Step back in time and discover the major historical events on May 15th. From political upheavals to cultural milestones, this date holds a rich tapestry of history.
Major Historical Events on May 15- Today in History
Temple of Mercury on the Aventine Hill – 495 BC
Situated majestically atop the Aventine Hill in Rome, stands the venerable temple dedicated to the Roman god Mercury.
Birth of Pierre Curie in Paris – 1859 AD
In the heart of Paris, the eminent physical chemist Pierre Curie, renowned co-recipient of the 1903 Nobel Prize in Physics alongside his wife Marie Curie, came into the world.
Surrender of Louis Riel – 1885 AD
After leading two fervent rebellions against the Canadian government’s encroachment on the territorial rights of the Hudson’s Bay Company in northwestern Canada, Louis Riel finally yielded.
Passing of Emily Dickinson – 1886 AD
In the quiet town of Amherst, Massachusetts, the luminous poet Emily Dickinson, whose verses radiated with singular brilliance and unwavering integrity, breathed her last.
Birth of Tenzing Norgay – 1914 AD
Born amidst the serene landscapes of Tshechu, Tibet, Tenzing Norgay, the intrepid mountaineer who, alongside Sir Edmund Hillary, achieved the historic feat of conquering the summit of Mount Everest, took his first breath.
Inauguration of the First Airmail Route – 1918 AD
A new era in postal service dawned as the inaugural regular airmail route between the bustling metropolises of New York City and Washington, D.C., was established.
Premiere of Mickey Mouse – 1928 AD
With the premiere of the animated short film “Plane Crazy,” the iconic character Mickey Mouse made his auspicious debut, forever etching his place in the annals of entertainment history.
Introduction of Nylon Stockings – 1940 AD
An unprecedented frenzy ensued as the revolutionary nylon stockings made their debut in American stores, swiftly vanishing from shelves within days of their release to the eager public.
Inception of McDonald’s – 1940 AD
In sunny San Bernardino, California, the McDonald brothers, Maurice (“Mac”) and Richard, inaugurated a drive-in eatery, igniting the inception of what would soon evolve into the ubiquitous fast-food empire, McDonald’s.
Britain’s Hydrogen Bomb Test: Operation Grapple – 1957 AD
In a monumental display of military prowess, Britain conducted its inaugural test of a hydrogen bomb near Christmas Island in the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean.
Resignation of Abe Fortas – 1969 AD
Amidst mounting pressure, American lawyer and judge Abe Fortas became the first U.S. Supreme Court justice to tender his resignation under the looming threat of impeachment.
Assassination Attempt on George Wallace – 1972 AD
During his spirited campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination, Alabama Governor George Wallace faced a harrowing assassination attempt that left him permanently paralyzed from the waist down, altering the course of his political trajectory.
Edith Cresson’s Premiership in France 1991 AD
In a landmark moment for French politics, Edith Cresson of the Socialist Party ascended to the position of France’s first female premier. However, her tenure was short-lived, marred by rising unemployment and waning support from within her own party, leading to her swift departure less than a year later.
Passing of June Carter Cash – 2003 AD
In the musical epicenter of Nashville, Tennessee, the illustrious singer-songwriter June Carter Cash, celebrated for her profound contributions to country music alongside the Carter Family and her iconic husband Johnny Cash, passed away.
Also Read: Major Historical Events on May 14- Today in History
