Europa
- Hungary Declares Independence (1918)
On November 16, 1918, Hungary was proclaimed an independent republic following the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire at the end of World War I. This marked a significant shift in Central European politics and the emergence of Hungary as a separate nation-state. - Estonia’s Day of Declaration of Sovereignty (1988)
Estonia issued its Sovereignty Declaration on November 16, 1988, asserting the supremacy of Estonian laws over Soviet laws. This act was a pivotal moment in the Singing Revolution and is now celebrated as the Day of Declaration of Sovereignty in Estonia. - Warsaw Ghetto Sealed (1940)
On this day in 1940, Nazi authorities completed the sealing of the Warsaw Ghetto in Poland. The ghetto became the largest Jewish ghetto in Nazi-occupied Europe and was the site of significant suffering and resistance during World War II. - UNESCO Founded (1945)
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was founded on November 16, 1945. Headquartered in Paris, France, UNESCO promotes international collaboration through education, science, and culture. - In 1918, Allied troops began moving toward Germany as part of the post-World War I occupation, and German troops withdrew from Finland.
- On November 16, 1918, Polish leader Józef Piłsudski proclaimed Poland an independent and sovereign state, marking another significant change in the European political landscape after World War I.
America
- 1776 – Capture of Fort Washington
During the American Revolutionary War, British and Hessian forces captured Fort Washington in New York from the American Patriots. This was a significant defeat for the Continental Army and resulted in the loss of nearly 3,000 American troops. - 1907 – Oklahoma Becomes a State
President Theodore Roosevelt signed the proclamation admitting Oklahoma (formed from Oklahoma Territory and Indian Territory) as the 46th state of the United States. This added a new star to the American flag and marked a major milestone in the nation’s westward expansion. - 1933 – U.S. and Soviet Union Resume Diplomatic Relations
President Franklin D. Roosevelt announced that the United States and the Soviet Union had resumed diplomatic relations, which had been suspended since 1919. This move was significant in the context of global politics leading up to World War II. - 1914 – Federal Reserve Banks Open
The newly created Federal Reserve Banks opened in 12 cities across the United States, marking a major development in the nation’s financial system. - 1821 – Santa Fe Trail Used by a Trader
The Santa Fe Trail, a key commercial and migration route, was used by a trader for the first time, opening up new opportunities for trade between Missouri and Santa Fe, New Mexico. - 1863: The Battle of Campbell’s Station took place near Knoxville, Tennessee, during the American Civil War.
- 1943: American bombers attacked a hydro-electric power facility and heavy water factory in German-occupied Norway during World War II.
- 1959: The Broadway musical “The Sound of Music” opened in New York.
- 1939: Notorious mob boss Al Capone was released from prison after serving over seven years for tax evasion.
Asia
- Release of Chinese Dissident Wei Jingsheng (1997)
After nearly 18 years of incarceration, Chinese authorities released Wei Jingsheng, a prominent pro-democracy dissident, from jail for medical reasons. His release drew international attention to human rights issues in China. - Japan Captures Qingdao from Germany (1914)
During World War I, Japanese forces captured the German enclave of Qingdao (Tsingtao) in China after a two-month siege. This marked a significant shift in regional power and Japan’s growing influence in East Asia. - Election of Benazir Bhutto as Pakistan’s Prime Minister (1988)
Benazir Bhutto was elected Prime Minister of Pakistan, becoming the first woman to lead a Muslim-majority country in modern history. Her election was a landmark event in South Asian and global politics. - Execution of Indian Revolutionary Kartar Singh Sarabha (1915)
Kartar Singh Sarabha, a key figure in India’s struggle for independence, was executed by British colonial authorities. He became a symbol of youthful sacrifice in the Indian freedom movement. - National Press Day in India
November 16 is observed as National Press Day in India, commemorating the establishment of the Press Council of India. The day celebrates press freedom and the responsibilities of journalists in a democratic society. - International Day for Tolerance
The United Nations observes November 16 as the International Day for Tolerance, promoting respect and understanding among different cultures and peoples. This is marked across many Asian countries as part of global observance. - Mother Teresa received honorary U.S. citizenship (1996): While not directly an Asian event, Mother Teresa’s work in India made this recognition significant for the region.
- Loy Krathong Festival in Thailand: The Loy Krathong Light and Sound Show, a major cultural event, often culminates around November 16 in Thailand, celebrating with lights and festivities.
Africa
- Arrival of Indian Indentured Labourers in South Africa (1860)
November 16 marks the anniversary of the arrival of the first group of Indian indentured laborers in South Africa. On this day in 1860, the SS Truro docked in Durban, bringing workers who would play a foundational role in South Africa’s economic and cultural development. This event is commemorated annually, especially in Durban, with ceremonies, interfaith prayers, and cultural gatherings to honor the contributions and heritage of the Indian community in South Africa. - South Africa Opens Beaches to All Races (1989)
On November 16, 1989, President F.W. de Klerk announced the abandonment of the Separate Amenities Act, effectively opening South Africa’s public beaches to all racial groups. This was a significant step in dismantling apartheid-era segregation and moving toward a more inclusive society. - First Successful Separation of Siamese Twins in South Africa (1966)
In Cape Town, November 16, 1966, saw the first successful operation to separate Siamese twins in South Africa, marking a milestone in the country’s medical history. - Birth of Chinua Achebe (1930)
The renowned Nigerian novelist Chinua Achebe, author of “Things Fall Apart,” was born on November 16, 1930. Achebe is celebrated as one of Africa’s most influential literary figures. - Albert Nzula’s Birth (1905): A prominent South African teacher, journalist, and leader of the Communist Party of South Africa, was born on this day.
- Sports: On November 16, 1968, the South African rugby team defeated France in Paris.
This day in history: 16 november