July 10 has witnessed a rich tapestry of historical events across the centuries, spanning significant battles, groundbreaking advancements, pivotal moments in governance, and cultural milestones.
From the medieval conflicts of the Reconquista to modern movements for civil rights and technological innovations, this date stands out in the annals of history.
Each event not only marks a specific moment in time but also reflects broader societal changes and the enduring human spirit.
July 10th – On this Day in History
138 – The Roman Emperor Hadrian dies, succeeded by Antoninus Pius
The death of the Roman Emperor Hadrian on July 10, 138, marked the end of a significant era in Roman history. Hadrian, who had ruled since 117, was renowned for his extensive travels across the Roman Empire, his consolidation and fortification of its boundaries, and his profound influence on Roman architecture and culture.
One of his most enduring legacies is Hadrian’s Wall in northern Britain, which was constructed to keep out the Picts and other tribes. Hadrian’s reign is often viewed as a period of relative peace and stability, a stark contrast to the expansionist policies of his predecessors.
Also Read: July 9 Events in History
Upon his death, he was succeeded by Antoninus Pius, whom he had adopted as his heir. Hadrian’s administration, marked by his focus on legal reforms and efforts to improve the lives of his subjects, left a lasting imprint on the empire.
1212 – The Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa begins, a turning point in the Reconquista of the Iberian Peninsula
On July 10, 1212, the pivotal Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa commenced in the mountainous region of northern Spain.
This battle marked a crucial turning point in the centuries-long conflict known as the Reconquista, during which Christian kingdoms sought to reclaim territory from the Muslim Moors who had controlled large parts of the Iberian Peninsula since the early 8th century.
Also Read: July 11th – On this Day in History
The Christian coalition, comprising the forces of King Alfonso VIII of Castile, King Sancho VII of Navarre, and King Peter II of Aragon, faced the Almohad Caliphate led by Caliph Muhammad al-Nasir. Despite the daunting challenge posed by the fortified Muslim positions, the Christian forces launched a decisive assault that ultimately led to a resounding victory.
This triumph significantly weakened the Almohad presence in Spain and accelerated the decline of Muslim rule in the peninsula, paving the way for further Christian advances in subsequent decades.
1553 – Lady Jane Grey is proclaimed Queen of England, though her reign lasts only nine days
On July 10, 1553, Lady Jane Grey was proclaimed Queen of England, a position she would hold for only nine days. This brief and ill-fated reign came about due to the political machinations following the death of Edward VI, the son of Henry VIII.
Edward, a Protestant, sought to prevent the throne from passing to his Catholic half-sister, Mary Tudor, and thus named his cousin Jane, a committed Protestant, as his successor. Jane’s ascent was engineered by powerful figures like John Dudley, Duke of Northumberland, who hoped to maintain Protestant control over the monarchy.
However, Jane’s reign was short-lived as popular support quickly coalesced around Mary. By July 19, Mary had entered London in triumph, and Jane was deposed. Lady Jane Grey’s tragic fate was sealed when she was executed the following year, becoming known to history as the “Nine Days’ Queen.”
1584 – William I of Orange is assassinated by Balthasar Gérard in his home in Delft, Netherlands
On July 10, 1584, William I of Orange, also known as William the Silent, was assassinated by Balthasar Gérard in Delft, Netherlands. William was a central figure in the Dutch struggle for independence from Spanish rule and is often regarded as the founding father of the modern Netherlands.
His leadership was instrumental in the Dutch Revolt, which began in 1568 as a response to the oppressive policies of the Spanish Habsburgs, including religious persecution and heavy taxation. Despite numerous attempts on his life, it was Gérard, a fanatical Catholic and supporter of King Philip II of Spain, who succeeded in killing him.
William’s death was a severe blow to the Dutch cause, but his legacy endured, inspiring continued resistance that eventually led to the establishment of the Dutch Republic. His assassination underscored the intense religious and political conflicts that characterized the era.
1778 – American Revolution: Louis XVI of France declares war on the Kingdom of Great Britain
On July 10, 1778, King Louis XVI of France formally declared war on the Kingdom of Great Britain, aligning France with the American colonies in their fight for independence.
This decision was driven by a combination of geopolitical strategy and a desire for revenge following France’s defeat in the Seven Years’ War, which had seen significant territorial losses to Britain.
The entry of France into the American Revolutionary War provided crucial military support to the Continental Army, including supplies, troops, and naval power. French involvement was pivotal in the eventual American victory, most notably exemplified by the French fleet’s role in the decisive Battle of Yorktown in 1781.
Louis XVI’s support for the American cause, although initially a success, also contributed to the financial strains that precipitated the French Revolution. The war marked a significant shift in the balance of power and demonstrated the far-reaching impact of European involvement in the struggle for American independence.
1806 – The Vellore Mutiny, the first instance of a large-scale uprising by Indian soldiers against British East India Company rule, occurs in Southern India
On July 10, 1806, the Vellore Mutiny erupted in the town of Vellore in Southern India, marking one of the first large-scale uprisings against British rule in the region. The mutiny was initiated by Indian sepoys (soldiers) in the British East India Company’s army, who were disgruntled by several policies, particularly those perceived to interfere with their religious practices.
Key grievances included the introduction of new dress codes that included leather headgear and shaving requirements, which were seen as violations of their religious and cultural norms. The immediate spark for the rebellion was the imprisonment of several sepoys who had protested these changes. Early in the morning, the sepoys seized control of the fort at Vellore and killed or wounded over 100 British officers and soldiers.
However, the rebellion was swiftly and brutally suppressed by British reinforcements led by Colonel Robert Rollo Gillespie. Although short-lived, the Vellore Mutiny exposed deep-seated discontent among Indian soldiers and served as a precursor to the larger and more widespread Indian Rebellion of 1857.
1821 – The United States takes possession of its newly bought territory of Florida from Spain
On July 10, 1821, the United States formally took possession of the Florida territory from Spain, following the terms of the Adams-Onís Treaty of 1819. This transfer marked the culmination of longstanding American interest in the region, driven by its strategic importance and the desire for expansion.
Under Spanish control, Florida had been a haven for runaway slaves and a base for raids by the Seminole tribes against American settlers. These issues, coupled with Spain’s weakened position following the Napoleonic Wars, made the cession of Florida to the U.S. increasingly inevitable. When General Andrew Jackson entered Florida in 1818 during the First Seminole War, he effectively demonstrated American resolve to secure the territory.
The Adams-Onís Treaty, negotiated by Secretary of State John Quincy Adams and Spanish Minister Luis de Onís, not only resolved border disputes but also ceded Florida to the U.S. in exchange for the assumption of Spanish debts. This acquisition paved the way for the establishment of Florida as a key part of the growing United States.
1850 – Millard Fillmore is sworn in as the 13th President of the United States, following the death of Zachary Taylor
On July 10, 1850, Millard Fillmore was sworn in as the 13th President of the United States following the death of President Zachary Taylor. Taylor had succumbed to a sudden illness just 16 months into his presidency, thrusting Vice President Fillmore into the nation’s highest office.
Fillmore’s ascent came at a turbulent time in American politics, marked by intense sectional tensions over the issue of slavery. One of Fillmore’s first significant acts as president was to support and sign the Compromise of 1850, a series of measures intended to quell the discord between free and slave states. The Compromise included the controversial Fugitive Slave Act, which mandated federal enforcement to return escaped slaves to their owners.
His presidency, though brief, was consequential in its efforts to maintain the fragile balance between North and South. However, his support for the Fugitive Slave Act alienated many in the North and damaged his political standing, leading to his failure to secure re-nomination by the Whig Party in 1852.
1890 – Wyoming becomes the 44th state of the United States
On July 10, 1890, Wyoming was admitted to the Union as the 44th state of the United States. Known for its rugged landscapes and vast open spaces, Wyoming had been part of the U.S. since the Louisiana Purchase of 1803 and had gained importance during the westward expansion era.
The path to statehood for Wyoming was unique and notably progressive, especially regarding women’s rights. Wyoming Territory had distinguished itself by granting women the right to vote in 1869, becoming the first jurisdiction in the world to do so. This pioneering stance on gender equality earned Wyoming the nickname “The Equality State.”
The push for statehood was driven by a growing population, fueled by the mining and cattle industries, and the desire for greater political representation and control over local affairs. Upon achieving statehood, Wyoming continued to lead by example in promoting equal rights, maintaining its early policies of inclusiveness and participation for all its residents.
1913 – Death Valley, California, records the highest temperature in the United States at 134°F (56.7°C)
On July 10, 1913, Death Valley, California, recorded the highest temperature ever measured in the United States, reaching a scorching 134°F (56.7°C). This record, set at Furnace Creek, stands as one of the hottest temperatures ever reliably observed on Earth.
Death Valley, a desert basin situated below sea level, is renowned for its extreme temperatures and arid environment. The region’s unique topography and atmospheric conditions contribute to its reputation as one of the hottest places on the planet.
The intense heat experienced in Death Valley is due to a combination of factors, including its low elevation, clear skies, and dry, sun-baked ground, which all work together to create an exceptionally hot environment.
The 1913 temperature record has been the subject of scrutiny and debate, with some climatologists questioning its accuracy. Nevertheless, it remains a significant benchmark in meteorological history and underscores the extreme climatic conditions that can occur in desert regions.
1925 – The Scopes Trial, challenging the legality of teaching evolution in Tennessee schools, begins
On July 10, 1925, the Scopes Trial, officially known as The State of Tennessee v. John Thomas Scopes, began in the small town of Dayton, Tennessee.
This landmark legal case emerged from a deliberate challenge to the Butler Act, a Tennessee law that prohibited the teaching of human evolution in public schools. John Scopes, a high school science teacher, agreed to be charged with violating this law to provoke a test case that could challenge its constitutionality.
The trial quickly attracted national attention, pitting two titanic figures against each other: William Jennings Bryan, a three-time presidential candidate and staunch anti-evolutionist, prosecuted the case, while Clarence Darrow, one of the most famous defense attorneys of the era, defended Scopes.
The courtroom became a battleground for broader cultural conflicts between modernist and traditionalist views, especially concerning science and religion. Though Scopes was found guilty and fined $100, the trial spurred a national debate on the role of science and religion in education, influencing future legal and educational policies in the United States.
1938 – Howard Hughes sets a new record by completing a flight around the world in 91 hours
On July 10, 1938, American aviator and industrialist Howard Hughes completed a record-breaking flight around the world. Hughes, already known for his daring aviation exploits and his involvement in the film industry, embarked on this ambitious journey to demonstrate advances in aviation technology and to showcase his company’s aircraft.
Departing from Floyd Bennett Field in New York on July 10, Hughes piloted a specially modified Lockheed Model 14 Super Electra, with a team that included co-pilot Harry Connor, navigator Richard Stoddart, radio operator Thomas Thurlow, and flight engineer Edward Lund. The journey, covering approximately 14,672 miles, took 91 hours, shattering the previous record for global circumnavigation.
Hughes and his crew made only three stops: Paris, Moscow, and Omsk. This feat not only set a new benchmark in aviation history but also enhanced Hughes’s reputation as a pioneering aviator. His successful completion of the flight underscored the potential of long-distance air travel and contributed to the advancements in both commercial and military aviation.
1940 – World War II: The Battle of Britain begins as the Luftwaffe starts attacking southern England
On July 10, 1940, the Battle of Britain began, marking the start of a critical phase in World War II as the German Luftwaffe launched its campaign to gain air superiority over the Royal Air Force (RAF) of the United Kingdom. Following the fall of France in June 1940, Nazi Germany turned its attention to Britain, with plans for an invasion codenamed Operation Sea Lion.
The initial phase of the battle involved Luftwaffe attacks on shipping convoys and coastal defenses, but it soon escalated to intense aerial combat over southern England. The battle represented a significant shift in warfare, focusing on air power as a decisive element. British Prime Minister Winston Churchill famously praised the RAF pilots for their valor, stating, “Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.”
Despite being outnumbered, the RAF’s effective use of radar technology, strategic air defense systems, and the resilience of its pilots led to the eventual failure of the German campaign. The Battle of Britain was a turning point in the war, preventing the German invasion and maintaining a critical base for Allied operations in Europe.
1962 – Telstar, the world’s first communications satellite, is launched, marking the beginning of a new era in telecommunications
On July 10, 1962, the launch of Telstar 1 heralded a new era in telecommunications. Developed through a collaboration between NASA, AT&T, Bell Telephone Laboratories, and the British and French postal services, Telstar was the world’s first active communications satellite capable of relaying television signals, telephone calls, and fax images across the Atlantic Ocean.
Launched atop a Thor-Delta rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida, Telstar 1 was placed into a low Earth orbit, where it began transmitting signals back and forth between the United States and Europe. Just one day after its launch, on July 11, the satellite successfully transmitted the first live transatlantic television feed, featuring a broadcast from Andover, Maine, to the Pleumeur-Bodou station in France.
Telstar’s success demonstrated the feasibility of using satellites for global communications, leading to an explosion in satellite technology and the development of a vast network of communication satellites that form the backbone of today’s interconnected world. This technological milestone greatly contributed to the globalization of information and media.
1966 – The Chicago Freedom Movement, led by Martin Luther King Jr., holds a rally at Soldier Field in Chicago
On July 10, 1966, the Chicago Freedom Movement, led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., held a massive rally at Soldier Field, drawing over 30,000 participants. This event was part of a broader campaign aimed at challenging systemic racial segregation and economic inequality in northern cities, extending the civil rights struggle beyond the Southern United States.
The Chicago Freedom Movement, also known as the Chicago Open Housing Movement, sought to address issues such as discriminatory housing practices, segregated schools, and inadequate public services for African Americans.
The rally at Soldier Field was one of the movement’s most significant demonstrations, featuring speeches by King and other civil rights leaders who called for an end to racial injustice in Chicago and beyond. The campaign faced significant opposition from local political and business leaders, as well as from segments of the white population.
Despite the challenges, the movement achieved some notable successes, including raising national awareness about racial inequality in the North and influencing subsequent fair housing legislation. The Chicago Freedom Movement marked an important chapter in the broader civil rights movement, demonstrating the persistent and pervasive nature of racial discrimination across the United States.
1967 – New Zealand adopts decimal currency, with the New Zealand dollar replacing the pound
On July 10, 1967, New Zealand made a significant change in its financial system by adopting decimal currency, replacing the old pound system with the New Zealand dollar. This transition was part of a broader movement among Commonwealth countries to modernize and simplify their monetary systems. Prior to this change, New Zealand, like the United Kingdom and many of its former colonies, used a currency system based on pounds, shillings, and pence.
The switch to decimal currency, where one dollar was equal to 100 cents, was intended to simplify calculations and align more closely with international trade practices. The transition required extensive public education campaigns and meticulous planning to ensure a smooth changeover. Banks, businesses, and the general public had to adapt to the new currency, with old notes and coins gradually being withdrawn from circulation.
This move not only modernized New Zealand’s financial system but also facilitated easier economic transactions and integration into the global economy. The introduction of the New Zealand dollar was a pivotal step in the country’s economic development and remains the foundation of its monetary system today.
1973 – The Bahamas gain full independence within the Commonwealth of Nations
On July 10, 1973, the Bahamas achieved full independence from the United Kingdom, becoming a sovereign nation and a member of the Commonwealth of Nations. This momentous event marked the culmination of a long journey towards self-determination and nationhood for the Bahamian people. The Bahamas, an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, had been a British colony since the 18th century.
The push for independence gained momentum in the mid-20th century, driven by the growing nationalist movement and the desire for greater political and economic autonomy. The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), under the leadership of Lynden Pindling, played a crucial role in advocating for independence. In 1967, the PLP won the general election, and Pindling became the first black Premier of the Bahamas.
After several years of negotiation with the British government, the Bahamas was granted independence. The transition to independence was marked by celebrations across the islands and attended by dignitaries from around the world. The Bahamas’ independence paved the way for its development as a major tourism destination and financial hub, fostering a sense of national identity and pride among its citizens.
1976 – The Seveso disaster occurs in Italy when a chemical plant accidentally releases a dioxin cloud
On July 10, 1976, the Seveso disaster occurred in a small industrial town in northern Italy, when a chemical plant owned by the Swiss company ICMESA released a toxic cloud of dioxin, a highly dangerous chemical.
The incident took place when a safety valve malfunctioned during the production of trichlorophenol, a chemical used in herbicides. The resulting explosion released a large quantity of dioxin into the atmosphere, which drifted over nearby residential areas, including the town of Seveso.
The immediate effects were alarming: within days, local vegetation wilted, and animals began dying en masse. Although there were no immediate human fatalities, over 600 people were evacuated, and many others suffered long-term health effects, including skin lesions, liver damage, and an increased risk of cancer.
The disaster exposed significant deficiencies in industrial safety protocols and emergency response procedures. It led to the establishment of stricter regulations for the handling and disposal of hazardous substances across Europe. The Seveso Directive, named after the incident, was introduced by the European Community to prevent similar accidents and improve safety standards in the chemical industry.
1985 – Greenpeace’s Rainbow Warrior is bombed and sunk in Auckland, New Zealand, by French intelligence agents
On July 10, 1985, the Greenpeace vessel Rainbow Warrior was bombed and sunk in Auckland, New Zealand, by operatives of the French intelligence service, the DGSE. The ship was preparing to lead a protest against French nuclear testing in the South Pacific.
The Rainbow Warrior had become a symbol of Greenpeace’s activism, advocating for environmental protection and nuclear disarmament. The bombing was intended to prevent the ship from interfering with France’s planned nuclear tests at Mururoa Atoll.
The operation, codenamed “Satanic,” involved placing two explosive devices on the ship’s hull. The first bomb caused significant damage, and the second, detonated shortly after, caused the ship to sink. The attack resulted in the tragic death of Fernando Pereira, a photographer documenting Greenpeace’s activities. The bombing was widely condemned and led to a diplomatic crisis between France and New Zealand.
Subsequent investigations revealed the involvement of French agents, leading to the arrest and conviction of two operatives. The incident significantly damaged France’s international reputation and galvanized support for the anti-nuclear movement worldwide. It remains a stark reminder of the lengths to which states may go to protect their strategic interests.
2002 – Peter Paul Rubens’ painting “The Massacre of the Innocents” sells for a record £49.5 million at auction
On July 10, 2002, Peter Paul Rubens’ masterpiece “The Massacre of the Innocents” was sold at a Sotheby’s auction in London for a staggering £49.5 million (approximately $76.7 million at the time). This sale set a record for the highest price ever paid for an Old Master painting at auction.
“The Massacre of the Innocents,” painted around 1611-1612, depicts the biblical scene of King Herod’s order to kill all male infants in Bethlehem, capturing the dramatic intensity and emotional depth characteristic of Rubens’ work.
The painting’s remarkable sale price reflected its artistic significance, rarity, and the growing market for exceptional works by Old Masters. Prior to the auction, the painting had been mistakenly attributed to another artist and was only correctly identified as a Rubens after extensive research and expert validation.
The successful auction underscored Rubens’ enduring legacy and the high value placed on his contributions to Baroque art. The sale of “The Massacre of the Innocents” also highlighted the vibrant and competitive nature of the art market, where works by renowned artists continue to command record-breaking prices.