The annals of history are vast, and every day holds its own unique and important events. The 28th of September is no exception. From significant political upheavals, and groundbreaking discoveries, to monumental cultural shifts, this day has witnessed numerous events that have had a lasting impact on the global landscape.
Today in History: 28 September
1. The Siege of Jerusalem (70 AD):
One of the earliest and most significant events that occurred on this day was the Siege of Jerusalem by the Romans in 70 AD. Led by the future Emperor Titus, with Tiberius Julius Alexander as his second-in-command, Roman legions breached the walls of Jerusalem and destroyed much of the city, including the Second Temple. This catastrophic event resulted in a vast loss of Jewish lives and marked the beginning of the Jewish diaspora. The loss of the Temple, the most sacred building in Judaism, had profound religious implications and still resonates in contemporary geopolitical tensions.
2. William the Conqueror invades England (1066):
On 28 September 1066, William the Conqueror began his invasion of England, leading to the pivotal Battle of Hastings on 14 October. His victory in this battle and subsequent coronation as the King of England marked the commencement of Norman rule, drastically altering the linguistic, cultural, and political fabric of England.
3. The World’s First Airport Opens in College Park, Maryland (1909):
This date also marks the establishment of the College Park Airport, recognized by many as the oldest continuously operating airport in the world. Founded by the Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, the airport played a critical role in the early days of aviation, serving as a base for experimental flights and pilot training.
4. Birth of the Czechoslovak Republic (1928):
In 1928, the Czechoslovak Republic, a beacon of democracy in interwar Central Europe, celebrated its tenth anniversary. This nation, born out of the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire following World War I, stood as a symbol of Slavic self-determination. However, its existence was fraught with ethnic tensions and political challenges, eventually culminating in its peaceful dissolution into the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 1993.
5. The Release of Miles Davis’ “In A Silent Way” (1969):
In the realm of music, 28 September 1969 saw the release of jazz maestro Miles Davis’ “In A Silent Way.” This album is credited with pioneering the jazz fusion genre, blending traditional jazz with rock and electronic music. Its innovative style and experimental soundscape paved the way for future jazz artists and left an indelible mark on the music industry.
6. The Establishment of the International Day for Universal Access to Information (2020):
Recognizing the importance of free access to information, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 28 September as the International Day for Universal Access to Information in 2020. This day underscores the significance of ensuring open and transparent governance and highlights the role of information as a public good.
Notable Births on 28 September:
- 551 BC: Confucius, the famed Chinese teacher, editor, politician, and philosopher whose thoughts have deeply influenced Chinese culture and literature, was born on this day. His philosophy, known as Confucianism, centres on personal and governmental morality, the correctness of social relationships, justice, and sincerity.
- 1901: Ed Sullivan, an American television personality, was born. He’s best remembered for his long-standing TV variety show, “The Ed Sullivan Show,” which showcased a plethora of talents, including the legendary performance of The Beatles in 1964.
Notable Deaths on 28 September:
- 1891: Herman Melville, the American novelist best known for his masterpiece “Moby-Dick,” passed away. While his works garnered little attention during his lifetime, Melville posthumously became recognized as one of the greatest American writers.
- 1964: Harpo Marx, a member of the Marx Brothers comedy team, died. He was renowned for his silent performances and his ability to convey humour without uttering a word.
Conclusion:
As we reflect upon the events of 28 September, it’s evident that history is a rich tapestry interwoven with countless threads of human endeavours, achievements, tragedies, and triumphs. From ancient battles that changed the course of empires to musical innovations that redefined genres, this day offers a panoramic view of humanity’s journey.
The value of understanding these historical moments lies in the insights they offer and the lessons they impart. As philosopher George Santayana aptly put it, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” By revisiting and reflecting on the events of days like the 28th of September, we not only honour the legacy of those who came before us but also equip ourselves with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of the present and the uncertainties of the future.