September 16 stands as a significant date in history, marked by a range of pivotal events across centuries. From ancient scientific predictions to modern cultural milestones, this day has shaped the course of human progress in diverse ways. Key moments span politics, music, sports, and environmental action, each leaving a lasting impact. Uncover the stories behind these events to grasp their profound influence on the world.
History
Major Historical Events
585 BC – Lunar Eclipse Prediction by Thales of Miletus: According to ancient records, the Greek philosopher Thales of Miletus is said to have predicted a solar eclipse on this date, though modern scholars debate the exact date and nature of the event.
This prediction, if accurate, would mark one of the earliest known applications of scientific reasoning to foresee a natural phenomenon, showcasing the intellectual advancements of ancient Greece.
1810 – Mexican War of Independence Begins: On September 16, 1810, Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla issued the “Grito de Dolores,” a call to arms that sparked the Mexican War of Independence against Spanish colonial rule.
This pivotal moment in history ignited a decade-long struggle for freedom, ultimately leading to Mexico’s independence in 1821.
1908 – General Motors Corporation Founded: The iconic American automobile manufacturer General Motors (GM) was established on September 16, 1908, in Flint, Michigan, by William C. Durant.
Starting with the Buick brand, GM grew to become one of the largest and most influential companies in the world, shaping the global automotive industry.
1976 – Shavarsh Karapetyan Saves Lives in Yerevan Lake Incident: On this day in 1976, Armenian swimmer and finswimming champion Shavarsh Karapetyan heroically saved 20 people from a sinking trolleybus in Yerevan Lake, Armenia.
After witnessing the accident, he dove into the freezing water, broke the vehicle’s window, and pulled passengers to safety, an act of bravery that left him with severe injuries but cemented his legacy as a hero.
1987 – Montreal Protocol Signed: On September 16, 1987, the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer was signed by multiple nations, marking a historic international agreement to phase out the production of ozone-depleting chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
This landmark environmental treaty has been instrumental in protecting the Earth’s ozone layer and combating climate change.
Famous Birthdays
1925 – B.B. King: Legendary blues guitarist and singer B.B. King was born on September 16, 1925, in Berclair, Mississippi.
Known as the “King of the Blues,” his soulful voice and distinctive guitar style influenced countless musicians, and his hits like “The Thrill Is Gone” remain timeless classics.
1956 – David Copperfield: World-renowned illusionist David Copperfield was born on September 16, 1956, in Metuchen, New Jersey.
Famous for grand-scale magic tricks like making the Statue of Liberty disappear, Copperfield has captivated audiences worldwide and redefined modern magic.
1971 – Amy Poehler: American actress, comedian, and producer Amy Poehler was born on September 16, 1971, in Newton, Massachusetts.
Best known for her work on “Saturday Night Live” and starring in “Parks and Recreation,” Poehler has become a beloved figure in comedy and entertainment.
Notable Deaths
1380 – Charles V of France: King Charles V, known as “the Wise,” passed away on September 16, 1380, in Beauté-sur-Marne, France.
His reign saw significant advancements in French governance and culture during the Hundred Years’ War, despite ongoing conflicts with England.
1701 – James II of England: James II, the last Catholic monarch of England, Scotland, and Ireland, died on September 16, 1701, in exile in France.
His controversial reign and subsequent deposition during the Glorious Revolution of 1688 marked a turning point in British monarchy history.
1977 – Maria Callas: The iconic Greek-American opera singer Maria Callas passed away on September 16, 1977, in Paris, France.
Renowned for her powerful voice and dramatic performances, Callas revolutionized opera in the 20th century, earning her the nickname “La Divina.”
2006 – Oriana Fallaci: Italian journalist and author Oriana Fallaci died on September 16, 2006, in Florence, Italy.
Known for her fearless interviews with world leaders and her provocative writings on politics and culture, Fallaci left a lasting impact on journalism and literature.
Today in Music History
1963 – “She Loves You” by The Beatles Released in the U.S.: On September 16, 1963, The Beatles’ single “She Loves You” was released in the United States by Swan Records.
Though initially slow to gain traction, the song eventually became a massive hit, helping to spark Beatlemania across America.
1970 – Jimi Hendrix’s Last Recording Session: On this day in 1970, legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix participated in what would be his final recording session at Electric Lady Studios in New York City.
Just two days later, he tragically passed away, leaving behind an unparalleled musical legacy.
1984 – MTV Video Music Awards Debut: The first MTV Video Music Awards ceremony took place on September 16, 1984, at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.
This event marked a cultural milestone, celebrating music videos as an art form, with memorable performances and iconic wins by artists like Madonna and Michael Jackson.
Today in Sports History
1924 – Jim Bottomley Sets MLB RBI Record: On September 16, 1924, St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Jim Bottomley set a Major League Baseball record by driving in 12 runs in a single game against the Brooklyn Robins.
This remarkable feat remains one of the most impressive offensive performances in baseball history.
1975 – Muhammad Ali Defends Heavyweight Title: On this day in 1975, boxing legend Muhammad Ali defended his heavyweight title against Joe Frazier in the “Thrilla in Manila,” one of the most iconic fights in boxing history.
Although the fight occurred earlier, Ali’s victory was officially recorded and celebrated on this date in some historical accounts for promotional events.
1996 – Paul Molitor Reaches 3,000 Hits: Minnesota Twins designated hitter Paul Molitor became the 21st player in MLB history to reach 3,000 career hits on September 16, 1996, during a game against the Kansas City Royals.
This milestone solidified his place among baseball’s elite.
Today in Military and Naval History
1812 – Fire of Moscow Begins During Napoleonic Wars: On September 16, 1812, after Napoleon’s forces entered Moscow, massive fires broke out across the city, destroying much of it.
While the cause remains debated, the event forced Napoleon’s eventual retreat, marking a turning point in his campaign against Russia.
1940 – U.S. Military Draft Begins for World War II: On September 16, 1940, the United States implemented the Selective Training and Service Act, marking the first peacetime military draft in American history.
This law required men aged 21 to 35 to register for potential service as tensions escalated ahead of World War II.
1950 – Inchon Landing During Korean War: On September 16, 1950, United Nations forces, led by General Douglas MacArthur, executed a daring amphibious landing at Inchon, South Korea.
This strategic maneuver turned the tide of the Korean War, allowing UN forces to recapture Seoul from North Korean control.
Today in Tech and Science History
1853 – First Telegraph Line to the Pacific Coast Planned: On September 16, 1853, discussions and initial agreements for a telegraph line connecting the eastern United States to the Pacific Coast were formalized.
This innovation revolutionized communication across the continent.
1906 – Roald Amundsen Discovers Magnetic South Pole Location: Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen, on September 16, 1906, determined the approximate location of the Magnetic South Pole during his expedition.
This achievement contributed greatly to polar science and navigation studies.
2007 – One Laptop per Child Initiative Showcased: On September 16, 2007, the One Laptop per Child (OLPC) project gained international attention with demonstrations of its low-cost, durable laptops designed for children in developing countries.
This initiative aimed to bridge the digital divide and transform education globally.
Today in Art, Literature, and Culture
1620 – Mayflower Departs for America (Cultural Impact): On September 16, 1620, the Mayflower set sail from Plymouth, England, carrying Pilgrims to the New World.
This journey became a foundational story in American culture, symbolizing perseverance and the pursuit of freedom, often depicted in art and literature.
1932 – Gandhi Begins Hunger Strike in Prison: On this day in 1932, Mahatma Gandhi began a hunger strike while imprisoned in Yerwada Jail, India, to protest British policies on untouchability.
His nonviolent resistance inspired global movements and remains a powerful cultural symbol of peaceful activism.
1959 – First Successful Photocopy Machine Introduced: On September 16, 1959, the Xerox 914, the first successful commercial plain paper copier, was introduced by the Haloid Xerox company.
This invention transformed office culture and documentation, influencing how information was shared and preserved.
1974 – “The Partridge Family” Ends Its Run: The popular American television series “The Partridge Family,” which blended music and family comedy, aired its final episode on September 16, 1974.
The show left a lasting cultural impact, popularizing fictional bands and inspiring similar formats in entertainment.
Funny & Weird Historical Facts
1906 – Roald Amundsen’s Polar Bear Mishap: During his 1906 expedition near the Magnetic South Pole on September 16, explorer Roald Amundsen reportedly had a humorous yet dangerous encounter with a polar bear that wandered too close to camp.
This odd moment highlighted the unpredictable nature of polar exploration.
1976 – Shavarsh Karapetyan’s Unusual Heroics: On this day in 1976, while saving people from a submerged trolleybus in Yerevan Lake, Shavarsh Karapetyan accidentally pulled out a seat cushion thinking it was a person.
This bizarre mistake during his heroic act later became a lighthearted anecdote in his incredible story of bravery.
1987 – Montreal Protocol’s Unexpected Side Effect: When the Montreal Protocol was signed on September 16, 1987, to save the ozone layer, an unintended funny consequence was the sudden boom in demand for old refrigerators using banned CFCs.
As people hoarded them before the phase-out, creating a quirky black market.
Today in History for Kids
1810 – Mexico’s Fight for Freedom Starts: On September 16, 1810, a brave priest named Miguel Hidalgo shouted for people in Mexico to stand up against unfair rules by Spain.
This was the start of a big fight for freedom, kind of like when you stand up for what’s right with your friends!
1908 – Cars Get a Big Company: A company called General Motors was created on this day in 1908 to make cars.
Imagine how exciting it was for people back then to see more cars on the road, just like how you love seeing cool new toys.
1987 – Saving the Sky: On September 16, 1987, countries around the world made a promise called the Montreal Protocol to protect the ozone layer, which is like a big shield in the sky keeping us safe from harmful sun rays.
It’s like everyone teaming up to be superheroes for the planet!
Today in History Trivia & Interesting Facts
Oldest Known Eclipse Prediction: The possible prediction of an eclipse by Thales of Miletus on September 16, 585 BC, is often cited as one of the earliest recorded uses of science to explain nature.
This shows how smart people were even thousands of years ago.
Unexpected Hero of Yerevan Lake: Shavarsh Karapetyan’s heroic rescue on September 16, 1976, wasn’t just brave—it’s also incredible because he wasn’t even a professional lifeguard, just a swimmer who happened to be nearby and jumped into action.
Montreal Protocol’s Global Impact: The Montreal Protocol, signed on September 16, 1987, is considered one of the most successful environmental agreements ever.
With nearly every country in the world joining to protect the ozone layer, proving we can work together on big problems.
Beatles’ Slow Start in America: When “She Loves You” was released in the U.S. on September 16, 1963, it didn’t become a hit right away.
This is surprising since The Beatles later became one of the biggest bands ever.
It just shows sometimes success takes a little time!