Events on March 22 - Key Moments Throughout History

Historical Events on March 22: 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 22, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

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Events on March 22 - Key Moments Throughout History

  • 1901 Death of Fodi Kabba: Mandinka ruler killed in colonial conflict: Fodi Kabba, the 69-year-old Mandinka ruler of the lands south of the Gambia River, was killed in a battle with a joint British and French expedition against his Marabout forces. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1902 US Attorney General's opinion on Puerto Rico land ownership: On March 22, 1902, the US Attorney General issued an opinion regarding land ownership in Puerto Rico. This opinion clarified legal ambiguities following the island's annexation by the United States. It played a crucial role in shaping land policies and ownership rights in Puerto Rico. source: loc.gov
  • 1905 Ruth Page: pioneering American choreographer: Ruth Page, born on March 22, 1905, was a notable American choreographer and dancer who significantly contributed to the development of ballet in the United States. Her innovative works and dedication to dance education left a lasting legacy in American performing arts. source: britannica.com
  • 1906 First England vs France Rugby Union Match: The inaugural rugby union match between England and France took place on March 22, 1906, at Parc des Princes in Paris. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1908 Birth of Louis L'Amour: Louis L'Amour, an American author renowned for his Western novels, was born on March 22, 1908. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1910 British House of Lords Reform Resolution: On March 22, 1910, the House of Lords debated a resolution affirming the necessity of reforming the House of Lords, emphasizing that hereditary peerage should not automatically grant the right to sit and vote in the House. This was considered a preliminary step toward broader constitutional changes. source: api.parliament.uk
  • 1917 Virginia Grey born in Los Angeles: Virginia Grey, an American actress known for her work in film and television, was born on March 22, 1917, in Los Angeles, California. She appeared in numerous films during the Golden Age of Hollywood and became a familiar face on television in later years. source: britannica.com
  • 1918 Birth of Cheddi Jagan, Guyanese political leader: Cheddi Jagan was born on March 22, 1918, in Ankerville, Port Mourant, Berbice, British Guiana (now Guyana). He was a prominent politician and dentist, serving as President of Guyana from 1992 until his death in 1997. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1920 Washington ratifies women's suffrage amendment: On March 22, 1920, Washington became the 35th state to ratify the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote. This pivotal moment marked a significant victory in the women's suffrage movement in the United States. source: archives.gov
  • 1928 Noël Coward's revue 'This Year of Grace' premieres in London: On March 22, 1928, Noël Coward's revue "This Year of Grace" premiered at the London Pavilion, showcasing Coward's talents as a playwright and performer. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1929 I'm Alone Rum-Running Ship Sunk: On March 22, 1929, the U.S. Coast Guard sank the Canadian schooner I'm Alone, a vessel used for smuggling alcohol during Prohibition. The ship was intercepted in the Gulf of Mexico, and after the crew refused to stop, it was shelled and sunk, leading to the death of one crew member and sparking an international incident. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1931 Birth of William Shatner: William Shatner, the Canadian actor best known for portraying Captain James T. Kirk in the Star Trek franchise, was born on March 22, 1931, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. source: britannica.com
  • 1932 1932 Deep South Tornado Outbreak concludes with significant damage: On March 22, 1932, the 1932 Deep South Tornado Outbreak concluded, leaving behind a trail of destruction and loss of life. The event highlighted the vulnerability of the region to severe weather phenomena. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1933 Establishment of Dachau concentration camp: Dachau concentration camp was officially established on March 22, 1933, as the first Nazi camp for political prisoners. It became a central site for the imprisonment and torture of those opposed to the Nazi regime. source: ushmm.org
  • 1935 First television broadcast in Germany: On March 22, 1935, Germany conducted its first television broadcast, marking a significant milestone in the country's technological and media history. source: dw.com
  • 1939 Nazi Germany Annexes Memel Territory from Lithuania: On March 22, 1939, Lithuania ceded the Klaipėda Region (Memel Territory) to Germany under an implied ultimatum, leading to its annexation by Nazi Germany. source: upi.com
  • 1940 Soviet military deployment in Hanko, Finland: On March 22, 1940, Soviet military personnel began arriving in the Finnish port of Hanko, which had been leased to the Soviets for 30 years as part of the Moscow Peace Treaty. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1941 Grand Coulee Dam begins electricity generation: The Grand Coulee Dam, located on the Columbia River in Washington State, began generating electricity on March 22, 1941. This significant infrastructure project provided power for wartime industries and irrigation, transforming the region's economy. source: usbr.gov
  • 1942 Second Battle of Sirte in Mediterranean Sea: On March 22, 1942, the Second Battle of Sirte occurred in the Mediterranean Sea. British forces successfully defended a convoy to Malta against an Italian naval attack, ensuring the delivery of vital supplies to the besieged island. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1943 Labor Regulation in Occupied Netherlands: Under German occupation, the Dutch work week was extended to 54 hours, illustrating the harsh labor conditions and economic control imposed by the Nazi regime.
  • 1944 US 8th Air Force conducts major bombing raid on Berlin: On March 22, 1944, the US 8th Air Force launched a significant daylight bombing raid on Berlin, targeting various industrial sites. This mission was part of a series of attacks aimed at crippling German industry and supporting the Soviet advance on the Eastern Front. source: nationalww2museum.org
  • 1945 Arab League founding: The Arab League was founded on March 22, 1945, in Cairo, Egypt, with six member states: Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and Syria. The organization aimed to promote political, economic, cultural, and social cooperation among Arab countries. source: britannica.com
  • 1947 President Truman signs executive order calling for loyalty: On March 22, 1947, President Harry S. Truman signed Executive Order 9835, which established a loyalty program for federal employees. This order aimed to ensure that government workers were not affiliated with any subversive organizations, reflecting the heightened fears of communism during the early Cold War period. source: archives.gov
  • 1949 Fanny Ardant birth: Fanny Ardant, a renowned French actress and director, was born on March 22, 1949. She is known for her roles in various films and has received numerous awards throughout her career. source: britannica.com
  • 1950 Egypt demands British troop withdrawal from Suez Canal: On March 22, 1950, Egypt formally demanded the withdrawal of British troops from the Suez Canal. This demand was part of the growing nationalist movement in Egypt and reflected tensions between Egypt and colonial powers. source: bbc.com
  • 1952 Devastating Southern United States tornado outbreak: On March 22, 1952, another severe tornado outbreak occurred in the Southern United States, resulting in significant destruction and casualties. This event followed closely after the March 21 outbreak, compounding the devastation in affected areas. source: weather.gov
  • 1954 London Bullion Market reopens after 15-year closure: On March 22, 1954, the London Bullion Market reopened after being closed for 15 years due to World War II. This reopening was significant for global gold trading and marked a return to normalcy in the financial markets. source: reuters.com
  • 1955 Deadly Navy plane crash in Hawaii: On March 22, 1955, a U.S. Navy plane crashed in Hawaii, resulting in multiple fatalities. The incident highlighted the risks associated with military aviation and led to increased safety measures within the Navy. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1956 Douglas D-558-II Skyrocket emergency: On March 22, 1956, a Douglas D-558-II Skyrocket experienced a critical emergency during a test flight. The incident highlighted the challenges and risks associated with experimental aircraft testing during the era. source: britannica.com
  • 1958 University of Kentucky wins NCAA Basketball Championship: On March 22, 1958, the University of Kentucky Wildcats secured their fourth NCAA basketball championship by defeating the Seattle Chieftains 84-72 at Freedom Hall in Louisville, Kentucky. Senior Vernon Hatton led the team with 30 points, overcoming a 25-point performance by Seattle's Elgin Baylor. source: kentucky.com
  • 1959 Mike Brey born: Mike Brey, an American college basketball coach, was born on March 22, 1959. He is known for his long tenure as the head coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish men's basketball team. source: nd.edu
  • 1962 I Can Get It For You Wholesale opens at Shubert NYC for 300 performances: The musical 'I Can Get It For You Wholesale' opened at the Shubert Theatre in New York City on March 22, 1962. It ran for 300 performances and was significant for its role in introducing Barbra Streisand to a wider audience. source: nytimes.com
  • 1963 The Beatles release debut album 'Please Please Me': On March 22, 1963, The Beatles released their debut album, 'Please Please Me', which included hits like 'Love Me Do' and 'I Saw Her Standing There'. The album marked a significant milestone in the band's career and the British Invasion of the U.S. music scene. source: britannica.com
  • 1964 Carol Mann Wins LPGA Women's Western Golf Open: Carol Mann won the LPGA Women's Western Golf Open on March 22, 1964.
  • 1965 Nicolae Ceaușescu becomes First Secretary of Romanian Communist Party: On March 22, 1965, Nicolae Ceaușescu was elected First Secretary of the Romanian Communist Party, succeeding Gheorghe Gheorghiu-Dej. source: britannica.com
  • 1966 GM President James M. Roche apologizes to Ralph Nader: On March 22, 1966, General Motors President James M. Roche apologized to consumer advocate Ralph Nader for the company's intimidation and harassment campaign against him during a Senate subcommittee hearing in Washington, D.C. source: retronewser.com
  • 1969 Landmark art exhibition opens: On March 22, 1969, a landmark art exhibition opened, showcasing contemporary artists and their works. This exhibition played a crucial role in shaping the art scene and influencing future artistic movements. source: artnews.com
  • 1970 Kathy Whitworth wins Orange Blossom Classic: On March 22, 1970, Kathy Whitworth secured victory at the Orange Blossom Classic in Florida, marking her third consecutive win at this event. She finished with a score of 216 (even par), leading runner-up Carol Mann by one stroke. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1971 Prelude to Bangladesh Liberation War: On March 22, 1971, tensions escalated in East Pakistan, leading to events that would culminate in the Bangladesh Liberation War. The political unrest and demands for autonomy were significant factors in the eventual declaration of independence by Bangladesh. source: bbc.com
  • 1972 Supreme Court landmark decision on contraceptive rights: On March 22, 1972, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Eisenstadt v. Baird that the right to privacy extends to unmarried individuals, allowing them access to contraceptives. This decision was pivotal in expanding reproductive rights and set a precedent for future cases regarding personal privacy and family planning. source: law.cornell.edu
  • 1973 First woman joins London Stock Exchange: On March 22, 1973, the London Stock Exchange welcomed its first female member, breaking gender barriers in the finance industry. This milestone marked a significant step towards gender equality in finance. source: bbc.com
  • 1974 Violent football match between Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United: A violent football match occurred between Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United, leading to significant crowd disturbances. The match highlighted issues of fan violence in football during that era. It prompted discussions on safety measures in sports events. source: bbc.com
  • 1975 Browns Ferry Nuclear Power Plant fire incident: On March 22, 1975, a fire broke out at the Browns Ferry Nuclear Power Plant in Alabama, leading to significant safety concerns and regulatory changes in the nuclear industry. The incident was caused by a candle igniting a plastic insulation material, which raised alarms about fire safety protocols in nuclear facilities. source: nrc.gov
  • 1977 Indira Gandhi Resigns as Prime Minister of India: On March 22, 1977, after the Indian National Congress party's defeat in the general elections, Indira Gandhi resigned as Prime Minister. She acknowledged the people's verdict and offered constructive cooperation to the incoming government. source: indianexpress.com
  • 1978 French Nuclear Test in the Pacific Ocean: On March 22, 1978, France conducted a nuclear test in the Pacific Ocean. This test was part of France's nuclear weapons program, which had been a subject of international concern due to environmental and geopolitical implications. source: nytimes.com
  • 1979 IRA assassinates British Ambassador Richard Sykes in The Hague: On March 22, 1979, Sir Richard Sykes, the British Ambassador to the Netherlands, was assassinated by the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) outside his residence in The Hague. The attack also resulted in the death of his Dutch valet, Karel Straub. The IRA claimed responsibility for the assassination, stating that Sykes had been engaged in intelligence operations against their organization. source: theguardian.com
  • 1980 PETA founded on March 22, 1980: People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) was founded on March 22, 1980, by Ingrid Newkirk and Alex Pacheco. The organization is dedicated to establishing and defending the rights of all animals, operating under the principle that animals are not ours to experiment on, eat, wear, use for entertainment, or abuse in any other way. source: britannica.com
  • 1981 Soyuz 39 mission: The Soyuz 39 mission was a Soviet crewed spaceflight launched on March 22, 1981, carrying cosmonauts Vladimir Dzhanibekov and Jügderdemidiin Gürragchaa to the Salyut 6 space station. This mission marked the first Mongolian in space and involved conducting various scientific experiments during their 7-day stay. The crew returned to Earth on March 30, 1981. source: britannica.com
  • 1982 NASA Space Shuttle Columbia STS-3 mission launch: The STS-3 mission of NASA's Space Shuttle Columbia launched on March 22, 1982. This mission marked the third flight of the Space Shuttle program and included a number of significant experiments and tests. The shuttle orbited the Earth 120 times before landing on April 5, 1982, at Edwards Air Force Base in California. source: nasa.gov
  • 1983 Chaim Herzog elected President of Israel: On March 22, 1983, Chaim Herzog was elected as the sixth President of Israel by the Knesset, defeating Menachem Elon by a vote of 61 to 57. Herzog, a member of the Labor Alignment, assumed office on May 5, 1983, succeeding Yitzhak Navon. He served two five-year terms, retiring in 1993. source: britannica.com
  • 1985 NASA launches Intelsat VA F-10 communication satellite: On March 22, 1985, NASA successfully launched the Intelsat VA F-10 communication satellite into geostationary orbit. The satellite, also known as Intelsat 510, was designed to enhance global telecommunications capacity and operated for 14 years before being deactivated in July 1999. source: nasa.gov
  • 1986 HBO launches heavyweight boxing unification tournament: On March 22, 1986, HBO initiated a heavyweight boxing unification tournament aimed at crowning an undisputed champion. The opening bout featured Trevor Berbick defeating Pinklon Thomas by unanimous decision to win the WBC title. This series continued with subsequent matches, including Michael Spinks retaining the IBF title against Larry Holmes on April 19, 1986. source: latimes.com
  • 1987 Betsy King wins LPGA Circle K Tucson Open: Betsy King secured her first victory of the 1987 LPGA Tour season by winning the Circle K Tucson Open on March 22, 1987. She finished with a score of 281 (−7), two strokes ahead of runner-up Jan Stephenson. This win marked a significant achievement in King's career, contributing to her successful season. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 1989 Iran-Contra trial testimony begins: Testimony in the Iran-Contra trial began on March 22, 1989, focusing on the controversial arms deal and its implications for U.S. foreign policy. This trial was a pivotal moment in American political history. source: nytimes.com
  • 1990 Lithuania declares independence from the Soviet Union: On March 11, 1990, Lithuania's Supreme Soviet declared the restoration of its pre-war independence, renaming the state the Republic of Lithuania. This marked the first Soviet republic to assert independence, initiating a wave of secessions that led to the dissolution of the Soviet Union in December 1991. source: theguardian.com
  • 1991 Mali's March revolution: Pro-democracy movement topples dictatorship: On March 22, 1991, a pro-democracy movement in Mali successfully overthrew the dictatorship of Moussa Tavele. This revolution led to the establishment of a democratic government and significant political reforms in the country. source: bbc.com
  • 1992 Fall of communism in Albania: On March 22, 1992, Albania experienced a significant political shift as the communist regime fell, leading to the establishment of a multi-party system. This event marked the end of decades of communist rule and initiated democratic reforms in the country. The transition was part of a broader wave of democratization in Eastern Europe. source: bbc.com
  • 1993 Jiang Zemin becomes president of China: Jiang Zemin was appointed as the President of the People's Republic of China on March 22, 1993. His leadership marked a period of significant economic reform and opening up in China, influencing the country's trajectory in the following decades. source: britannica.com
  • 1995 Bank of England Deputy Governor Rupert Pennant-Rea resigns over personal scandal: On March 22, 1995, Rupert Pennant-Rea, Deputy Governor of the Bank of England, resigned after admitting to a three-year extramarital affair with a journalist. The affair was revealed by a tabloid newspaper, leading to public scrutiny and his subsequent resignation. Pennant-Rea had been appointed to the position in January 1993. source: sfgate.com
  • 1996 Resident Evil Game Release: On March 22, 1996, Capcom released the survival horror video game "Resident Evil" for the PlayStation in Japan. The game introduced players to the fictional Raccoon City and the horrors lurking within the Spencer Mansion. source: gamespot.com
  • 1997 Tara Lipinski becomes youngest World Figure Skating Champion: On March 22, 1997, Tara Lipinski won the World Figure Skating Championships in Lausanne, Switzerland, becoming the youngest ever World Champion at the age of 14 years and 10 months. source: olympic.org
  • 1998 OPEC oil production cut agreement: On March 22, 1998, Saudi Arabia, Venezuela, and non-OPEC member Mexico agreed to reduce oil production by a total of 1.5 million barrels per day to stabilize global oil prices. This agreement was later affirmed by all 11 OPEC members and additional non-OPEC countries. source: news.bbc.co.uk
  • 1999 Jack Kevorkian murder trial begins: The trial of Dr. Jack Kevorkian, known for assisting terminally ill patients in dying, began on March 22, 1999. This case drew significant media attention and raised ethical questions about euthanasia and assisted suicide. source: nytimes.com
  • 2001 William Hanna: Animation Pioneer: William Hanna, co-founder of Hanna-Barbera Productions and creator of iconic animated characters like Fred Flintstone and Yogi Bear, passed away on March 22, 2001, at the age of 90. source: myplainview.com
  • 2002 George W. Bush's 'Axis of Evil' speech: On March 22, 2002, U.S. President George W. Bush delivered a speech referring to Iran, Iraq, and North Korea as the 'Axis of Evil,' highlighting concerns over their pursuit of weapons of mass destruction and support for terrorism. source: cbsnews.com
  • 2003 US and UK Launch 'Shock and Awe' Campaign in Iraq: On March 22, 2003, the United States and the United Kingdom initiated a massive air assault on Baghdad, marking the beginning of the 'shock and awe' campaign. This operation involved hundreds of aircraft and cruise missiles targeting military sites in Baghdad, Kirkuk, and Mosul, aiming to overwhelm Iraqi forces and force a swift surrender. source: military.com
  • 2004 European Commission Fines Microsoft: The European Commission announced a record fine of $497 million against Microsoft for abusing its Windows market monopoly, signaling a significant antitrust action in the technology sector.
  • 2005 UN World Water Day Launch: On March 22, 2005, the United Nations launched the International Decade for Action 'Water for Life' 2005–2015, coinciding with World Water Day. This initiative aimed to promote efforts to fulfill international commitments made on water and water-related issues by 2015. source: unwater.org
  • 2006 Christian Peacemaker Team hostages freed in Baghdad: On March 22, 2006, the Christian Peacemaker Team announced the release of four hostages who had been held captive in Baghdad, Iraq, for over four months. The hostages, including two Canadians, an American, and a Briton, were freed after negotiations involving various parties. source: Wikipedia (day-month pages)
  • 2007 Maputo Arms Depot Explosion: On March 22, 2007, a series of explosions occurred at an arms depot in the Malhazine suburb of Maputo, Mozambique, resulting in at least 103 fatalities and hundreds of injuries. The explosions were attributed to high temperatures affecting the depot's munitions. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 2008 Taiwan presidential election: Taiwan holds its presidential election, with significant implications for cross-strait relations with China. The election results reflect the political landscape and public sentiment regarding Taiwan's sovereignty and identity. source: bbc.com
  • 2009 Pope Benedict XVI Holds Mass in Luanda, Angola: Thousands of faithful gathered in Luanda, Angola, to attend a Catholic Mass led by Pope Benedict XVI, symbolizing the global reach of the Catholic Church.
  • 2010 United States Health Care Reform Legislation Passed: On March 22, 2010, President Barack Obama signed the Affordable Care Act into law, marking a significant overhaul of the U.S. healthcare system. The legislation aimed to expand coverage to millions of uninsured Americans and implement various reforms to improve healthcare access and affordability. source: hhs.gov
  • 2011 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami: On March 22, 2011, the impact of the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami was still being assessed, with ongoing recovery efforts and concerns about the Fukushima nuclear crisis. The disaster had profound effects on Japan and the global community. source: bbc.com
  • 2012 Mali political upheaval: Coup against President Touré: On March 22, 2012, renegade soldiers in Mali seized power from President Amadou Toumani Touré, citing the government's failure to address a Tuareg-led rebellion in the north. The soldiers, calling themselves the National Committee for the Restoration of Democracy and State (CNRDR), declared a nationwide curfew, suspended the constitution, and closed borders and airports. The international community, including the United Nations and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), condemned the coup and called for the restoration of constitutional order. source: aljazeera.com
  • 2013 Obama Visits Jordan, Warns About Syria: On March 22, 2013, U.S. President Barack Obama visited Jordan, where he met with King Abdullah II to discuss regional security concerns, particularly the situation in Syria. Obama emphasized the need for a political solution to the Syrian conflict and warned against the use of chemical weapons. source: reuters.com
  • 2014 US and EU impose sanctions on Russia: On March 22, 2014, the United States and European Union imposed sanctions on Russia in response to its annexation of Crimea, targeting individuals and entities associated with the Russian government. source: cnbc.com
  • 2015 Yemeni crisis escalates: The Yemeni crisis intensified as Houthi rebels seized control of the capital, Sanaa, leading to increased violence and instability in the region. This escalation prompted international concern and calls for intervention to restore order. source: bbc.com
  • 2016 2016 Brussels terrorist attacks: On March 22, 2016, coordinated terrorist attacks occurred at Brussels Airport and a metro station in Belgium, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries. The attacks were claimed by ISIS and heightened security concerns across Europe. source: bbc.com
  • 2017 North Korean missile test failure: On March 22, 2017, North Korea attempted a missile test that ended in failure shortly after launch. This incident was part of ongoing tensions in the region and drew international attention. source: reuters.com
  • 2018 US Imposes Significant Tariffs on Chinese Imports: The Trump administration announced a 25% tariff on $50 billion worth of Chinese goods, citing unfair trade practices. This move escalated trade tensions between the two nations, with China expressing strong opposition and warning of potential retaliatory measures. source: aljazeera.com
  • 2019 Mueller report submitted to Attorney General: Special Counsel Robert Mueller submitted his report on Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election to Attorney General William Barr. This marked a significant moment in the investigation, which had lasted nearly two years. The report's findings would later be summarized by Barr, leading to widespread public and political scrutiny. source: nytimes.com
  • 2020 Spain Reports Highest Single-Day COVID-19 Death Toll: Spain's Ministry of Health reported 394 COVID-19 deaths in a 24-hour period, the highest daily fatality count to date. The total confirmed cases reached 28,572, with 1,720 cumulative deaths, underscoring the pandemic's severe impact.
  • 2021 Capitol Attack Investigation Developments: Prosecutors investigating the January 6th Capitol riot indicated that evidence was 'trending' toward potential sedition charges against participants, signaling a serious approach to prosecuting the insurrection.
  • 2022 Russia Escalates Military Offensive in Ukraine: Russia intensified its military strikes against Ukrainian cities, causing significant destruction. In Kyiv, a once-bustling shopping mall was reduced to ruins. The strategic port city of Mariupol endured repeated airstrikes after Ukrainian authorities rejected Russia's surrender ultimatum, highlighting the ongoing brutal conflict.
  • 2023 Bob Metcalfe Receives Turing Award: Bob Metcalfe, a pioneering American software engineer, was honored with the prestigious Turing Award for his revolutionary development of Ethernet, a computer networking technology that has become the global standard for local area networks (LANs). His invention fundamentally transformed how computers communicate and share information, laying the groundwork for modern internet connectivity.

What Is special about March 22?

March 22 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 22.