November 15 Events in History

On November 15, significant historical events spanning centuries have left indelible marks on global history.

This article highlights 20 key events that occurred on this date, providing a chronological journey through moments that shaped the political, social, and technological landscapes.

From the arrival of Francisco Pizarro in Cuzco in 1533 to the ratification of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s constitution in 2003, each event offers a glimpse into the diverse and profound impacts of November 15 throughout history.

November 15th – On this Day in History

1533 – Francisco Pizarro Arrives in Cuzco, the Capital of the Inca Empire

Francisco Pizarro

In 1533, Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro entered Cuzco, the heart of the Inca Empire. This event marked a significant moment in the Spanish conquest of Peru. Pizarro, who had earlier captured and executed the Inca Emperor Atahualpa, continued his campaign to dominate the Inca civilization.

Also Read: November 14 Events in History

The arrival in Cuzco symbolized the fall of one of the most advanced pre-Columbian civilizations in the Americas. Pizarro’s conquest led to the establishment of Spanish colonial rule, dramatically altering the cultural and political landscape of the region.

1777 – The Articles of Confederation Adopted by the Continental Congress

On November 15, 1777, the Continental Congress adopted the Articles of Confederation, the first constitution of the United States. This document was crucial in uniting the thirteen American colonies during the Revolutionary War.

The Articles created a confederation of sovereign states with a weak central government, reflecting the colonists’ fear of centralized power.

While it had significant limitations and was eventually replaced by the U.S. Constitution in 1789, the Articles of Confederation were a pivotal step in the formation of the United States government.

1806 – Pike Expedition: Lieutenant Zebulon Pike Sees a Distant Mountain Peak

In 1806, Lieutenant Zebulon Pike, while leading an expedition to explore the southern portion of the Louisiana Purchase, sighted a distant mountain peak in what is now Colorado. This peak, later named Pike’s Peak in his honor, became a symbol of the American frontier and westward expansion.

Also Read: November 16th – On this Day in History

Although Pike never reached the summit, his exploration provided valuable information about the geography and indigenous peoples of the region. The Pike Expedition was part of the broader effort by the United States to map and understand its newly acquired territories.

1859 – The First Modern Revival of the Olympic Games in Athens

The first modern revival of the Olympic Games took place on November 15, 1859, in Athens, Greece. Organized by Evangelos Zappas, this event aimed to resurrect the ancient Greek tradition of athletic competition.

While not as internationally recognized as the modern Olympics inaugurated by Pierre de Coubertin in 1896, Zappas’ games were an important precursor. They highlighted the enduring appeal of the Olympic ideal and inspired future efforts to establish a regular, global sporting event that celebrated peace and unity through athletics.

1864 – American Civil War: General Sherman’s “March to the Sea” Begins

Sherman's March to the Sea

On November 15, 1864, Union General William Tecumseh Sherman commenced his infamous “March to the Sea” during the American Civil War. Leaving the captured city of Atlanta, Sherman and his troops embarked on a devastating campaign towards Savannah, Georgia.

The march aimed to cripple the Confederacy’s war effort by destroying military targets, infrastructure, and civilian property. Sherman’s strategy of total war was controversial but effective, significantly weakening the South’s ability to continue fighting. His march is remembered as a turning point in the war, illustrating the harsh realities of modern warfare.

1889 – Brazilian Emperor Pedro II Deposed and Brazil Declared a Republic

On November 15, 1889, Emperor Pedro II of Brazil was deposed in a military coup, leading to the proclamation of the Republic of Brazil.

This pivotal event marked the end of the Empire of Brazil, which had been established in 1822 following independence from Portugal. The military, discontented with the monarchy’s policies and influenced by republican ideals, orchestrated the overthrow.

Pedro II, who was widely respected but seen as out of touch with the needs of a rapidly changing society, was exiled to Europe. The establishment of the republic initiated a new era of Brazilian politics, characterized by efforts to modernize and address social inequalities.

1920 – The First Assembly of the League of Nations Held in Geneva

The League of Nations, established after World War I to promote peace and cooperation among countries, held its first assembly on November 15, 1920, in Geneva, Switzerland.

This historic meeting brought together representatives from 41 member nations, reflecting a collective desire to prevent another catastrophic war.

Although the League faced numerous challenges, including the absence of key powers like the United States, its establishment was a significant step towards international diplomacy. The assembly discussed various global issues, from disarmament to humanitarian efforts, setting the foundation for the later creation of the United Nations.

1926 – The NBC Radio Network Opens with 24 Stations

November 15, 1926, marked the opening of the NBC radio network with 24 stations across the United States. As the first major broadcast network, NBC revolutionized the way Americans received news, entertainment, and information. Founded by the Radio Corporation of America (RCA), NBC’s launch signified the beginning of the Golden Age of Radio.

The network quickly expanded its reach and influence, broadcasting popular shows, music, and dramatic performances. This development not only transformed the media landscape but also played a crucial role in shaping American culture and public opinion during the early 20th century.

1935 – Manuel Quezon Inaugurated as the Second President of the Philippines

On November 15, 1935, Manuel Quezon was inaugurated as the second President of the Philippines, becoming the first to lead the newly established Commonwealth. Quezon’s presidency marked a significant transition from American colonial rule towards Philippine self-governance.

He focused on various reforms, including land redistribution, education, and infrastructure development, aiming to prepare the nation for full independence. Quezon also advocated for the protection of Filipino workers’ rights and the promotion of social justice. His leadership was instrumental in laying the groundwork for the Philippines’ eventual independence in 1946.

1942 – World War II: The Battle of Guadalcanal Ends with a Decisive Allied Victory

Battle of Guadalcanal

The Battle of Guadalcanal, a critical campaign during World War II, concluded on November 15, 1942, with a decisive Allied victory. This six-month battle was fought in the Solomon Islands and was the first major offensive by Allied forces against the Japanese Empire.

The victory at Guadalcanal marked a turning point in the Pacific Theater, halting Japanese expansion and beginning a series of Allied offensives that would eventually lead to Japan’s defeat.

The battle was characterized by intense ground, naval, and air combat, with significant losses on both sides. Guadalcanal’s strategic importance lay in its location, which allowed the Allies to disrupt Japanese supply lines and gain a foothold for further operations in the Pacific.

1943 – The Holocaust: Heinrich Himmler Orders the Deportation of Gypsies to Concentration Camps

On November 15, 1943, Heinrich Himmler, the head of the SS, issued an order that marked a horrific escalation in the Nazi regime’s genocidal policies. Himmler decreed that all Roma (Gypsies) and individuals of mixed Gypsy descent be treated as Jews and sent to concentration camps.

This order was part of the Nazis’ broader racial purification efforts, which aimed to eliminate those they considered racially inferior. Thousands of Roma were rounded up and deported to camps like Auschwitz, where they faced brutal conditions and mass extermination. This genocide, known as the Porajmos or Romani Holocaust, resulted in the deaths of an estimated 220,000 to 500,000 Roma.

1948 – Louis Stephen St. Laurent Becomes the 12th Prime Minister of Canada

On November 15, 1948, Louis Stephen St. Laurent was sworn in as the 12th Prime Minister of Canada. Succeeding William Lyon Mackenzie King, St. Laurent, a Liberal Party leader, played a crucial role in shaping post-war Canada. His tenure was marked by significant developments in social welfare, infrastructure, and foreign policy.

Under his leadership, Canada joined NATO and participated in the Korean War, asserting its position on the global stage. Domestically, St. Laurent championed the development of the Trans-Canada Highway and the St. Lawrence Seaway, both pivotal for the nation’s economic growth and unity.

1966 – Gemini 12, the Final Mission of the Gemini Program, Returns to Earth

Gemini 12, the final mission of NASA’s Gemini program, returned to Earth on November 15, 1966, after successfully achieving its objectives.

Commanded by James Lovell and piloted by Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin, the mission demonstrated the feasibility of long-duration spaceflight, rendezvous and docking procedures, and extra-vehicular activities (EVAs).

Aldrin’s EVA set a new record for spacewalking, proving astronauts could work effectively outside their spacecraft. The success of Gemini 12 was crucial in bridging the gap between the Mercury and Apollo programs, providing essential experience and confidence for the upcoming Apollo missions, ultimately leading to the moon landing in 1969.

1969 – Cold War: Soviet Submarine K-19 Collides with American Submarine USS Gato

On November 15, 1969, a significant and perilous incident occurred during the Cold War when the Soviet submarine K-19 collided with the American submarine USS Gato in the Barents Sea. This event underscored the heightened tensions and risks of underwater confrontations between the superpowers.

Although both submarines were damaged, they managed to return to their respective bases without further incident. The collision highlighted the potential for accidental conflicts that could escalate into broader military engagements. Such incidents led to increased efforts in establishing communication and protocols to prevent accidental confrontations, contributing to later arms control agreements.

1971 – Intel Releases the World’s First Commercial Single-Chip Microprocessor, the 4004

The release of the Intel 4004 on November 15, 1971, marked a groundbreaking moment in the history of computing and technology. As the world’s first commercial single-chip microprocessor, the 4004 revolutionized the design and functionality of electronic devices.

Developed by a team led by Federico Faggin, this tiny chip integrated all the functions of a computer’s central processing unit (CPU) onto a single silicon chip.

The 4004’s introduction paved the way for the development of more powerful and compact computers, leading to the proliferation of personal computers and the digital revolution that followed. Its impact is seen in virtually every aspect of modern life, from computing to consumer electronics.

1988 – In the Soviet Union, the Unmanned Shuttle Buran is Launched into Orbit by an Energia Rocket

On November 15, 1988, the Soviet Union successfully launched the unmanned space shuttle Buran aboard an Energia rocket, marking a significant achievement in its space program. This mission represented the Soviet response to NASA’s Space Shuttle program, showcasing advanced technological capabilities.

The Buran orbited the Earth twice before safely returning, demonstrating the potential for reusable space vehicles. Despite the mission’s success, the Buran program faced budgetary constraints and the collapse of the Soviet Union, leading to its cancellation. However, the Buran’s flight remains a testament to Soviet ingenuity and the intense space race of the Cold War era.

1988 – Palestinian National Council Proclaims the State of Palestine

On November 15, 1988, the Palestinian National Council, meeting in Algiers, Algeria, proclaimed the establishment of the State of Palestine. This declaration, made by Yasser Arafat, the chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), was a pivotal moment in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The proclamation called for a peaceful resolution and recognized the 1967 borders, indicating a significant shift towards diplomacy. Although the declaration was symbolic and did not immediately change the political landscape, it garnered international recognition and support for the Palestinian cause, influencing subsequent peace negotiations and efforts towards a two-state solution.

1990 – Producers of CBS News Show “60 Minutes” Confirm Connection Between Tobacco and Cancer

On November 15, 1990, the producers of the influential CBS News program “60 Minutes” made a groundbreaking confirmation of the connection between tobacco use and cancer. This revelation, based on extensive investigative journalism, highlighted the deceptive practices of the tobacco industry in downplaying the health risks associated with smoking.

The report intensified public awareness and regulatory scrutiny, contributing to significant changes in tobacco advertising, public health policies, and litigation against tobacco companies. The impact of “60 Minutes” in exposing these dangers played a crucial role in the broader anti-tobacco movement, leading to stricter regulations and a decline in smoking rates.

2001 – Microsoft Releases the Xbox Gaming Console

On November 15, 2001, Microsoft entered the gaming industry with the launch of the Xbox gaming console. This release marked Microsoft’s bold venture into a market dominated by established players like Sony and Nintendo.

The Xbox featured powerful hardware, an innovative online gaming service called Xbox Live, and a strong lineup of games, including the iconic “Halo: Combat Evolved.” The console’s success established Microsoft as a major competitor in the gaming industry, influencing the development of future gaming technologies and platforms.

The Xbox’s introduction also contributed to the growth of the gaming community and the evolution of online multiplayer gaming.

2003 – The Democratic Republic of the Congo Ratifies Its Constitution

On November 15, 2003, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) ratified its new constitution, marking a significant step towards political stability and governance after years of conflict and turmoil.

The new constitution aimed to establish a framework for democracy, rule of law, and human rights, addressing the power struggles and corruption that had plagued the nation.

This milestone was part of a broader peace process, supported by international efforts, to rebuild the country and promote reconciliation. The constitution’s ratification paved the way for democratic elections and ongoing efforts to strengthen the DRC’s political institutions and development.