From pivotal wars to transformative legislation, July 28 has marked many significant historical events.
Let’s delve into the past!
1540 – Thomas Cromwell is Executed
On this day in 1540, Thomas Cromwell, who had been a trusted advisor to England’s King Henry VIII, was executed on Tower Hill on charges of treason and heresy. The same day, King Henry married his fifth wife, Catherine Howard.
1794 – The Fall of Maximilien Robespierre
Maximilien Robespierre, an influential figure of the French Revolution and the Reign of Terror, was guillotined on July 28, 1794, marking the end of the Reign of Terror. His death marked a significant turning point in the Revolution, ushering in the less radical Thermidorian Reaction.
1821 – Peru Declares Independence
Peru declared its independence from Spanish rule on July 28, 1821. General José de San Martin, known as Peru’s liberator, proclaimed Peru’s independence, marking the start of a war that would last until 1824 when the Spanish were definitively defeated.
1914 – World War I Begins
World War I began on July 28, 1914, when Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia. This conflict, also known as the Great War, lasted until 1918 and drew in nations from around the globe, with devastating human and economic impacts.
1945 – Plane Crashes into Empire State Building
A B-25 bomber accidentally crashed into the 79th floor of the Empire State Building on this day in 1945. The accident, caused by heavy fog over Manhattan, resulted in 14 deaths. Despite the severity of the incident, the structural integrity of the building remained intact.
1965 – President Johnson Announces Increase in Troops to Vietnam
U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson announced on this day that he was increasing the number of American troops in Vietnam from 75,000 to 125,000. This marked a significant escalation in the U.S.’s involvement in the Vietnam War.
1996 – The End of the Atlanta Summer Olympics
July 28, 1996, marked the end of the 26th Summer Olympics held in Atlanta, United States. The event was notable for several reasons, including the Centennial Olympic Park bombing. The Games showcased outstanding athletic achievements, with the United States leading the medal tally.
2005 – IRA Announces End to Armed Conflict
The Irish Republican Army (IRA), a paramilitary organization in Ireland, announced on July 28, 2005, an official end to its armed campaign and the beginning of the disarmament process. This marked a major milestone in the peace process of Northern Ireland.
Each of these moments from July 28 in history has shaped the world in profound ways, be it through political changes, conflicts, or advancements in civil rights. The historical events we remember remind us of where we have been and help guide us to where we are going.
