On This Day - August 24
Image credit: The GrayVine
Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Let's look back at some of the most significant events in America and beyond that happened on this day, starting with...
79 CE: The Eruption That Preserved History
Mount Vesuvius catastrophically erupted, devastating the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. The excavation of these ash-buried sites centuries later, beginning in the mid-1700s, is credited with launching the modern field of archaeology.
1821: Mexican Independence Secured
The Treaty of Córdoba was signed, formally concluding Mexico's war for independence and establishing its sovereignty from Spain.
1932: A Pioneering Cross-Country Flight
Aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart embarked on a solo flight from Los Angeles, successfully landing in Newark, New Jersey, the next day to become the first woman to fly nonstop across the United States alone.
1949: The NATO Alliance was Formed
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) was officially established as its founding treaty, signed that April, came into effect, creating a pivotal collective defense alliance.
1989: A Gambling Scandal Barred a Legend
Pete Rose, a famed baseball player and manager, was permanently banned from the sport for betting on games, a ruling that rendered him ineligible for Hall of Fame induction—an admission he would later make.
2006: Pluto Demoted to Dwarf Planet
In a landmark decision, the International Astronomical Union voted to reclassify Pluto, changing its status from a full-sized planet to a dwarf planet.
2011: An Innovator Stepped Down
Citing health concerns, Apple co-founder Steve Jobs resigned from his role as CEO; he passed away from complications of pancreatic cancer less than two months later.
2021: The Rolling Stones Lost Their Beat
Charlie Watts, the steadfast and iconic drummer for the Rolling Stones whose rhythm anchored the band for decades, died at the age of 80.
Do you have more events (historical or not!) you'd like to share with the community? Post them below and let's reminisce together!
