Revisit May 18’s top ten events in natural disasters, political milestones, and remembrance.
Top 10 Historic Events – May 18
1980 – Eruption of Mount St. Helens
1974 – India's First Nuclear Test: Smiling Buddha
On May 18, 1974, India conducted its first nuclear test under the codename "Smiling Buddha" at the Pokhran Test Range. This test marked India as the sixth nation to possess nuclear capabilities, significantly impacting global geopolitics during the Cold War era. The event is a pivotal moment in Modern History and is a significant entry in the Historical Timeline of India's defense advancements.
2009 – End of the Sri Lankan Civil War
On May 18, 2009, the Sri Lankan government declared victory over the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), effectively ending a 26-year civil war. The conflict had resulted in significant loss of life and displacement. The war's conclusion marked a significant turning point in Sri Lanka's Modern History and remains a critical event in the History Archives of South Asia.
1927 – Bath School Disaster
1863 – Commencement of the Siege of Vicksburg
On May 18, 1863, Union forces under General Ulysses S. Grant initiated the Siege of Vicksburg during the American Civil War. The siege aimed to gain control of the Mississippi River and split the Confederacy. The campaign is considered one of the most brilliant in the History Archives of military strategy.
6. 1848 – First German National Assembly Convenes
On May 18, 1848, the first German National Assembly convened in Frankfurt, Germany. The assembly aimed to unify the various German states and draft a constitution. Although the effort was ultimately unsuccessful, it laid the groundwork for future unification and is a significant event in the Historical Timeline of Germany.
1912 – Release of India's First Feature Film
On May 18, 1912, "Shree Pundalik," India's first feature film, was released in Mumbai. Directed by Dadasaheb Torne, the film marked the beginning of the Indian film industry, which would grow to become one of the largest in the world. This event is a landmark in the History Uncovered of global cinema.
1933 – Establishment of the Tennessee Valley Authority
On May 18, 1933, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) was established in the United States as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal. The TVA aimed to provide navigation, flood control, electricity generation, and economic development in the Tennessee Valley. The initiative is a significant entry in the History Chronicle of American infrastructure development.
1998 – United States Files Antitrust Case Against Microsoft
On May 18, 1998, the U.S. Department of Justice and 20 state attorneys general filed an antitrust lawsuit against Microsoft Corporation. The case accused Microsoft of maintaining a monopoly and engaging in anti-competitive practices. The lawsuit is a pivotal moment in the History Archives of technology and corporate regulation.
2013 – Legalization of Same-Sex Marriage in France
Famous Birthdays – May 18
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Tina Fey (1970): American actress, comedian, and writer known for her work on "Saturday Night Live" and "30 Rock."
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George Strait (1952): American country music singer, known as the "King of Country," with numerous chart-topping hits.
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Ai Weiwei (1957): Chinese contemporary artist and activist, recognized for his criticism of the Chinese government's stance on democracy and human rights.
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Taeyang (1988): South Korean singer and member of the boy band Big Bang, known for his solo music career as well.
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Armon Warren (1997): American singer and social media personality, known for his music and online presence.
Notable Deaths – May 18
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Chris Cornell (2017): American musician and lead vocalist for Soundgarden and Audioslave, known for his powerful voice and contributions to the grunge movement.
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Jim Brown (2023): American football player and actor, considered one of the greatest running backs in NFL history.
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Elizabeth Montgomery (1995): American actress best known for her role as Samantha Stephens on the television series "Bewitched."
