tony Awards, including one for lifetime achievement, revolutionizing Broadway.
Also Read: Major Historical Events on July 30- Today in History
