What Happened on January 28 in History?
January 28 has been a day of major historical shifts, from the death of influential monarchs to modern space tragedies and scientific breakthroughs.
Major Historical Events
The Challenger Disaster (1986): The U.S. Space Shuttle Challenger exploded just 73 seconds after liftoff, killing all seven crew members, including teacher Christa McAuliffe. The disaster was witnessed live by millions of students across America.
Death of King Henry VIII (1547): The King of England died at age 55 and was succeeded by his nine-year-old son, Edward VI.
Vietnam War Cease-fire (1973): A cease-fire officially went into effect in the Vietnam War, one day after the signing of the Paris Peace Accords.
Founding of the U.S. Coast Guard (1915): The service was officially created when Congress merged the Revenue Cutter Service and the U.S. Life-Saving Service.
The January 28 Incident (1932): Japanese forces attacked Shanghai, China, a significant escalation leading toward the Second Sino-Japanese War.
Siege of Paris Ends (1871): During the Franco-Prussian War, Paris surrendered to Prussian forces after a four-month siege.
Science, Arts, & Literature
Pride and Prejudice Published (1813): Jane Austen's classic novel was first published anonymously in London.
The Lego Patent (1958): The Lego Group patented the design of its iconic interlocking plastic bricks.
"We Are the World" Recording (1985): A supergroup of music stars, including Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, recorded the charity single to raise money for Ethiopian famine relief.
Discovery of Antarctica (1820): Baltic German explorer Fabian von Bellingshausen became the first person to sight the Antarctic continent.
First Street Gaslight (1807): London's Pall Mall became the first street in the world to be lit by gaslight.
Notable Births
Henry VII (1457): King of England and founder of the Tudor dynasty.
Jackson Pollock (1912): American abstract expressionist painter.
Alan Alda (1936): Award-winning American actor, best known for his role in MASH.
Nicolas Sarkozy (1955): Former President of France.
Elijah Wood (1981): American actor famous for portraying Frodo Baggins in The Lord of the Rings.
Notable Deaths
Charlemagne (814): The first Holy Roman Emperor, often called the "Father of Europe".
Sir Francis Drake (1596): Renowned English explorer and sea captain.
Anton Chekhov (1860): Celebrated Russian author and playwright.
