On This Day - October 16
Image source: The GrayVine
Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Let’s look back at some of the most significant events in American history that happened on this day, starting with…
1582: The Gregorian Calendar Was Introduced
To correct the drift caused by the Julian calendar, Pope Gregory XIII introduced the Gregorian calendar, adopted by Spain, Portugal, and the Papal States. The reform skipped 10 days to better align the calendar with the solar year—a system still in use across most of the world today.
1815: Napoleon Bonaparte Began His Exile on Saint Helena
After his defeat at Waterloo, Napoleon arrived on the remote island of Saint Helena in the South Atlantic, where he would live out the final six years of his life under British supervision.
1860: An 11-Year-Old Inspired Lincoln’s Beard
Grace Bedell, an 11-year-old from New York, wrote a letter to Abraham Lincoln suggesting he grow a beard to improve his appearance. Lincoln took her advice—changing his image forever.
1917: Mata Hari Was Executed in France
Dutch dancer and courtesan Mata Hari was executed by firing squad near Paris after being convicted of spying for Germany during World War I. Her trial and death became one of the most controversial espionage cases in history.
1969: Millions Protested the Vietnam War
Known as Moratorium Day, one of the largest antiwar demonstrations in American history took place across the US. Millions of citizens from all walks of life joined in peaceful protest against the Vietnam War.
1989: Wayne Gretzky Broke the NHL Scoring Record
The “Great One” surpassed Gordie Howe to become the NHL’s all-time leading scorer—a record that cemented Gretzky’s place as hockey’s greatest legend.
1993: Nelson Mandela and F. W. de Klerk Received the Nobel Peace Prize
The South African leaders were honored for their efforts to dismantle apartheid and lead the country toward democracy through negotiation and reconciliation.
2017: The “Me Too” Movement Went Global
After actress Alyssa Milano tweeted “If you’ve been sexually harassed or assaulted, write ‘me too,’” millions of women and men shared their experiences, sparking a worldwide conversation about gender, power, and accountability.
Do you remember any of these events? Or do you have more events (historical or not!) you'd like to share with the community? Post them below and let's reminisce together!
