This day in history: 25 april

Carnation Revolution in Portugal (1974)

On April 25, 1974, the Carnation Revolution took place in Portugal. This was a nearly bloodless military coup that overthrew the authoritarian Estado Novo regime, ending decades of dictatorship and leading to the establishment of democracy in Portugal.

Spanish–American War Begins (1898)

On April 25, 1898, the United States Congress declared a state of war with Spain, marking the official start of the Spanish–American War. This conflict resulted in the U.S. gaining control over former Spanish territories, including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.

Largest U.S. Tornado Outbreak (2011)

The largest tornado outbreak ever recorded in the United States began on April 25, 2011. Over several days, 348 people were killed across six states, with a total of 358 confirmed tornadoes.

First U.S. Law Legalizing Abortion (1967)

On April 25, 1967, Colorado became the first U.S. state to legalize abortion under certain circumstances, a significant milestone in American legal and social history.

2015 Nepal Earthquake

On April 25, 2015, a devastating magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck Nepal, causing massive destruction in and around Kathmandu. The disaster resulted in over 9,000 deaths, more than 23,000 injuries, and severe damage to UNESCO World Heritage sites. The quake also triggered a deadly avalanche on Mount Everest, marking the deadliest day in the mountain’s history.

2005 Amagasaki Train Derailment (Japan)

On April 25, 2005, a commuter train derailed and crashed into an apartment building near Amagasaki Station in Japan, killing 107 people, including the driver. This remains one of Japan’s deadliest rail disasters.

1859 Construction of the Suez Canal Begins

On April 25, 1859, construction of the Suez Canal started. While the canal is in Egypt, its creation fundamentally changed trade and maritime routes between Asia and Europe, making it a pivotal event in Asian economic history.

Decolonization Triggered by the Carnation Revolution (1974)

On April 25, 1974, the Carnation Revolution in Portugal led to the rapid decolonization of its African colonies. Following the overthrow of the Estado Novo regime in Portugal, negotiations began with African independence movements. By the end of 1974 and into 1975, Portugal withdrew from its major African colonies, resulting in the independence of Guinea-Bissau, Cape Verde, Mozambique, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Angola. This marked a significant turning point in African history, ending centuries of Portuguese colonial rule and sparking major political, social, and demographic changes across these nations.

This day in history: 25 april