Historical Events on 15 May
- 1618 – The Defenestration of Prague
This event marked the beginning of the Thirty Years’ War, one of the most destructive conflicts in European history. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 1957 – Britain tests first hydrogen bomb
The UK successfully tested its first hydrogen bomb over Christmas Island in the Pacific Ocean. - 1988 – Soviet Union begins withdrawal from Afghanistan
Under the Geneva Accords, the USSR started withdrawing troops from Afghanistan, a process that concluded in 1989. - 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.