WowFactopedia

Historical Events on 15 May

1. 1618 – The Defenestration of Prague
   This event marked the beginning of the Thirty Years’ War, one of the most destructive conflicts in European history.
2. 1851 – Opening of the Great Exhibition in London
   The Great Exhibition showcased industrial and cultural products from around the world and was held in the Crystal Palace, organized by Prince Albert.
3. 1905 – Founding of Las Vegas, Nevada (USA)
   The land auction that led to the founding of Las Vegas took place on this day, which is now a major city known for its casinos and nightlife.
4. 1911 – Standard Oil is ordered to dissolve
   The U.S. Supreme Court found Standard Oil in violation of anti-trust laws and ordered it to break up into 34 companies.
5. 1940 – Nylon stockings go on sale for the first time
   DuPont began selling nylon stockings across the U.S., marking a revolutionary change in fashion and textiles.
6. 1948 – Israel is recognized by the Soviet Union
   One day after declaring independence, Israel was recognized by the USSR, making it one of the first nations to officially do so.
7. 1957 – Britain tests first hydrogen bomb
   The UK successfully tested its first hydrogen bomb over Christmas Island in the Pacific Ocean.
8. 1988 – Soviet Union begins withdrawal from Afghanistan
   Under the Geneva Accords, the USSR started withdrawing troops from Afghanistan, a process that concluded in 1989.
9. 1991 – Edith Cresson becomes France’s first female Prime Minister
   Edith Cresson was appointed, becoming the first woman to hold the office in France.

🔹 Historical Events on 15 May :Famous Birthdays on 15 May

• 1611 – Pope Innocent XI
• 1859 – Pierre Curie, Nobel Prize-winning French physicist
• 1856 – L. Frank Baum, author of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
• 1895 – Prescott Bush, American banker and politician (father of George H.W. Bush)
• 1937 – Madeleine Albright, the first female U.S. Secretary of State
• 1953 – Mike Oldfield, British musician (Tubular Bells)
• 1978 – Amy Chow, American Olympic gymnast

🔹Historical Events on 15 May: International & National Observances on 15 May

• International Day of Families (UN)
  Observed by the United Nations to highlight the importance of families and promote awareness of issues relating to them.
• National Chocolate Chip Day (USA) 🍪
  A fun celebration of the popular baking ingredient.