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History has seen many defining moments unfold on February 9.
From technological marvels like the first flight of the Boeing 747 to pop culture milestones like The Beatles’ legendary television debut, this day has shaped global history across politics, war, entertainment, and sports.
The first flight of the Boeing 747
On February 9, 1969, the world witnessed a major breakthrough in aviation as the Boeing 747 took its maiden flight.
This revolutionary aircraft, often referred to as the “Jumbo Jet,” was the first wide-body airliner and changed the face of commercial aviation by making air travel more affordable and accessible.
With a capacity to carry over 400 passengers, the Boeing 747 remained one of the most iconic aircraft in history, serving airlines worldwide for decades.
Daylight Saving Time reinstated as ‘War Time’
During World War II, energy conservation was a crucial effort. On February 9, 1942, year-round Daylight Saving Time — officially known as “War Time” — was reinstated in the United States as a wartime measure.
This move aimed to extend daylight hours and reduce the need for artificial lighting, thereby conserving fuel and power during the war effort. The measure remained in effect until September 30, 1945.
The end of the Battle of Guadalcanal
One of the most pivotal battles of World War II, the Battle of Guadalcanal, came to an end on February 9, 1943, as the Allied forces secured a decisive victory over the Japanese army.
This six-month-long battle, fought in the Solomon Islands, was a turning point in the Pacific Theater, marking the beginning of Japan’s retreat in the region.
The campaign saw intense ground combat, naval battles, and airstrikes, making it one of the most grueling confrontations of the war.
Ukraine signs peace treaty with the Central Powers
Amidst the chaos of World War I, Ukraine took a significant step towards sovereignty by signing the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk with the Central Powers (Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria) on February 9, 1918.
This peace agreement recognised Ukraine as an independent state, though the nation’s struggles for stability and independence continued in the years that followed.
The Beatles take America by storm
On February 9, 1964, music history was made when The Beatles performed on The Ed Sullivan Show for the first time.
With over 73 million Americans tuning in, this performance launched the “British Invasion” and cemented The Beatles’ status as global superstars.
Their set-list included hits like All My Loving, Till There Was You, and She Loves You, marking the beginning of Beatlemania in the United States.
The Davis Cup is established
February 9, 1900, saw the birth of one of tennis’s most prestigious international tournaments — the Davis Cup.
Originally conceived as a competition between the United States and Great Britain, the tournament has since grown into a global event involving over 100 nations, making it one of the most significant events in the sport’s history.
Satchel Paige inducted into Baseball Hall of Fame
On February 9, 1971, legendary pitcher Satchel Paige became the first player from the Negro leagues to be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
Paige, known for his powerful pitching and long career, played a crucial role in breaking racial barriers in professional baseball. His induction was a significant step in recognising the contributions of Black athletes to the sport.
This Day, That Year
1775 – British Parliament declares the Massachusetts colony in rebellion, marking an escalation in tensions leading to the American Revolutionary War.
1825 – The US House of Representatives elects John Quincy Adams as the sixth President of the United States after no candidate secured a majority in the Electoral College.
1881 – Fyodor Dostoevsky, one of Russia’s greatest novelists, passes away; his works include Crime and Punishment and The Brothers Karamazov.
1945 – The Allies launch the strategic bombing of Dresden, Germany, in one of the most controversial air raids of World War II.
1950 – US Senator Joseph McCarthy delivers his infamous speech in which he claims to have a list of communists working in the US government, kickstarting the Red Scare.
1986 – Halley’s Comet makes its closest approach to Earth during its most recent visit to the inner solar system.
2001 – The American submarine USS Greeneville accidentally collides with the Japanese fishing vessel Ehime Maru, killing nine people.
With inputs from agencies
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