Discover What Happened Today in History
William Shakespeare, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist, was born (traditionally celebrated) in Stratford-upon-Avon. His works include 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and several narrative poems.
Miguel de Cervantes, author of the landmark novel 'Don Quixote', died in Madrid. His work is considered a founding classic of Western literature and is often cited as the first modern novel.
The first successful transatlantic telegraph cable was completed, connecting Valentia Island, Ireland, to Trinity Bay, Newfoundland. This breakthrough dramatically reduced communication time between North America and Europe from weeks to minutes.
High-ranking Nazi official and commander of the Luftwaffe, Hermann Göring, was captured by U.S. troops in Bavaria towards the end of World War II. He was later tried and convicted at the Nuremberg Trials.
The Coca-Cola Company announced a dramatic change to its flagship product, replacing the original formula with a sweeter version called 'New Coke'. The decision sparked a massive public backlash, leading to the return of the original formula as 'Coca-Cola Classic' just 79 days later.