In 1978, the Cinema Rex Fire Breaks Out
A devastating fire broke out at the Cinema Rex in Abadan, Iran, on August 19, resulting in the deaths of over 400 people. The fire, which was believed to be an arson attack, became a significant event in the lead-up to the Iranian Revolution. It fueled public outrage against the Shah’s regime, which was blamed for the tragedy.
In 1960, Sputnik 5 Is Launched by the USSR
The Soviet Union launched Sputnik 5, a historic space mission that carried two dogs, Belka and Strelka, along with other animals and biological specimens. The spacecraft successfully orbited the Earth and returned safely, making it the first mission to bring living organisms back from space, paving the way for human spaceflight.
In 1945, Ho Chi Minh’s Commando Forces Enter the Vietnamese Capital of Hanoi
Ho Chi Minh’s Viet Minh forces entered Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, marking a crucial step in the August Revolution against French colonial rule and Japanese occupation. This event led to the declaration of Vietnamese independence on September 2, 1945, and the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.
In 1936, the Great Purge Begins
The Great Purge, also known as the Great Terror, began on August 19 under the orders of Soviet leader Joseph Stalin. The purge led to the arrest, imprisonment, and execution of millions of people, including prominent Communist Party members, military leaders, and ordinary citizens, accused of being enemies of the state. It was one of the most brutal periods in Soviet history.
In 1934, German Voters Approve Hitler as Führer
A national referendum was held in Germany in which 90% of voters approved Adolf Hitler’s consolidation of the roles of “Führer und Reichskanzler” (leader and Chancellor). This marked the final step in Hitler’s rise to absolute power, leading to the establishment of a totalitarian regime.
In 1919, Afghanistan Gains Independence
Afghanistan gained independence from British control following the signing of the Treaty of Rawalpindi, which ended the Third Anglo-Afghan War. The treaty recognized Afghanistan’s sovereignty, making it one of the first countries in the region to achieve independence after World War I.
In 1458, Enea Silvio Piccolomini Is Elected Pope
Enea Silvio Piccolomini became Pope, as Pius II, following the death of Calixtus III. He was a Renaissance humanist, diplomat, and author before his papacy, and as pope, he is known for his efforts to organize a crusade against the Ottoman Empire and his writings, including the autobiography Commentaries.
In 1274, Edward I Is Crowned King of England
Edward I was crowned King of England at Westminster Abbey. His reign was marked by military campaigns in Wales and Scotland, legal reforms, and the establishment of the Model Parliament. Edward I is often remembered as one of England’s most powerful and influential medieval kings.
