September 4 has been a day of significant historical events across different eras and regions. From the fall of empires and groundbreaking inventions to pivotal battles and cultural milestones, this date marks numerous transformative moments.
In this article, we explore twenty notable occurrences on September 4, highlighting their impact and legacy.
Each event offers a glimpse into the complexities and triumphs that have shaped human progress and our shared past.
September 4th – On this Day in History
476 – Deposition of Romulus Augustulus
On September 4, 476, Romulus Augustulus, the last Roman emperor of the Western Roman Empire, was deposed by the Germanic chieftain Odoacer. This event is often cited as marking the end of the Western Roman Empire.
Romulus Augustulus, a young and relatively insignificant ruler, was installed as emperor by his father, the general Orestes, who had usurped the throne. However, Odoacer’s forces captured and executed Orestes and exiled Romulus Augustulus.
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Odoacer then declared himself ruler of Italy and sent the imperial insignia to the Eastern Roman Emperor Zeno, signaling the end of the Western Empire and the beginning of the medieval period in Europe.
1260 – Battle of Ain Jalut

The Battle of Ain Jalut, fought on September 4, 1260, was a significant turning point in the history of the Middle East. The Mamluks, led by Sultan Qutuz and his lieutenant Baibars, decisively defeated the Mongols, marking the first major defeat for the Mongol Empire.
This battle halted the Mongol advance into the Muslim world and ensured the survival of Islamic civilization in the region. The victory at Ain Jalut demonstrated the effectiveness of the Mamluk military tactics and leadership, and it is considered one of the most important battles in medieval history.
1479 – Treaty of Alcáçovas
The Treaty of Alcáçovas, signed on September 4, 1479, ended the War of the Castilian Succession between the Catholic Monarchs of Castile and Aragon and Afonso V of Portugal. The treaty resolved the conflict over the Castilian throne and established a clear division of spheres of influence in the Atlantic Ocean.
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Portugal was granted control over the Azores, Madeira, and the Cape Verde Islands, while Castile retained control over the Canary Islands. This agreement laid the groundwork for future treaties that would divide the newly discovered lands of the New World between Spain and Portugal.
1609 – Discovery of Manhattan
On September 4, 1609, the English navigator Henry Hudson, sailing for the Dutch East India Company, discovered the island of Manhattan. Hudson was exploring the northeastern coast of North America in search of a northwest passage to Asia.
His exploration led to the establishment of Dutch claims in the region, eventually resulting in the founding of New Amsterdam, which later became New York City. Hudson’s voyage marked a significant moment in the Age of Exploration and contributed to the European colonization of North America.
1781 – Founding of Los Angeles
Los Angeles, California, was founded on September 4, 1781, by 44 Spanish settlers known as “Los Pobladores.” The settlement was originally named “El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles de Porciúncula,” which translates to “The Town of Our Lady the Queen of the Angels of Porciúncula.”
The town was established as part of Spain’s effort to colonize the region and secure its territories in Alta California. Over time, Los Angeles grew from a small pueblo into one of the largest and most influential cities in the United States, known for its diverse culture, entertainment industry, and economic significance.
1862 – Robert E. Lee’s Confederate Army Invades the North
On September 4, 1862, during the American Civil War, General Robert E. Lee’s Confederate Army of Northern Virginia crossed the Potomac River and invaded the North, marking the beginning of the Maryland Campaign.

This strategic move aimed to shift the war’s focus from the devastated Southern states, gather supplies, and possibly influence the upcoming midterm elections in favor of peace candidates. Lee’s forces hoped to incite a rebellion in Maryland, a border state with divided loyalties.
The invasion led to the Battle of Antietam, which became the bloodiest single-day battle in American history and ultimately resulted in a strategic Union victory, halting Lee’s advance.
1886 – Geronimo Surrenders to General Nelson Miles
On September 4, 1886, the Apache leader Geronimo surrendered to General Nelson Miles in Arizona, effectively ending the Apache Wars. Geronimo, known for his fierce resistance against Mexican and American military forces, had led a small band of warriors in a series of raids and skirmishes across the Southwest.
His surrender marked the conclusion of decades of conflict between the United States and the Apache people. Despite promises of fair treatment, Geronimo and his followers were sent to Florida as prisoners of war. Geronimo’s surrender symbolizes both the end of Native American armed resistance in the region and the broader consequences of westward expansion.
1888 – George Eastman Registers the Trademark Kodak
On September 4, 1888, George Eastman registered the trademark “Kodak” and received a patent for his revolutionary camera that used roll film. Eastman’s invention simplified photography, making it accessible to the general public. Prior to this, photography required bulky equipment and complex processes.
The Kodak camera was marketed with the slogan, “You press the button, we do the rest,” emphasizing its ease of use. This innovation paved the way for the mass adoption of photography, allowing people to document everyday moments and significant events alike. Eastman’s contributions significantly influenced the development of both amateur and professional photography.
1894 – George Smith Fined for Drunk Driving
On September 4, 1894, London taxi driver George Smith made history by becoming the first person to be fined for drunk driving. Smith was fined 25 shillings after he crashed his cab into a building while under the influence of alcohol.
This incident highlighted the growing concern over the dangers of drinking and driving, particularly as automobiles became more common.
Smith’s case marked the beginning of legal measures to address and penalize drunk driving, setting a precedent for future laws and regulations aimed at improving road safety and reducing accidents caused by impaired driving.
1909 – First Boy Scout Rally at Crystal Palace, London
On September 4, 1909, the first official Boy Scout rally was held at Crystal Palace in London. Organized by Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the Boy Scouts movement, the event brought together thousands of boys from across the United Kingdom.
The rally aimed to promote the principles of scouting, including outdoor skills, self-reliance, and civic duty. This gathering demonstrated the widespread popularity and rapid growth of the Boy Scouts, which had been established only two years earlier.
The success of the rally helped to solidify the scouting movement’s place in society and encouraged the formation of Boy Scout organizations worldwide, promoting values of leadership, community service, and adventure.
1944 – British Troops Liberate Antwerp, Belgium

On September 4, 1944, during World War II, British forces liberated Antwerp, Belgium, from German occupation. The capture of Antwerp was a significant strategic victory for the Allies. Antwerp, with its large port facilities, was crucial for the Allies to supply their advancing armies.
Prior to its liberation, the port’s use was limited due to the control of the Scheldt estuary by German forces. The subsequent Battle of the Scheldt, which aimed to clear the estuary, was vital for ensuring that the port could be fully utilized for logistical support. The liberation of Antwerp marked a turning point in the Allies’ push towards Germany.
1948 – Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands Abdicates
On September 4, 1948, Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands abdicated the throne due to health reasons, ending her 50-year reign. Wilhelmina became queen in 1890 at the age of ten, and her reign saw the Netherlands through significant events, including both World Wars.
During World War II, she became a symbol of resistance against Nazi occupation, addressing the Dutch people through radio broadcasts from London.
Her decision to abdicate was influenced by her declining health and a desire to see her daughter, Juliana, ascend to the throne. Juliana’s reign marked a period of post-war reconstruction and modernization for the Netherlands.
1951 – First Live Transcontinental Television Broadcast
On September 4, 1951, the first live transcontinental television broadcast took place in San Francisco, California, from the Japanese Peace Treaty Conference. This historic broadcast was carried out by the American Telephone and Telegraph Company (AT&T) and marked a milestone in the development of television technology.
The event demonstrated the potential of live TV to connect people across vast distances, paving the way for the medium to become a dominant form of communication and entertainment. The success of the broadcast showcased the advancements in telecommunication infrastructure and set the stage for the growth of national television networks.
1957 – The Ford Motor Company Introduces the Edsel
On September 4, 1957, the Ford Motor Company introduced the Edsel, a new line of cars named after Edsel Ford, the son of company founder Henry Ford. The Edsel was marketed as a revolutionary vehicle with advanced features and a distinctive design. However, it quickly became one of the most famous failures in automotive history.
The car’s launch was plagued by issues, including poor market research, production problems, and negative press. Despite significant investment and high expectations, the Edsel failed to resonate with consumers and was discontinued in 1960. The Edsel’s failure provided important lessons in market analysis and consumer preferences for the automotive industry.
1964 – Scotland’s Forth Road Bridge Opens
On September 4, 1964, Scotland’s Forth Road Bridge near Edinburgh was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II. The bridge, spanning the Firth of Forth, connected the capital city of Edinburgh with Fife and provided a vital link for road traffic in Scotland.
At the time of its completion, it was one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, with a main span of 1,006 meters (3,300 feet).
The Forth Road Bridge significantly improved transportation and commerce in the region, reducing travel time and enhancing economic connectivity. Its construction was a marvel of engineering and symbolized the progress of modern infrastructure in the mid-20th century.
1972 – Mark Spitz Wins Seven Medals at a Single Olympic Games
On September 4, 1972, American swimmer Mark Spitz made history by becoming the first athlete to win seven gold medals at a single Olympic Games.
Competing in the Munich Olympics, Spitz dominated the swimming events, setting world records in each of the seven events he entered: the 100-meter freestyle, 200-meter freestyle, 100-meter butterfly, 200-meter butterfly, and three relay events.
His remarkable achievement not only established him as one of the greatest swimmers of all time but also set a new standard for excellence in the Olympics. Spitz’s record stood for 36 years until Michael Phelps surpassed it at the 2008 Beijing Olympics with eight gold medals.
1974 – United States Establishes Diplomatic Relations with East Germany
On September 4, 1974, the United States formally established diplomatic relations with the German Democratic Republic (East Germany). This move was part of a broader policy of détente during the Cold War, aimed at easing tensions between the Western and Eastern blocs.
The establishment of relations marked a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, acknowledging the geopolitical realities of a divided Germany. The United States and East Germany opened embassies in each other’s capitals, fostering limited but important diplomatic, economic, and cultural exchanges.
This step also reflected the ongoing efforts to stabilize Europe and manage the complexities of East-West relations during the Cold War.
1998 – Google Founded by Larry Page and Sergey Brin
On September 4, 1998, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, two Ph.D. students at Stanford University, founded Google. Initially developed as a research project called “Backrub,” Google’s innovative search engine quickly revolutionized the way people accessed and interacted with information online.
The company’s mission was to “organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful.” Google’s search algorithm, known for its efficiency and accuracy, set it apart from other search engines of the time.
Over the years, Google expanded its services and products, becoming one of the most influential technology companies in the world, shaping the digital landscape and impacting various aspects of daily life.
2002 – Oakland Athletics Win Their 20th Consecutive Game
On September 4, 2002, the Oakland Athletics won their 20th consecutive game, setting a new American League record.
The team’s remarkable winning streak captured the attention of baseball fans and sports analysts alike, showcasing the effectiveness of their innovative management strategies, particularly the use of sabermetrics, a form of advanced statistical analysis.
This approach, popularized by the book and film “Moneyball,” emphasized on-base percentage and other undervalued metrics to build a competitive team despite a limited budget. The Athletics’ 20-game winning streak not only demonstrated the potential of data-driven decision-making in sports but also highlighted the competitive spirit and resilience of the team.
2014 – United States Launches Airstrikes Against ISIS in Iraq
On September 4, 2014, the United States launched its first airstrike against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in Iraq, marking the beginning of a sustained military campaign against the extremist group. The decision came in response to ISIS’s rapid territorial gains and brutal tactics, which included mass executions, enslavement, and terror attacks.
The airstrike targeted ISIS positions near the Mosul Dam, aiming to prevent the group from using the dam as a weapon or causing a humanitarian disaster. This action was part of a broader international effort to degrade and ultimately destroy ISIS, involving coalition forces and various strategies to combat the group’s influence in the region.
The campaign against ISIS marked a significant moment in the fight against terrorism and highlighted the challenges of addressing complex security threats in the Middle East.