Throughout the pages of history, August 10 stands out as a day of immense significance, encompassing a multitude of global events, transformative moments, and notable births and deaths. This chronicle of events showcases the multifaceted nature of human progress, conflict, and creativity on this day.
Today in History: 10 August
1. The Smithsonian Institution is Established (1846)
On August 10, 1846, the U.S. Congress chartered the Smithsonian Institution after James Smithson, a British scientist, left his estate to the United States for the purpose of establishing an institution “for the increase and diffusion of knowledge.” Today, the Smithsonian consists of 19 museums, 21 libraries, nine research centres, and a zoo.
2. The Missouri Compromise (1821)
Missouri was admitted to the Union as a slave state on August 10, 1821, after a controversial debate surrounding the balance of slave and free states. The Compromise was designed to maintain a balance in the Senate between free and slave states, solidifying the tenuous balance of power.
3. The Capture of Fort William Henry (1757)
During the French and Indian War, Fort William Henry was captured by French forces under the Marquis de Montcalm. The subsequent “massacre” by Native American allies of the French resulted in English colonial captives being killed after the battle, an event that was dramatized in James Fenimore Cooper’s novel, “The Last of the Mohicans.”
4. The “Night of the Long Knives” (1966)
In South Africa, Prime Minister Hendrik Verwoerd was ousted from the prime ministership by his own party members, marking a pivotal moment in the politics of the apartheid regime. This event is often called the “Night of the Long Knives” in the annals of South African history.
5. The Building of the Berlin Wall Commences (1961)
While the initial barbed wire encirclements began on August 13, plans and strategies for what would become the Berlin Wall were set into motion on August 10, 1961. This wall would go on to symbolize the deep divides of the Cold War era.
6. William Wallace is Captured (1305)
The Scottish revolutionary and the subject of the film “Braveheart,” William Wallace was captured by English forces on August 10, 1305. He would subsequently be executed, becoming a martyr for the Scottish cause.
7. The First Use of the Guillotine (1792)
During the tumultuous times of the French Revolution, the guillotine was employed for the first time in the execution of highwayman Nicolas Jacques Pelletier. The device would go on to become a notorious symbol of revolutionary justice.
8. The Birth of Herbert Hoover (1874)
The 31st president of the United States, Herbert Hoover, was born on August 10, 1874. His presidency was marked by the Great Depression, and his subsequent humanitarian efforts post-presidency were notable.
9. The End of the “Spruce Goose” (1947)
Howard Hughes’ famed H-4 Hercules, commonly known as the “Spruce Goose,” made its first and only flight on August 10, 1947. The gargantuan wooden aeroplane, originally conceived as a way to transport troops and material during World War II, only flew once, piloted by Hughes himself.
10. The Introduction of the Penny Black (1840)
On this day, the world’s first adhesive postage stamp used in a public postal system, the Penny Black, was issued in the United Kingdom.
11. The Battle of Savo Island (1942)
This naval battle during World War II between Japanese and Allied (mainly American and Australian) naval forces marked the beginning of the Guadalcanal campaign. The Japanese emerged victorious, inflicting significant damage on the Allied fleet.
12. The Passing of Richard Burton (1984)
The renowned Welsh actor Richard Burton, known for his tumultuous relationship with actress Elizabeth Taylor and his powerful performances in films like “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?”, passed away on August 10, 1984.
Conclusion
August 10 serves as a mirror reflecting various facets of human history. It stands as a testament to human resilience, ambition, conflict, and the ceaseless march of time. As we remember these events, it becomes clear that history isn’t just about dates and events; it’s about understanding the intricate tapestry of decisions, actions, and outcomes that have shaped our world.
From the fields of politics, war, science, and culture, the events of August 10 span a broad spectrum, reflecting the diverse nature of human endeavours. As we look back, these moments serve as reminders of where we’ve been and signposts pointing to where we might be headed. Whether through acts of creation or moments of conflict, August 10 highlights the interwoven threads of human experience, showcasing the triumphs and tragedies that have collectively crafted the narrative of our shared history.