1. 312 AD – Battle of the Milvian Bridge
On October 28, 312 AD, the Battle of the Milvian Bridge took place near Rome between the Roman Emperors Constantine I and Maxentius. This battle was crucial in Constantine’s rise to power as the sole ruler of the Roman Empire. According to historical accounts, Constantine experienced a vision of a Christian symbol and the phrase “In this sign, conquer,” which led him to adopt Christianity. His victory marked the beginning of the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire. The battle had long-lasting effects on the religious landscape of Europe.
2. 1492 – Christopher Columbus returns to Spain
On this day in 1492, Christopher Columbus returned to Spain after his first voyage to the Americas. He had set sail in August of the same year and reached the New World, landing in the Caribbean. Columbus’s return marked the beginning of European exploration and colonization in the Americas. His voyage is considered a pivotal moment in world history, as it connected the Old and New Worlds. This event eventually led to significant cultural exchanges and the expansion of European empires.
3. 1636 – Harvard University is founded
Harvard University, the oldest institution of higher education in the United States, was officially founded on October 28, 1636. It was established by the Massachusetts Bay Colony and named after its first benefactor, John Harvard. The university initially aimed to train clergy but soon expanded its curriculum. Harvard has grown into a world-renowned institution known for its academic excellence and influential alumni. Its founding marks a significant development in American education.
4. 1886 – Statue of Liberty dedicated
The Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886, in New York Harbor. A gift from France to the United States, the statue symbolizes freedom and democracy. It was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and engineered by Gustave Eiffel. The dedication ceremony was a grand event attended by thousands and presided over by President Grover Cleveland. Since then, the Statue of Liberty has become an iconic symbol welcoming immigrants arriving by sea.
5. 1919 – Women’s suffrage in the United States
On October 28, 1919, the United States Congress passed the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. This was a significant milestone in the women’s suffrage movement that had been active for decades. The amendment was ratified by the states in August 1920, ensuring voting rights for women nationwide. This legislation marked a major advancement in gender equality and civil rights in America. It empowered millions of women to participate in the political process.
6. 1940 – Italy invades Greece
On October 28, 1940, Italy launched an invasion of Greece, starting the Greco-Italian War during World War II. The invasion was ordered by Benito Mussolini, aiming to expand Italian territory in the Balkans. However, the Greek forces mounted a strong resistance and successfully pushed back the Italians. The conflict delayed Axis plans and opened a new front in the war. This day is commemorated in Greece as “Ohi Day,” meaning “No Day,” symbolizing Greek defiance.
7. 1955 – The first James Bond novel published
Ian Fleming’s first James Bond novel, “Casino Royale,” was published on October 28, 1955. The book introduced the British secret agent James Bond, code number 007, who would become a cultural icon. Fleming’s character was known for his sophistication, espionage skills, and adventurous life. The novel’s success led to a long-running series of books and movies. James Bond remains one of the most enduring and popular fictional characters in spy fiction.
8. 1962 – Cuban Missile Crisis ends
The Cuban Missile Crisis, one of the most tense moments of the Cold War, effectively ended on October 28, 1962. On this day, Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev announced the withdrawal of Soviet missiles from Cuba. This decision came after intense negotiations with U.S. President John F. Kennedy, who had imposed a naval blockade around Cuba. The resolution averted a potential nuclear war between the United States and the Soviet Union. The crisis highlighted the dangers of nuclear weapons and the importance of diplomacy.
9. 1998 – Microsoft releases Windows 98
Microsoft released Windows 98 on October 28, 1998, as an upgrade to its popular Windows 95 operating system. Windows 98 included improvements in hardware support, internet integration, and user interface. It was designed to enhance the personal computing experience and maintain Microsoft’s dominance in the software market. The operating system supported new technologies like USB devices, making it more versatile. Windows 98 was widely adopted and played a key role in the growth of personal computing.
10. 2007 – The global financial crisis begins to unfold
Although the global financial crisis reached its peak in 2008, key events signaling its onset occurred in late 2007, including around October 28. During this period, major financial institutions began experiencing severe liquidity problems due to the bursting of the housing bubble in the United States. The crisis revealed weaknesses in the global financial system and led to widespread economic downturns. Governments worldwide responded with bailouts, regulations, and stimulus packages. The aftermath reshaped financial markets and regulatory frameworks for years to come.