What Happened on February 16 in History?
On February 16, history spans from the opening of ancient Egyptian tombs to modern political milestones and global environmental treaties.
Major Historical Milestones
Opening of Tutankhamun's Burial Chamber (1923): British archaeologist Howard Carter unsealed the inner burial chamber of the Pharaoh's tomb, revealing the golden sarcophagus.
Fidel Castro Becomes Premier (1959): Following the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro was sworn in as the leader of Cuba, beginning his decades-long rule.
Kyoto Protocol Goes into Effect (2005): The global treaty aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions officially entered into force after being ratified by Russia.
First 9-1-1 System (1968): The first emergency telephone system in the U.S. was placed into service in Haleyville, Alabama.
Conflict & War
Civil War Victory at Fort Donelson (1862): Union General Ulysses S. Grant captured the fort in Tennessee, earning the nickname "Unconditional Surrender Grant" after accepting the surrender of 12,000 Confederate troops.
First Barbary War (1804): U.S. Navy Lieutenant Stephen Decatur led a daring mission to burn the captured frigate USS Philadelphia in Tripoli harbor.
World War II Corregidor Invasion (1945): American paratroopers landed on Corregidor Island in the Philippines to liberate it from Japanese occupation.
Russian Opposition Death (2024): The death of Alexei Navalny was announced by Russian prison authorities while he was serving a sentence in an Arctic penal colony.
Notable Birthdays
The Weeknd (1990): Multi-platinum Canadian singer and producer Abel Tesfaye.
Elizabeth Olsen (1989): American actress known for her role as the Scarlet Witch in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
John McEnroe (1959): Legendary American tennis champion known for his seven Grand Slam titles and fiery temperament.
LeVar Burton (1957): Beloved actor and host of Reading Rainbow and star of Star Trek: The Next Generation.
Ice-T (1958): Pioneering rapper and longtime actor on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.
Inventions & Culture
Nylon Patent (1937): Chemist Wallace Carothers received the patent for nylon, which revolutionized the textile industry.
First Computer BBS (1978): The first Computer Bulletin Board System (CBBS) was launched in Chicago by Ward Christensen and Randy Suess.
NHL Season Cancelled (2005): For the first time in North American professional sports history, an entire season (2004–05) was canceled due to a labor dispute.
