Events on March 20 - Key Moments Throughout History

Historical Events on March 20: Significant Moments in History

Throughout history, certain dates stand out for the remarkable events that unfolded on them. From turning points in politics to cultural breakthroughs, these days often carry significance that echoes through time. Explore the most important events that occurred on March 20, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

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Events on March 20 - Key Moments Throughout History

  • 1900 Nikola Tesla receives patent for wireless power transmission system: On March 20, 1900, Nikola Tesla was granted U.S. Patent No. 645,576 for his "System of Transmission of Electrical Energy," describing a method for transmitting electrical energy wirelessly over long distances. This patent laid the foundation for his vision of a global wireless power system. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1901 German naval diplomatic mission to Boston: On March 20, 1901, German naval officer Hubert von Rebeur-Paschwitz, under Admiral Otto von Diederichs, accompanied the SMS Vineta to Boston. This visit was part of a diplomatic mission to survey potential landing sites for a possible American invasion, with Rockport and Gloucester, Massachusetts, identified as ideal locations. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1902 Kathryn Forbes: notable short story author: Kathryn Forbes, an American author known for her short stories, was recognized for her contributions to literature on March 20, 1902. Her works often explored themes of family and cultural identity, reflecting her Norwegian heritage. Forbes' writing has been influential in American literature, particularly in the context of immigrant experiences. source: britannica.com
  • 1904 Aleister Crowley's mystical declaration: On March 20, 1904, Aleister Crowley performed a ritual invoking the Egyptian god Horus in Cairo, which he described as a "startling success." He believed this event marked the beginning of a new magical era, the "Equinox of the Gods," and that he was to serve as its prophet. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1905 Grover Shoe Factory disaster: The Grover Shoe Factory disaster occurred on March 20, 1905, in Brockton, Massachusetts, when a fire broke out in the factory, leading to the deaths of 58 workers. This tragedy raised awareness about workplace safety and labor conditions in factories. source: britannica.com
  • 1906 Birth of Ozzie Nelson: Ozzie Nelson, an American actor, comedian, and bandleader, was born in Jersey City, New Jersey. He is best known for starring in "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet," a popular radio and television show. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1908 Birth of Sir Michael Redgrave, renowned British actor: Sir Michael Redgrave, a distinguished British actor celebrated for his work in theater and film, was born on March 20, 1908. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1910 First Occupational Diseases Clinic Established: On March 20, 1910, the first occupational diseases clinic was established, marking a significant step in recognizing and addressing health issues related to workplace environments.
  • 1911 National Squash Tennis Association Formed: The National Squash Tennis Association was founded in 1911, organized by banker John W. Prentiss of the Harvard Club of New York. This organization formalized the rules, equipment, and court dimensions for the sport of squash tennis, which had gained popularity in New York City and other cities such as Detroit, Buffalo, Chicago, Boston, and Philadelphia. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1915 Birth of Sviatoslav Richter: Sviatoslav Richter, a renowned Soviet and Russian pianist, was born on March 20, 1915, in Zhytomyr, Ukraine. He became one of the most celebrated pianists of the 20th century, known for his extensive repertoire and expressive performances. source: britannica.com
  • 1917 US declares war on Germany in World War I: On March 20, 1917, the United States formally declared war on Germany, marking its entry into World War I. This decision was influenced by several factors, including unrestricted submarine warfare and the Zimmermann Telegram. The declaration significantly altered the course of the war. source: archives.gov
  • 1918 Birth of Marian McPartland, Jazz Pianist and Broadcaster: Marian McPartland, renowned jazz pianist and broadcaster, was born on March 20, 1918. source: npr.org
  • 1920 Birth of Pamela Harriman: Pamela Harriman, an influential American socialite and political figure, was born on this date. She became known for her role in politics and philanthropy, particularly as a U.S. ambassador and a prominent Democratic fundraiser. source: britannica.com
  • 1922 USS Langley commissioned as first US aircraft carrier: On March 20, 1922, the USS Langley (CV-1) was commissioned as the United States Navy's first aircraft carrier. Converted from the collier USS Jupiter, Langley served as a test platform for carrier aviation techniques and tactics. source: history.navy.mil
  • 1924 Finnair launches first Helsinki-Tallinn route: On March 20, 1924, Finnair inaugurated its first route between Helsinki and Tallinn, marking a significant development in regional air travel. This route facilitated greater connectivity between Finland and Estonia. source: britannica.com
  • 1925 Death of George Nathaniel Curzon, British Statesman: George Nathaniel Curzon, 1st Marquess Curzon of Kedleston, a prominent British statesman and former Viceroy of India, died on March 20, 1925, in London at the age of 66. He had been suffering from a severe bladder hemorrhage, and despite surgical efforts, he passed away. His funeral was held at Westminster Abbey, and he was interred at his family chapel at Kedleston Hall. source: britannica.com
  • 1927 Dr. Ambedkar leads Mahad Satyagraha for Dalit water rights: On March 20, 1927, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar led the Mahad Satyagraha, a peaceful protest where Dalits asserted their right to drink water from the Chavdar tank in Mahad, Maharashtra. This act challenged the caste-based restrictions that denied Dalits access to public water sources. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1928 Fred Rogers born in Latrobe, Pennsylvania: Fred McFeely Rogers, known as Mister Rogers, was born on March 20, 1928, in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. He became a beloved television host, producer, and Presbyterian minister, best known for creating and hosting "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood," an educational children's program that aired from 1968 to 2001. source: britannica.com
  • 1930 Kentucky Fried Chicken founded: Colonel Harland Sanders opened his first restaurant, Sanders Court & Café, in Corbin, Kentucky, serving travelers during the Great Depression. source: global.kfc.com
  • 1931 Bishop warns against Nazi ideology: A bishop issued a warning against the rising Nazi ideology on March 20, 1931, emphasizing the dangers it posed to society. This statement was part of a broader resistance to the growing influence of the Nazi party in Germany. source: bbc.co.uk
  • 1932 1932 Deep South Tornado Outbreak causes widespread damage: On March 20, 1932, a significant tornado outbreak struck the Deep South region of the United States, causing widespread damage and loss of life. The outbreak was part of a series of severe weather events during that period. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1933 Establishment of Dachau concentration camp: Dachau, the first Nazi concentration camp, was established on March 20, 1933, near Munich, Germany. Initially intended to hold political prisoners, it later became a model for other camps and a site of horrific human rights abuses during the Holocaust. source: ushmm.org
  • 1934 Death of Queen Emma of Waldeck-Pyrmont: Queen Emma of Waldeck-Pyrmont, consort of King William III of the Netherlands and regent for her daughter, Queen Wilhelmina, passed away on March 20, 1934, in The Hague, Netherlands, at the age of 75. She died from complications of bronchitis and was buried in Delft. source: royal-house.nl
  • 1935 France alerts League of Nations about German rearmament: On March 20, 1935, France formally requested an extraordinary session of the League of Nations to address concerns over Germany's rearmament, invoking Article XI of the League Covenant, which allows member nations to bring attention to circumstances threatening international peace. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1937 Franco's offensive at Guadalajara: On March 20, 1937, during the Spanish Civil War, General Francisco Franco's Nationalist forces launched an offensive at Guadalajara, Spain. The battle was part of a series of engagements aimed at capturing the city and advancing towards Madrid. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1938 Czechoslovakia prepares for potential German invasion: In March 1938, Czechoslovakia faced escalating tensions with Nazi Germany, leading to military mobilization and diplomatic efforts to secure support from France and Britain. source: history.com
  • 1939 Germany's Territorial Expansion: Memel Annexation Threat: On March 20, 1939, Nazi Germany's foreign minister Joachim von Ribbentrop presented an oral ultimatum to Juozas Urbšys, foreign minister of Lithuania, demanding the return of the Klaipėda Region (Memel Territory) to Germany. Lithuania accepted the ultimatum on March 23, 1939. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1941 German-Yugoslav Diplomatic Pact signed: On March 20, 1941, Germany and Yugoslavia signed a diplomatic pact, which was part of Germany's efforts to secure its southern flank during World War II. This agreement was short-lived, as Yugoslavia would soon be invaded by Axis forces. source: britannica.com
  • 1942 MacArthur's 'I Shall Return' speech: On March 20, 1942, General Douglas MacArthur, upon arriving in Adelaide, Australia, declared, "I came through, and I shall return." This statement became a symbol of hope for the Filipino people during World War II. source: smithsonianmag.com
  • 1943 German U-Boat U-384 sunk during World War II: On March 20, 1943, the German U-Boat U-384 was sunk during World War II. This event was part of the larger naval battles in the Atlantic, highlighting the ongoing conflict between Allied and Axis naval forces. source: britannica.com
  • 1944 The Great Escape from Stalag Luft III: On March 20, 1944, the Great Escape from Stalag Luft III took place, where Allied prisoners of war attempted to escape from a German camp. This event became famous for the daring nature of the escape and was later depicted in films and literature. source: bbc.co.uk
  • 1945 Hitler's final public appearance: On March 20, 1945, Adolf Hitler made his last public appearance, addressing the German people and military leaders. This event marked the final time he appeared in public before retreating to his underground bunker in Berlin, where he would remain until his death in April 1945. source: history.com
  • 1946 Capture of Axis Sally: On March 20, 1946, Mildred Gillars, known as Axis Sally, was captured by American forces. She was notorious for her propaganda broadcasts during World War II aimed at demoralizing Allied troops. source: britannica.com
  • 1948 20th Academy Awards Ceremony: The 20th Academy Awards Ceremony was held on March 20, 1948, honoring films released in 1947. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1949 Mosley Union Movement parade disrupted: On March 20, 1949, a parade organized by the Mosley Union Movement was disrupted, leading to significant public attention and controversy. The event highlighted tensions surrounding labor movements and civil rights during that era. source: theguardian.com
  • 1950 Polish government confiscates Catholic Church property: On March 20, 1950, the Polish government initiated a campaign to confiscate property belonging to the Catholic Church. This move was part of a broader effort to assert state control over religious institutions during a period of increasing communist influence. source: bbc.com
  • 1952 Final executions in the Netherlands: The last executions in the Netherlands took place on March 20, 1952, marking the end of capital punishment in the country. This event was significant in the context of Dutch legal history and human rights developments. source: nrc.nl
  • 1954 First newspaper vending machine deployed: On March 20, 1954, the first newspaper vending machine was deployed in the United States. This innovation allowed for easier access to newspapers and marked a significant change in how news was distributed to the public. source: nytimes.com
  • 1956 Tunisia gains independence from France: On March 20, 1956, Tunisia officially gained independence from French colonial rule after a long struggle for liberation. This marked a significant moment in the decolonization movement across Africa and the Arab world. source: britannica.com
  • 1957 Birth of filmmaker Spike Lee: Spike Lee, an influential American filmmaker known for his work on films like "Do the Right Thing" and "Malcolm X," was born on March 20, 1957. source: biography.com
  • 1959 Attempted vandalism at Lenin's Mausoleum: On March 20, 1959, an individual attempted to break the glass covering Lenin's sarcophagus with a hammer but failed. This incident was part of a series of attempts to desecrate Lenin's body, including a similar attempt in November 1957. source: rbth.com
  • 1962 Eighteen Nation Disarmament Conference opens in Geneva: The Eighteen Nation Disarmament Conference commenced in Geneva, aiming to address nuclear disarmament and arms control. This significant meeting involved representatives from various nations discussing strategies to reduce the threat of nuclear weapons. source: un.org
  • 1964 ESRO established, European Space Research Organization: The European Space Research Organization (ESRO) was established on March 20, 1964, to promote and coordinate space research in Europe. This organization later contributed to the formation of the European Space Agency (ESA). source: esa.int
  • 1965 Federal intervention in Selma civil rights march: On March 20, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson federalized the Alabama National Guard to protect a civil rights march from Selma to Montgomery. This decision followed violent attacks on protesters during the initial march on March 7, known as "Bloody Sunday." The federal intervention ensured the safety of the demonstrators, leading to the successful completion of the march on March 25, 1965. source: history.com
  • 1966 FIFA World Cup Trophy stolen and recovered: In March 1966, the FIFA World Cup Trophy was stolen from a display in London but was recovered a week later after being found by a dog named Pickles. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1967 US-Soviet nuclear missile limitation talks announced: On March 20, 1967, the United States and the Soviet Union announced the commencement of talks aimed at limiting nuclear missile proliferation. These discussions were part of ongoing efforts to reduce the risk of nuclear conflict during the Cold War. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1968 Political upheaval in South Yemen: On March 20, 1968, South Yemen experienced significant political upheaval, leading to changes in governance and increased tensions in the region. This event was part of the broader context of decolonization and political change in the Middle East. source: bbc.co.uk
  • 1969 Nixon's Vietnam War resolution: On March 20, 1969, President Nixon announced a resolution regarding the Vietnam War, emphasizing a strategy for de-escalation and withdrawal of U.S. troops. This marked a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy during the conflict. source: archives.gov
  • 1970 Nixon signs Public Health Cigarette Smoking Act: On March 20, 1970, President Richard Nixon signed the Public Health Cigarette Smoking Act into law, which banned cigarette advertising on television and radio. This legislation was part of a broader effort to address the health risks associated with smoking and to promote public health awareness. source: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  • 1972 Provisional IRA Belfast car bombing: On March 20, 1972, the Provisional IRA detonated a car bomb in Lower Donegall Street, Belfast, during a busy shopping period. The explosion resulted in seven fatalities, including two members of the Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC), and injured 148 people. The attack marked one of the first car bombings used by the IRA during the Troubles. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1973 British White Paper on Northern Ireland Assembly: On March 20, 1973, the British government issued a White Paper proposing the establishment of a Northern Ireland Assembly, aiming to devolve power and address political issues in Northern Ireland. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1974 Failed kidnapping attempt on Princess Anne: On March 20, 1974, a kidnapping attempt was made on Princess Anne, the daughter of Queen Elizabeth II, while she was traveling in London. The assailant was apprehended, and the incident raised concerns about royal security. source: bbc.com
  • 1976 Patty Hearst convicted of armed robbery: On March 20, 1976, Patty Hearst was convicted of armed robbery for her involvement with the Symbionese Liberation Army. Her trial and conviction were highly publicized and sparked debates about brainwashing and free will. source: nytimes.com
  • 1978 Soyuz 28 docks with Salyut 6: On March 20, 1978, the Soyuz 28 spacecraft successfully docked with the Salyut 6 space station. This mission was significant as it marked the first time a Czechoslovak cosmonaut participated in a space mission, contributing to international cooperation in space exploration. source: nasa.gov
  • 1979 Murder of Italian journalist Carmine Pecorelli in Rome: Carmine "Mino" Pecorelli, an Italian investigative journalist known for his controversial reporting, was assassinated in Rome on March 20, 1979. He was shot four times in the Prati district, near his magazine's office. Pecorelli had been investigating sensitive political matters, including the kidnapping and murder of former Prime Minister Aldo Moro. His death remains a significant event in Italian journalism and politics. source: ansa.it
  • 1980 International Court of Justice hearings on U.S. diplomatic staff in Tehran: From March 18 to 20, 1980, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) held hearings concerning the United States' application against Iran for the seizure of its embassy and consulates in Tehran and the taking of hostages. The U.S. government submitted its Memorial on January 12, 1980, outlining its claims. The ICJ's involvement aimed to address the violations of international law by Iran during the hostage crisis. source: icj-cij.org
  • 1981 Jean Harris sentenced to 15 years for murder of Dr. Herman Tarnower: On March 20, 1981, Jean Harris, former headmistress of the Madeira School, was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison for the second-degree murder of her lover, Dr. Herman Tarnower, a renowned cardiologist and author of 'The Complete Scarsdale Medical Diet.' Harris had been convicted on February 24, 1981, after a 14-week trial where she claimed the shooting was accidental during a struggle over the gun. The case garnered significant media attention and public interest. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 1982 Formation of the Conservative Party in South Africa: The Conservative Party was formed in South Africa on March 20, 1982, as a response to the policies of the National Party, particularly its approach to racial integration and reform. The party aimed to represent the interests of Afrikaners and promote a return to more traditional apartheid policies. It gained significant support among those opposed to the National Party's reforms during the 1980s. source: britannica.com
  • 1983 Martina Navratilova defeats Chris Evert-Lloyd in Virginia Slims Championships final: On March 20, 1983, Martina Navratilova defeated Chris Evert-Lloyd 6–2, 6–0 in the final of the Virginia Slims Championships held at Madison Square Garden in New York City. This victory marked Navratilova's ninth title of the year and the 156th of her career. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1984 US Senate rejects school prayer amendment: The U.S. Senate voted against an amendment to the Constitution that would have permitted voluntary school prayer, maintaining the separation of church and state. source: upi.com
  • 1985 Libby Riddles becomes first woman to win Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race: On March 20, 1985, Libby Riddles made history by becoming the first woman to win the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. She completed the 1,135-mile race from Anchorage to Nome in 18 days, 20 minutes, and 17 seconds, overcoming challenging conditions, including a blizzard over Norton Sound. Riddles' victory inspired a new generation of female mushers and brought significant attention to the sport. source: smithsonianmag.com
  • 1986 New York City passes landmark LGBTQ rights legislation: On March 20, 1986, the New York City Council passed the Gay Rights Bill, prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation in housing, employment, and public accommodations. The bill, which had been debated for 15 years, passed with a 21-14 vote. Mayor Edward Koch supported the legislation, emphasizing its role in protecting civil rights. The bill imposed fines up to $500 and up to one year in jail for violations. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 1987 FDA approves first AIDS treatment drug AZT: On March 20, 1987, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved zidovudine (AZT) as the first antiretroviral drug for the treatment of AIDS. Developed in the 1960s as a potential cancer therapy, AZT was repurposed in the 1980s to combat HIV/AIDS. Its approval marked a significant milestone in the fight against the epidemic, offering a treatment option for patients with severe immune system compromise. source: fda.gov
  • 1988 Eritrean War of Independence: Battle of Afabet: The Battle of Afabet was a pivotal engagement during the Eritrean War of Independence, leading to significant strategic advantages for Eritrean forces. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1989 IRA ambush kills two senior RUC officers in County Armagh: On March 20, 1989, Chief Superintendent Harry Breen and Superintendent Bob Buchanan of the Royal Ulster Constabulary were killed in an ambush by the Provisional IRA South Armagh Brigade near Jonesborough, County Armagh. The officers were returning from a cross-border security meeting in Dundalk, Republic of Ireland, when their unmarked car was attacked. This incident remains one of the most significant attacks on the RUC during the Troubles. source: bbc.com
  • 1990 Namibia gains independence from South Africa: On March 21, 1990, Namibia officially became an independent nation after over a century of German and South African rule. The independence ceremony in Windhoek was attended by international dignitaries, including UN Secretary-General Javier Pérez de Cuéllar and South African President F.W. de Klerk. Sam Nujoma, leader of the South West African People's Organisation (SWAPO), was sworn in as the first President of Namibia. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 1992 Janice Pennington wins lawsuit against Price is Right: On March 20, 1992, Janice Pennington, a former model on 'The Price is Right,' won a lawsuit against the show for injuries sustained during a taping. The case highlighted issues of safety and liability in television production. Pennington's victory was seen as a significant moment for performers' rights. source: nytimes.com
  • 1993 The Troubles: A Provisional IRA bomb kills two children in Warrington, England. It leads to mass protests in both Britain and Ireland. source: Wikipedia (day-month pages)
  • 1994 El Salvador's first post-civil war presidential election: On March 20, 1994, El Salvador held its first presidential election after the end of its civil war, marking a significant step towards democracy. The election was closely monitored by international observers and was seen as a crucial moment for the country's political stability and reconciliation efforts. source: bbc.com
  • 1995 Aum Shinrikyo Sarin Gas Attack: The Aum Shinrikyo sarin gas attack occurred on March 20, 1995, when members of the cult released sarin gas in the Tokyo subway system. This attack resulted in 13 deaths and thousands of injuries, marking a significant act of terrorism in Japan. It is not linked to July 3, 1995. source: britannica.com
  • 1996 Mad Cow Disease Transmission to Humans Confirmed: On March 20, 1996, British health authorities confirmed that Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), commonly known as mad cow disease, could be transmitted to humans, leading to the development of a new variant of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD). This discovery prompted significant changes in cattle farming and meat processing practices. source: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  • 1997 Tobacco industry admission of addiction: On March 20, 1997, major tobacco companies publicly acknowledged the addictive nature of nicotine, a significant shift in their long-standing denial. This admission had profound implications for public health and regulatory policies. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 1999 Legoland California Opens: Legoland California opened its gates on March 20, 1999, in Carlsbad, becoming the first Legoland park outside Europe. source: legoland.com
  • 2000 Capture of Jamil Abdullah Al-Amin: Jamil Abdullah Al-Amin, formerly known as H. Rap Brown, was captured by U.S. marshals in Georgia. He was wanted for the murder of two men in 2000, leading to a nationwide manhunt. source: nytimes.com
  • 2001 Federal Reserve implements emergency economic stimulus: On March 20, 2001, the Federal Reserve announced an emergency economic stimulus package to combat the slowing economy. This decision aimed to boost consumer spending and stabilize financial markets. source: federalreserve.gov
  • 2002 McCain-Feingold Campaign Finance Reform Legislation Passed: On March 20, 2002, the McCain-Feingold Act, also known as the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act, was passed in the United States, aiming to regulate the financing of political campaigns. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 2003 Allianz reports historic financial loss: On March 20, 2003, Allianz, a major financial services company, reported a historic financial loss due to the economic impact of the Iraq War and other global factors. This loss reflected the broader economic uncertainties of the time. source: reuters.com
  • 2004 Global protests against Iraq War anniversary: On March 20, 2004, the first anniversary of the Iraq War, global protests erupted in cities worldwide. Demonstrators called for the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq and criticized the war's justification. The protests reflected widespread public dissent over the conflict and its aftermath. source: theguardian.com
  • 2005 Bosnian Serb general to face war crimes tribunal: On March 20, 2005, the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia announced that Bosnian Serb General Ratko Mladić would be indicted for war crimes, including genocide, committed during the Bosnian War. source: upi.com
  • 2006 Tropical Cyclone Larry devastates Queensland: On March 20, 2006, Tropical Cyclone Larry struck Queensland, Australia, causing widespread destruction and significant damage to infrastructure. The cyclone prompted emergency responses and recovery efforts in the affected areas. source: bbc.com
  • 2008 Nationwide protests mark fifth anniversary of Iraq War: On March 20, 2008, protests took place across the United States to mark the fifth anniversary of the Iraq War. Activists and citizens gathered to voice their opposition to the war and call for an end to U.S. military involvement in Iraq. The protests highlighted ongoing public discontent regarding the war and its consequences. source: nytimes.com
  • 2009 Discovery of subatomic particle Y(4140): On March 20, 2009, scientists at the Fermilab Tevatron collider announced the discovery of a new subatomic particle, Y(4140), a tetraquark state, providing evidence for exotic hadrons. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 2010 Death of Girija Prasad Koirala: Girija Prasad Koirala, the former Prime Minister of Nepal and a key figure in the country's democratic movement, passed away on March 20, 2010. His death marked the end of an era in Nepalese politics, as he had been instrumental in shaping the nation's political landscape. source: aljazeera.com
  • 2011 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami: On March 20, 2011, the aftermath of the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami continued to unfold, with significant humanitarian and environmental impacts. The disaster, which struck on March 11, resulted in widespread destruction and a nuclear crisis at Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. source: bbc.com
  • 2012 Pakistan condemns NATO drone strikes: On March 20, 2012, Pakistan's government condemned NATO drone strikes that had killed several individuals in the tribal areas. The strikes were criticized for violating Pakistan's sovereignty and raising tensions between the two entities. source: reuters.com
  • 2013 Voyager 1 potential solar system exit: On March 20, 2013, NASA scientists reported that Voyager 1, launched in 1977, had entered a new region of space, indicating it was on the verge of leaving the solar system. The spacecraft had traveled over 11 billion miles from Earth. source: nasa.gov
  • 2014 International response to Crimean crisis: On March 20, 2014, the international community responded to Russia's annexation of Crimea by imposing sanctions and diplomatic measures. The United States and European Union condemned Russia's actions, leading to increased tensions and a reevaluation of international relations. source: cnbc.com
  • 2015 Supermoon total solar eclipse: On March 20, 2015, a rare astronomical event occurred: a supermoon coincided with a total solar eclipse, visible in parts of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. This event was notable for its rarity and the unique viewing experience it provided. source: space.com
  • 2016 Istanbul bombing by Islamic State: On March 20, 2016, a bombing in Istanbul, Turkey, attributed to the Islamic State, resulted in multiple casualties. The attack targeted a popular shopping area, raising concerns about security in Turkey amid ongoing conflicts. source: bbc.com
  • 2017 Neil Gorsuch Supreme Court Nomination Hearings: On March 20, 2017, the Senate Judiciary Committee began hearings on the nomination of Judge Neil Gorsuch to the U.S. Supreme Court. The hearings included opening statements and the nominee's testimony, with further questioning and testimonies from external witnesses scheduled in the following days. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 2018 Cynthia Nixon Gubernatorial Campaign: Actress Cynthia Nixon announced her candidacy for New York Governor, marking a significant transition from entertainment to political activism.
  • 2019 Disney acquires 21st Century Fox: On March 20, 2019, The Walt Disney Company completed its acquisition of 21st Century Fox's film and television assets for $71.3 billion. This strategic move expanded Disney's content library and bolstered its position in the entertainment industry, allowing it to compete more effectively in the streaming market. source: nytimes.com
  • 2020 Argentina Implements National COVID-19 Quarantine: Argentina begins a mandatory nationwide quarantine effective March 20, 2020, restricting citizens to their homes to prevent the rapid spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. This comprehensive measure aimed to mitigate community transmission and protect public health during the early stages of the global outbreak.
  • 2021 Tokyo Olympics Spectator Ban: Japanese Olympic organizers officially announced that overseas spectators would be prohibited from attending the Tokyo Summer Olympics due to ongoing COVID-19 pandemic concerns, marking an unprecedented decision in modern Olympic history.
  • 2022 Biden's European Diplomatic Mission During Ukraine Invasion: In a critical moment of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, President Biden traveled to Europe to demonstrate solidarity with NATO allies and address the escalating humanitarian crisis. Nearly a month into the Russian invasion, diplomatic efforts remained strained while civilian casualties mounted. The United Nations reported at least 847 confirmed civilian deaths and nearly 1,400 wounded, with experts believing the actual toll was significantly higher. Biden's trip aimed to coordinate international response, provide support for Ukraine, and present a unified Western stance against Russian aggression.
  • 2023 UN Climate Report Warns of Urgent Global Action Needed: The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) issued a stark warning that the world has less than a decade to prevent catastrophic global warming. The report mandates a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and calls for complete cessation of carbon dioxide emissions by the early 2050s to mitigate the most severe potential climate impacts.

What Is special about March 20?

March 20 is notable for a variety of important historical, cultural, and significant events, including famous birthdays and deaths, holidays and more. Find out everything about March 20.