June 27 has witnessed a range of pivotal events and notable births across history. From the emergence of influential figures like Emma Goldman in 1869 to groundbreaking moments such as the U.S. entering the Korean War in 1950, this date holds diverse significance. Technological and cultural milestones also mark its timeline. What other remarkable occurrences define this day? Uncover the layers of June 27’s historical tapestry.
History
Major Historical Events
1869 – Emma Goldman’s Birth: On this day in 1869, Emma Goldman, a prominent anarchist and feminist, was born in Kovno, Russian Empire (now Kaunas, Lithuania).
Her radical ideas on workers’ rights, free speech, and women’s emancipation made her a significant figure in early 20th-century activism, though her outspoken views often led to arrests and deportation from the United States.
1927 – First Transatlantic Television Transmission: On June 27, 1927, the first transatlantic television transmission was successfully completed, marking a groundbreaking moment in communication history.
The signal was sent from London to New York, showcasing the potential for global visual broadcasting long before the internet era.
1950 – U.S. Enters Korean War: On June 27, 1950, the United States officially committed troops to the Korean War under a United Nations resolution, just two days after North Korea invaded South Korea.
President Harry S. Truman ordered American forces to assist South Korea, marking the beginning of a significant Cold War conflict.
1976 – Air France Flight 139 Rescue Operation Begins: On this day in 1976, Air France Flight 139, hijacked by terrorists, landed at Entebbe Airport in Uganda, setting the stage for a dramatic rescue operation by Israeli forces a week later.
The incident highlighted international tensions and the complexities of combating terrorism.
1985 – Route 66 Officially Decommissioned: On June 27, 1985, the iconic U.S. Route 66 was officially removed from the United States Highway System after 59 years of operation.
Stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica, the highway symbolized American freedom and adventure but was replaced by modern interstate systems.
Famous Birthdays
1869 – Emma Goldman: Born on June 27, 1869, in what is now Lithuania, Emma Goldman became a fierce advocate for anarchism, feminism, and social justice.
Her writings and speeches inspired generations of activists, despite her controversial status in many countries.
1880 – Helen Keller: On this day in 1880, Helen Keller was born in Tuscumbia, Alabama.
Overcoming the challenges of being deaf and blind, she became a renowned author, activist, and lecturer, advocating for disability rights and social reform.
1975 – Tobey Maguire: Actor Tobey Maguire, known for his role as Spider-Man in Sam Raimi’s film trilogy, was born on June 27, 1975, in Santa Monica, California.
His performances have made him a recognizable figure in Hollywood.
1984 – Khloé Kardashian: Reality television star and entrepreneur Khloé Kardashian was born on June 27, 1984, in Los Angeles, California.
She gained fame through the show “Keeping Up with the Kardashians” and has since built a successful business empire.
Notable Deaths
1844 – Joseph Smith: On June 27, 1844, Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement (Mormonism), was killed by a mob in Carthage, Illinois.
His death marked a pivotal moment in the history of the Mormon Church, leading to significant changes in its leadership and migration.
2001 – Jack Lemmon: Legendary actor Jack Lemmon passed away on June 27, 2001, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 76.
Known for iconic roles in films like “Some Like It Hot” and “The Apartment,” Lemmon left an indelible mark on American cinema.
2009 – Gale Storm: Actress and singer Gale Storm, famous for her roles in 1950s television shows like “My Little Margie,” died on June 27, 2009, in Danville, California, at the age of 87.
Her charm and talent made her a beloved figure of her era.
Today in Music History
1971 – Fillmore East Closes: On June 27, 1971, the iconic Fillmore East concert venue in New York City closed its doors after a final performance featuring The Allman Brothers Band.
The venue, opened by promoter Bill Graham, had been a cornerstone of the rock music scene since 1968.
1991 – Carlos Santana Arrested: On this day in 1991, legendary guitarist Carlos Santana was arrested in Houston, Texas, for possession of marijuana at an airport.
The incident briefly overshadowed his illustrious career, known for blending rock with Latin influences.
2016 – Mack Rice Passes Away: Songwriter Mack Rice, who penned the soul classic “Mustang Sally,” passed away on June 27, 2016, in Detroit, Michigan.
His contributions to music influenced countless artists and remain celebrated in the industry.
Today in Sports History
1959 – Ingemar Johansson Wins Heavyweight Title: On June 27, 1959, Swedish boxer Ingemar Johansson defeated Floyd Patterson to win the world heavyweight title at Yankee Stadium in New York.
Johansson became the first Swede to claim the prestigious championship.
1999 – U.S. Women’s Soccer Team Advances: On this day in 1999, the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team advanced to the semifinals of the FIFA Women’s World Cup with a 3-0 victory over Germany.
This tournament marked a historic moment for women’s soccer in the United States.
2010 – Longest Wimbledon Match Concludes: On June 27, 2010, the epic Wimbledon match between John Isner and Nicolas Mahut, which began on June 22, finally concluded after 11 hours and 5 minutes of play across three days.
Isner won, setting multiple tennis records for the longest match ever played.
Today in Military and Naval History
1743 – Battle of Dettingen: On June 27, 1743, the Battle of Dettingen took place in Bavaria during the War of the Austrian Succession.
It was the last time a British monarch, King George II, personally led his troops into battle, securing a victory for the allied forces against the French.
1950 – U.S. Air Force in Korean War: On this day in 1950, the U.S. Air Force conducted its first combat missions of the Korean War, providing air support to South Korean and U.N. forces.
This marked the beginning of extensive American military involvement in the conflict.
1981 – Operation Red Hat Concludes: On June 27, 1981, Operation Red Hat, a U.S. military project to remove chemical weapons from Okinawa, Japan, officially concluded.
The operation, which began in 1971, aimed to relocate hazardous materials safely after public outcry.
Today in Tech and Science History
1927 – First Transatlantic TV Signal: On June 27, 1927, engineers successfully transmitted the first television signal across the Atlantic Ocean from London to New York.
This pioneering achievement laid the groundwork for future global broadcasting technologies.
1972 – Atari Founded: On this day in 1972, Nolan Bushnell and Ted Dabney founded Atari, Inc. in Sunnyvale, California.
The company went on to revolutionize the video game industry with iconic games like “Pong,” shaping modern gaming culture.
2007 – iPhone Announced for Pre-Order: On June 27, 2007, Apple announced that the first iPhone would be available for pre-order, just two days before its official release.
This landmark device transformed the smartphone industry and consumer technology.
2015 – SpaceX Falcon 9 Failure: On June 27, 2015, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket exploded shortly after launch during a resupply mission to the International Space Station.
The incident was a setback for the company’s ambitious plans but provided valuable lessons for future missions.
Today in Art, Literature, and Culture
1885 – First Performance of “La Gioconda” in the U.S.: On June 27, 1885, Amilcare Ponchielli’s opera “La Gioconda” premiered in the United States at the Academy of Music in New York City.
The opera, known for its dramatic storyline, became a significant piece in American operatic history.
1939 – “Gone with the Wind” Premiere Date Announced: On this day in 1939, the premiere date for the film “Gone with the Wind” was officially announced, building anticipation for what would become one of the most iconic movies in cinematic history.
1967 – First ATM Installed: On June 27, 1967, the world’s first automated teller machine (ATM) was installed by Barclays Bank in Enfield, London.
This innovation changed the way people accessed money and marked a cultural shift in banking.
Funny & Weird Historical Facts
1905 – Mutiny on the Battleship Potemkin: On June 27, 1905, sailors on the Russian battleship Potemkin mutinied over poor conditions and bad food, including maggot-infested meat.
This bizarre incident became a symbol of revolutionary unrest and was later immortalized in film.
1957 – Hurricane Audrey’s Odd Timing: On this day in 1957, Hurricane Audrey struck the Gulf Coast of the United States earlier than expected, catching many off guard.
Oddly, its unpredictability led to unusual stories of survival, including people clinging to floating debris for days.
1978 – Soyuz 30’s Unusual Cargo: On June 27, 1978, the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz 30 launched with a Polish cosmonaut aboard, carrying a peculiar payload of experimental plants and seeds.
The odd choice of cargo highlighted the quirky side of space exploration during the Cold War.
Today in History for Kids
1880 – Helen Keller’s Birthday: On June 27, 1880, a very special person named Helen Keller was born.
Even though she couldn’t see or hear, she learned to read, write, and speak, showing everyone that anything is possible with hard work and determination.
1927 – First TV Signal Across the Ocean: Imagine watching TV from another country!
On this day in 1927, people sent the first TV picture from London all the way to New York across the big Atlantic Ocean.
It was like magic back then!
1972 – Start of Video Games with Atari: On June 27, 1972, a company called Atari was created, and they made some of the first video games ever, like “Pong.”
This was the beginning of fun games kids still play on screens today.
2007 – iPhone Changes the World: On this day in 2007, Apple told everyone they could soon buy the very first iPhone.
It was a phone, computer, and music player all in one, and it changed how we talk and play!
Today in History Trivia & Interesting Facts
1693 – First Women’s Magazine Published: On June 27, 1693, “The Ladies’ Mercury,” considered the first magazine for women, was published in London.
It offered advice and stories, paving the way for modern women’s publications.
1829 – Smithson Bequeaths Fortune for Smithsonian: On this day in 1829, English scientist James Smithson died, leaving his fortune to establish the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., even though he had never visited the United States.
His legacy created a world-famous center for learning.
1909 – First Transatlantic Flight Attempt Fails: On June 27, 1909, an early attempt at a transatlantic flight failed, but it marked the beginning of ambitious aviation dreams that would soon become reality with later successful crossings.
1954 – First Nuclear Power Plant Opens: On June 27, 1954, the world’s first nuclear power plant began operations in Obninsk, Soviet Union.
This event ushered in a new era of energy production, though it also sparked debates about safety.
1988 – Tyson Knocks Out Spinks in 91 Seconds: On this day in 1988, boxer Mike Tyson defeated Michael Spinks in just 91 seconds, making it one of the shortest heavyweight title fights in history and solidifying Tyson’s reputation as a powerhouse.