On this Day in History: July 28

In 2005, the IRA ends its armed campaign

The Irish Republican Army officially committed to pursuing its goals through peaceful and democratic means, marking a significant step in the Northern Ireland peace process.

In 1976, an earthquake strikes Tangshan, China

The earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.5, resulted in the deaths of an estimated 242,000 people, making it one of the deadliest earthquakes in recorded history.

In 1914, World War I begins

World War I began with the Austro-Hungarian declaration of war on Serbia on July 28. This conflict, triggered by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, rapidly expanded as alliances drew multiple countries into a four-year global war.

In 1868, the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution goes into force

The Fourteenth Amendment granted citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the United States and provided equal protection under the laws, significantly shaping civil rights.

In 1821, Peru declares its independence from Spain

The proclamation, led by José de San Martín, marked the end of Spanish colonial rule in Peru and contributed to the broader wave of independence movements across Latin America.

In 1794, Maximilien Robespierre is executed

Maximilien Robespierre, a key figure in the French Revolution, was executed by guillotine on July 28. His death marked the end of the Reign of Terror, a period characterized by extreme political purges and mass executions.

In 1540, King Henry VIII marries his fifth wife

King Henry VIII of England married his fifth wife, Catherine Howard. This marriage followed his annulment from Anne of Cleves and ended tragically when Catherine was executed for adultery less than two years later.