The first modern Olympics were held in Athens with 13 nations competing in events. America entered World War I. The Rwandan genocide began, claiming over 800,000 lives. The Beach Boys were banned from performing at the Washington Mall. Other events include the opening of American ports for trade, the patenting of celluloid, the first Tony Awards, the founding of the Mormon Church, and the birth of Renaissance painter Raphael.
The first modern Olympic Games were held. (1896) Games were held in Athens and 13 nations competed in events including archery, wrestling and fencing. Some of the contestants were actually tourists who had come to see the games and were allowed to compete.
America formally entered World War I. (1917) The House of Representatives confirmed Senate approval to go to war and America officially went to war, although American troops would not go to Europe until late June.
The Rwandan genocide begins. (1994) The genocide began with the assassination of Rwandan President Juvénal Habyarimana. It lasted just over 100 days, but claimed over 800,000 lives.
The Beach Boys were banned from performing at the Washington Mall. (1983) The band was originally scheduled to play a July Fourth celebration at the Washington Mall, but Interior Secretary James Watt banned them. He said rock and roll bands like the Beach Boys attracted “the wrong element.”
Congress opened all American ports for trade. (1776) Ports were opened to all international trade from outside British controlled areas. It was an important step towards functioning as a country, and a necessary one after losing trade relations with Britain during the revolution.
Robert Peary’s expedition would reach the North Pole. (1909) Although it has been debated whether the expedition reached the actual dead center of the North Pole or was actually several miles away, Peary’s expedition certainly went much further than any of its predecessors. The first person to indisputably reach the exact North Pole was Joseph Fletcher in 1952.
Celluloid has been patented. (1869) It became an instant success as an inexpensive material for jewelry, horn products, and even dolls. Early celluloid was actually called ivory or French ivory to make it more attractive.
Introducing the first Tony Awards. (1947) The theater’s equivalent of the Oscars, the Tony Awards are named for Antoinette Perry, the co-founder of the American Theater Wing, who founded the awards.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was founded. (1830) Joseph Smith founded the Mormon Church in New York on this day after reportedly receiving a revelation from an angel. The church was controversial from its inception, and later moved west to avoid persecution.
Raphael was born. (1483) Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino, better known as Raphael, was an important Renaissance painter. Although he died at the age of 37, his body of work was impressive and included The School of Athens and numerous portraits.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
