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Social revolutions and legal transformations leave their mark on January 16 |
Welcome to Past Tracker –
Discover what happened on this day in history, including key events, birthdays,
and notable deaths....................
What famous event happened on January 16th?
January 16 marks pivotal turning points in both ancient and modern history. It’s the day the U.S. ratified the 18th Amendment, starting Prohibition—a controversial era in American law and society. This date also highlights the Iran Hostage Crisis ending in 1981, showcasing moments of war and peace in world history.
What is special on January 16th?
January 16 stands out in the History Archives for its mix of historic discoveries, revolutions, and milestones in politics, music, and innovation. From legislation that transformed nations to influential figures who shaped cultures, the day echoes through Time Echoes and PastTracker archives as a significant page in the historical timeline.
Why is January 16 a holiday? What is celebrated on 16 January?
In the United States, Religious Freedom Day is observed on January 16, commemorating the adoption of Thomas Jefferson’s Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom in 1786. This law was a foundational moment for civil liberty and greatly influenced the First Amendment. Globally, various cultures observe regional celebrations and notable anniversaries on this day.
January 16 in History – Historical Timeline & Events
18th Amendment Ratified – Prohibition Begins (1919)
On January 16, 1919, the U.S. ratified the 18th Amendment, initiating Prohibition. This constitutional amendment banned alcohol manufacture, sale, and transportation. Known as a revolutionary moment in American law, it triggered one of the most controversial eras in U.S. history—marked by wars and conflicts between federal agents and bootleggers.
End of Iran Hostage Crisis Announced (1981)
Though the hostages were released on January 20, 1981, diplomatic talks on January 16 played a pivotal role in ending the 444-day Iran Hostage Crisis. This event was key in modern history, marking a transition in U.S.-Iran relations and global diplomatic efforts.
Religious Freedom Act Introduced (1786)
On this day, the Virginia General Assembly adopted the Statute for Religious Freedom, authored by Thomas Jefferson. This historic moment laid the groundwork for religious liberty across the U.S. and is celebrated annually as Religious Freedom Day.
First Meeting of the League of Nations (1920)
Following the end of World War I, the League of Nations held its first council meeting on January 16, 1920, in Paris. This meeting aimed to preserve peace in the aftermath of global conflict and was a landmark in war and peace diplomacy.
Gulf War Officially Begins (1991)
Operation Desert Storm, the fight segment of the Gulf War, formally started out on January 16, 1991. This marked another chapter in wars and conflicts, with a massive multinational coalition led by the U.S. pushing Iraqi forces out of Kuwait.
January 16 Famous Birthdays – Great Leaders & Historical Figures
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André Michelin (1853) – French industrialist and founder of the Michelin tire company, known for contributions to automotive innovation.
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Susan Sontag (1933) – American writer and political activist, renowned for her intellectual essays on culture and society.
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Kate Moss (1974) – British supermodel and cultural icon of the 1990s, known for reshaping the fashion industry.
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Lin-Manuel Miranda (1980) – American composer, actor, and writer, best known for creating the musical "Hamilton."
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A.J. Foyt (1935) – Legendary American racing driver, a historic figure in motorsports.
Notable Deaths – January 16 in History
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Carole Lombard (1942) – Beloved American actress who died tragically in a plane crash.
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Arturo Toscanini (1957) – Italian conductor, one of the most acclaimed figures in classical music history.
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Ted Cassidy (1979) – American actor known for his role as Lurch in The Addams Family.
Historic Inventions and Discoveries on January 16
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NASA Approves Space Shuttle Columbia (1981) – A landmark in space exploration, NASA approved its first orbital space shuttle for launch, a historic invention and a defining point in the History Chronicle of aerospace achievements.
Interesting January 16 Facts – From History Uncovered to Legacy Today
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January 16 is associated with past events that dramatically shaped world history and modern civilization.
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The day bridges forgotten history and contemporary life through daily past discoveries, legal milestones, and influential leaders.
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From ancient texts to technological progress, this day in the History Unfolded timeline reveals how the past echoes in the present.
Key Search Terms Answered
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What is special on January 16th?→ The ratification of the 18th Amendment, the beginning of Prohibition, and Religious Freedom Day make it historically significant.
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What famous event happened on January 16th?→ Major events include the start of the Gulf War and the first League of Nations meeting.
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Whose birthday is on January 16th?→ Lin-Manuel Miranda, Kate Moss, and André Michelin were born on this day.
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What is celebrated on January 16?→ Religious Freedom Day in the U.S., honoring liberty of belief.
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January 16 in history Wikipedia→ Search the page to find in-depth entries from history archives.
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January 16 in history timeline→ Follow key events like Prohibition, the Gulf War, and famous innovations.
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January 17 in history→ Stay tuned for another Daily History journey tomorrow.
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January 16 famous birthdays / zodiac→ January 16 zodiac sign: Capricorn – associated with discipline and leadership.
Legacy Today
From the fight for religious freedom to global peacekeeping efforts and revolutionary art, January 16 is more than just another day—it’s a living record in the History Matters timeline. These historic moments daily give us a deeper appreciation of the forces that shape our world, linking past to present with powerful meaning.
