Journey through time and uncover Major Historical Events on May 13 that played a crucial role in shaping today’s world.
Major Historical Events on May 13- Today in History
Culinary Etiquette: The Origin of the Table Knife – 1637 AD
Legend has it that Cardinal Richelieu of France pioneered the table knife, having its tips rounded to deter guests from repurposing them for dental hygiene during meals.
Australia Was Born – 1787 AD
Under the leadership of Arthur Phillip, the First Fleet embarked on a historic journey to Botany Bay, Australia. Consisting of 11 ships filled with convicts, this expedition marked the beginning of European settlement in the continent.
Echoes of History: The U.S.-Mexico War Declaration – 1846 AD
The tensions stemming from the U.S. annexation of Texas in 1845 culminated in the U.S. Congress approving a declaration of war against Mexico, underscoring the historical complexities between the two nations.
The Law of Guarantees: Italy and the Papacy – 1871 AD
In an effort to resolve the complex relationship with the papacy, the Italian government introduced the Law of Guarantees. This move aimed to address the pope’s loss of land during the process of Italian national unification.
The Apparition at Fátima: Witnessed by Three Children – 1917 AD
In a remarkable event, three children—Lucia dos Santos along with her cousins Francisco and Jacinta Marto—claimed to have seen the Virgin Mary near Fátima, Portugal.
Churchill’s Resolute Declaration – 1940 AD
Winston Churchill, in his inaugural speech as prime minister, famously declared to the House of Commons, “I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears, and sweat.”
Birth of a Musical Icon: Ritchie Valens – 1941 AD
Pacoima, California, saw the birth of Ritchie Valens, the pioneering Latino rock and roll sensation, marking a significant moment in music history.
The Early Years of Stevie Wonder – 1950 AD
Saginaw, Michigan, witnessed the birth of Stevie Wonder, a musical prodigy who evolved into one of the most innovative figures in late 20th-century music.
Scaling Heights: The Dhaulagiri Expedition – 1960 AD
Max Eiselin led a Swiss expedition to conquer the summit of Dhaulagiri in the Himalayas, marking a triumph in mountaineering.
The Versatile Talent of Stephen Colbert – 1964 AD
Stephen Colbert, renowned for his satirical take on television news through “The Colbert Report” and his hosting role on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” was born, showcasing his multifaceted talent.
The Assassination Attempt on Pope John Paul II – 1981 AD
Pope John Paul II narrowly survived an assassination attempt in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City, where he was shot and gravely injured by Mehmet Ali Agca, a Turkish assailant.
Remembering Doris Day: Hollywood Icon – 2019 AD
The passing of Doris Day at the age of 93 marked the end of an era, with her iconic performances in movie musicals and early 1960s comedies solidifying her status as a Hollywood legend.
Birth of Iceberg A-76 – 2021 AD
In a spectacular display of natural phenomena, the world witnessed the calving of the largest iceberg ever recorded, named A-76. Breaking off from the Ronne Ice Shelf in Antarctica, this colossal iceberg spans an impressive 1,667 square miles (4,320 square kilometers).
Also Read: Major Historical Events on May 12- Today in History
