March 17, a date synonymous with St. Patrick’s Day, is rich in historical significance beyond the vibrant Irish festivities. From religious observances to political upheavals, and technological advancements to monumental discoveries, this day has witnessed a myriad of events that have left an indelible mark on human history. Let us journey back in time and delve into some of the most impactful moments that occurred on this day.
Today in History: 17 March
1. St. Patrick’s Day
Central to March 17 is the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, commemorating the death of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Born in Roman Britain, St. Patrick was captured and enslaved by Irish pirates at a young age. After escaping, he returned to Ireland as a missionary, and he is credited with bringing Christianity to the Irish people. The legend says he used the three-leaved shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity, making the shamrock a potent symbol for this day.
2. Italy Unifies (1861)
On this day in 1861, the Kingdom of Italy was proclaimed, marking a significant step in the long and complex process of Italian unification. Victor Emmanuel II was declared the first king of a united Italy in the 6th century. This momentous event shaped the political landscape of Europe and set Italy on a path to becoming a major European power.
3. Gold Standard Abandoned by the U.S. (1968)
The United States took a crucial step in moving away from the gold standard on March 17, 1968. Amid economic strains and concerns over the U.S. gold reserves, a two-tiered pricing system was established, effectively reducing the role of gold in the global financial system.
4. Serial Killer Richard Ramirez Convicted (1989)
Richard Ramirez, infamously known as the “Night Stalker,” was convicted of 13 counts of murder in California on this day. His heinous crime spree throughout 1984-85 terrorized Southern California residents, making his trial one of the most followed in American crime history.
5. The Discovery of the Rings of Uranus (1977)
While examining the distant planet Uranus through the Kuiper Airborne Observatory, astronomers discovered that Uranus had rings. This discovery made Uranus the second planet after Saturn to be known to have rings and expanded our understanding of our solar system.
6. Zeebrugge Ferry Disaster (1987)
The ferry ‘Herald of Free Enterprise’ capsized just minutes after leaving the Belgian port of Zeebrugge, resulting in the tragic loss of 193 lives. The disaster was attributed to the bow doors being left open, allowing water to flood in. It remains one of the deadliest maritime disasters in British history.
7. Tsar Nicholas II Abdicates (1917)
Amid the chaos of the Russian Revolution, Tsar Nicholas II, the last emperor of Russia, abdicated the throne on this day. His abdication marked the end of the Romanov dynasty, which had ruled Russia for over 300 years. This paved the way for the establishment of a provisional government and, eventually, the rise of the Bolsheviks.
8. U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt Opens the National Gallery of Art (1941)
In Washington, D.C., on March 17, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt inaugurated the National Gallery of Art. Founded upon the art collection of industrialist and philanthropist Andrew W. Mellon, the museum is now home to a significant collection of European and American art.
9. The Birth of Nat King Cole (1919)
On this day, the world welcomed the birth of Nathaniel Adams Coles, better known as Nat King Cole. A gifted pianist and vocalist, Cole became one of the first African-American artists to host his television show and remains an iconic figure in the music industry.
10. The Eruption of Mount Vesuvius (1944)
Mount Vesuvius, infamous for its AD 79 eruption that destroyed Pompeii, erupted again on March 17, 1944. This eruption was the last to date and caused significant damage to nearby villages, including the destruction of several aircraft from a nearby U.S. bomber group.
Reflections on March 17
As we traverse the timeline of March 17, we encounter events that have changed the course of nations, reshaped cultures, and left an indelible mark on human civilization. The celebration of St. Patrick’s Day reminds us of the power of faith and the endurance of cultural traditions. In contrast, the unification of Italy and the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II emphasize the relentless flow of political currents that carve out the geography of nations and empires.
The discovery of the rings of Uranus and the opening of the National Gallery of Art underscore humanity’s relentless pursuit of knowledge, whether it’s gazing at the stars or appreciating the beauty of art. The tragic events, like the Zeebrugge Ferry Disaster, serve as sombre reminders of the fragility of life and the importance of vigilance and responsibility.
March 17 stands not just as a day of celebration but as a testament to the ever-evolving tapestry of human history. From music to politics, tragedies to discoveries, this day offers a mosaic of moments, both monumental and subtle, that have together shaped the course of our shared human journey. As we reflect on these events, we are reminded of the interconnectedness of our stories and the inexorable march of time that binds us all.