What Happened on February 28 in History?
February 28 has been a day of major historical transitions, including the end of a 600-year papal tradition, the conclusion of the Gulf War, and the introduction of groundbreaking scientific discoveries like the structure of DNA.
Major Historical Events
Pope Benedict XVI Resigns (2013): Benedict XVI became the first pope to voluntarily resign since 1415, citing advanced age.
Gulf War Ends (1991): After a 100-hour ground offensive, a ceasefire was declared, leading to the liberation of Kuwait from Iraqi forces.
The 228 Incident in Taiwan (1947): A violent anti-government uprising began in Taiwan; the subsequent military crackdown resulted in an estimated 18,000 to 28,000 deaths.
Olof Palme Assassinated (1986): The Swedish Prime Minister was shot and killed in Stockholm while walking home from a movie theater.
Waco Siege Begins (1993): ATF agents attempted to raid the Branch Davidian compound in Texas, sparking a 51-day standoff that ended in tragedy.
First NATO Combat Action (1994): U.S. fighter jets shot down four Serbian warplanes over Bosnia, marking NATO's first use of force in its history.
Egypt’s Nominal Independence (1922): The United Kingdom ended its protectorate over Egypt, granting it nominal independence while retaining control over key military and diplomatic matters.
U.S. and Israel Attack Iran (2026): The United States and Israel launch attack on Iran, leading to the Iranian Supreme Leader killed in the airstrikes.
Science & Innovation
DNA Double Helix (1953): Scientists James Watson and Francis Crick determined the double helix structure of the DNA molecule.
Nylon Invented (1935): Wallace Carothers first produced the polymer nylon at the DuPont Experimental Station.
Raman Effect (1928): Indian physicist C.V. Raman discovered the scattering of light (the Raman Effect), a breakthrough celebrated annually as National Science Day in India.
Pop Culture & Sports
M*A*S*H Series Finale (1983): The final episode of the sitcom aired to a record-breaking audience of approximately 106 to 125 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched broadcasts in TV history.
First Televised Basketball Game (1940): A game between the University of Pittsburgh and Fordham University was broadcast for the first time by NBC.
Famous Birthdays
Linus Pauling (1901): Nobel Prize-winning chemist and peace activist.
Frank Gehry (1929): Acclaimed Canadian-American architect.
Mario Andretti (1940): Legendary Italian-American racing driver.
Bernadette Peters (1948): Tony Award-winning Broadway actress and singer.
Luka Dončić (1999): Slovenian NBA superstar.
