June 28 in History – Assassinations, Agreements & Aftermaths | Past Tracker

Read the top ten historical incidents of June 28, from critical assassinations to monumental agreements and global aftermaths.

Top 10 Historic Events – June 28

1914 – Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand Sparks World War I

On June 28, 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria and his spouse Sophie have been assassinated in Sarajevo with the aid of using Gavrilo Princip, a Bosnian Serb nationalist.This event set off a chain reaction of alliances and hostilities, leading to the outbreak of World War I. The assassination highlighted the volatile political climate in Europe and underscored the tensions between nationalist movements and imperial powers. The ensuing war reshaped borders, societies, and global politics, marking June 28 as a day that dramatically altered the course of history. ​

1919 – Treaty of Versailles Officially Ends World War I

Exactly five years after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, formally ending World War I. The treaty imposed heavy reparations and territorial losses on Germany, aiming to prevent future conflicts. However, the harsh terms contributed to economic hardship and political instability in Germany, setting the stage for World War II. June 28 thus symbolizes both the beginning and the end of a global conflict, highlighting the complexities of peace and reconciliation.​

1969 – Stonewall Uprising Ignites LGBTQ+ Rights Movement

In the early hours of June 28, 1969, police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City. The patrons resisted, leading to days of protests and clashes. This uprising became a catalyst for the LGBTQ+ rights movement, galvanizing activists and leading to the first Pride marches. June 28 is now commemorated as Pride Day, celebrating diversity and advocating for equal rights. 

1838 – Coronation of Queen Victoria

On June 28, 1838, Queen Victoria was crowned at Westminster Abbey, marking the beginning of a reign that would last over 63 years. Her era, known as the Victorian Age, was characterized by industrial progress, cultural expansion, and the growth of the British Empire. The coronation symbolized a new chapter in British history, with Queen Victoria becoming an emblem of national identity and imperial pride.​

1950 – North Korean Forces Capture Seoul

During the early stages of the Korean War, North Korean troops captured Seoul, the capital of South Korea, on June 28, 1950. This significant military achievement demonstrated the intensity of the conflict and prompted increased international involvement, particularly from the United States and United Nations forces. The fall of Seoul underscored the volatile nature of Cold War geopolitics and the global stakes involved in regional conflicts.​

1978 – Supreme Court Rules in Regents of the University of California v. Bakke

On June 28, 1978, the U.S. Supreme Court delivered a landmark decision in the case of Regents of the University of California v. Bakke. The court ruled that while affirmative action policies are constitutional, the use of strict racial quotas in admissions processes is not. This decision had profound implications for educational institutions and the ongoing debate over affirmative action and equal opportunity in the United States.

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1838 – Coronation of Queen Victoria

Queen Victoria's coronation on June 28, 1838, marked the beginning of a transformative era in British history. Her reign oversaw significant industrial, cultural, and scientific advancements, as well as the expansion of the British Empire. The coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey was a grand affair, symbolizing the continuity and stability of the monarchy. Victoria's influence extended beyond Britain, impacting global politics and culture during the 19th century.​

1939 – Pan American Airways Launches First Transatlantic Passenger Service

On June 28, 1939, Pan American Airways inaugurated the first regular transatlantic passenger service between the United States and Europe. The Boeing 314 Clipper aircraft departed from New York and landed in Lisbon, Portugal, marking a significant milestone in commercial aviation. This development paved the way for the globalization of air travel, shrinking distances and connecting continents like never before.

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2005 – Supreme Court Rules on Display of Ten Commandments

On June 28, 2005, the U.S. Supreme Court issued decisions in two cases concerning the display of the Ten Commandments on public property. The court ruled that such displays are permissible if they serve a secular purpose but are unconstitutional if they promote a specific religious message. These rulings highlighted the ongoing debate over the separation of church and state and the interpretation of the First Amendment.​

2007 – Tony Blair Resigns as UK Prime Minister

On June 27, 2007, Tony Blair officially stepped down as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom after a decade in power. Gordon Brown succeeded him as leader of the Labour Party. Blair’s resignation marked the end of a transformative era in British politics. Known for his role in modernizing the Labour Party and leading Britain during the Iraq War, his leadership was both praised and criticized. His departure sparked debates on foreign policy, domestic reforms, and political transparency. June 27 became a notable day in modern British history, reflecting on legacy and leadership transitions.

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Famous Birthdays on June 28

• Henry VIII (1491–1547) – King of England known for his six marriages and role in the separation of the Church of England from the Roman Catholic Church.

Famous Birthdays on June 28 (Continued)

• Henry VIII (1491–1547) – King of England, famous for his six marriages and establishing the Church of England.

• Mel Brooks (1926– ) – Legendary American comedian, director, and actor known for films like Blazing Saddles and The Producers.

• Kathy Bates (1948– ) – Award-winning American actress, known for roles in Misery and Titanic.

• John Cusack (1966– ) – American actor, producer, and screenwriter, best known for Say Anything and High Fidelity.

Notable Deaths on June 28

• Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1832) – Renowned German writer, poet, and philosopher, author of Faust and The Sorrows of Young Werther.

• Glenn Gould (1982) – Canadian pianist, celebrated for his interpretation of Bach’s works, particularly The Goldberg Variations.

• William Faulkner (1962) – Influential American author, known for The Sound and the Fury and As I Lay Dying.

Conclusion

June 28 marks significant moments in history, from World War I to groundbreaking LGBTQ+ activism. The day also celebrates influential figures born on this date, such as Mel Brooks and Kathy Bates, and reflects on the deaths of literary giants like Goethe and Faulkner. June 28 stands as a reminder of both personal and global legacies that continue to shape culture and politics today.

FAQs

What is special about the 28th of June?

June 28 holds significance as the day when pivotal events like the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and the Stonewall Uprising occurred, changing world history.

Why is June 28th Pride Day?

June 28 marks the anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising in 1969, a crucial turning point in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, which is celebrated as Pride Day.

Why is June 28 a perfect number?

In mathematics, June 28 is associated with the number 28, a "perfect number," meaning it is equal to the sum of its divisors (1, 2, 4, 7, 14).

What is June 27 National day?

June 27 is the National Day of Microstates such as Seychelles and Madagascar, which celebrate their sovereignty and independence.