The Mars Observer was a spacecraft designed to study the surface, atmosphere, and magnetic field of Mars. Unfortunately, communication with the spacecraft was lost just before it entered orbit around the Red Planet in 1993 almost a year after it launched.
In 1977, the First Chicago Marathon is Run
The inaugural Chicago Marathon took place on September 25, with over 4,000 runners participating. Now one of the world’s major marathons, the race has grown into a prestigious annual event, drawing elite athletes and thousands of participants from around the globe.
In 1962, the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria is Officially Created
Algeria formally became the People’s Democratic Republic after winning independence from France following an eight-year-long war of liberation. Ahmed Ben Bella was sworn in as the country’s first president.
In 1890, Sequoia National Park is Established
Sequoia National Park was created in California to protect the giant sequoia trees, the largest trees in the world. The park is home to the famous General Sherman Tree, one of the largest living organisms on Earth.
In 1777, British Forces Occupy Philadelphia
During the American Revolution, British forces captured Philadelphia, then the capital of the fledgling United States. This strategic victory gave the British control over the city for several months.
In 1513, Vasco Núñez de Balboa Sees the Pacific Ocean
The Spanish conquistador and explorer became the first European to lay eyes on the Pacific Ocean after crossing the Isthmus of Panama. His discovery marked a significant moment in the age of European exploration.