Here’s a fascinating look back at key events in history that took place on July 27.
Let’s take a journey through time!
1777 – Marquis de Lafayette Becomes a Major General
In the midst of the American Revolutionary War, Frenchman Marquis de Lafayette was made a major general in the American Continental Army on this day. Though he was only 19 years old, he played an instrumental role in the American victory against Britain, symbolizing Franco-American camaraderie that would shape international relations for centuries.
1789 – The Department of Foreign Affairs is Established
The Department of Foreign Affairs, now known as the Department of State, was established on this day by the United States Congress. It became the first federal agency to be created under the new Constitution, with its primary purpose to implement the foreign policy of the United States and its diplomacy efforts.
READ MORE: 20 Amazing Facts About the United States Navy
1794 – French Revolution: Maximilien Robespierre is Arrested
Robespierre, one of the best-known and most influential figures associated with the French Revolution and the Reign of Terror, was arrested by the National Convention on July 27, 1794. The next day, Robespierre and 21 of his allies were guillotined before a cheering mob in the Place de la Revolution in Paris.
1921 – Insulin is Isolated for the First Time
On this day in 1921, Canadian scientists Frederick Banting and Charles Best successfully isolated insulin—a hormone they believed could prevent diabetes—for the first time. This discovery revolutionized the medical world and provided a life-saving treatment for diabetics.
1953 – The Korean War Ends
The Korean War, which began in 1950, concluded on July 27, 1953, with the signing of an armistice agreement. The war ended with Korea still divided into two antagonistic states, an armistice that is technically still in place to this day.
1974 – The House Judiciary Committee Recommends Impeachment of President Nixon
The House Judiciary Committee on July 27, 1974, recommended that President Richard Nixon be impeached and removed from office. The recommendation was based on the grounds of obstruction of justice, abuse of power, and contempt of Congress, stemming from the infamous Watergate scandal. Nixon would resign just two weeks later, on August 8, 1974.
1996 – Centennial Olympic Park Bombing
During the Summer Olympics in Atlanta, a bomb exploded in Centennial Olympic Park, resulting in two deaths and injuring over 100 people. This terrorist act was later linked to Eric Robert Rudolph, an American domestic terrorist, who was convicted for the bombing.
These events are a snapshot of the rich tapestry of global history that unfolded on July 27. From scientific breakthroughs to political upheaval, these events have shaped the world as we know it today.
