March 28 in History – A Look Back with Past Tracker

Top Ten Events from March 28 – Tragedies, Triumphs, and Famous Births

"Past Tracker presents 'Today in History' – Dive into the top historic events, remarkable birthdays, notable deaths, and intriguing facts that define this day."

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Three Mile Island Nuclear Accident (1979)

On March 28, 1979, the United States experienced its most serious nuclear accident at the Three Mile Island plant near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. A partial meltdown of the reactor core in Unit 2 led to the release of small amounts of radioactive gases. While there were no immediate injuries, the incident raised concerns about nuclear safety and led to sweeping changes in U.S. nuclear regulatory policies. The event significantly impacted public perception of nuclear energy and halted the expansion of nuclear power in the country. ​

Death of Dwight D. Eisenhower (1969)

Former U.S. President and World War II General Dwight D. Eisenhower passed away on March 28, 1969, in Washington, D.C. As the 34th President of the United States, he served two terms from 1953 to 1961, overseeing a period of significant economic growth and the establishment of the Interstate Highway System. His military leadership during World War II, particularly as Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force in Europe, was instrumental in the defeat of Nazi Germany. ​

Virginia Woolf's Death (1941)

Renowned British author Virginia Woolf died by suicide on March 28, 1941. A central figure in the modernist literary movement, Woolf's works, including "Mrs. Dalloway" and "To the Lighthouse," are celebrated for their innovative narrative techniques and exploration of consciousness. Her essays and novels have had a lasting impact on literature and feminist criticism. ​

Constantinople Renamed Istanbul (1930)

On March 28, 1930, the Turkish government officially changed the name of its largest city from Constantinople to Istanbul. This change was part of a series of reforms under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk aimed at modernizing Turkey and distancing it from its Ottoman past. The renaming symbolized a shift towards a more secular and national identity.

Battle of Glorieta Pass (1862)

During the American Civil War, the Battle of Glorieta Pass occurred from March 26 to 28, 1862, in the New Mexico Territory. Often referred to as the "Gettysburg of the West," Union forces successfully halted the Confederate advance into the western territories. The battle was pivotal in maintaining Union control over the Southwest.

First American Citizen Killed in WWI (1915)

Leon Thrasher, a 31-year-old mining engineer from Massachusetts, became the first American citizen killed in World War I on March 28, 1915. He drowned when the British ship Falaba was torpedoed by a German U-boat. His death heightened tensions between the United States and Germany, contributing to the U.S. decision to enter the war in 1917.

Crimean War Begins (1854)

On March 28, 1854, Britain and France declared war on Russia, marking the beginning of the Crimean War. The conflict arose from disputes over the rights of Christian minorities in the Holy Land, then part of the Ottoman Empire. The war is noted for the harsh conditions faced by soldiers and the pioneering work of Florence Nightingale in nursing.​

Discovery of Asteroid Pallas (1802)

German astronomer Heinrich Wilhelm Olbers discovered the asteroid Pallas on March 28, 1802. Pallas is the second asteroid ever discovered and is one of the largest in the asteroid belt. Its discovery contributed to the understanding of the composition and diversity of celestial bodies in our solar system

Foundation of Valletta, Malta (1566)

The foundation stone of Valletta, the capital city of Malta, was laid on March 28, 1566, by Jean Parisot de Valette, Grand Master of the Order of St. John. The city was built as a fortress following the Great Siege of Malta and is renowned for its Baroque architecture and historical significance.

Caligula Accepts Principate (37 AD)

On March 28, 37 AD, Roman Emperor Caligula accepted the titles of the Principate, bestowed upon him by the Senate. His reign is often remembered for its extravagance and alleged eccentricities. Caligula's rule was marked by significant political and social upheaval in the Roman Empire

Notable Birthdays on March 28

• Lady Gaga (1986): American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her versatility and reinvention in music and fashion.​

• Reba McEntire (1955): American country singer and actress, often referred to as "The Queen of Country."​

• Maxim Gorky (1868): Russian writer and political thinker, a key figure in socialist realism.​

Notable Deaths on March 28

• Dwight D. Eisenhower (1969): 34th President of the United States and Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force in Europe during WWII.​

• Virginia Woolf (1941): Influential British modernist author known for her novels and essays.​