1. February 28, 1933 – The Reichstag Fire
On this day, the Reichstag building in Berlin was set on fire. The Reichstag was the German parliament building, and the fire caused significant damage. The Nazis blamed the Communists for the fire, which helped Adolf Hitler justify a crackdown on political opponents. This event was pivotal in the establishment of Nazi dictatorship in Germany. The Reichstag Fire Decree suspended many civil liberties and allowed the government to arrest and detain political adversaries without trial.
2. February 28, 1953 – Discovery of DNA Structure
Scientists James Watson and Francis Crick announced the discovery of the double helix structure of DNA. This groundbreaking discovery marked a milestone in genetics and biology. It provided insight into how genetic information is stored and transmitted in living organisms. The discovery paved the way for advances in biotechnology, medicine, and forensic science. It remains one of the most important scientific achievements of the 20th century.
3. February 28, 1844 – The Dominican Republic Gains Independence
On this day, the Dominican Republic declared its independence from Haiti. The declaration ended 22 years of Haitian rule after Haiti had unified the island of Hispaniola. The independence movement was led by Juan Pablo Duarte and other patriots. This event laid the foundation for the modern Dominican Republic as a sovereign nation. It is celebrated annually as Independence Day in the country.
4. February 28, 1939 – Spanish Civil War Ends
The last Republican forces surrendered in Catalonia, marking the effective end of the Spanish Civil War. The conflict had lasted nearly three years, pitting Republicans against Nationalists led by General Francisco Franco. Franco’s forces established a dictatorship that lasted until his death in 1975. The war caused immense suffering and led to the exile of thousands of Spaniards. It also served as a prelude to the ideological conflicts of World War II.
5. February 28, 1993 – Intel Ships Its First Pentium Chips
Intel Corporation shipped the first Pentium microprocessor chips to customers on this day. The Pentium chip represented a major advancement in computer technology with improved speed and processing power. It helped accelerate the growth of personal computing during the 1990s. The Pentium processors became a standard in desktop computers worldwide. This launch marked a significant moment in the history of the semiconductor industry.
6. February 28, 1951 – The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution Ratified
The 22nd Amendment, limiting U.S. presidents to two terms, was ratified on this day. This amendment was a direct reaction to Franklin D. Roosevelt’s four-term presidency. It established a constitutional limit to prevent any future president from serving more than two elected terms. The amendment ensures regular leadership change through elections. It remains a key element of American political structure.
7. February 28, 1991 – Gulf War Ceasefire Signed
A ceasefire agreement was signed, officially ending the Gulf War between coalition forces and Iraq. The war was triggered by Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait in August 1990. The coalition, led by the United States, launched Operation Desert Storm to liberate Kuwait. The ceasefire marked the conclusion of major combat operations, though tensions remained in the region. It reshaped Middle Eastern geopolitics and U.S. foreign policy.
8. February 28, 1849 – The United Kingdom Annexes the Punjab
The British East India Company formally annexed the Punjab region after defeating the Sikh Empire. This annexation expanded British control over northern India. The Punjab became a key area for British military recruitment and administration. The annexation followed the Second Anglo-Sikh War, which ended Sikh sovereignty. It was a significant step in the consolidation of British rule in India.
9. February 28, 1935 – Pluto’s Diameter Estimated
Astronomers made one of the first estimates of Pluto’s diameter on this date. The size of Pluto had been uncertain since its discovery in 1930. Early estimates suggested it was similar in size to Earth’s moon, but later measurements showed it was smaller. This estimation was important for understanding the nature of Pluto as a planetary body. Pluto remained classified as the ninth planet until its reclassification in 2006.
10. February 28, 1986 – People Power Revolution in the Philippines Begins
The People Power Revolution began on this day, leading to the end of Ferdinand Marcos’s dictatorship. The movement was a peaceful mass demonstration demanding democratic reforms. It culminated in the exile of Marcos and the restoration of democracy under Corazon Aquino. This revolution is celebrated as a triumph of nonviolent resistance. It inspired other democratic movements around the world.