What Happened on February 18 in History?
On February 18, history has been marked by major astronomical discoveries, the birth of the "soul" music genre, and significant political shifts.
Major Historical Events
Discovery of Pluto (1930): Astronomer Clyde Tombaugh discovered Pluto at the Lowell Observatory in Arizona. Originally classified as the ninth planet, it was demoted to "dwarf planet" status in 2006.
Inauguration of Jefferson Davis (1861): During the American Civil War, Jefferson Davis was sworn in as the provisional president of the Confederate States of America in Montgomery, Alabama.
First Academy Awards Announced (1929): The winners of the very first Oscars were announced, though the actual ceremony didn't take place until May of that year.
The "Chicago Seven" Verdict (1970): Defendants in the high-profile trial were found not guilty of conspiring to incite riots during the 1968 Democratic National Convention, though some were convicted of lesser charges (later reversed).
Mars Perseverance Landing (2021): NASA's Perseverance rover successfully landed in the Jezero Crater on Mars to begin its mission of seeking signs of ancient life.
Cultural & Scientific Milestones
Birth of Soul Music (1959): Ray Charles recorded "What’d I Say" at Atlantic Records. The song’s blend of gospel, jazz, and blues is credited with sparking the "soul" sub-genre.
Literary Debut (1885): Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn was first published in the United States.
First Iron Man Triathlon (1978): The inaugural endurance event was held in Hawaii, challenging athletes to a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and a full marathon.
First Cow to Fly (1930): A cow named "Elm Farm Ollie" became the first of its kind to fly in an airplane; she was even milked mid-flight, and the milk was parachuted to spectators below.
Notable Births & Deaths
Births:
Mary I of England (1516): Known as "Bloody Mary" for her persecution of Protestants.
Toni Morrison (1931): Nobel and Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Beloved.
Yoko Ono (1933): Renowned artist and peace activist.
Dr. Dre (1965): Influential rapper and producer who pioneered West Coast hip-hop.
Deaths:
Martin Luther (1546): Leader of the Protestant Reformation.
J. Robert Oppenheimer (1967): Theoretical physicist often called the "father of the atomic bomb".
Dale Earnhardt Sr. (2001): NASCAR legend who died in a tragic last-lap crash at the Daytona 500.
