On This Day – Today in World History
All
events
births
deaths
holidays
EVENTS
Explore the major events that happened on this day throughout history. From scientific breakthroughs and political milestones to cultural shifts and iconic world moments, this section highlights the key developments that have shaped the way we live today. Each entry offers a quick and engaging snapshot of the past, helping you discover how this date has influenced history across different eras and regions.
Plymouth
Year:
1884
The arrival at Plymouth of Tāwhiao, King of Maoris, to claim the protection of Queen Victoria.
Like
Johnstown Flood
Year:
1889
Johnstown Flood: Over 2,200 people die after a dam fails and sends a 60-foot (18-meter) wall of water over the town of Johnstown, Pennsylvania.
Like
Madison Square Garden (1879)
Year:
1879
Gilmore's Garden in New York City is renamed Madison Square Garden by William Henry Vanderbilt and is opened to the public at 26th Street and Madison Avenue.
Like
Overland Campaign
Year:
1864
American Civil War: Overland Campaign: Battle of Cold Harbor: The Army of Northern Virginia engages the Army of the Potomac.
Like
American Civil War
Year:
1862
American Civil War: Peninsula Campaign: Confederate forces under Joseph E. Johnston and G.W. Smith engage Union forces under George B. McClellan outside the Confederate capital of Richmond, Virginia.
Like
Second Boer War
Year:
1902
Second Boer War: The Treaty of Vereeniging ends the war and ensures British control of South Africa.
Like
Morral affair
Year:
1906
The attempted regicide of Spanish King Alfonso XIII and Queen Victoria Eugenie on their wedding day instead kills 24
Like
World War I
Year:
1916
World War I: Battle of Jutland: The British Grand Fleet engages the High Seas Fleet in the largest naval battle of the war, which proves indecisive.
Like
BIRTHS
Discover influential people who were born on this day. This collection features leaders, artists, scientists, innovators, athletes, and cultural icons whose work and achievements have left a lasting impact. Whether you're exploring for inspiration or curiosity, these birthdays offer a fascinating look at the individuals who helped shape global history and culture.
Michael Sandberg, Baron Sandberg
Year of birth:
1927
Michael Sandberg, Baron Sandberg, English lieutenant and banker (died 2017)
Like
Julian Beck
Year of birth:
1925
Julian Beck, American actor and director (died 1986)
Like
Ellsworth Kelly
Year of birth:
1923
Ellsworth Kelly, American painter and sculptor (died 2015)
Like
Rainier III, Prince of Monaco
Year of birth:
1923
Rainier III, Prince of Monaco (died 2005)
Like
Pankaj Roy
Year of birth:
1928
Pankaj Roy, Indian cricketer (died 2001)
Like
Menahem Golan
Year of birth:
1929
Menahem Golan, Israeli director and producer (died 2014)
Like
Shirley Verrett
Year of birth:
1931
Shirley Verrett, American soprano and actress (died 2010)
Like
Clint Eastwood
Year of birth:
1930
Clint Eastwood, American actor, director, musician, and producer
Like
DEATHS
A reflective look at notable figures who passed away on this day. Their contributions - in science, art, politics, literature, technology, and many other fields - continue to influence the world long after their time. This section honors their legacy and highlights the stories of individuals whose impact remains meaningful today.
Willem Elsschot
Year of death:
1960
Willem Elsschot, Flemish author and poet (born 1882)
Like
Walther Funk
Year of death:
1960
Walther Funk, German economist, journalist, and politician, German Minister of Economics (born 1890)
Like
Henry F. Ashurst
Year of death:
1962
Henry F. Ashurst, American lawyer and politician (born 1874)
Like
Billy Strayhorn
Year of death:
1967
Billy Strayhorn, American pianist and composer (born 1915)
Like
Clare Sheridan
Year of death:
1970
Clare Sheridan, English sculptor and author (born 1885)
Like
Stefanos Sarafis
Year of death:
1957
Stefanos Sarafis, Greek general and politician (born 1890)
Like
Leopold Staff
Year of death:
1957
Leopold Staff, Polish poet and academic (born 1878)
Like
Elizabeth Blackwell
Year of death:
1910
Elizabeth Blackwell, English-American physician and educator (born 1821)
Like
HOLIDAYS
Explore global holidays, observances, and cultural celebrations that take place on this day. From national commemorations and historical anniversaries to traditional festivals and awareness days, this section gives you a broader view of how different cultures and countries recognize the significance of today’s date.
Kaamatan
Kaamatan, harvest festival in the state of Sabah and the federal territory of Labuan (Malaysia)
Like
World No Tobacco Day
World No Tobacco Day (International)
Like
Borobi
Borobi Day (Australia)
Like
May 31 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)
Christian feast day: May 31 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)
Like
Visitation (Christianity)
Christian feast day: Visitation of Mary (Western Christianity)
Like
Camilla Battista da Varano
Christian feast day: Camilla Battista da Varano
Like
Saint Petronilla
Christian feast day: Petronella
Like
Royal Brunei Land Force
Anniversary of Royal Brunei Malay Regiment (Brunei)
Like
Frequently Asked Questions About On This Day
1. What is 'On This Day'?
➥ 'On This Day' is a feature that highlights historical events, famous birthdays, deaths, and holidays that occurred on a specific day.
2. How often is the 'On This Day' page updated?
➥ The page is updated daily to reflect accurate events, births, deaths, and holidays for each day of the year.
3. Can I view 'On This Day' events for past years?
➥ Yes, you can explore historical events from past years for the same calendar date.
4. Are all events on 'On This Day' verified?
➥ We strive to include verified and notable historical events from reliable sources.
5. Does 'On This Day' include holidays?
➥ Yes, it shows important holidays, observances, and special celebrations for the selected date worldwide.
6. Can I search for famous birthdays on 'On This Day'?
➥ Yes, the page lists notable people who were born on the selected date, including leaders, artists, and scientists.
7. Does 'On This Day' show famous deaths?
➥ Yes, you can view significant individuals who passed away on that day and learn about their historical impact.
8. Is 'On This Day' free to use?
➥ Yes, 'On This Day' is completely free and accessible from any device with an internet connection.
9. Can I share events from 'On This Day'?
➥ Yes, you can share historical events, birthdays, deaths, and holidays via social media or direct links.
10. Are the events global or region-specific?
➥ The events include both global milestones and region-specific notable occurrences.
11. Can I use 'On This Day' for educational purposes?
➥ Absolutely, 'On This Day' is an excellent resource for learning about history and famous figures.
12. Does 'On This Day' include cultural or religious holidays?
➥ Yes, it covers a wide range of cultural, national, and religious holidays around the world.
13. Can I view 'On This Day' on mobile devices?
➥ Yes, the page is mobile-friendly and works well on smartphones and tablets.
14. How can I find 'On This Day' for a specific date?
➥ You can select any date on the calendar or use the search feature to explore historical events, birthdays, deaths, and holidays for that day.
15. Is the information on 'On This Day' reliable?
➥ We compile information from reputable sources to ensure accuracy, but we recommend verifying details for academic or professional use.
×