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 3
Excerpts:Today in History: December 3:
In 1947, the Tennessee Williams play “A Streetcar Named Desire” opened on Broadway.
In 2015, Defense Secretary Ash Carter ordered the armed services to open all military jobs to women.
Today in History: December 2
Today in History: December 2:
In 1804, Napoleon crowned himself emperor of France in a coronation ceremony at Notre Dame de Paris cathedral.
In 2018, Israeli police recommended indicting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on bribery charges, adding to a growing collection of legal troubles for the longtime leader.
Today in History: December 1
Today in History: December 1:
In 1955, Rosa Parks, a Black seamstress, was arrested after refusing to give up her seat to a white man on a Montgomery, Alabama, city bus.
In 1824, the presidential election was turned over to the House of Representatives after none of the candidates (John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson, William Crawford, and Henry Clay) won over 50% of the electoral vote.
Today in History: November 30
Excerpts:Today in History: November 30:
In 1999, an estimated 40,000 demonstrators clashed with police as they protested against the World Trade Organization in Seattle.
In 1936, London’s Crystal Palace exhibition hall was destroyed by a massive fire.
In 1993, President Bill Clinton signed the Brady Bill, which required a five-day waiting period for handgun purchases
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