Major Historical Events on March 18- Today in History

March 18th serves as a mirror, reflecting the myriad events that have sculpted our collective history. It’s a day to pause and reflect on the myriad journeys that have led us to where we are today. Each event, whether marred by conflict or celebrated for its innovation, offers us invaluable insights into the human condition. As we explore these historical landmarks, we’re invited to ponder our own place within this ongoing narrative. Join us as we journey back in time, uncovering the Major Historical Events on March 18.

1314 – Molay Burned at Stake

The final Grand Master of the Knights Templar, Jacques de Molay, was executed in 1314. Accused of heresy, his death marked the end of the Templar order, a significant event in medieval history influenced by the conflict between the church and secular rulers.

1438 – Albert II King

Albert II of Habsburg ascended to the throne as King of the Romans in 1438. His reign was characterized by efforts to consolidate Habsburg power across Europe, laying the groundwork for the future Holy Roman Empire’s dominance.

1571 – Valletta Capital Declared

In 1571, Valletta was declared the capital of Malta. This strategic decision was made following the Great Siege of Malta. Valletta’s establishment as the capital was crucial for its strategic defense and cultural development.

1662 – First Public Bus

The first public bus service, promoted by Blaise Pascal, began in Paris in 1662. This innovation marked the beginning of public transportation systems.

1781 – Discovery of M92

Astronomer Charles Messier rediscovered the global cluster M92 in 1781. This discovery contributed to the cataloging of celestial bodies.

1865 – Confederate Congress Adjourns

The Congress of the Confederate States met for the last time in 1865, signaling the imminent end of the American Civil War. This moment underscored the Confederacy’s dwindling resources and morale.

1871 – Paris Commune Declared

The Paris Commune was declared in 1871, with Adolphe Thiers ordering Paris’s evacuation. This radical socialist government’s brief rule was marked by revolutionary reforms and violent conflict with the French government.

1874 – Hawaiian Trade Treaty

In 1874, the Hawaiian Kingdom entered into a treaty with the United States, granting exclusive trade rights. This treaty significantly influenced Hawaii’s economy and its eventual annexation by the U.S.

1877 – Douglass Appointed Marshal

Frederick Douglass was appointed marshal of Washington, D.C., by President Hayes in 1877. His appointment was a significant achievement for African Americans during Reconstruction.

1890 – Bismarck Resigns

German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck resigned in 1890 after disagreements with Emperor Wilhelm II. His resignation marked the end of an era in German politics.

1899 – Phoebe Discovered

Phoebe, a satellite of Saturn, was discovered in 1899 through photographs by William Henry Pickering. This discovery marked a milestone in the use of photography in astronomy.

1913 – King George Assassinated

King George I of Greece was assassinated in 1913 in Thessaloniki, a city recently liberated. His death stirred political unrest in Greece and the Balkans.

1915 – Gallipoli Naval Failure

During the Battle of Gallipoli in 1915, a failed naval attack by the British and French resulted in the sinking of three battleships. This operation’s failure significantly impacted the campaign’s outcome.

1919 – Rowlatt Act Passed

The Rowlatt Act was passed in 1919, allowing the British to imprison anyone without trial in India. This act sparked widespread anger and was a precursor to the Non-Cooperation Movement.

1922 – Gandhi Imprisoned

Mahatma Gandhi was imprisoned in 1922 for civil disobedience. His sentence highlighted the struggle for India’s independence and his commitment to non-violent protest.

1940 – Mussolini-Hitler Alliance

Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini formed an alliance in 1940 against France and the UK. This meeting at the Brenner Pass signaled a deepening of Axis powers’ cooperation.

1942 – Japanese Internment Order

The War Relocation Authority was created by Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1942, overseeing the internment of Japanese Americans. This executive order reflected the wartime hysteria and racial prejudice of the period.

1959 – Hawaii Statehood Bill

The Hawaii statehood bill was signed by Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1959, making Hawaii the 50th state. This event was a significant milestone in America’s expansion and diversity.

1965 – First Spacewalk

Alexey Leonov became the first person to walk in space in 1965. His spacewalk from Voskhod 2 marked a critical advancement in human space exploration.

1966 – Suharto Forms Government

General Suharto formed a government in Indonesia in 1966. His rise to power marked the beginning of a long and controversial rule characterized by economic growth and human rights abuses.

1974 – Buddhadeb Basu Passes

Buddhadeb Basu, a prominent Bengali writer and Sahitya Akademi Winner, passed away in 1974. His contributions to literature enriched Indian culture and arts.

1992 – Donna Summer Honored

Donna Summer was honored with a star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame in 1992. This recognition celebrated her contributions to the music industry and her status as a disco icon.

2018 – Putin Re-elected

Vladimir Putin was re-elected as Russian President in 2018, securing a fourth term. This election underscored his enduring influence and control over Russian politics.

2018 – Uber Self-Driving Accident

In 2018, the first fatal accident involving an Uber self-driving car occurred, raising concerns about autonomous vehicle safety and regulation.

2019 – Cyclone Idai Crisis

Mozambique’s President addressed the nation in 2019 following Cyclone Idai, fearing over 1,000 deaths. This natural disaster highlighted the challenges of emergency response and climate change.

2021 – Asian American Violence Hearing

A hearing on violence and discrimination against Asian Americans began in 2021. With 3,800 hate incidents reported, it spotlighted the rising xenophobia and called for solidarity and action.

Also Read: Major Historical Events on March 14- Today in History