What Happened on September 14th?

A city in flames and an empire on the brink

1812 Napoleon Enters Moscow

On September 14, 1812, Napoleon Bonaparte’s forces entered a nearly deserted Moscow, only to find it ablaze, leaving them without resources. The harsh winter forced a disastrous retreat, marking the beginning of the decline of his empire.

This is a German popular print from 1812 showing Napoleon's army entering Moscow in 1812.

🗞️Today’s Headlines

Everything important that’s ever happened on September 14:

1975 ─ Elizabeth Ann Seton was canonized by Pope Paul VI and became the first native-born American saint whose contributions to Catholic education and charity were recognized.

1847 ─ General Winfield Scott led US troops into Mexico City, culminating in a decisive victory that forced Mexico to cede vast territories to the United States in the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.

1829 ─ Russia and the Ottoman Empire ended their conflict with the Treaty of Edirne, which expanded Russian influence in the Balkans and diminished Ottoman control over key territories.

1814 ─ Inspired by the sight of the American flag still flying after the bombardment of Fort McHenry, Francis Scott Key penned a poem that would later become the US national anthem.

1752 ─ The British Empire switched from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar, aligning with Europe by skipping 11 days to correct inaccuracies in tracking the solar year.

1741 ─ George Frideric Handel finished composing the oratorio Messiah in just 24 days, creating a cornerstone of choral music with its famed Hallelujah chorus.

🎂 Today’s Birthdays

On September 14, we’re singing to:

Dmitry Medvedev (1965) ─ President of Russia who led efforts to modernize the economy and strengthen the country's global influence in the early 21st century.

Amy Winehouse (1983) ─ British singer-songwriter who revolutionized music with her soulful voice and unique blend of genres, leaving a lasting impact on pop culture.

 🪦Who Died Today?

On September 14, we’re saying goodbye to:

William McKinley (1901) ─ William McKinley was a President of the United States who guided the nation through significant events and left a legacy that shaped American leadership.

Grace Kelly (1982) ─ American actress and Princess of Monaco who became an icon in Hollywood and European royalty and symbolized grace and elegance worldwide.

Patrick Swayze (2009) ─ American actor and dancer who captivated audiences with powerful performances in film and dance, becoming a beloved cultural icon.

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