This week in history is filled with fascinating events, remarkable discoveries, and moments that shaped the world we live in today. From scientific breakthroughs to political shifts and cultural milestones, here’s a look at what happened during this period.
February 18
1930 – Pluto is discovered
On this day, Clyde Tombaugh, an astronomer at the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, discovered Pluto. Initially classified as the ninth planet in our solar system, Pluto was later reclassified as a “dwarf planet” in 2006. Its discovery expanded our understanding of the outer solar system.
1885 – Mark Twain publishes The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Considered one of the greatest American novels, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn was first published in the United States. The book, a sequel to The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, provided a satirical critique of American society and slavery in the 19th century.
February 19
1942 – Executive Order 9066 leads to Japanese internment camps
Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, authorizing the internment of Japanese Americans along the West Coast. Over 120,000 individuals, many of whom were U.S. citizens, were forcibly relocated to internment camps, a decision later recognized as a grave injustice.
1878 – Thomas Edison patents the phonograph
Edison’s phonograph, one of his most famous inventions, revolutionized sound recording and playback. This invention laid the foundation for the modern music industry.
February 20
1962 – John Glenn becomes the first American to orbit Earth
Aboard Friendship 7, astronaut John Glenn completed three orbits around Earth as part of NASA’s Mercury-Atlas 6 mission. His mission helped the U.S. catch up in the Space Race with the Soviet Union. Glenn later became a U.S. senator and returned to space in 1998 at the age of 77.
1792 – The U.S. Post Office is established
The Postal Service Act, signed by President George Washington, created the U.S. Postal Service, helping to improve communication and connectivity across the young nation.
February 21
1965 – Malcolm X is assassinated
Civil rights leader Malcolm X was shot and killed in the Audubon Ballroom in New York City while addressing his followers. A former spokesperson for the Nation of Islam, Malcolm X had recently left the organization and founded the Organization of Afro-American Unity. His assassination remains a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement.
1848 – The Communist Manifesto is published
Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels published The Communist Manifesto, a political pamphlet advocating for workers’ rights and class struggle. The document played a key role in the development of socialist and communist movements worldwide.
February 22
1732 – George Washington is born
The first President of the United States, George Washington, was born in Westmoreland County, Virginia. Known as the “Father of the Country,” Washington led the Continental Army to victory in the American Revolution and later set important precedents as the nation’s first leader.
1980 – The “Miracle on Ice” takes place at the Winter Olympics
One of the greatest moments in sports history occurred when the U.S. men’s hockey team, composed of amateur and college players, defeated the heavily favored Soviet Union 4-3 in the Winter Olympics. This victory symbolized a triumph in the Cold War era and remains an iconic moment in Olympic history.
February 23
1945 – The U.S. flag is raised on Iwo Jima
During World War II, U.S. Marines captured Mount Suribachi on the island of Iwo Jima and famously raised the American flag. This moment, captured in an iconic photograph by Joe Rosenthal, became a symbol of American perseverance and was later used for the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial.
1836 – The Battle of the Alamo begins
The 13-day siege of the Alamo started in San Antonio, Texas, as Mexican troops led by General Santa Anna attacked the Texan defenders. The battle became a symbol of resistance and sacrifice in Texas’ fight for independence.
February 24
2022 – Russia invades Ukraine
Marking the beginning of a major conflict, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, sparking a war that led to widespread destruction, a refugee crisis, and international sanctions against Russia. The war continues to shape global politics today.
1803 – The U.S. Supreme Court establishes judicial review
In Marbury v. Madison, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that it had the authority to strike down unconstitutional laws, establishing the principle of judicial review. This case remains one of the most important in U.S. legal history.
History is full of triumphs, tragedies, and turning points. Which event from this week’s history stands out to you the most? Let us know in the comments!
