What happened on May 19?

Author

Matthew Jones
May 19, 2024

Good morning!

Between British royal weddings and the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany, May 19th marks important events across the globe.

Here’s what happened.

🎖️1802: Napoleon Created the Legion of Honor

Napoleon Bonaparte established one of France's most prestigious awards, the Legion of Honor. Created to recognize military and civilian merit, the honor remains a high accolade in France today. 

🗺️1916: Britain and France Concluded Sykes-Picot Agreement

This agreement divided Ottoman Arab lands into British and French spheres of influence. The clandestine pact laid the groundwork for modern boundaries in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine.

📅1943: FDR and Winston Churchill Plotted D-Day

The American President and the British Prime Minister met to plan the Allied invasion of Normandy. The invasion was scheduled for May 1, 1944 but was later delayed until June. The events of 1943 made it clear to both leaders that such an invasion would be necessary to stop the Nazis. In the end they were right. By May 1945, the Allies had reached Berlin and fighting in Europe came to an end. Read how this meeting fits into the storylines of WW2 in this complete timeline of the Second World War.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt (left) and Winston Churchill (right) are photographed fishing at Shangri-La, the Maryland presidential retreat now known as Camp David. These two world leaders maintained constant communication during the Second World War, even before the US joined the fighting. Their cooperation, along with that Soviet Leader Joseph Stalin, helped make the eventual Allied victory possible

🚀1967: Soviets Ratified Treaty Banning Nuclear Weapons from Outer Space

The Soviet Union ratified a treaty to ban nuclear weapons from outer space. This agreement represented a rare consensus in the pursuit of global safety. 

💒2018: Prince Harry Married American Actress Meghan Markle at St. George's Chapel

This union brought a fresh perspective to the British monarchy and sparked discussions on race, media, and tradition in the 21st century. 

🌟 Born on This Day in History

May 19th also marks the birthdays of individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields:

1744: Charlotte, a Queen of England 

Charlotte influenced the British royal court and witnessed the empire's expansion during her reign. Dive into her life and much more in The Kings and Queens of England: English Monarchs Timeline.

1925: Malcolm X, an American Muslim Leader 

A critical figure in the civil rights movement, he inspired millions with his advocacy for African American rights and empowerment. Reflect on the powerful legacy of this civil rights leader: Malcolm X: Early Life, Nation of Islam, Assassination, and More

1945: Pete Townshend, a British Musician

Guitarist and principal songwriter for The Who, Townshend's innovative approach helped shape the rock genre and left an indelible mark on music history.

1976: Kevin Garnett, an American Basketball Player

Known for his intensity on the basketball court, Garnett is celebrated as one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history.

💔 Died on This Day in History

Remembering those who left their mark on this day:

1218: Otto IV, a Holy Roman Emperor 

Otto IV's reign was marked by his conflict with the Pope and his eventual excommunication, highlighting the intricate power struggles of medieval Europe. Learn more about the emperors who ruled over vast territories in medieval Europe in Roman Emperors in Order: The Complete List.

1536: Anne Boleyn, the Second Wife of King Henry VIII Was Executed

Her execution underscored the harsh realities of Tudor politics, showcasing the brutal maneuvers within the English court.

1864: Nathaniel Hawthorne, an American Writer

Renowned for his dark romanticism, Hawthorne's novels like "The Scarlet Letter" probe the complexities of moral and historical issues in America.

1907: Sir Benjamin Baker, a British Engineer

Celebrated for his role in constructing the Forth Bridge, Baker's innovations in engineering significantly advanced public infrastructure.

1935: Lawrence of Arabia

T.E. Lawrence was a British archaeologist, army officer, and diplomat, who played a key role in the Arab Revolt during World War I and left a lasting legacy on Middle Eastern politics.

1994: Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, an American First Lady

Known for her style and dignity, she profoundly influenced American culture and preservation during and after her time in the White House.

2021: Lee Evans, an American Athlete

An Olympic gold medalist, Evans made history with his record-breaking performance in the 400 meters during the 1968 Mexico City Games and later dedicated his life to coaching and sports administration.

That’s it for today. Thanks again for subscribing and taking the time to learn a little history each day.

Matt