1. February 5, 1783 – Preliminary Peace Articles Signed Ending the American Revolutionary War
On this day, preliminary peace articles were signed in Paris between Great Britain and the United States, marking the beginning of the end of the American Revolutionary War. These articles laid the groundwork for the Treaty of Paris, which would be finalized later in September 1783. The agreement recognized American independence and established borders for the new nation. The signing was a pivotal moment in world history, signaling the decline of British colonial power in North America. It also inspired other independence movements around the world.
2. February 5, 1917 – British Steamer SS Laurentic Sinks
The British ocean liner SS Laurentic sank off the coast of Ireland after hitting two German mines during World War I. The ship was carrying a large quantity of gold intended to pay for war supplies. Over 350 people lost their lives in the disaster, making it one of the deadliest maritime incidents of the war. The sinking highlighted the dangers of naval warfare and the use of mines. Salvage operations later recovered much of the gold, but the tragedy remained a somber event in wartime history.
3. February 5, 1958 – The US launches Explorer 1, first American satellite
Explorer 1 became the United States’ first successful satellite launched into orbit, marking the country’s entry into the space race. The satellite was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, and carried instruments to measure cosmic rays. Its launch came just months after the Soviet Union’s Sputnik satellites, intensifying the Cold War competition in space technology. Explorer 1’s data led to the discovery of the Van Allen radiation belts, a significant scientific breakthrough. This event spurred the creation of NASA and increased funding for American space exploration.
4. February 5, 1937 – King George VI’s Coronation Announced
King George VI’s coronation date was officially announced on this day following the abdication of his brother, King Edward VIII. George VI became king unexpectedly after Edward VIII chose to abdicate the throne to marry Wallis Simpson, an American divorcée. The coronation symbolized stability and continuity for Britain during a time of political uncertainty. It was held later in the year, on May 12, 1937. King George VI would later lead Britain through the difficult years of World War II.
5. February 5, 1962 – First American Woman in Space, Valentina Tereshkova
Although Valentina Tereshkova was actually a Soviet cosmonaut, February 5 is important because it marks the day in 1962 when the United States announced its plan to send the first American woman into space. This announcement was a response to Tereshkova’s historic flight in June 1963, which made her the first woman to orbit Earth. The US space program sought to match Soviet achievements by promoting women astronauts. This period highlighted the gender and technological competition of the Cold War era. Eventually, American women astronauts followed, breaking further barriers in space exploration.
6. February 5, 1913 – The 16th Amendment to the US Constitution takes effect
The 16th Amendment, which allows the federal government to levy an income tax, officially became part of the Constitution on this date. This amendment provided a legal basis for the modern income tax system in the United States. It marked a significant shift in American fiscal policy, enabling the government to generate revenue directly from citizens’ earnings. The income tax system would go on to fund major government programs and military efforts, especially during the World Wars. The amendment also led to ongoing debates about taxation and government authority.
7. February 5, 1994 – Byron De La Beckwith Convicted of Murdering Medgar Evers
On this day, Byron De La Beckwith was convicted for the murder of civil rights leader Medgar Evers, nearly 30 years after the crime. Evers was assassinated in 1963 in Jackson, Mississippi, a case that had long remained unresolved due to racial and political tensions. Beckwith’s conviction was seen as a landmark moment in civil rights justice and accountability. The trial highlighted persistent issues of racism and inequality in the American South. This verdict was widely celebrated by civil rights advocates as a victory for justice.
8. February 5, 1897 – The first issue of The Boston Globe is published
The Boston Globe, a major American daily newspaper, published its first edition on this day. Founded by Charles H. Taylor, the paper aimed to provide comprehensive news coverage for the Boston area and beyond. Over time, it grew into one of the most influential newspapers in the United States, known for investigative journalism and political reporting. The Globe played a key role in uncovering major stories, including the Boston Red Sox’s historic sports achievements. It remains a vital media institution with a strong legacy in American journalism.
9. February 5, 1933 – The 20th Amendment to the US Constitution is ratified
Also known as the “Lame Duck Amendment,” the 20th Amendment was ratified to shorten the time between presidential election and inauguration. Prior to this amendment, presidents and Congress members waited until March to take office, which delayed the transition of power. The amendment moved the presidential inauguration date to January 20 and the start of Congress to January 3. This change helped improve government responsiveness and reduce the “lame duck” period. It was especially significant during times of crisis, ensuring quicker governmental action.
10. February 5, 1971 – Apollo 14 Astronauts Walk on the Moon
Apollo 14 astronauts Alan Shepard and Edgar Mitchell conducted the third successful moon landing and moonwalk on this day. Their mission was critical in continuing the United States’ lunar exploration efforts after the Apollo 13 accident. During their moonwalk, they collected over 90 pounds of lunar samples and conducted scientific experiments. Alan Shepard famously hit two golf balls on the lunar surface, adding a human touch to the historic event. The mission helped advance knowledge about the moon’s geology and the potential for future space exploration.