This Day in History

Here’s a brief look back in time for this day, April 12. In 1861, Confederate forces bomb Fort Sumter in South Carolina over the next day and a half, forcing the fort’s general to surrender. This was the culmination of years worth of infighting between the northern and southern states;

Here’s a brief look back in time for this day, April 11. In 1814, the famed French military leader Napoleon Bonaparte (also known simply as Napoleon) is exiled onto the secluded island of Elba just off the coast of Italy. This happened due to his failed military operation into Moscow,

Here’s a brief look back in time for this day, April 10. In 1815, the most powerful volcanic eruption in human history (so far) occurs in Indonesia, killing approximately 100,000 people. According to data recorded from geologists, the volcano continued to spew lava and ash for an upwards of three

Here’s a brief look back in time for this day, April 9. In 1865, Confederate General in Chief Robert E. Lee surrenders to the Union’s Ulysses S. Grant in Appomattox Court House, VA, ending the American Civil War. This surrender was not done willingly, however. One day prior, a general

Here’s a brief look back in time for this day, April 8. In 2009, four Somalian pirates hijack the MV Maersk Alabama, a cargo ship bound for Kenya. This was the first time since the early 1800s when a ship bearing the U.S. flag fell victim to piracy. Its cargo

Here’s a brief look back in time for this day, April 7. Note: some content in this article discusses the topic of mass genocide. Reader discretion is advised. In 1862, the Battle of Shiloh ends with a Union victory. Taking place in Hardin County, TN, the Union sought to seize

Here’s a brief look back in time for this day, April 6. In 1896, the Olympic Games are revived after a near 1,500-year absence with an opening ceremony in Athens. Initially organized in Ancient Greece, its roots can be dated back to 776 BC when the games served as a

Here’s a brief look back in time for this day, April 5. In 1974, Stephen King’s first novel titled Carrie is unleashed onto the world. It tells the story of a high-school girl who possess telekinetic powers who decides to take revenge on her bullies following a disastrous prom night.

Here’s a brief look back in time for this day, April 4. In 1841, 1st Governor of the Indiana territory turned 9th U.S. President William Henry Harrison dies of pneumonia while in office. Harrison currently carries the unfortunate accolade of having the shortest presidential tenure – that only being 32

Here’s a brief look back in time for this day, April 3. NOTE: Some content in this article discusses the topic of suicide. If you’re struggling, please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline by dialing 988. In 1882, infamous leader of the James-Younger gang Jesse James is shot and killed