1796 Jenner Administers First Smallpox Vaccination

On May 14, 1796, Edward Jenner performed the first successful smallpox vaccination using material from a cowpox lesion to protect against the deadly disease. This groundbreaking experiment marked the beginning of modern immunology and paved the way for the eventual global eradication of smallpox. Jenner’s method laid the foundation for future vaccines and revolutionized disease prevention, saving millions of lives worldwide.

🗞️Today’s Headlines

Everything important that’s ever happened on May 14:

1998 — The final episode of Seinfeld aired, bringing an end to the iconic sitcom that redefined television comedy and influenced countless shows.

1973 — NASA launched Skylab, the first US space station, providing a platform for groundbreaking scientific research and laying the groundwork for future space missions.

1948 — David Ben-Gurion declared the establishment of the State of Israel, leading to immediate recognition by the United States and conflict with neighboring Arab nations.

1804 — Meriwether Lewis and William Clark set out from St. Louis on their expedition to map the newly acquired Louisiana Territory and find a route to the Pacific.

1643 — Louis XIV became King of France at just four years old, inheriting a kingdom in turmoil and eventually transforming it into an absolute monarchy.

1607 — English settlers established Jamestown, Virginia, overcoming harsh conditions to create the first permanent British colony in North America.

🎂 Today’s Birthdays

On May 14, we’re singing to:

George Lucas (1944) — American director, producer, and screenwriter best known for creating Star Wars and Indiana Jones, two of the most influential franchises in film history.

Cate Blanchett (1969) — Australian actress acclaimed for her versatility in films such as Elizabeth, The Lord of the Rings trilogy, and Blue Jasmine, winning multiple Academy Awards.

Mark Zuckerberg (1984) — American computer programmer and entrepreneur and co-founder of Facebook, which revolutionized social media and digital communication worldwide.

 🪦Who Died Today?

On May 14, we’re saying goodbye to:

Rita Hayworth (1987) — American actress and dancer and one of Hollywood’s most iconic stars, remembered for films like Gilda and The Lady from Shanghai.

Frank Sinatra (1998) — American singer and actor, a legendary entertainer whose career spanned decades, with timeless hits like “My Way” and “New York, New York.”

Tom Wolfe (2018) — American author and journalist known for pioneering New Journalism and writing The Bonfire of the Vanities and The Right Stuff.

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