July 14th — From the storming of the Bastille to the launch of important cultural icons.
July 14th is a date marked by revolutionary events, iconic achievements, and the births and deaths of influential figures. From the storming of the Bastille to the launch of important cultural icons, this day is filled with significant historical moments. Let’s delve into the notable events, births, and deaths that make July 14th remarkable.
Historic Events
Storming of the Bastille (1789): On this day, French revolutionaries stormed the Bastille prison in Paris, a pivotal event that symbolized the end of the ancien régime and the beginning of the French Revolution. The fall of the Bastille became a symbol of the fight against oppression and tyranny, leading to the eventual overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of the French Republic. This event is commemorated annually in France as Bastille Day, a national holiday celebrating freedom and democracy.
Young Lords Occupy Lincoln Hospital (1970): The Young Lords, a Puerto Rican nationalist group, occupied Lincoln Hospital in the Bronx, New York, to protest inadequate health care services for the local community. Their actions drew attention to systemic neglect and led to significant improvements in the hospital’s services. This event highlighted the power of grassroots activism in bringing about social change and improving public health.
Hank Aaron Hits 500th Home Run (1968): Legendary baseball player Hank Aaron hit his 500th career home run, solidifying his place as one of the greatest hitters in baseball history. Aaron’s achievement was a milestone in his illustrious career, which included breaking Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record. His success on the field also made him a symbol of perseverance and excellence, inspiring generations of athletes.
Nice Truck Attack (2016): On Bastille Day in Nice, France, a terrorist drove a truck through a crowd of people celebrating the holiday, killing 86 and injuring hundreds. This horrific event was one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in France’s history and underscored the ongoing threat of terrorism in the modern world. The attack led to increased security measures and a national conversation about safety and resilience in the face of terrorism.
Notable Births
Gerald Ford (b. 1913): Gerald Ford, the 38th President of the United States, was born on this day. Ford assumed the presidency following the resignation of Richard Nixon and is remembered for his efforts to restore public confidence in government during a time of political scandal. His decision to pardon Nixon was controversial but was seen as a move to help the nation heal.
Famous quote: “Our long national nightmare is over.”
Ingmar Bergman (b. 1918): Renowned Swedish film director Ingmar Bergman, known for his powerful and introspective films such as “The Seventh Seal” and “Wild Strawberries,” was born on this day. Bergman’s work explored deep psychological and existential themes, earning him a place among the greatest directors in cinema history.
Famous quote: “No form of art goes beyond ordinary consciousness as film does, straight to our emotions, deep into the twilight room of the soul.”
Woody Guthrie (b. 1912): American singer-songwriter Woody Guthrie, whose music became an anthem for social justice and the working class, was born on this day. His song “This Land Is Your Land” is considered one of the United States’ most enduring folk songs, encapsulating the spirit of the American people.
Famous quote: “This land is your land, this land is my land, from California to the New York island.”
Notable Deaths
Billy the Kid (d. 1881): Infamous American outlaw Billy the Kid was shot and killed by Sheriff Pat Garrett in Fort Sumner, New Mexico. Known for his role in the Lincoln County War and his numerous escapes from the law, Billy the Kid became a legendary figure in American folklore.
Famous quote: “I’ll make you famous.”
Jane Austen (d. 1817): Beloved English novelist Jane Austen, author of classics such as “Pride and Prejudice” and “Sense and Sensibility,” passed away on this day. Austen’s keen observations of social manners and her biting wit have made her works timeless, continuing to be celebrated and adapted in various forms.
Famous quote: “There is no charm equal to tenderness of heart.”
Maryam Mirzakhani (d. 2017): Iranian mathematician Maryam Mirzakhani, the first woman and first Iranian to win the Fields Medal, died on this day. Her groundbreaking contributions to the fields of geometry and dynamical systems have left a lasting impact on the world of mathematics.
Famous quote: “The beauty of mathematics only shows itself to more patient followers.”
Thank you for reading todays edition of “TDIH — This Day In History”
For more curated articles that highlight significant moments in history, subscribe to my newsletter! Get concise and engaging articles delivered straight to your inbox every day. Stay informed and inspired — join our community today!
