Back in Time Today
Explore the fascinating events that occurred on March 10th throughout history.
From ancient battles to groundbreaking scientific discoveries, each event has played an integral role in shaping the world as we know it today.
Join us on a journey through time as we uncover these remarkable moments.
1. 241 – Battle of the Aegates Ends the First Punic War
On March 10th, 241 BC, the Battle of the Aegates Islands marked the end of the First Punic War, a significant conflict between Rome and Carthage.
This naval battle took place off the western coast of Sicily, where the Roman fleet decisively defeated the Carthaginians. The victory led to the signing of a peace treaty, forcing Carthage to cede Sicily to Rome and pay a large indemnity.
This battle not only marked the rise of Rome as a dominant naval power but also set the stage for future Roman expansion in the Mediterranean region.
2. 298 – Roman Emperor Maximian Concludes Campaign in North Africa
In 298 AD, Roman Emperor Maximian successfully concluded his military campaign in North Africa. This campaign was crucial for securing Roman control over the region and stabilizing the empire’s southern borders.
Maximian’s efforts in quelling revolts and re-establishing Roman authority were pivotal for maintaining the empire’s territorial integrity.
His leadership during this period showcased his strategic acumen and reinforced Roman influence in North Africa, contributing to the overall stability and prosperity of the Roman Empire during his reign.
3. 947 – Liu Zhiyuan Founds the Later Han Dynasty
On March 10th, 947 AD, Liu Zhiyuan declared himself the emperor of the Later Han Dynasty in China. This marked the beginning of a new era following the collapse of the Later Jin Dynasty.
Liu Zhiyuan’s ascension to power was a significant turning point in Chinese history, as it led to a period of consolidation and reunification.
Under his rule, efforts were made to stabilize the region and strengthen the central government. His reign laid the groundwork for future dynasties and played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of medieval China.
4. 1496 – Christopher Columbus Departs for Spain, Leaving His Brother in Charge of Santo Domingo
On March 10th, 1496, Christopher Columbus set sail for Spain, leaving his brother Bartolomeo Columbus in charge of the settlement at Santo Domingo.
This decision came during Columbus’s second voyage to the New World, where he explored and colonized parts of the Caribbean. His departure was significant as it marked the continued European presence in the Americas.
Bartolomeo’s leadership in Columbus’s absence was crucial for maintaining the fledgling colony and ensuring its survival amidst challenges from both indigenous populations and other European explorers.
5. 1535 – Fray Tomás de Berlanga Discovers the Galápagos Islands
On March 10th, 1535, Fray Tomás de Berlanga, the Bishop of Panama, accidentally discovered the Galápagos Islands while sailing to Peru. His ship was swept off course, leading to this unexpected encounter with the islands’ unique wildlife and landscapes.
This discovery was significant as it brought the Galápagos Islands to the attention of the European world.
Berlanga’s observations of the islands’ diverse flora and fauna later inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. The Galápagos remain a valuable site for scientific research and conservation efforts today.
6. 1607 – Susenyos I Becomes Emperor of Ethiopia After Winning the Battle of Gol
On March 10th, 1607, Susenyos I ascended to the throne of Ethiopia after a decisive victory at the Battle of Gol. This battle was a turning point in the Ethiopian succession struggle, as Susenyos’s forces defeated those of his rival, Yaqob.
His victory and subsequent coronation as emperor marked the beginning of a transformative period in Ethiopian history. Under his rule, Susenyos implemented significant military and religious reforms, strengthening the Ethiopian state.
His reign is remembered for its efforts to modernize Ethiopia and establish it as a powerful kingdom in the region.
7. 1629 – Charles I Dissolves Parliament, Beginning the Personal Rule
On March 10th, 1629, King Charles I of England dissolved Parliament, initiating what would become known as the Personal Rule, or the Eleven Years’ Tyranny.
During this period, Charles governed without parliamentary consent, relying on controversial taxation methods to finance his policies.
The dissolution of Parliament marked a tense political climate, exacerbating the conflicts between the monarchy and the parliamentary factions.
Charles’s actions during this time laid the groundwork for the English Civil War, as growing dissatisfaction with his rule fueled the demand for political and religious reforms.
8. 1661 – King Louis XIV Begins Personal Rule of France After Cardinal Mazarin’s Death
On March 10th, 1661, King Louis XIV of France assumed personal control of the government following the death of his chief minister, Cardinal Mazarin.
This marked the beginning of Louis’s absolute monarchy, a period characterized by centralized power and the expansion of royal influence.
Louis’s personal rule saw the strengthening of the French state, the consolidation of power, and the establishment of France as a dominant European power.
His reign, known as the Sun King era, left a lasting legacy on the cultural, political, and military landscape of France and Europe.
9. 1735 – Nader Shah Signs Peace Agreement With Russia, Leading to Russian Withdrawal from Azerbaijan
On March 10th, 1735, Nader Shah of Persia signed a peace agreement with the Russian Empire, leading to the withdrawal of Russian forces from Azerbaijan.
This treaty was a critical diplomatic success for Nader Shah, as it secured Persian interests in the Caucasus region. The agreement restored territorial integrity to Persia and ended the hostilities that had plagued the region.
Nader Shah’s strategic negotiations with Russia showcased his diplomatic prowess and contributed to the stabilization of the Persian Empire during his reign. The treaty had long-lasting impacts on regional politics.
10. 1762 – Jean Calas Dies After Being Wrongfully Tortured, Inspiring Voltaire’s Campaign for Religious Tolerance
On March 10th, 1762, Jean Calas, a Protestant merchant in France, died after being wrongfully tortured and executed. His death sparked outrage and became a symbol of religious intolerance and injustice.
The case caught the attention of the philosopher Voltaire, who launched a campaign to clear Calas’s name and promote religious tolerance.
Voltaire’s efforts eventually led to the posthumous exoneration of Calas and raised awareness about the need for judicial reform.
The case of Jean Calas highlighted the dangers of religious prejudice and inspired movements for tolerance and human rights.
11. 1814 – Napoleon Bonaparte Defeated at the Battle of Laon
On March 10th, 1814, Napoleon Bonaparte faced a significant defeat at the Battle of Laon during the War of the Sixth Coalition.
The battle saw the combined forces of Prussia and Russia outmaneuvering Napoleon’s army, resulting in a strategic victory for the Allies.
This defeat was a major setback for Napoleon, as it weakened his position in France and bolstered the resolve of the coalition forces.
The loss at Laon contributed to the eventual downfall of Napoleon’s empire and the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy in France.
12. 1830 – Royal Netherlands East Indies Army Created
On March 10th, 1830, the Royal Netherlands East Indies Army was officially established to maintain Dutch colonial control in the East Indies, now Indonesia.
This military force played a crucial role in upholding Dutch interests and suppressing local resistance across the archipelago.
The creation of the army marked a significant development in the Dutch colonial administration, reflecting the growing importance of the East Indies to the Netherlands.
The army’s presence helped solidify Dutch authority in the region, influencing the social, political, and economic landscape of Indonesia for decades.
13. 1831 – French Foreign Legion Established by King Louis Philippe
On March 10th, 1831, King Louis Philippe of France established the French Foreign Legion, a unique military unit composed of foreign volunteers. The Legion was created to bolster France’s military capabilities and to serve in colonial territories overseas.
Its formation offered individuals from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to serve under the French flag. The Legion quickly gained a reputation for its discipline, bravery, and effectiveness in combat.
Over the years, it has participated in numerous conflicts around the world, becoming an enduring symbol of military excellence and camaraderie.
14. 1848 – Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo Ratified, Ending the Mexican-American War
On March 10th, 1848, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was ratified by the U.S. Senate, officially ending the Mexican-American War.
This treaty resulted in Mexico ceding a vast portion of its northern territories, including present-day California, Nevada, and Utah, to the United States.
The treaty significantly altered the territorial landscape of North America, paving the way for westward expansion in the U.S.
It also had profound implications for the people living in the ceded areas, as they adjusted to new governance. The treaty marked a turning point in U.S.-Mexico relations.
15. 1861 – El Hadj Umar Tall Captures Ségou, Destroying the Bamana Empire
On March 10th, 1861, El Hadj Umar Tall, a prominent West African military leader and Islamic scholar, captured the city of Ségou, effectively destroying the Bamana Empire.
His victory marked a significant expansion of his influence in the region, as he established the Toucouleur Empire.
El Hadj Umar Tall’s conquest was part of a broader jihad movement aimed at spreading Islam and consolidating power in West Africa.
His success at Ségou demonstrated his military prowess and strategic acumen, reshaping the political landscape of the region and influencing future resistance movements.
16. 1873 – First Azerbaijani Play The Adventures of the Vizier of the Khan of Lenkaran Performed
On March 10th, 1873, the first Azerbaijani play, ‘The Adventures of the Vizier of the Khan of Lenkaran’, was performed in Baku.
This marked a significant milestone in the cultural development of Azerbaijan, as it was one of the first instances of modern theatrical production in the region.
The play, written by Mirza Fatali Akhundov, was a satirical comedy that addressed social and political issues.
Its performance not only showcased the rich literary tradition of Azerbaijan but also inspired future generations of playwrights and artists to explore the dramatic arts.
17. 1876 – Alexander Graham Bell Makes the First Successful Telephone Call
On March 10th, 1876, Alexander Graham Bell made the first successful telephone call, forever changing the landscape of communication.
Bell’s invention allowed the human voice to be transmitted over a wire, a groundbreaking achievement that revolutionized how people connected across distances.
The first words spoken were to his assistant, Thomas Watson, saying, ‘Mr. Watson, come here, I want to see you.’
This successful experiment laid the foundation for the telecom industry, paving the way for the global communication networks we rely on today. Bell’s invention remains a cornerstone of modern technology.
18. 1891 – Almon Strowger Patents the Strowger Switch, Leading to Automated Telephone Switching
On March 10th, 1891, Almon Strowger, an undertaker frustrated by the inefficiencies of manual telephone exchanges, patented the Strowger switch. This invention was a key milestone in the development of automated telephone switching systems.
The Strowger switch allowed calls to be connected automatically without the need for human operators, greatly improving efficiency and reliability.
Strowger’s innovation laid the groundwork for the modern telecommunications infrastructure, enabling the widespread adoption of telephone services.
His invention transformed the industry and remains a fundamental component in the evolution of telecommunication technology.
19. 1906 – Courrières Mine Disaster Kills 1,099 Miners in France
On March 10th, 1906, the Courrières mine disaster occurred in northern France, resulting in the deaths of 1,099 miners. This tragic event remains one of the deadliest mining accidents in history.
The explosion was believed to have been caused by an accumulation of flammable gases, igniting a chain reaction.
The disaster highlighted the dangerous working conditions faced by miners and led to public outcry and demands for improved safety regulations.
In response, the French government implemented significant reforms in mine safety, aiming to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
20. 1909 – Anglo-Siamese Treaty Signed, Placing Malay States Under British Control
On March 10th, 1909, the Anglo-Siamese Treaty was signed, resulting in the transfer of control over the Malay States from Siam (now Thailand) to the British Empire.
This agreement marked a significant realignment of colonial influence in Southeast Asia, as the British sought to consolidate their power in the region.
The treaty delineated the borders between British Malaya and Siam, shaping the geopolitical landscape of Southeast Asia.
It also had profound effects on the local populations, as they adapted to new colonial governance. The treaty remains a key event in the history of British-Siamese relations.
21. 1922 – Mahatma Gandhi Arrested for Sedition and Sentenced to Six Years in Prison
On March 10th, 1922, Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of the Indian independence movement, was arrested by British authorities on charges of sedition.
Gandhi’s arrest was a pivotal moment in the struggle for Indian independence, as it galvanized support for the non-violent resistance movement.
Despite being sentenced to six years in prison, Gandhi’s influence continued to grow, inspiring millions to join the cause for freedom.
His arrest highlighted the oppressive nature of British colonial rule and underscored the resolve of the Indian people to achieve self-determination through peaceful means.
22. 1933 – Long Beach Earthquake Kills 108 in Los Angeles Area
On March 10th, 1933, a devastating earthquake struck the Los Angeles area, with its epicenter in Long Beach, California. The quake resulted in the deaths of 108 people and caused widespread destruction to buildings and infrastructure.
The disaster prompted significant changes in building codes and construction practices across California, leading to increased safety and resilience against future earthquakes.
The Long Beach Earthquake served as a wake-up call for the need to prioritize earthquake preparedness and highlighted the importance of implementing stringent safety standards in seismic zones.
23. 1952 – Fulgencio Batista Leads Coup in Cuba
On March 10th, 1952, Fulgencio Batista led a successful coup d’état in Cuba, overthrowing the existing government and establishing a military dictatorship.
Batista’s return to power marked a significant turning point in Cuban history, as his regime was characterized by authoritarian rule and close ties to the United States.
The coup led to widespread political repression and corruption, fueling discontent among the Cuban population.
Batista’s rule ultimately set the stage for the Cuban Revolution, as opposition groups, led by figures like Fidel Castro, mobilized to challenge his government and seek reform.
24. 1959 – Tibetan Uprising: Thousands of Tibetans Surround Dalai Lama’s Palace to Prevent His Removal
On March 10th, 1959, thousands of Tibetans gathered around the Potala Palace in Lhasa to protect the Dalai Lama from potential abduction by Chinese authorities.
This act of defiance marked the beginning of the Tibetan Uprising, a major turning point in the region’s ongoing struggle for autonomy.
The protest was met with a harsh military response, resulting in widespread violence and the eventual flight of the Dalai Lama into exile.
The uprising brought international attention to the Tibetan cause, highlighting the tensions between Tibet and China and the ongoing quest for Tibetan self-determination.
25. 1969 – James Earl Ray Pleads Guilty to Assassinating Martin Luther King Jr.
On March 10th, 1969, James Earl Ray pleaded guilty to the assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.
This plea came almost a year after King’s assassination in Memphis, Tennessee, an event that shocked the world and intensified the fight for racial equality in the United States.
Ray’s guilty plea spared him the death penalty, and he was sentenced to 99 years in prison.
Despite his conviction, conspiracy theories about the assassination persist, reflecting the deep-seated tensions and unresolved issues surrounding King’s legacy and the civil rights movement.
26. 1977 – Astronomers Discover the Rings of Uranus
On March 10th, 1977, astronomers made the groundbreaking discovery of the rings of Uranus. This unexpected finding was made while scientists were observing the planet’s occultation of a distant star.
The discovery of Uranus’s rings provided valuable insights into the composition and behavior of planetary ring systems, expanding our understanding of the solar system.
The rings were later found to be composed of dark particles, differing from the icy rings of Saturn. This discovery highlighted the importance of continual observation and exploration in uncovering the mysteries of our universe.
27. 2017 – South Korean President Park Geun-hye Removed from Office After Impeachment is Upheld
On March 10th, 2017, the Constitutional Court of South Korea upheld the impeachment of President Park Geun-hye, removing her from office.
This decision marked the culmination of a major political scandal that had engulfed the nation, involving allegations of corruption and abuse of power.
Park’s removal prompted widespread public demonstrations and highlighted the strength of democratic institutions in South Korea.
The impeachment and subsequent political changes signaled a turning point in South Korean politics, as citizens demanded transparency and accountability from their leaders. It underscored the power of public opinion in shaping governance.
28. 2019 – Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 Crashes, Leading to Global Boeing 737 MAX Grounding
On March 10th, 2019, Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 tragically crashed shortly after takeoff, resulting in the deaths of all 157 people on board.
This disaster was the second fatal crash involving the Boeing 737 MAX within a few months, leading to a global grounding of the aircraft model.
The crash raised significant concerns about the safety of the 737 MAX, prompting investigations into the plane’s design and certification processes.
The incident underscored the importance of rigorous safety standards in aviation and highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in the aerospace industry.
29. 2023 – Silicon Valley Bank Collapses in the Second-Largest U.S. Bank Failure
On March 10th, 2023, Silicon Valley Bank collapsed, marking the second-largest bank failure in U.S. history. The collapse was attributed to a combination of risky financial practices and market pressures, leading to a sudden loss of investor confidence.
The bank’s failure sent shockwaves through the financial sector, prompting swift intervention by regulators to mitigate broader economic impacts.
The collapse highlighted vulnerabilities within the banking industry and led to calls for increased oversight and regulation to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The incident served as a stark reminder of the importance of financial stability.