In 2014, Malaysia Airlines flight 17 crashes
Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 was shot down over eastern Ukraine on July 17, killing all 298 passengers and crew on board. The flight was en route from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur when it was struck by a surface-to-air missile. The incident heightened international tensions and led to widespread condemnation and calls for a thorough investigation.
In 1998, the United Nations establishes the ICC
The UN established the International Criminal Court (ICC) with the adoption of the Rome Statute. The ICC, which began sittings four years later and is based in The Hague, is the first permanent international court responsible for prosecuting individuals for genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. Its creation marked a significant step towards global justice and accountability.
In 1955, Disneyland opens for the first time
Disneyland opened its doors in Anaheim, California, becoming the first-ever theme park of its kind. Founded by Walt Disney, the park featured various themed lands and attractions that brought Disney characters and stories to life. Disneyland’s success revolutionized the entertainment industry and paved the way for numerous other theme parks worldwide.
In 1945, the Potsdam Conference begins
The Potsdam Conference brought together leaders from the Allied powers to negotiate terms for the end of World War II. Held in Potsdam, Germany, the conference included U.S. President Harry S. Truman, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill (later replaced by Clement Attlee), and Soviet Premier Joseph Stalin. The discussions led to important decisions regarding the post-war order and the handling of defeated Germany.
In 1936, the Spanish Civil War begins
The Spanish Civil War began with a military uprising against the Republican government by Nationalist forces led by General Francisco Franco. The conflict, which lasted until 1939, was marked by brutal fighting and significant international involvement. The Nationalists ultimately emerged victorious, leading to Franco’s dictatorship, which lasted until his death in 1975.
In 1918, the Carpathia is sunk
The RMS Carpathia, famous for rescuing survivors of the Titanic disaster, was sunk by a German U-boat off the coast of Ireland. The ship was en route from Liverpool to Boston when it was torpedoed and sunk, resulting in the loss of five crew members. The Carpathia’s sinking occurred during the final months of World War I.
In 1918, Nicholas II and his family are executed
The last Russian Tsar, Nicholas II, and his family were executed by Bolshevik forces in Yekaterinburg, Russia on July 17. The execution marked the end of the Romanov dynasty and was a pivotal event in the Russian Revolution. The remains of the royal family were later discovered and identified, leading to their reburial with honors in 1998.
In 1862, Congress passes the second Confiscation Act
The U.S. Congress passed the Second Confiscation Act during the Civil War, aiming to weaken the Confederacy by freeing the slaves of those engaged in rebellion against the Union. The act authorized the seizure of property belonging to Confederate supporters and declared the freedom of their enslaved people. This legislation laid the groundwork for the Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Abraham Lincoln later that year.
