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Discover what made April 14 unforgettable with key historical turning points and tributes to legends.
Past Tracker brings you Today in History – Explore top historical events, famous birthdays, notable deaths, and FAQs from this day.
Titanic Collides with Iceberg (1912)
On April 14, 1912, the world was stunned as the RMS Titanic, believed to be unsinkable, struck an iceberg in the North Atlantic. The ship, on its maiden voyage, sank hours later, claiming the lives of over 1,500 passengers and crew members. This tragedy was one of the deadliest maritime disasters ever. Following this event, major reforms in maritime safety were implemented, such as the requirement for sufficient lifeboats on board all passenger ships.
Abraham Lincoln Assassinated (1865)
April 14, 1865, marks the sorrowful day when U.S. President Abraham Lincoln was shot by John Wilkes Booth at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. Lincoln died the next day, just days after the Civil War ended. His assassination shocked the nation and profoundly impacted the future direction of the United States during the Reconstruction era. Lincoln's legacy continues to resonate in American history as a symbol of freedom and equality.
United Nations Conference Opens (1945)
April 14, 1945, was a pivotal day in world diplomacy as the United Nations Conference on International Organization began in San Francisco. This meeting laid the foundation for the creation of the United Nations, a global institution committed to fostering peace and cooperation among nations. The establishment of the UN marked a significant step toward international collaboration, with the organization playing an essential role in global security, human rights, and development.
Columbine High School Shooting (1999)
On April 14, 1999, tragedy struck Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado, when two students carried out a mass shooting, killing 12 students and one teacher. This event deeply affected the U.S. and sparked intense debates about gun violence, mental health, and school safety. The Columbine shooting remains one of the deadliest school shootings in American history, and its aftermath continues to influence discussions on preventing such incidents in the future.
First Civil Rights March in the U.S. (1965)
April 14, 1965, marked an important moment in the Civil Rights Movement, with activists participating in a march aimed at securing voting rights for African Americans. The march, which would contribute to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, represented a significant push for racial equality. It highlighted the need for federal intervention to protect the voting rights of African Americans, particularly in the South, and played a role in the broader struggle for civil rights in America.
Birth of Valentina Tereshkova (1937)
On April 14, 1937, Valentina Tereshkova was born in the Soviet Union. She made history on June 16, 1963, when she became the first woman to travel into space. Her journey aboard Vostok 6 marked a significant achievement for both women in space and the Soviet space program. Tereshkova’s legacy continues to inspire many in the fields of space exploration and science, demonstrating the importance of gender equality in STEM professions.
Premiere of The Wizard of Oz (1939)
April 14, 1939, saw the premiere of The Wizard of Oz at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. Based on L. Frank Baum’s beloved novel, the film became a classic in American cinema. Its groundbreaking use of color, unforgettable characters, and iconic songs like “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” helped cement its place as a cultural touchstone. The Wizard of Oz continues to captivate audiences and influence filmmakers today.
First McDonald's Drive-Thru Opens (1975)
On April 14, 1975, the first McDonald's drive-thru opened in Sierra Vista, Arizona. This innovation revolutionized the fast-food industry, making it easier for customers to enjoy their meals without leaving their vehicles. The drive-thru concept quickly spread across the U.S. and became a staple of the fast-food experience, contributing to McDonald’s global expansion and shaping how we approach convenience in dining today.
Bank of England Founded (1694)
On April 14, 1694, the Bank of England was founded to serve as the government’s banker and manage its national debt. This event marked a key turning point in the development of modern banking, laying the groundwork for the central banking system we know today. The Bank of England’s influence has extended far beyond Britain, shaping financial systems around the world and playing a pivotal role in global economic stability.
Columbine High School Shooting (1999) – A Tragic Reminder
On April 14, 1999, the Columbine High School shooting occurred in Littleton, Colorado. This tragic event left 13 people dead and several others wounded, making it one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history. It sparked a national conversation about gun control, mental health issues, and school security. The Columbine tragedy remains an important turning point in the fight against school violence and continues to shape policies and discussions on preventing similar incidents.
Notable Birthdays on April 14
Abraham Maslow (1908): A pioneering psychologist, known for his theory on the hierarchy of needs, which influenced psychology and human motivation.
Ann Perkins (1968): Actress, celebrated for her role in the hit TV series Parks and Recreation.
Sarah Gadon (1987): Canadian actress, known for her performances in Cosmopolis and Maps to the Stars.
Notable Deaths on April 14
Wilhelm Röntgen (1923): A German physicist renowned for discovering X-rays, a breakthrough in medical imaging.
Sarah Bernhardt (1923): A legendary French actress, remembered as one of the most iconic and influential figures in the theater world.
April 14 Zodiac Sign:
Aries: People born on April 14 fall under the Aries sign, known for their boldness, leadership skills, and dynamic energy.
April 14 Special Day:
National Gardening Day: A day dedicated to cultivating an appreciation for gardening and encouraging individuals to plant and nurture their own gardens.
Baisakhi: A cultural and religious festival celebrated in India, particularly in Punjab, marking the start of the harvest season and holding spiritual significance in Sikhism.
