August 29 stands as a day of monumental events that have left remarkable dents in the course of history.
Hurricane Katrina’s Devastation:
On August 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina unleashed its fury on the U.S. Gulf Coast, particularly near Buras-Triumph, Louisiana. The storm shattered levees and triggered catastrophic floods that left New Orleans in ruins. Katrina remains the most expensive natural disaster in U.S. history, claiming nearly 1,400 lives and causing damages estimated at $200 billion. In a chilling twist of fate, exactly sixteen years later, Louisiana was once again pummeled by a powerful hurricane. The echoes of Katrina’s destruction still resonate as a grim reminder of nature’s power.
Other Significant Events on August 29:
1814 – The War of 1812:
On this day in 1814, Alexandria, Virginia, succumbed to British forces during the War of 1812. The city’s formal surrender marked a dark chapter, as British troops occupied Alexandria until September 3, solidifying the conflict’s impact on American soil.
1825 – The Treaty of Rio de Janeiro:
August 29, 1825, witnessed the signing of the Treaty of Rio de Janeiro, a crucial agreement between Portugal and Brazil that officially ended the Brazilian War of Independence. This treaty was a pivotal moment, marking Brazil’s emergence as an independent nation.
1862 – Bureau of Engraving and Printing Established:
On this date in 1862, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing began its vital work at the United States Treasury. This establishment would go on to play an essential role in the production of currency, stamps, and government securities, becoming a cornerstone of the nation’s financial infrastructure.
1944 – Liberation of Paris:
In 1944, just days after the liberation of Paris from Nazi control, 15,000 American troops from the 28th Infantry Division proudly marched down the Champs-Élysées. The procession was a powerful symbol of victory and the enduring spirit of freedom, celebrated by a city once under siege.
1958 – U.S. Air Force Academy Opens:
August 29, 1958, marked the grand opening of the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. This institution has since become a premier training ground for future leaders of the U.S. Air Force, embodying the principles of integrity, service, and excellence.
1966 – The Beatles’ Final Concert:
Music history was made on this day in 1966 when The Beatles concluded their fourth American tour with a final public concert at Candlestick Park in San Francisco. This performance marked the end of an era, as it was the last time the legendary band would perform live together in a large-scale public setting.
2004 – Vanderlei de Lima’s Olympic Triumph:
During the 2004 Olympic marathon in Athens, a shocking incident occurred when a spectator attacked leading runner Vanderlei de Lima. Despite the setback, de Lima persevered and finished third, earning a bronze medal. His sportsmanship was further recognized with the Pierre de Coubertin medal, honoring his extraordinary spirit and resilience.
2008 – Sarah Palin Joins McCain’s Ticket:
On August 29, 2008, Republican presidential nominee John McCain made headlines by selecting Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as his running mate. Palin’s selection was a bold move, adding a maverick conservative voice to the ticket and shaking up the political landscape.
2013 – Justice Department’s Marijuana Policy Shift:
In a historic shift, the Justice Department announced on August 29, 2013, that it would not interfere with states choosing to legalize, tax, and regulate marijuana, provided they implemented strong safeguards. This policy change paved the way for significant shifts in the national approach to marijuana regulation.
2021 – Hurricane Ida’s Wrath:
On this same day in 2021, Hurricane Ida made landfall in Louisiana as one of the most powerful storms ever recorded in the U.S. The storm’s ferocity was unmatched, knocking out power across New Orleans, tearing roofs from buildings, and even reversing the flow of the mighty Mississippi River. Ida’s impact was a stark reminder of the ever-present threat posed by nature.
Today in History: December 25
A Look Back At Today: December 25
Washington crossed the Delaware
William the Conqueror was crowned King of England
President Andrew Johnson granted unconditional pardons to every person who supported the Confederacy
Hirohito became emperor of Japan
Today in History: December 24
A Look Back At Today: December 24
During WWI Impromptu Christmas Truces Pop Up Along Western Front
Devastating fire at the Library of Congress
The Ku Klux Klan is born
Queen Elizabeth granted a posthumous pardon to Alan Turing
Today in History: December 23
A Look Back At Today: December 23
“The Night Before Christmas” first appears in a newspaper.
Pilgrims began construction of Plymouth settlement.
The Federal Reserve System was created.
The airplane Voyager completed the first non-stop flight around the world.
Today in History: December 22
A Look Back At Today: December 22
The Dreyfus Affair Begins
Democratic Elections In Poland
Shoes A Weapon Of Terror
Freedom To Ask And Tell
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