November 2023 – Page 2 – Historic Moments Today

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2023

November 20th: The Rise Of Microsoft: Windows 1.0 Launched

What Happened On November 20th? The Birth of Microsoft 1.0 (1985) On November 20, 1985, the landscape of personal computing underwent a seismic transformation with the release of Microsoft Windows 1.0. Microsoft, led by co-founder Bill Gates, introduced a graphical user interface (GUI) that would revolutionize the way people interacted with computers. The release of Windows 1.0 laid the foundation for the modern computing experience, shaping the trajectory of technology and establishing Microsoft as a global tech powerhouse. Released as a graphical extension for MS-DOS, Windows 1.0 introduced several groundbreaking features that would become standard in future operating systems: Graphical…

Nov

2023

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By Dr. Charles E. Whitman, Jr., Historian at Large

November 19th: How Pelé Scored His 1000th Goal

Sports History

What Happened On November 19th? Pele Notched His 1000th Goal (1969) In the annals of football history, there are moments that transcend the game, etching themselves into the collective memory of fans worldwide. One such extraordinary milestone occurred on November 19, 1969, when the legendary Brazilian forward, Pele, reached a magical figure – his 1000th goal. This landmark achievement not only solidified Pele's status as one of the greatest footballers of all time but also stands as a testament to his unparalleled skill, dedication, and enduring legacy. In the 33rd minute of the game, Pele etched his name into…

Nov

2023

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By Professor Gregory J. Hayes, Ph.D. in Art History

November 18th: Revolutionary Push-Button Phones Released Worldwide

Science & Industry

What Happened On November 18th? Dialing into the Future (1963) On November 18, 1963, push-button phones made their debut, evolving from the familiar rotary dialers. Before the advent of push-button phones, rotary dialers were the standard means of dialing a telephone number. However, as technology continued to advance, the need for a more streamlined and user-friendly method of communication became apparent. Enter the push-button phone – a device that would revolutionize the way people interacted over long distances. As the first button was pressed on that historic day, a beep resonated, and a melodic tone echoed through the earpiece. The efficiency…

Nov

2023

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By Dr. Sylvia K. Crawford, MA in Journalism

November 17th: Schwarzenegger Elected Governor Of California

U.S. History

What Happened On November 17th? Arnold Schwarzenegger's Political Odyssey (2003) On November 17, 2003, the political landscape of California underwent a seismic shift as the iconic actor, bodybuilder, and businessman Arnold Schwarzenegger was sworn in as the 38th governor of the Golden State. The culmination of a dramatic recall election, Schwarzenegger's entry into politics marked a unique chapter in California's history. The day Arnold Schwarzenegger was a day when the boundaries between Hollywood and politics blurred, as a globally recognized action star assumed the responsibility of leading the nation's most populous state. Schwarzenegger's tenure as governor remains a fascinating chapter,…

Nov

2023

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By Dr. Sylvia K. Crawford, MA in Journalism

November 16th: 1st Harry Potter Film Released Into Theaters

Arts & Culture

What Happened On November 16th? "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" (2001) Today is labeled as the first day of the "Harry Potter" series with the release of "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" on November 16th, 2001. Based on J.K. Rowling's beloved book, the film introduced audiences to the magical world of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and the young wizard Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe). With its enchanting storytelling, enchanting characters, and breathtaking visual effects, "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" captured the hearts of both children and adults alike. The film's success paved the way for a…

Nov

2023

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By Professor Gregory J. Hayes, Ph.D. in Art History

November 15th: The League of Nations Held Its First Meeting

World History

What Happened On November 15th? When The League of Nations Held Its First Meeting (1920) The League of Nations, a predecessor to the United Nations, held its primary meeting on November 15, 1920, in Geneva, Switzerland. The organization emerged from the aftermath of World War I, with the goal of preventing future conflicts through diplomacy, cooperation, and collective security. It aimed to provide a platform for nations to discuss and resolve disputes peacefully. The League sought to promote disarmament, protect minority rights, and address global issues such as health, labor, and human trafficking. While it faced criticism and limitations, the…

Nov

2023

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By Dr. Charles E. Whitman, Jr., Historian at Large

November 14th: Literary Classic, Moby Dick Published

World History

What Happened On November 14th? Herman Melville's Moby-Dick Published (1851) One of the most influential novels in American literature was unleashed upon the world on November 14th, 1851. Herman Melville's masterpiece, Moby-Dick, tells the gripping tale of Captain Ahab's relentless pursuit of a white whale. The book, initially met with mixed reviews, has since achieved cult status and is now widely recognized as a literary classic. Melville's profound exploration of themes such as obsession, fate, and the complexities of human nature continues to captivate readers to this day. Apollo 12 Lands on the Moon's Ocean of Storms (1969) On November…

Nov

2023

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By Dr. Sylvia K. Crawford, MA in Journalism

November 13th: ISIS Attack Claimed 130 Lives In Paris

World History

What Happened On November 13th? Terrorist Attacks Hit Paris (2015) A tragedy in 2015 marked a dark day in global history as a series of coordinated terrorist attacks unfolded in Paris, France. The attacks, orchestrated by the Islamic State (ISIS), targeted various locations across the city, including a concert hall, a stadium, and several restaurants. Tragically, the attacks claimed the lives of 130 innocent people and left hundreds injured. The international community stood in solidarity with France, condemning the heinous acts and offering support. The Paris attacks highlighted the ongoing threat of terrorism and sparked discussions about the need for…

Nov

2023

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By HistoricNews

November 12th: 265 Lives Lost In New York Plane Crash

U.S. History

What Happened On November 12? American Airlines Flight 587 Tragedy Strikes Queens (2001) Tragedy struck the quiet neighborhood of Belle Harbor in Queens, New York, on November 12, 2001, when American Airlines Flight 587 crashed shortly after takeoff. The Airbus A300 carrying 260 people, including 251 passengers and nine crew members, was bound for the Dominican Republic. The crash resulted in the loss of all aboard the aircraft, as well as the deaths of five people on the ground. While initially feared to be a terrorist attack following the events of September 11th, it was later determined to be the…

Nov

2023

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By Dr. Charles E. Whitman, Jr., Historian at Large

November 11th: The End Of WWI Signified As Armistice Day

World History

What Happened On November 11th? Veteran's Day and the Origins of Armistice Day (1918) November 11th is celebrated annually as Veteran's Day in the United States, honoring the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces. The significance of this date dates back to the end of World War I, when an armistice was signed between the Allies and Germany on November 11th, 1918, effectively ending the war. Originally called Armistice Day, it became a holiday to commemorate peace and honor those who fought in the war. Over time, this day evolved into Veteran's Day, recognizing the…