September 22 has witnessed numerous significant events throughout history, spanning from ancient times to modern day.
This article explores twenty notable occurrences on this date, providing a chronological journey through time.
From the creation of a Roman legion by Emperor Nero in 66 AD to the opening of the world’s longest free-floating bridge in Norway in 1994, these events highlight diverse and impactful moments that have shaped human history.
September 22nd – On this Day in History
66 AD – Emperor Nero Creates the Legion I Italica
On September 22, 66 AD, Roman Emperor Nero established the Legion I Italica. This military unit was primarily recruited from Cisalpine Gaul and other regions of Italy, aimed at bolstering Roman forces during the Jewish Rebellion in Judea.
Known for its emblem, the boar, the Legion I Italica was integral in maintaining Roman dominance across the Empire. It participated in various campaigns, showcasing Roman military prowess and helping to secure territories.
The creation of this legion underscores Nero’s efforts to strengthen and expand Roman influence during a tumultuous period in the Empire’s history.
1236 – The Samogitians Defeat the Livonian Brothers of the Sword in the Battle of Saule
The Battle of Saule, fought on September 22, 1236, marked a significant victory for the Samogitians, a Baltic tribe, over the Livonian Brothers of the Sword. This military order, engaged in the Northern Crusades, aimed to Christianize and conquer Baltic pagan tribes.
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The Samogitians’ victory halted the order’s expansion and led to its merger with the Teutonic Order. This battle was pivotal in the Baltic Crusades, highlighting the resistance of local tribes against external forces and their determination to maintain their cultural and religious autonomy.
1499 – The Treaty of Basel Concludes the Swabian War
On September 22, 1499, the Treaty of Basel was signed, ending the Swabian War between the Swiss Confederation and the Swabian League, allied with the Holy Roman Empire. This treaty acknowledged the de facto independence of the Swiss Confederation, a crucial step towards Swiss sovereignty.
The Swabian War, characterized by a series of conflicts over territorial and political control, culminated in this treaty, shaping Switzerland’s future as an independent and neutral nation. The Treaty of Basel is a landmark in Swiss history, symbolizing the country’s emergence from external dominance.
1586 – Battle of Zutphen: Spanish Troops Defeat the Dutch
The Battle of Zutphen, which took place on September 22, 1586, was a significant encounter during the Eighty Years’ War between Spanish forces and Dutch rebels seeking independence. Commanded by the Duke of Parma, the Spanish troops secured a victory despite being outnumbered.
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The battle is also remembered for the death of Sir Philip Sidney, an English poet and soldier, who became a symbol of chivalry and valor. This clash underscored the intense and prolonged struggle for Dutch independence from Spanish rule, highlighting the broader European conflicts of the time.
1692 – Last People Hanged for Witchcraft in the Salem Witch Trials
On September 22, 1692, the last eight individuals were hanged for witchcraft in Salem, Massachusetts, marking the final executions of the Salem witch trials.
These trials, fueled by mass hysteria, superstition, and a breakdown of due process, led to the execution of 20 people and the imprisonment of many others.
The events in Salem serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of extremism, scapegoating, and judicial failures. The trials have left an indelible mark on American history, symbolizing the perils of allowing fear and suspicion to override justice and rationality.
1776 – Nathan Hale is Hanged for Spying During the American Revolution
On September 22, 1776, Nathan Hale, a young officer in the Continental Army, was executed by the British for espionage. Hale had volunteered to go behind enemy lines to gather intelligence for General George Washington during the American Revolution.
Captured by the British in New York City, Hale was quickly tried and sentenced to death. His reported last words, “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country,” became legendary, encapsulating the spirit of sacrifice and patriotism.
Nathan Hale’s execution highlighted the perilous and often tragic role of spies in the struggle for American independence.
1789 – Office of the United States Postmaster General is Established
On September 22, 1789, the United States established the Office of the Postmaster General as part of the newly formed federal government. This office was crucial in developing an organized postal system, which was vital for communication across the young nation.
Samuel Osgood was appointed as the first Postmaster General. The establishment of this office underscored the importance of efficient communication in fostering economic growth, political unity, and social cohesion in the early United States. It marked a significant step in the development of the country’s infrastructure and governance.
1792 – The French Republic is Proclaimed by the National Convention
The National Convention of France proclaimed the French Republic on September 22, 1792, abolishing the monarchy and marking a radical shift in French politics. This declaration came amidst the turmoil of the French Revolution, a period characterized by profound social and political upheaval.
The establishment of the Republic signified the end of centuries of monarchical rule and the beginning of a new era based on the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
The proclamation set the stage for significant reforms and the eventual rise of Napoleon Bonaparte, profoundly influencing the course of French and global history.
1823 – Joseph Smith Claims to Have Found the Golden Plates
On September 22, 1823, Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, claimed to have been visited by the angel Moroni, who revealed the location of the golden plates.
According to Smith, these plates contained the writings that would become the Book of Mormon, a central text in the Latter-day Saint movement. This event is considered foundational in the history of the LDS Church.
The narrative of the golden plates and their translation by Smith played a crucial role in the formation of the church’s doctrines and the spread of Mormonism, which has since grown into a significant religious movement.
1862 – President Abraham Lincoln Issues the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation
On September 22, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, announcing that slaves in the Confederate states would be freed if those states did not return to the Union by January 1, 1863.
This proclamation marked a pivotal shift in the Civil War, transforming it from a fight to preserve the Union into a battle for human liberation. It also laid the groundwork for the eventual abolition of slavery in the United States.
Lincoln’s decision was both a moral and strategic move, aimed at weakening the Confederacy while gaining support for the Union cause domestically and internationally. The Emancipation Proclamation is celebrated as a milestone in American history, representing a significant step towards equality and justice.
1869 – Richard Wagner’s Opera “Das Rheingold” Premieres in Munich
On September 22, 1869, Richard Wagner’s opera “Das Rheingold” premiered at the National Theatre in Munich, Germany. This opera is the first of the four music dramas that comprise Wagner’s monumental “Der Ring des Nibelungen” (The Ring of the Nibelung) cycle.
“Das Rheingold” sets the stage for the epic tale, introducing key characters and themes that run throughout the cycle, including power, betrayal, and redemption.
Wagner’s innovative use of leitmotifs and his development of a continuous music drama had a profound impact on the future of opera, establishing him as one of the most influential composers in Western music history.
1888 – The First Issue of National Geographic Magazine is Published
The first issue of National Geographic Magazine was published on September 22, 1888, by the National Geographic Society. Initially a scholarly journal, it soon transformed into a popular magazine renowned for its stunning photography and in-depth articles about geography, science, history, and world culture.
National Geographic became a vital source of education and inspiration, fostering a greater understanding of the world’s diverse environments and peoples. Over the years, it has expanded its influence through television, digital media, and various educational initiatives, making significant contributions to the field of geography and global awareness.
1896 – Queen Victoria Surpasses Her Grandfather King George III as the Longest Reigning Monarch in British History
On September 22, 1896, Queen Victoria surpassed her grandfather, King George III, to become the longest reigning monarch in British history at that time. Victoria’s reign, known as the Victorian Era, lasted 63 years and seven months, a period marked by significant industrial, cultural, political, and scientific changes in the United Kingdom.
Her reign saw the expansion of the British Empire, advancements in technology and industry, and profound social reforms. Queen Victoria’s long tenure provided stability and continuity, and she became an enduring symbol of the British monarchy, influencing the cultural and social landscape of the time.
1927 – Jack Dempsey Loses the Long Count Fight to Gene Tunney
On September 22, 1927, one of the most famous boxing matches in history, known as the “Long Count Fight,” took place between Jack Dempsey and Gene Tunney in Chicago.
During the seventh round, Tunney was knocked down by Dempsey but benefited from a controversial delayed count, allowing him extra time to recover.
Tunney went on to win the match by unanimous decision, retaining his world heavyweight title. This bout was significant not only for its dramatic nature but also for the lasting changes it brought to boxing rules, particularly the enforcement of the neutral corner rule, which requires a fighter to move to a neutral corner before the referee begins the count.
1941 – The German Army Begins the Siege of Leningrad
On September 22, 1941, German forces began the Siege of Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg) during World War II, which would become one of the longest and most devastating sieges in history. Lasting 872 days, the siege resulted in extreme suffering and loss of life, with over a million civilians perishing from starvation, exposure, and shelling.
Despite the harsh conditions, the city’s defenders and residents showed remarkable resilience and determination, maintaining their resistance until the siege was finally lifted in January 1944. The Siege of Leningrad is remembered as a symbol of Soviet endurance and bravery, profoundly impacting the city’s and the nation’s collective memory.
1965 – The Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 Between India and Pakistan Ends
The Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, which concluded on September 22, 1965, was the second major conflict between India and Pakistan since their independence from British rule in 1947. The war primarily centered around the disputed region of Kashmir, with both countries claiming sovereignty.
The conflict began in April 1965 and escalated into a full-scale war by August. After intense battles and significant casualties on both sides, a United Nations-mandated ceasefire brought an end to the hostilities.
The war did not result in a decisive victory for either side, and the status of Kashmir remained unresolved. However, it led to the Tashkent Agreement in January 1966, where both nations agreed to restore economic and diplomatic relations and respect the ceasefire line.
1975 – Sara Jane Moore Attempts to Assassinate U.S. President Gerald Ford, But Fails
On September 22, 1975, Sara Jane Moore made an unsuccessful attempt to assassinate U.S. President Gerald Ford in San Francisco, California. Moore fired a single shot at Ford as he was leaving the St. Francis Hotel, but the bullet missed him by just a few feet.
A bystander, Oliver Sipple, intervened and managed to deflect Moore’s aim, preventing further shots. Moore was quickly apprehended and later sentenced to life in prison, although she was released on parole in 2007 after serving 32 years.
This assassination attempt came just 17 days after a similar attempt by Lynette “Squeaky” Fromme, a member of the Manson Family. The close succession of these events highlighted concerns about presidential security and led to increased protective measures for future presidents.
1980 – Iraq Invades Iran, Starting the Iran-Iraq War
On September 22, 1980, Iraq launched a full-scale invasion of Iran, marking the beginning of the Iran-Iraq War, one of the longest and most devastating conflicts of the late 20th century.
The war was fueled by territorial disputes, particularly over the Shatt al-Arab waterway, and by political and ideological differences, as Iran’s Islamic revolution posed a threat to Iraq’s secular Ba’athist regime. The conflict quickly escalated into a brutal war of attrition, characterized by trench warfare, chemical weapons, and significant civilian casualties.
Lasting nearly eight years, the war resulted in an estimated one million deaths and widespread destruction. It ended in 1988 with a United Nations-brokered ceasefire, but without any clear victor. The war had lasting impacts on both nations, shaping their political landscapes and regional dynamics for years to come.
1991 – The Dead Sea Scrolls Are Made Available to the Public for the First Time
On September 22, 1991, the Dead Sea Scrolls were made available to the public for the first time, marking a significant moment in the study of ancient texts and biblical history. Discovered between 1947 and 1956 in the Qumran Caves near the Dead Sea, these scrolls include some of the oldest known manuscripts of the Hebrew Bible, as well as other ancient Jewish writings.
Their release to the public ended decades of restricted access and allowed scholars worldwide to study and analyze the texts. The scrolls provided invaluable insights into the religious, cultural, and linguistic context of the Second Temple period of Judaism.
Their availability has deepened the understanding of Jewish history and the development of early Christianity, making them one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.
1994 – The Nordhordland Bridge in Norway Opens to Traffic, Becoming the World’s Longest Free-Floating Bridge
On September 22, 1994, the Nordhordland Bridge in Norway officially opened to traffic, becoming the world’s longest free-floating bridge at the time. Spanning 1,614 meters (5,295 feet), the bridge connects the mainland with the island of Flatøy, providing a crucial link for the region’s transportation network.
The bridge’s design combines a cable-stayed section with a floating pontoon section, enabling it to cross deep waters and withstand harsh weather conditions typical of the Norwegian coast. Its construction was a remarkable engineering achievement, reflecting advancements in bridge technology and design.
The Nordhordland Bridge significantly improved local infrastructure, facilitating economic development and regional connectivity, and remains a notable example of innovative bridge engineering.