October 24 Events in History

October 24 has been a significant date in history, witnessing events that have shaped nations, advanced technology, and marked cultural milestones.

From political upheavals and groundbreaking scientific achievements to moments of bravery and the evolution of international relations, this date encapsulates a diverse array of historical moments.

In this article, we explore 20 notable events that occurred on October 24, providing a glimpse into the rich tapestry of our past and the enduring impact these events have had on the world. Join us as we journey through time, highlighting the significance of October 24 in history.

October 24th – On this Day in History

1260 – Chartres Cathedral is Dedicated

On October 24, 1260, the magnificent Chartres Cathedral in France was dedicated in the presence of King Louis IX. This iconic Gothic cathedral, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows, had been under construction for several decades.

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The dedication ceremony marked the culmination of years of labor by architects, artisans, and laborers who contributed to its grandeur. Chartres Cathedral remains one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture and continues to attract visitors and pilgrims from around the world.

1360 – Treaty of Brétigny Ratified

The Treaty of Brétigny, ratified on October 24, 1360, was a significant agreement between England and France, marking the end of the first phase of the Hundred Years’ War.

The treaty, negotiated near Brétigny, France, resulted in substantial territorial gains for England, including the regions of Aquitaine and Calais.

In exchange, King Edward III of England renounced his claim to the French throne. This agreement temporarily halted hostilities between the two nations, providing a brief respite in the prolonged and tumultuous conflict.

1590 – Roanoke Colony Found Deserted

Roanoke Colony

On October 24, 1590, John White, the governor of the Roanoke Colony, returned from a supply trip to England only to find his settlement deserted. The mysterious disappearance of the colonists, often referred to as the “Lost Colony,” has puzzled historians for centuries.

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The only clue left behind was the word “Croatoan” carved into a post, suggesting that the colonists might have moved to a nearby island of the same name. Despite various theories and investigations, the fate of the Roanoke settlers remains one of the greatest mysteries in American history.

1648 – Peace of Westphalia Signed

The Peace of Westphalia, signed on October 24, 1648, brought an end to the Thirty Years’ War in the Holy Roman Empire and the Eighty Years’ War between Spain and the Dutch Republic.

This series of treaties marked a turning point in European history, leading to a new political order based on the sovereignty of states and non-interference in their domestic affairs.

The agreements, negotiated in the Westphalian towns of Münster and Osnabrück, laid the foundations for modern international law and diplomacy, significantly shaping the future of Europe.

1851 – Discovery of Umbriel and Ariel

On October 24, 1851, astronomer William Lassell made a remarkable contribution to our understanding of the solar system by discovering two moons of Uranus, later named Umbriel and Ariel.

Lassell’s discovery expanded knowledge of Uranus, which had only been known to have two moons, Titania and Oberon, discovered by William Herschel in 1787.

Using a telescope of his own design, Lassell’s findings underscored the importance of telescopic advancements in astronomy and paved the way for future discoveries in the outer regions of the solar system.

1861 – First Transcontinental Telegraph Line Completed

On October 24, 1861, the first transcontinental telegraph line across the United States was completed, revolutionizing communication across the continent. This groundbreaking achievement linked the eastern and western United States, making it possible to send messages in a matter of minutes rather than the weeks it previously took by mail.

The completion of the telegraph line, built by the Western Union Telegraph Company, effectively ended the Pony Express, which had been the primary method of long-distance communication.

This technological advancement played a crucial role in the economic and social development of the United States, facilitating quicker communication and coordination during the Civil War and fostering the growth of a more connected nation.

1901 – Annie Edson Taylor Goes Over Niagara Falls

Annie Edson Taylor

On October 24, 1901, Annie Edson Taylor, a 63-year-old schoolteacher, became the first person to survive a trip over Niagara Falls in a barrel. Taylor’s daring stunt was intended to secure her financial future, as she hoped to gain fame and fortune from the feat.

She used a specially constructed barrel, padded with pillows, and went over the Horseshoe Falls section of Niagara.

Despite the danger, Taylor emerged relatively unscathed, with only minor injuries. While she achieved her goal of becoming famous, financial success eluded her. Her remarkable adventure remains a notable event in the history of Niagara Falls and a testament to human courage and ingenuity.

1911 – Orville Wright’s Record Glider Flight

On October 24, 1911, aviation pioneer Orville Wright set a new record by remaining aloft for nine minutes and 45 seconds in a glider at Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina. This achievement was significant as it demonstrated the progress being made in the field of aviation.

The Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, had made their first powered flight in 1903, and this glider flight showcased their continued efforts to improve and understand the principles of flight.

Orville’s record-setting flight provided valuable data on aerodynamics and control, contributing to the advancement of aviation technology and paving the way for future developments in the field.

1926 – Harry Houdini’s Last Performance

On October 24, 1926, the legendary escape artist Harry Houdini performed for the last time at the Garrick Theatre in Detroit. Despite suffering from a ruptured appendix, Houdini went on with his performance, exhibiting the remarkable endurance and dedication that had made him famous.

Tragically, Houdini’s condition worsened, and he was hospitalized shortly after the show. He passed away on October 31, 1926, ending the career of one of the most iconic magicians and performers in history. Houdini’s incredible feats of escape and illusion continue to inspire magicians and entertainers around the world, solidifying his legacy as a master of his craft.

1929 – “Black Thursday” Stock Market Crash

October 24, 1929, known as “Black Thursday,” marked the beginning of the catastrophic stock market crash that led to the Great Depression.

On this day, the New York Stock Exchange experienced unprecedented trading volume and panic selling, causing stock prices to plummet. The initial crash set off a chain reaction, leading to further declines in the following days and weeks.

“Black Thursday” is often cited as a pivotal moment in economic history, highlighting the vulnerabilities of the financial system and the devastating impact of speculative investments and economic mismanagement.

The crash had far-reaching consequences, leading to widespread unemployment, bank failures, and severe economic hardship across the United States and around the world.

1930 – Bloodless Coup in Brazil

On October 24, 1930, a bloodless coup d’état in Brazil led to the ousting of President Washington Luís Pereira de Sousa, marking the end of the Old Republic. This political upheaval was driven by widespread dissatisfaction with the government, economic instability, and regional inequalities.

The coup was led by a coalition of political and military leaders who supported Getúlio Vargas, a former governor and reformist. Vargas’s rise to power signified a shift towards a more centralized and interventionist government, initiating significant social and economic reforms in Brazil. His era, known as the Vargas Era, profoundly impacted Brazilian politics and development.

1945 – Founding of the United Nations

On October 24, 1945, the United Nations (UN) was officially founded, marking a significant milestone in international cooperation and diplomacy. The UN was established in the aftermath of World War II with the primary goal of preventing future conflicts and fostering global peace and security.

Its founding members included 51 countries committed to promoting human rights, social progress, and international law. The UN’s creation represented a collective effort to address global challenges through dialogue and collaboration, replacing the League of Nations.

Today, the UN continues to play a crucial role in addressing issues such as poverty, health, education, and climate change.

1946 – First Photograph of Earth from Outer Space

On October 24, 1946, a camera aboard the V-2 No. 13 rocket captured the first photograph of Earth from outer space. Launched by a team of American scientists at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, the V-2 rocket reached an altitude of 65 miles, providing a unique vantage point to photograph the planet.

This historic image offered a new perspective on Earth, highlighting the planet’s curvature and the vastness of the atmosphere. The photograph was a significant achievement in the early days of space exploration and paved the way for future advancements in satellite imagery and space science.

1947 – Walt Disney Testifies to the House Un-American Activities Committee

On October 24, 1947, Walt Disney, the renowned animator and founder of the Disney Corporation, testified before the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC). During his testimony, Disney expressed his concerns about communist influences in Hollywood and named several former employees he believed were associated with communist activities.

This period, known as the Red Scare, saw heightened fears of communist infiltration in various sectors of American society. Disney’s testimony reflected the intense political climate of the time and the entertainment industry’s efforts to distance itself from communist sympathizers.

The HUAC hearings had lasting impacts on Hollywood, leading to blacklisting and the careers of many being irreparably damaged.

1957 – USAF Starts the X-20 Dyna-Soar Program

On October 24, 1957, the United States Air Force initiated the X-20 Dyna-Soar program, an ambitious project aimed at developing a spaceplane capable of both atmospheric flight and space missions.

X-20 Dyna-Soar

The X-20 Dyna-Soar, short for “Dynamic Soarer,” was designed to perform various military and scientific tasks, including reconnaissance, satellite maintenance, and bombing. The project represented a significant step forward in aerospace technology, combining aspects of both aircraft and spacecraft design.

Despite its innovative approach, the program faced numerous technical and budgetary challenges and was eventually canceled in 1963. However, the research and development conducted for the X-20 contributed to later advancements in space travel and reusable spacecraft technology.

1964 – Northern Rhodesia Gains Independence as Zambia

On October 24, 1964, Northern Rhodesia gained independence from British colonial rule and became the Republic of Zambia. This significant event marked the end of British colonialism in the region and the birth of Zambia as a sovereign nation. Kenneth Kaunda, a leading figure in the independence movement, became the first President of Zambia.

The transition to independence was largely peaceful, with Kaunda advocating for non-violent resistance against colonial rule. Zambia’s independence paved the way for the country to establish its own governance structures, economic policies, and identity on the international stage.

The date is celebrated annually as Zambia’s Independence Day, commemorating the nation’s journey to self-determination.

1973 – Yom Kippur War Ceasefire

On October 24, 1973, a ceasefire was declared, effectively ending the Yom Kippur War. The conflict, which began on October 6, saw Egyptian and Syrian forces launch a surprise attack on Israel during the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur. Intense battles took place in the Sinai Peninsula and the Golan Heights, with significant casualties on both sides.

The war prompted global political and economic repercussions, including the 1973 oil crisis. The ceasefire, brokered by the United Nations and backed by the United States and the Soviet Union, halted the hostilities and led to subsequent peace negotiations.

The Yom Kippur War highlighted the volatile nature of Middle Eastern geopolitics and underscored the importance of diplomatic efforts in achieving lasting peace in the region.

1980 – Legalization of Solidarity Trade Union in Poland

On October 24, 1980, the Polish government officially recognized and legalized the Solidarity (Solidarność) trade union, marking a historic moment in the country’s struggle for workers’ rights and political reform.

Solidarity, led by Lech Wałęsa, emerged from a series of labor strikes at the Gdańsk Shipyard and quickly grew into a powerful social movement advocating for free trade unions, human rights, and democratic changes.

The legalization of Solidarity represented a significant concession by the communist government and signaled a shift towards greater political openness and civil liberties. Solidarity’s influence extended beyond Poland, inspiring other pro-democracy movements in Eastern Europe and contributing to the eventual fall of communism in the region.

2003 – Last Commercial Flight of the Concorde

On October 24, 2003, the Concorde made its last commercial flight, marking the end of an era in supersonic passenger travel. The Concorde, operated by British Airways and Air France, had been an icon of aviation since its introduction in 1976, known for its sleek design and ability to fly at twice the speed of sound.

Concorde

Despite its technological marvel, the Concorde faced economic challenges, high operational costs, and a decline in demand following the 2000 crash of Air France Flight 4590. The final flight, from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport to London Heathrow, carried a mix of celebrities, aviation enthusiasts, and media.

The retirement of the Concorde left a lasting legacy in aviation history, symbolizing both the achievements and limitations of commercial supersonic flight.

2008 – “Bloody Friday” Stock Market Crash

On October 24, 2008, financial markets around the world experienced severe declines, a day that came to be known as “Bloody Friday.” This dramatic drop was part of the global financial crisis, triggered by the collapse of major financial institutions, risky banking practices, and a bursting housing bubble.

Stock indices in numerous countries saw some of the largest single-day losses in history, reflecting widespread panic and uncertainty among investors. The crash exacerbated the economic turmoil, leading to massive layoffs, foreclosures, and a deep recession.

Governments and central banks responded with unprecedented measures, including bailouts and stimulus packages, to stabilize the financial system. “Bloody Friday” underscored the interconnectedness of global economies and the far-reaching impact of financial instability.