What happened on February 15th?

A superpower’s costly gamble ended

1989 The Soviet Union Withdraws Its Last Troops from Afghanistan

On February 15th, 1989, the Soviet Union, under the leadership of Mikhail Gorbachev, completed its withdrawal from Afghanistan, ending a decade-long military occupation. The intervention, which began in 1979, had been a costly and controversial conflict, contributing to political and economic strains within the USSR.

This photo shows a Soviet military unit before their withdrawal from Afghanistan.

🗞️Today’s Headlines

Everything important that’s ever happened on February 15:

2008 — American adventurer Steve Fossett was legally declared dead after his disappearance in September 2007.

1978 — Leon Spinks defeated Muhammad Ali to claim the world heavyweight boxing title in a shocking upset.

1965 Canada officially adopted the Maple Leaf Flag following a royal proclamation, establishing a new national symbol.

1933 — An assassin’s bullet intended for US president-elect Franklin D. Roosevelt wounded Chicago’s mayor, Anton J. Cermak.

1898 — The USS Maine was destroyed in Havana Harbor, a key trigger of the Spanish-American War.

🎂 Today’s Birthdays

On February 15, we’re singing to:

Galileo Galilei (1564) — Italian philosopher, astronomer, and mathematician celebrated for his contributions to modern science, including the heliocentric theory and advancements in telescopic astronomy.

Susan B. Anthony (1820) American suffragist and women’s rights activist whose actions were critical in the fight for women’s suffrage in the United States.

John Barrymore (1882) Acclaimed actor of stage and screen, remembered for his powerful performances in classics such as Hamlet.

Matt Groening (1954) Cartoonist and animator who created The Simpsons and Futurama, two iconic and influential animated television series.

 🪦Who Died Today?

On February 15, we’re saying goodbye to:

Lew Wallace (1905) Author, soldier, and diplomat best known for his novel Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ, one of the best selling works of the 19th century.

Richard Feynman (1988) — Renowned physicist, Nobel laureate, and charismatic teacher, celebrated for his work in quantum mechanics and his ability to make science accessible.

Nat King Cole (1965) Legendary singer and musician famous for his smooth baritone voice and timeless hits like “Unforgettable” and “Mona Lisa.”

How Am I Doing?

What do you think of the History of Today?

Let me know what you think so I can be better 😀

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.