A closer look at key historic events that took place on July 7:
In 2011, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 Premieres
The film, directed by David Yates, was the final installment in the Harry Potter film series, based on J.K. Rowling’s beloved books. It was a global box office success, concluding the epic saga of the young wizard Harry Potter and his battle against the dark wizard Voldemort.
In 2005, the London Bombings Take Place
A series of coordinated suicide bombings struck London’s public transportation system during the morning rush hour on July 7. Four bombs exploded, three in the London Underground and one on a double-decker bus, resulting in 52 civilian deaths and over 700 injuries. The attacks, carried out by Islamic extremists, were the deadliest in London’s history and led to significant changes in security policies and public awareness regarding terrorism.
In 1991, the Brioni Declaration is Signed
On July 7, 1991, the Brioni Declaration was signed, marking a ceasefire agreement between Slovenia, Croatia, and Yugoslavia. This declaration, brokered by the European Community, temporarily halted the fighting in the Yugoslav Wars and recognized Slovenia and Croatia’s independence. The agreement was an essential step in the complex process of the dissolution of Yugoslavia and the subsequent independence of its constituent republics.
In 1978, the Solomon Islands Become an Independent Nation
The Solomon Islands gained independence from British colonial rule. The country, located in the South Pacific, celebrated its new status with a series of events and ceremonies. Since gaining independence, the Solomon Islands have worked to build a stable and democratic society, although they have faced challenges related to ethnic tensions and economic development.
In 1958, President Dwight D. Eisenhower Signs the Alaska Statehood Act into Law
The Act allowed Alaska to become the 49th state of the United States. The act culminated decades of efforts by Alaskans seeking representation and integration into the Union. Alaska officially became a state on January 3, 1959, bringing significant economic and strategic benefits to the U.S.
In 1937, the Second Sino-Japanese War Begins
The Marco Polo Bridge Incident occurred, marking the beginning of the Second Sino-Japanese War. The conflict started when Japanese and Chinese troops clashed near the Marco Polo Bridge outside Beijing. This war, which lasted until 1945, was devastating for China and played a significant role in the lead-up to World War II in Asia.
In 1898, the Hawaiian Islands are Annexed by the United States
The Newlands Resolution was signed by President William McKinley, formally annexing the Hawaiian Islands to the United States. The annexation followed the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom’s monarchy and was driven by strategic and economic interests, particularly in the sugar industry. Hawaii later became the 50th U.S. state in 1959.
In 1807, the First of the Treaties of Tilsit is Signed
The first of the Treaties of Tilsit was signed between Napoleon Bonaparte of France and Tsar Alexander I of Russia. The treaty ended hostilities between the two empires and redefined their spheres of influence in Europe. It marked a high point in Napoleon’s power and significantly altered the political landscape of Europe.
In 1438, King Charles VII of France Issues the Pragmatic Sanction of Bourges
This decree asserted the authority of the French crown over the appointment of bishops and the collection of ecclesiastical revenues, reducing the influence of the Papacy in France. The Pragmatic Sanction was an important step in the development of the Gallican Church and the assertion of national sovereignty over religious matters.
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