This day in history: 29 may

Heysel Stadium Disaster (1985)

On May 29, 1985, the Heysel Stadium disaster occurred in Brussels, Belgium, before the European Cup final between Juventus and Liverpool. A crowd crush caused by hooliganism, poor stadium conditions, and inadequate policing led to the deaths of 39 people-mostly Italian Juventus fans-and injured over 600 others. As a result, English clubs were banned from European competitions for five years, and Liverpool for six years.

Rejection of the EU Constitution (2005)

Between May 29 and June 1, 2005, French and Dutch voters rejected the Treaty establishing a constitution for Europe, which had been signed by 25 EU member states in October 2004. This was a major setback for European integration and led to later institutional reforms through the Treaty of Lisbon.

Other Notable Events

In 1913, Igor Stravinsky’s ballet The Rite of Spring premiered in Paris, causing a famous riot due to its avant-garde nature.
In 363, Roman Emperor Julian defeated the Sasanian army at the Battle of Ctesiphon, though he failed to take the city.
On May 29, 1974, Feyenoord won the UEFA Cup final against Tottenham Hotspur.

Rhode Island Ratifies the U.S. Constitution (1790)

On May 29, 1790, Rhode Island became the 13th and final original colony to ratify the United States Constitution, officially joining the Union.

Wisconsin Becomes a State (1848)

President Andrew Johnson Grants Amnesty (1865)

After the Civil War, President Andrew Johnson issued a proclamation on May 29, 1865, granting general amnesty to former Confederates, with some exceptions.

John F. Kennedy’s Birthday (1917)

John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, was born on May 29, 1917.

World War II: Shuri Castle Captured (1945)

On May 29, 1945, the U.S. 1st Marine Division captured Shuri Castle during the Battle of Okinawa in World War II.

World War II Memorial Dedicated (2004)

The National World War II Memorial was dedicated in Washington, D.C., on May 29, 2004, honoring Americans who served in the war.

Fall of Constantinople (1453)

On May 29, 1453, the city of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) fell to Ottoman forces led by Sultan Mehmed II. This event marked the end of the Byzantine Empire and the rise of the Ottoman Empire, profoundly impacting both European and Asian history by shifting regional power and trade routes.

Death of the Hongxi Emperor (1425)

The Hongxi Emperor of China, who ruled during the Ming Dynasty, died on May 29, 1425. His brief reign was noted for efforts to reduce government corruption and reform administration.

Mount Everest First Ascent (1953)

On May 29, 1953, New Zealander Edmund Hillary and Nepali Sherpa Tenzing Norgay became the first climbers to reach the summit of Mount Everest, located in the Himalayas between Nepal and Tibet. This achievement is celebrated as a milestone in mountaineering and Asian exploration.

Cyclone in Myanmar (2004)

On May 29, 2004, a cyclonic storm struck Myanmar, resulting in the deaths of 140 people.

Nigeria’s Return to Democracy (1999)

On May 29, 1999, Nigeria transitioned from military to civilian rule, inaugurating its Fourth Republic. Olusegun Obasanjo was sworn in as president, marking the end of 16 years of military rule. This date became known as “Democracy Day” in Nigeria and is still significant for the handover of power between administrations, even though the official Democracy Day was later moved to June 12.

International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers

May 29 is observed as the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, recognizing the service and sacrifice of peacekeepers, many of whom have served in African missions.

Recent Event: South Africa’s 2024 Elections

On May 29, 2024, South Africa held national elections, marking 30 years since the country’s first fully democratic elections in 1994, when the Black majority could vote for the first time.

This day in history: 29 may