Each day marks a chapter in the story of our world. Whether it was a shift in global politics or a key cultural milestone. Join us as we journey through time and revisit the major historical events that unfolded on September 20.
Major Historical Events on September 20- Today in History
Magellan’s Global Quest – 1519 AD
Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan set sail from Sanlúcar de Barrameda, Spain, aiming to circumnavigate the globe. Although he died in the Philippines, his expedition succeeded in becoming the first to complete the journey around the world.
Jesuit Gabriel Malagrida’s Tragic End – 1761 AD
Portuguese Jesuit Gabriel Malagrida was executed by burning due to his involvement in the Conspiracy of the Távoras, a major political scandal in 18th-century Portugal that shook the nobility.
French Legislative Assembly Dissolved – 1792 AD
The French Legislative Assembly was replaced by the National Convention, officially starting the First French Republic. This marked a crucial turning point in the French Revolution.
British and French Triumph at the Battle of Alma – 1854 AD
In the Crimean War, British and French forces secured a major victory over Russia at the Battle of Alma, leaving the strategic naval base of Sevastopol exposed and threatening Russia’s position.
Italian Troops Occupy Rome – 1870 AD
In 1870, Italian troops captured Rome, incorporating the city into the newly unified Kingdom of Italy and reducing papal authority to the Vatican and its surrounding district.
Founding of Johannesburg – 1886 AD
Johannesburg, now South Africa’s largest city and an economic hub, was founded in 1886 following the discovery of gold, which fueled rapid growth and immigration.
Wright Brothers Fly a Circle: A Pioneering Moment in Aviation – 1904 AD
On September 20, 1904, the Wright Brothers achieved a groundbreaking feat when they successfully flew their plane in a complete circle for the first time. This monumental event took place at Huffman Prairie, Ohio, and marked a crucial advancement in the development of controlled flight.
Mahatma Gandhi’s Hunger Strike: A Stand Against Untouchability – 1932 AD
On September 20, 1932, Mahatma Gandhi began a significant hunger strike while imprisoned in Yerwada Jail, Pune. His protest was aimed at opposing the British government’s decision to grant separate electorates for the “Depressed Classes” (now known as Dalits or untouchables), which he believed would further divide Hindu society.
Cannes Film Festival Debuts – 1946 AD
The inaugural Cannes Film Festival began in 1946, delayed by World War II. Today, it stands as one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals, celebrating cinematic achievements annually.
Birth of George R.R. Martin – 1948 AD
George R.R. Martin, the acclaimed author of A Song of Ice and Fire—the basis for the hit TV Series Game of Thrones—was born, later becoming one of the most influential fantasy writers in modern times.
Billie Jean King’s “Battle of the Sexes” Victory – 1973 AD
In a historic tennis match dubbed the “Battle of the Sexes,” Billie Jean King defeated Bobby Riggs, striking a significant blow for gender equality in sports in front of millions of viewers.
Cal Ripken, Jr.’s Streak Ends – 1998 AD
American baseball legend Cal Ripken, Jr. voluntarily ended his streak of 2,632 consecutive games played, a record that still stands as one of the most impressive achievements in sports history.
End of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” – 2011 AD
The U.S. military policy “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” officially ended, allowing LGBTQ+ individuals to serve openly in the armed forces without fear of discharge due to their sexual orientation.
Hurricane Maria’s Devastation in Puerto Rico – 2017 AD
Hurricane Maria made landfall in Puerto Rico, causing catastrophic damage, displacing thousands, and resulting in nearly 3,000 deaths. The storm remains one of the deadliest natural disasters in U.S. history.
Also Read: Major Historical Events on September 19- Today in History
