September 16 in History

Significant events that happened on this day.

Today

Historical Events

1992

Black Wednesday forced Britain to withdraw the pound sterling from the European Exchange Rate Mechanism

Currency speculators, notably George Soros, bet against the pound and forced the British government to abandon its attempt to keep the currency at a f...

1987

The Montreal Protocol was signed to protect the ozone layer

This international treaty to phase out ozone-depleting substances became one of the most successful environmental agreements in history. It's the only...

1982

USA Today published its first edition, introducing colorful graphics and short articles to newspapers

Critics mockingly called it 'McPaper' for dumbing down journalism with its TV-influenced style. However, the paper's use of color, charts, and concise...

1978

An earthquake measuring 7.4 devastated northeastern Iran, killing an estimated 25,000 people

The city of Tabas was almost completely destroyed, with only 6,000 of its 17,000 residents surviving. The earthquake struck at night when most people...

1975

Papua New Guinea gained independence from Australia

After 60 years of Australian administration, this nation of over 800 languages and countless indigenous cultures became self-governing. Prince Charles...

1968

Richard Nixon appeared on 'Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In' and said 'Sock it to me?'

The presidential candidate's awkward four-second cameo on the comedy show was meant to make him seem relatable and funny. His campaign staff convinced...

1963

Malaysia was formed through the merger of Malaya, Singapore, Sabah, and Sarawak

This federation was meant to create a stronger Southeast Asian nation, but Singapore's inclusion proved controversial. Just two years later, Singapore...

1959

The first successful photocopier was introduced by Xerox, revolutionizing office work

The Xerox 914 could make copies on ordinary paper, unlike earlier machines requiring special paper. It was so popular that Xerox couldn't manufacture...

1940

The Selective Training and Service Act became the first peacetime military draft in U.S. history

Major

President Roosevelt signed the law requiring all men aged 21-35 to register for potential military service. By the time it expired in 1947, over 10 mi...

1908

General Motors was founded in Flint, Michigan, by William C. Durant

Major

What started as a holding company for Buick would become the world's largest automaker for much of the 20th century. Durant originally wanted to name...

1810

Mexico began its War of Independence with the Grito de Dolores

Major

Catholic priest Miguel Hidalgo rang his church bell and delivered a speech calling for independence from Spain. This moment, known as the 'Cry of Dolo...

1620

A passenger on the Mayflower brought along his pet cat and two dogs on the voyage to America

Historical records show that at least one cat and two mastiff-type dogs made the journey aboard the Mayflower. The cat's job was to catch rats in the...

1620

The Mayflower departed from Plymouth, England, carrying 102 Pilgrims to the New World

Major

The iconic voyage that would establish Plymouth Colony took eight weeks to cross the Atlantic. The passengers endured cramped conditions, seasickness,...