Back in Time Today
March 18th has been a day of monumental occurrences throughout history. From significant political shifts to natural disasters and landmark discoveries, this date has seen events that have shaped the world in various ways.
Join us as we explore 30 pivotal events that took place on this day.
1. 37 – Caligula Becomes Emperor of Rome After the Death of Tiberius
On March 18, 37 AD, Caligula rose to power as the Roman Emperor following the death of his predecessor, Tiberius. Known for his eccentric and often tyrannical rule, Caligula’s ascension marked a dramatic shift in Roman politics.
Initially welcomed by the Roman populace for his promised reforms and generosity, his reign soon devolved into a period of excess and cruelty.
Despite his short reign of four years, Caligula’s impact on Roman history is significant. His assassination in 41 AD by his own guards highlights the volatility of Roman imperial politics and the dangers of absolute power.
2. 1068 – Devastating Earthquake Strikes the Levant and Arabian Peninsula, Killing 20,000
In 1068, a catastrophic earthquake shook the Levant and Arabian Peninsula, resulting in massive devastation and the tragic loss of 20,000 lives. This natural disaster is one of the deadliest recorded in the region’s history.
The quake’s impact was felt across multiple cities, causing widespread destruction of infrastructure and homes, further exacerbating the human toll. Such events remind us of the ever-present power of nature and the fragility of human constructs.
The aftermath saw communities struggling to rebuild and recover, illustrating the resilience required in the face of overwhelming adversity.
3. 1229 – Frederick II Declares Himself King of Jerusalem During the Sixth Crusade
On this day in 1229, Frederick II proclaimed himself the King of Jerusalem, a pivotal moment in the Sixth Crusade. Unlike previous military campaigns, Frederick’s claim was secured through diplomatic negotiations rather than warfare.
This peaceful acquisition of Jerusalem was unprecedented and showcased Frederick’s skills in diplomacy. His actions demonstrated a shrewd understanding of the political landscape, allowing him to expand his influence without unnecessary bloodshed.
However, the legitimacy of his claim was contested, leading to further tensions. Frederick’s reign in Jerusalem was brief but underscored the complex interplay of religion, politics, and power during the Crusades.
4. 1241 – Mongols Overwhelm Polish Armies at the Battle of Chmielnik and Plunder Kraków
In 1241, the Mongol army decisively defeated Polish forces at the Battle of Chmielnik. This victory allowed them to plunder Kraków, marking a significant expansion of Mongol influence in Eastern Europe.
The Mongols, renowned for their formidable cavalry and strategic prowess, showcased their military superiority. This defeat was a grave blow to the Polish Kingdom, highlighting the Mongols’ relentless campaign across Europe.
The aftermath saw widespread devastation and looting, leaving a lasting impact on Kraków and its inhabitants. The battle underscored the Mongols’ reputation as one of history’s most effective military forces.
5. 1314 – Jacques de Molay, the Last Grand Master of the Knights Templar, is Burned at the Stake
Jacques de Molay’s execution on March 18, 1314, marked the end of the Knights Templar, a powerful medieval military order. Convicted of heresy, de Molay was burned at the stake in Paris, a dramatic climax to the Templars’ persecution.
His death symbolized the culmination of a politically charged trial orchestrated by King Philip IV of France, who sought to dissolve the order and seize its wealth.
De Molay’s stoic death and his alleged curse on the king and pope became part of Templar lore, contributing to the enduring mystery and intrigue surrounding the Knights Templar.
6. 1438 – Albert II of Habsburg Becomes King of the Romans
Albert II of Habsburg’s ascent as King of the Romans in 1438 was a significant event in the Holy Roman Empire’s history. His election continued the Habsburg dynasty’s influence, solidifying its role as a major European power.
Albert’s reign, although short-lived, was marked by efforts to maintain stability and address various internal challenges.
His coronation underscored the intricate political dynamics of the time, where alliances and familial ties played crucial roles in determining leadership.
Albert’s leadership highlighted the complexities of ruling a diverse and expansive realm, setting precedents for his successors.
7. 1571 – Valletta is Made the Capital City of Malta
The establishment of Valletta as Malta’s capital in 1571 marked a pivotal moment in the island’s history. Named after Jean Parisot de Valette, the Grand Master of the Knights Hospitaller, Valletta was strategically located and fortified to withstand Ottoman threats.
The city quickly became a center of commerce and culture, reflecting the influence of its Hospitaller founders. Valletta’s rich architectural heritage, including baroque churches and palaces, stands as a testament to its historical significance.
Its designation as a capital underscored Malta’s importance as a maritime stronghold in the Mediterranean, shaping its future development and identity.
8. 1608 – Susenyos is Formally Crowned Emperor of Ethiopia
In 1608, Susenyos I was formally crowned Emperor of Ethiopia, a key event in the country’s history. His reign was notable for efforts to centralize power and reform the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.
Susenyos faced significant challenges, including internal revolts and religious conflict, particularly with the Jesuits. His conversion to Catholicism sparked controversy, leading to tensions with traditionalists.
Despite the tumultuous nature of his reign, Susenyos’ legacy includes attempts to modernize and strengthen the Ethiopian state.
His leadership marked a period of transformation and set the stage for future emperors to navigate Ethiopia’s complex religious and political landscape.
9. 1644 – The Third Anglo-Powhatan War Begins in Colonial Virginia
The onset of the Third Anglo-Powhatan War in 1644 marked a critical phase in the conflict between English settlers and Native American tribes in colonial Virginia.
This war arose from escalating tensions over land and resources, culminating in a series of violent confrontations. The Powhatan Confederacy, led by Opechancanough, sought to drive the English out, resulting in significant bloodshed on both sides.
This conflict exemplified the broader struggles and cultural clashes that characterized colonial expansion. The war ended in 1646 with a treaty that further marginalized Native American lands, reshaping the region’s demographic and political landscape.
10. 1741 – New York Conspiracy of 1741 Begins With an Arson Attack on Fort George
The New York Conspiracy of 1741, also known as the Negro Plot, began with an arson attack on Fort George. This event triggered widespread paranoia and suspicion in colonial New York, leading to accusations of a planned revolt by enslaved Africans and poor whites.
The ensuing trials and executions highlighted deep-seated racial and economic tensions. Although the evidence was largely circumstantial, the panic led to harsh repressions and a lasting legacy of mistrust.
The conspiracy remains a poignant example of how fear can exacerbate social divisions and lead to miscarriages of justice, reflecting the complexities of colonial governance.
11. 1766 – The British Parliament Repeals the Stamp Act Amid Rising Colonial Protests
March 18, 1766, saw the repeal of the Stamp Act by the British Parliament, a turning point in the relationship between Britain and its American colonies.
This act, which imposed direct taxes on printed materials, had sparked widespread protests and economic boycotts in the colonies. The repeal was a significant victory for colonial resistance, demonstrating the power of unified action.
However, it also set the stage for further conflicts, as Britain continued to impose unpopular measures. The Stamp Act crisis underscored the growing tensions over taxation and representation, which ultimately contributed to the American Revolutionary War.
12. 1793 – The Republic of Mainz, the First Modern Republic in Germany, is Declared
The declaration of the Republic of Mainz on March 18, 1793, marked a significant moment in German history as the first modern republic on German soil.
Influenced by the French Revolution, the Mainz Republic was founded on principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity. It represented a radical shift from traditional monarchical rule, albeit short-lived.
The republic’s establishment highlighted the spread of revolutionary ideas across Europe, challenging established norms.
Although it lasted only a year, the Mainz Republic set a precedent for future democratic movements in Germany, symbolizing the enduring desire for self-governance and reform.
13. 1848 – Revolutions of 1848: Rebellion in Milan Drives Austrian Soldiers Out of the City
In 1848, Milan became a focal point of revolutionary fervor, as residents rose against Austrian rule during the wider Revolutions of 1848.
This uprising, part of a broader wave of revolutionary activity across Europe, saw Milanese citizens erect barricades and engage in fierce street battles. The rebellion successfully forced Austrian troops to retreat, albeit temporarily.
This insurgency was driven by demands for national independence and democratic reforms, echoing the spirit of liberation sweeping the continent.
Although ultimately suppressed, the Milan uprising underscored the growing discontent with foreign domination and the desire for self-determination in Italy.
14. 1865 – The Congress of the Confederate States Adjourns for the Last Time
On March 18, 1865, the Congress of the Confederate States adjourned for the last time, signaling the imminent collapse of the Confederacy.
With Union forces advancing, the Confederate government faced insurmountable challenges, including dwindling resources and internal dissent.
This final session represented the end of the Confederate legislative body, as leaders grappled with the realities of impending defeat.
The dissolution of the Confederate Congress marked a turning point in the American Civil War, as Union victories paved the way for the eventual restoration of the United States. The adjournment symbolized the failure of the Confederate secessionist movement.
15. 1871 – The Paris Commune is Declared, Marking a Radical Socialist Government in France
The declaration of the Paris Commune on March 18, 1871, marked the establishment of a radical socialist government in France.
Born from discontent with the French government following the Franco-Prussian War, the Commune represented an experiment in self-governance and workers’ rights.
Communards implemented progressive reforms, including labor rights and secular education, challenging the status quo. However, internal divisions and external opposition led to its downfall in May 1871.
Despite its brief existence, the Commune left a lasting legacy, inspiring future socialist movements and debates about governance, class struggle, and democracy in France and beyond.
16. 1874 – The Hawaiian Kingdom Signs a Trade Treaty With the United States
In 1874, the Hawaiian Kingdom signed a trade treaty with the United States, marking a significant moment in Hawaii’s international relations.
This treaty granted the U.S. exclusive rights to certain Hawaiian goods, fostering economic ties and increasing American influence.
While beneficial for Hawaii’s economy, the treaty also foreshadowed future tensions as American interests in the islands grew. The agreement highlighted the complexities of maintaining sovereignty while engaging in international diplomacy.
This treaty was a precursor to eventual American annexation, reflecting the delicate balance Hawaii navigated between economic opportunity and the preservation of its independence.
17. 1899 – Phoebe, a Moon of Saturn, is Discovered Using Photographs
The discovery of Phoebe, a moon of Saturn, on March 18, 1899, was a significant milestone in celestial studies.
Using photographic techniques, astronomer William Henry Pickering identified Phoebe, expanding our understanding of Saturn’s complex system.
Phoebe’s irregular orbit suggested it was a captured object, offering insights into the dynamic processes of the solar system. This discovery showcased the advancements in astronomical technology and the growing ability to observe distant celestial bodies.
Phoebe’s identification contributed to the broader field of planetary science, highlighting the ongoing quest to unravel the mysteries of our universe and the intricate dance of celestial bodies.
18. 1913 – King George I of Greece is Assassinated in Thessaloniki
The assassination of King George I of Greece on March 18, 1913, in Thessaloniki marked a pivotal moment in Greek history. His death occurred during the Balkan Wars, a time of significant territorial expansion for Greece.
George’s assassination by an anarchist added to the region’s instability, impacting Greece’s political landscape. As a respected figure, his loss was deeply felt, and his death underscored the volatile nature of early 20th-century European politics.
The king’s passing led to a succession crisis, influencing Greece’s future direction. This event highlighted the challenges faced by monarchies amidst rising nationalist sentiments.
19. 1915 – Three Battleships Are Sunk in a Failed British and French Naval Attack on the Dardanelles (Gallipoli Campaign)
In 1915, the ill-fated Gallipoli Campaign saw the sinking of three battleships during a British and French naval assault on the Dardanelles Strait. This operation aimed to secure a sea route to Russia, but it faced fierce Ottoman resistance.
The loss of these battleships dealt a severe blow to Allied efforts, highlighting the strategic challenges of the campaign. The failure at Gallipoli resulted in significant casualties and marked a turning point in World War I.
This naval disaster underscored the complexities of warfare and the formidable defenses that the Allies encountered in their ambitious plans to control the Dardanelles.
20. 1921 – The Kronstadt Rebellion is Suppressed by the Red Army
The suppression of the Kronstadt Rebellion on March 18, 1921, marked a crucial moment in Soviet Russia’s early years. Disillusioned with Bolshevik policies, sailors at the Kronstadt naval base staged an uprising demanding political reforms.
The rebellion was a significant challenge to Bolshevik authority, highlighting growing discontent within the ranks. The harsh response by the Red Army, which quashed the rebellion, underscored the regime’s determination to maintain control.
This event revealed the internal tensions and the complexities of revolutionary governance. Kronstadt became a symbol of resistance, influencing future debates on Soviet policies and the nature of socialist rule.
21. 1925 – The Tri-State Tornado Kills 695 People in the Midwestern United States
The devastating Tri-State Tornado of March 18, 1925, remains one of the deadliest tornadoes in U.S. history. Sweeping across Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana, it left a trail of destruction over 219 miles.
With winds reaching estimated speeds of over 200 miles per hour, the tornado obliterated towns and claimed 695 lives. The scale of devastation highlighted the vulnerabilities in early 20th-century infrastructure and emergency response.
This disaster underscored the need for improved forecasting and preparedness, leading to advancements in meteorology. The Tri-State Tornado remains a somber reminder of nature’s power and the importance of disaster readiness.
22. 1937 – The New London School Explosion in Texas Kills 300 People, Mostly Children
The tragic explosion at the New London School in Texas on March 18, 1937, resulted in the deaths of over 300 people, mostly children. Caused by a natural gas leak, this disaster profoundly impacted the community and led to significant safety reforms.
The explosion highlighted the dangers of inadequate safety measures in public buildings. In response, regulations were implemented to prevent similar tragedies, including the addition of odorants to natural gas for detection.
This somber event underscored the importance of stringent safety standards and remains a pivotal moment in the history of public safety in the United States.
23. 1938 – Mexico Nationalizes Foreign-Owned Oil Companies, Establishing Pemex
On this day in 1938, President Lázaro Cárdenas nationalized Mexico’s oil industry, seizing control from foreign companies and creating Pemex.
This bold move aimed to assert national sovereignty over vital resources and ensure economic benefits for Mexicans. The nationalization was met with international backlash, but it was a defining moment in Mexico’s economic history.
Pemex became a symbol of national pride and an example of resource nationalism. This decision reinforced Mexico’s independence and influenced global debates on natural resource control.
The establishment of Pemex marked a turning point, shaping the country’s economic trajectory and its role in the global oil market.
24. 1940 – Hitler and Mussolini Meet at the Brenner Pass to Form an Alliance Against France and the UK
The meeting between Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini at the Brenner Pass on March 18, 1940, was pivotal in solidifying the Axis Powers’ alliance during World War II.
This strategic partnership aimed to coordinate military efforts against France and the United Kingdom. The discussions underscored the shared ambitions of Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy, highlighting their aggressive expansionist policies.
This alliance had significant implications for the course of the war, as it bolstered Axis military capabilities. The meeting at Brenner Pass exemplified the collaboration between totalitarian regimes, setting the stage for further military campaigns in Europe.
25. 1945 – Mount Vesuvius Erupts, Killing 26 People and Destroying Dozens of Allied Bombers
On March 18, 1945, Mount Vesuvius erupted, causing destruction in the surrounding area and impacting Allied military operations during World War II.
The eruption led to the death of 26 people and the destruction of dozens of Allied bombers stationed nearby. This natural disaster underscored the challenges faced by military forces as they contended with both enemy actions and environmental hazards.
The destruction of military assets highlighted the vulnerability of strategic sites to natural events. Vesuvius’s eruption served as a reminder of the ever-present threat of volcanic activity in the region, with historical roots dating back to ancient times.
26. 1965 – Cosmonaut Alexei Leonov Becomes the First Person to Walk in Space
On March 18, 1965, Russian cosmonaut Alexei Leonov made history by becoming the first person to walk in space. This groundbreaking achievement was a significant milestone in the space race between the United States and the Soviet Union.
Leonov’s 12-minute spacewalk demonstrated the feasibility of extravehicular activity, paving the way for future space exploration missions. Despite challenges, including a suit malfunction, Leonov’s successful mission showcased human ingenuity and courage.
His spacewalk marked a key victory for the Soviet space program, inspiring further advancements in space technology and exploration. Leonov’s contribution remains a pivotal chapter in the history of human spaceflight.
27. 1990 – Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Heist: $500 Million Worth of Art is Stolen in Boston’s Largest Art Theft
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum heist on March 18, 1990, is one of the largest art thefts in history, with $500 million worth of artwork stolen. Disguised as police officers, the thieves gained entry and absconded with masterpieces by Vermeer and Rembrandt.
Despite extensive investigations, the stolen art remains missing, fueling speculation and intrigue. The heist spotlighted vulnerabilities in museum security and prompted changes in how art institutions protect valuable works.
This unsolved crime continues to captivate art lovers and investigators alike, symbolizing the enduring allure and mystery surrounding lost masterpieces and the complexities of art theft.
28. 1994 – Bosnia’s Bosniaks and Croats Sign the Washington Agreement, Ending a Major Conflict
The Washington Agreement, signed on March 18, 1994, was a key step in ending the conflict between Bosniaks and Croats during the Bosnian War.
Brokered by international mediators, the agreement established a federation between the two groups, fostering cooperation and peace. This accord marked a crucial turning point in the war, reducing hostilities and paving the way for further negotiations.
The Washington Agreement demonstrated the power of diplomacy in resolving complex conflicts and underscored the importance of international involvement.
It laid the groundwork for subsequent peace efforts, contributing to the eventual resolution of the Bosnian conflict and the stabilization of the region.
29. 2014 – Russia and Crimea Sign an Accession Treaty Following a Controversial Referendum
On March 18, 2014, Russia and Crimea signed an accession treaty following a contentious referendum, marking a significant moment in European geopolitics.
The treaty formalized Crimea’s annexation by Russia, a move condemned by many international actors as a violation of Ukrainian sovereignty. This event heightened tensions between Russia and the West, leading to sanctions and diplomatic standoffs.
The annexation of Crimea remains a contentious issue, impacting international relations and security dynamics in Eastern Europe.
This geopolitical shift underscored the complexities of territorial disputes and the challenges of maintaining international norms and stability in a rapidly changing world.
30. 2015 – Gunmen Attack the Bardo National Museum in Tunisia, Killing 24 People
The attack on the Bardo National Museum in Tunisia on March 18, 2015, was a tragic act of terrorism that claimed 24 lives, including many foreign tourists.
Perpetrated by gunmen linked to extremist groups, the assault highlighted the persistent threat of terrorism in the region. The attack targeted one of Tunisia’s most prestigious cultural institutions, aiming to instill fear and destabilize the country.
In response, Tunisia strengthened its security measures and reaffirmed its commitment to combatting terrorism.
The Bardo Museum attack underscored the global challenges of terrorism and the resilience required to protect cultural heritage and ensure public safety.