What happened on May 27?

On May 27th, notable events across history have ranged from significant military engagements to cultural milestones. One of the most important events was the sinking of the German Battleship Bismarck during World War II.

This historic naval engagement, led by British forces, marked the culmination of a dramatic pursuit and ultimately spelled the end of one of Germany's most formidable warships, shifting the balance of power in the Atlantic theater.

Read more about this event and others that happened on May 27

📜 1660: The Treaty of Copenhagen Was Signed

In 1660, the Treaty of Copenhagen was signed, bringing an end to the Second Northern War between Sweden and the coalition of Denmark-Norway, the Dutch Republic, and Brandenburg-Prussia. The treaty restored territories seized during the conflict and reaffirmed existing territorial boundaries, contributing to a period of stability in Northern Europe.

🏰 1703: Fouding of St. Petersburg

Peter the Great founded St. Petersburg, intending it to be Russia's "window to the West." Built on marshlands along the Neva River, St. Petersburg would later become the imperial capital of Russia and a symbol of Russian imperial power and grandeur.

🛢️ 1889: Founding of the American South Penn Oil Co.

This event marked a significant development in the American petroleum industry. Established in Pennsylvania, the company played a crucial role in the early exploration, production, and distribution of oil, contributing to the growth of the region's economy and the expansion of the oil industry nationwide.

🐖 1933: Walt Disney Released The Three Little Pigs

Disney's short film "The Three Little Pigs" premiered, charming audiences with its catchy song "Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf?" and setting new standards in animation.

⚓ 1941: The British Navy Sank the German Battleship Bismarck

In 1941, the British Royal Navy successfully sank the German battleship Bismarck in the North Atlantic. After a fierce naval battle, British ships, including the HMS Hood and HMS Prince of Wales, engaged the Bismarck, ultimately crippling it with torpedoes and gunfire, leading to its eventual sinking. The destruction of the Bismarck was a significant victory for the Allies, eliminating a formidable threat to Allied shipping and boosting morale during a critical phase of World War II. See where this key event fits into the WW2 storyline with this complete timeline of the Second World War.

✈️ 1943: U.S. Olympian Louis Zamperini’s Plane Went Down

U.S. Olympian Louis Zamperini's plane crashed into the Pacific Ocean during a World War II mission. Surviving the crash, Zamperini and two other crew members drifted on a life raft for over a month before being captured by Japanese forces, marking the beginning of Zamperini's harrowing experiences as a prisoner of war.

🌟 Born on This Day in History

1626: William II, Prince of Orange

William II, Prince of Orange, died at the age of 24, leaving a short-lived legacy as a ruler in the Dutch Republic. Despite his brief reign, William II played a significant role in Dutch politics and military affairs, particularly during the Thirty Years' War.

1794: Cornelius Vanderbilt, US Industrialist and Philanthropist

Known as the "Commodore," Vanderbilt was a leading figure in the development of the American railroad and shipping industries, amassing great wealth and contributing to various philanthropic causes.

1819: Julia Ward Howe, Writer

Howe is best known for writing "The Battle Hymn of the Republic." She was also a prominent abolitionist and advocate for women's rights.

1922: Christopher Lee, English Actor

Christopher Lee was the iconic English actor known for his memorable roles in horror and fantasy films. Renowned for his portrayal of Count Dracula and his roles in the "Lord of the Rings" and "Star Wars" franchises, Lee's illustrious career spanned over seven decades, leaving an indelible mark on cinematic history.

1975: Jamie Oliver, British Chef

Oliver is a celebrity chef known for his approachable cooking style and campaigns for healthier school meals.

💔 Died on This Day in History

1564: John Calvin, French Theologian

John Calvin was an influential French theologian and a key figure in the Protestant Reformation. His teachings, including the doctrine of predestination and his work in establishing Reformed theology, profoundly shaped Protestantism and left a lasting impact on Christian thought.

1840: Niccolò Paganini, Italian Composer

Paganini was a virtuoso violinist and composer whose techniques and compositions significantly shaped the world of classical music.