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What happened on March 19th?
Tensions in Iraq escalated into war
Matthew Jones
March 19, 2025
2003 The Iraq War Begins
On March 19th, 2003, the United States, along with its allies, launched an invasion of Iraq, aiming to overthrow Saddam Hussein’s regime. The decision, based on claims of weapons of mass destruction, ignited widespread controversy and led to a prolonged conflict that shaped the geopolitics of the Middle East for years to come.
The photo, taken by Staff Sgt. Michelle Labriel on March 20, 2003, shows V Corps soldiers at Camp Virginia, Kuwait, wearing chemical protective masks and taking shelter in a bunker after a warning of a possible Iraqi Scud missile attack.
🗞️Today’s Headlines
Everything important that’s ever happened on March 19:
1996 — A fire engulfed a Manila discotheque in one of the worst disasters in Philippine history.
1982 — Argentine forces were mobilized after tensions escalated between Argentine workers and British scientists on South Georgia Island in the South Atlantic Ocean, leading to the eventual outbreak of the Falklands War, which lasted 74 days.
1962 — Bob Dylan released his eponymous debut album, receiving mixed reviews but marking the start of a legendary career.
1931 — Nevada legalized gambling, paving the way for the iconic casinos of Las Vegas.
1918 — President Woodrow Wilson signed the Standard Time Act, establishing daylight saving time in the United States.
1911 — The first International Women’s Day celebrated women’s achievements and advocating for equality.
🎂 Today’s Birthdays
On March 19, we’re singing to:
David Livingstone (1813) — Scottish explorer and missionary renowned for his expeditions across Africa and his quest to end the slave trade.
Sir Richard Burton (1821) — British scholar and explorer famed for his travels to Mecca in disguise and translations of The Arabian Nights.
Wyatt Earp (1848) — American frontiersman and lawman remembered for his role in the notorious gunfight at the O.K. Corral.
Glenn Close (1947) — Acclaimed actress celebrated for her performances in Fatal Attraction, Dangerous Liaisons, and The Wife.
Harvey Weinstein (1952) — Film producer who shaped modern cinema before his career and reputation were overshadowed by his sexual crimes.
Bruce Willis (1955) — Actor and action star best known for his role in the Die Hard series and numerous other box office hits.
🪦Who Died Today?
On March 19, we’re saying goodbye to:
Edgar Rice Burroughs (1950) — American novelist best known for creating Tarzan and John Carter of Mars, which became enduring cultural icons.
Arthur C. Clarke (2008) — British author and scientist celebrated for 2001: A Space Odyssey and his visionary contributions to science fiction.
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