February 17: This Day In History (World History).
Throughout history, February 17 has been marked by profound transformations, moments of resilience, and the enduring legacy of faith and perseverance. It is a day where the echoes of courage, innovation, and devotion continue to inspire generations, reminding us that history is not merely a collection of dates. Below are some of the most iconic events that took place on February 17 throughout history.
Political & Military Events
- 1801—Thomas Jefferson elected U.S. President
- After a tie with Aaron Burr, the House of Representatives resolved the deadlock, making Jefferson the 3rd U.S. President.
- 1865—Union forces capture Columbia, South Carolina.
- During the American Civil War, General William T. Sherman led Union forces to capture Columbia, leading to significant destruction.
- 1899—Sudanese Mahdist State Falls
- The Anglo-Egyptian forces defeated the Mahdist State in Sudan, leading to increased Christian missionary activity in the region.
- 1979—China invades Vietnam
- Marking the beginning of the Sino-Vietnamese War, China launched a brief but intense military conflict with Vietnam.
Scientific, Humanitarian & Cultural Events
- 1863—Founding of the International Red Cross
- Established in Geneva, Switzerland, the Red Cross became one of the world’s most significant humanitarian organisations.
- 1929—First Academy Awards (Oscars) Announced
- The winners were announced, though the ceremony took place on May 16, 1929.
- 1933—First issue of Newsweek magazine published
- The popular American news magazine made its debut.
- 2006—Mudslide disaster in the Philippines
- A massive landslide buried the village of Guinsaugon, killing over 1,000 people.
Christian History
- 203 AD (3rd Century) – Martyrdom of Early Christians in Carthage
- North Africa, especially Carthage (modern Tunisia), was a key centre of early Christianity.
- St. Perpetua and St. Felicity were executed for their faith, refusing to renounce Christianity.
- 364 – Death of Roman Emperor Jovian
- A Christian ruler, he ended the persecution of Christians and restored privileges to the Church before dying unexpectedly.
- 1546—Martin Luther’s Last Sermon
- The leader of the Protestant Reformation delivered his final sermon in Eisleben, Germany, before passing away on February 18.
- 1980 – Assassination Attempt on Abel Muzorewa
- The Zimbabwean Methodist bishop and former prime minister survived an assassination attempt.
- 1992—Uganda Declares Namugongo Martyrs’ Shrine a National Pilgrimage Site
- Honours 22 Catholic and 23 Anglican martyrs executed under King Mwanga II (1885–1887).
Notable Deaths
- 1600—Giordano Bruno executed
- The Italian philosopher and former Dominican friar was burnt at the stake for heretical beliefs.
- 1980—An assassination attempt on Abel Muzorewa
- Though he survived, the attack highlighted the risks faced by Christian leaders in Zimbabwe’s independence movement.
Famous Birthdays
- 1754 – Nicolas Baudin (French explorer and cartographer)
- 1897—Joseph L. Mankiewicz (American film director, producer, and screenwriter)
- 1934—Alan Bates (British actor)
- 1963—Michael Jordan (legendary basketball player)
- 1981—Paris Hilton (American socialite and media personality)
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Content Credit| Ajibola Emmanuel Adebayo
Picture Credit | https://www.koamnewsnow.com/
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