World History
1929 – Lateran Treaty Signed Between Italy and the Vatican
Why it matters: Established Vatican City as an independent state, resolving a decades-long dispute.
1990 – Nelson Mandela Released from Prison
Why it matters: Became a global symbol of reconciliation and the end of apartheid in South Africa.
2011 – Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak Resigns
Why it matters: A pivotal moment of the Arab Spring, reshaping Middle Eastern politics.
U.S. History
1847 – Thomas Edison Born
Why it matters: His inventions, including the practical light bulb and phonograph, transformed modern life.
1937 – General Motors Sit-Down Strike Ends
Why it matters: Strengthened labor unions and reshaped American industrial labor rights.
1989 – Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Aftermath Triggers Major Economic and Regulatory Impact
Why it matters: The disaster led to billions in cleanup costs, major financial liability for Exxon, and sweeping U.S. environmental and maritime regulations that reshaped corporate risk, energy transport policy, and environmental economics for decades.