Italian navigator Amerigo Vespucci leaves for his first voyage to the New World (disputed)
Italian navigator Amerigo Vespucci leaves for his first voyage to the New World (disputed)
What Happened on
A complete timeline of historical events, famous births, notable deaths, and holidays that occurred on May 10 throughout history.
105
Events
10
Births
3
Deaths
Historical Events on May 10
Second Continental Congress convenes in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, issuing paper currency for the first time
The Second Continental Congress (1775–1781) was the meeting of delegates from the Thirteen Colonies that united in support of the American Revolution and Revolutionary War, which established American…
First Barbary War: The Barbary pirates of Tripoli declare war on the United States of America (first US foreign war)
The First Barbary War (1801–1805), also known as the Tripolitan War and the Barbary Coast War, was a conflict during the 1801–1815 Barbary Wars, in which the United States fought against Ottoman…
Indian Mutiny against rule by the British East India Company begins with the revolt of the Sepoy soldiers in Meerut
Indian Mutiny against rule by the British East India Company begins with the revolt of the Sepoy soldiers in Meerut
The Golden Spike is driven, completing the first US Transcontinental Railroad at Promontory Summit, Utah, connecting the
The Golden Spike is driven, completing the first US Transcontinental Railroad at Promontory Summit, Utah, connecting the Central Pacific Railroad with the Union Pacific
Winston Churchill succeeds Neville Chamberlain as British Prime Minister at the head of a coalition government
Arthur Neville Chamberlain (18 March 1869 – 9 November 1940) was a British politician who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from May 1937 to May 1940 and Leader of the Conservative Party…
US atomic submarine USS Triton completes first submerged circumnavigation of the globe
USS Triton (SSRN/SSN-586), the only member of her class, was a nuclear powered radar picket submarine in the United States Navy. She was the only Western submarine powered by two nuclear reactors.
Nelson Mandela is sworn in as South Africa's first Black president
The president of South Africa is the head of state and head of government of the Republic of South Africa.
9th Cannes Film Festival: "The Silent World" directed by Jacques Cousteau and Louis Malle wins the Palme d'Or
9th Cannes Film Festival: "The Silent World" directed by Jacques Cousteau and Louis Malle wins the Palme d'Or
Decca Records signs The Rolling Stones on the advice of Beatles guitarist George Harrison [1]
The Rolling Stones are an English rock band formed in London in 1962. Active for over six decades, they are one of the most popular, influential, and enduring bands of the rock era.
Stanley Cup Final, Boston Garden, Boston, MA: Bobby Orr scores a famous OT winner as Boston beats the St. Louis Blues 4-
Stanley Cup Final, Boston Garden, Boston, MA: Bobby Orr scores a famous OT winner as Boston beats the St. Louis Blues 4-3 for a 4-0 series sweep; Bruins win their first title since 1941
Mughal prince Khurram, future Emperor Shah Jahan (20), marries Arjumand Banu Begum (19), the future Mumtaz Mahal, for wh
Mughal prince Khurram, future Emperor Shah Jahan (20), marries Arjumand Banu Begum (19), the future Mumtaz Mahal, for whom he later built the Taj Mahal
American "The Sun Also Rises" novelist Ernest Hemingway (27) weds for second time, to American journalist Pauline Pfeiff
American "The Sun Also Rises" novelist Ernest Hemingway (27) weds for second time, to American journalist Pauline Pfeiffer (31); divorce in 1940
British stage actress and singer Julie Andrews (23) weds British theatrical set designer Tony Walton (24) in Weybridge,
British stage actress and singer Julie Andrews (23) weds British theatrical set designer Tony Walton (24) in Weybridge, Surrey, England; divorce in 1968
American "E.T." actress Drew Barrymore (19) files for divorce from Welsh bar owner Jeremy Thomas (31) after less than tw
American "E.T." actress Drew Barrymore (19) files for divorce from Welsh bar owner Jeremy Thomas (31) after less than two months of marriage
Vienna's church orders all Jews to wear distinctive clothing
Vienna's church orders all Jews to wear distinctive clothing
Jews in England are imprisoned on charges of coin clipping and counterfeiting
Jews in England are imprisoned on charges of coin clipping and counterfeiting
Jews are expelled from Bern, Switzerland
Jews are expelled from Bern, Switzerland
Church reformer John Pistorius is captured in The Hague
Church reformer John Pistorius is captured in The Hague
Scottish Protestants under John Knox uprise against queen mother Mary
Scottish Protestants under John Knox uprise against queen mother Mary
Essex County, Massachusetts is founded, which contains the town of Salem in which the notorious witch-trials will occur
Essex County, Massachusetts is founded, which contains the town of Salem in which the notorious witch-trials will occur in 1692
John Johnson, a free African-Virginian, is granted 550 acres in Northampton, Virginia by his father
John Johnson, a free African-Virginian, is granted 550 acres in Northampton, Virginia by his father
Jamaica captured by the English
The Crown Colony of Jamaica and Dependencies was a Crown colony of the British Empire from 1655 to 1962. English forces launched an invasion of Jamaica in 1655, capturing the existing Spanish colony.
Bacon's Rebellion begins, frontiersmen vs Virginia government
Bacon's Rebellion begins, frontiersmen vs Virginia government
American Revolution: Green Mountain Boys capture Fort Ticonderoga, New York
American Revolution: Green Mountain Boys capture Fort Ticonderoga, New York
British Parliament impeaches Warren Hastings, Governor-General of Bengal
British Parliament impeaches Warren Hastings, Governor-General of Bengal
French government arrest 10 utopists
French government arrest 10 utopists
1st US Navy ship, the "United States," is launched
1st US Navy ship, the "United States," is launched
British steamship "Defiance" arrives at Rotterdam harbor
British steamship "Defiance" arrives at Rotterdam harbor
1st steamboat to navigate the Mississippi River arrives at Fort Snelling
1st steamboat to navigate the Mississippi River arrives at Fort Snelling
The National Gallery in London opens to the public in its temporary home in a townhouse on Pall Mall
The National Gallery in London opens to the public in its temporary home in a townhouse on Pall Mall
Panic of 1837: New York City banks fail and unemployment reaches record levels
Panic of 1837: New York City banks fail and unemployment reaches record levels
Astor Place Riot: Backers of American actor and working class hero Edwin Forrest attempt to disrupt British actor Willia
Astor Place Riot: Backers of American actor and working class hero Edwin Forrest attempt to disrupt British actor William McReady's performance at Astor Place Opera House in NYC; Military troops supporting police shoot at the crowd, killing between 22 and 31 [1]
Union troops march on state militia in St Louis, Missouri
Missouri is a landlocked state in the Midwestern region of the United States. Ranking 21st in land area, it borders Iowa to the north, Illinois, Kentucky and Tennessee to the east, Arkansas to the...
Battle of Plum Run Bend, Tennessee
The Battle of Plum Point Bend took place in Tennessee during the American Civil War on May 10, 1862, on the Mississippi River, between ships of the Confederate River Defense Fleet and the Union...
Battles at Spotsylvania Court House, Virginia
The Battle of Spotsylvania Court House, sometimes more simply referred to as the Battle of Spotsylvania (or the 19th-century spelling Spottsylvania), was the second major battle in Lt. Gen.
American Equal Rights Association forms at the Eleventh National Woman's Rights Convention in New York City
The American Equal Rights Association (AERA) was formed in 1866 in the United States.
Jem Mace defends his heavyweight crown against Irish champ Joe Coburn; the match lasts 1 hour and 17 minutes, and neithe
Jem Mace defends his heavyweight crown against Irish champ Joe Coburn; the match lasts 1 hour and 17 minutes, and neither is struck by a punch
Peace of Frankfurt-am-Main concluded between France & Germany ends Franco-Prussian war
The Franco-Prussian War or Franco-German War, often referred to in France as the War of 1870, was a conflict between the Second French Empire and the North German Confederation led by the Kingdom of...
Centennial Fair opens in Philadelphia
The Centennial International Exhibition, officially the International Exhibition of Arts, Manufactures, and Products of the Soil and Mine, was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 10 to...
Meteor falls near Estherville, Iowa
Meteor falls near Estherville, Iowa
Lighthouse on Ameland begins operation
Lighthouse on Ameland begins operation
First appendectomy performed in North America by Abraham Groves in Canada
Abraham Groves (September 8, 1847 – May 12, 1935) was a Canadian physician and surgeon in Fergus, Ontario, who is credited with performing the first appendectomy in North America, in 1883.
Imperial Institute in London opens
London is the capital and largest city of both England and the United Kingdom, with a population of 9.1 million people in 2024.
Hong Kong government declares port is infected with the plague. The outbreak will go on to kill 20,489 over 29 years.
Hong Kong government declares port is infected with the plague. The outbreak will go on to kill 20,489 over 29 years.
Dutch soccer club FC Blauw-Wit (Blue-White) is formed in the Kinkerbuurt area of Amsterdam; merge with VV De Beursbengel
Dutch soccer club FC Blauw-Wit (Blue-White) is formed in the Kinkerbuurt area of Amsterdam; merge with VV De Beursbengels in 2015
Russian Duma (Parliament) meets for 1st time
Russian Duma (Parliament) meets for 1st time
Paul Dukas' opera "Ariane et Barbe Bleue" premieres in Paris
Ariane et Barbe-bleue is an opera in three acts by Paul Dukas. The French libretto is adapted (with very few changes) from the symbolist play of the same name by Maurice Maeterlinck, itself loosely...
1st Mother's Day observed (Philadelphia)
Mother's Day is an annual holiday celebrated in the United States on the second Sunday in May.
Winchester's Fred Toney no-hits Lexington for 17 inning
Fred Toney (December 11, 1888 – March 11, 1953) was an American right-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball for the Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds, New York Giants and St.
1st aircraft air display held (Hendon, England)
1st aircraft air display held (Hendon, England)
MLB New York Yankees commit 8 errors, but manage to defeat Detroit Tigers 10-9 in 10 innings
The Detroit Tigers are an American professional baseball team based in Detroit. The Tigers compete in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a member club of the American League (AL) Central Division.
Historic Shipport Museum opens in Amsterdam
Historic Shipport Museum opens in Amsterdam
Atlantic ships get destroyer escorts to stop German attacks
The Atlantic U-boat campaign of World War I (sometimes called the "First Battle of the Atlantic", in reference to the World War II campaign of that name) was the prolonged naval conflict between...
HMS Vindictive sunk to block entrance of Ostend Harbor
HMS Vindictive sunk to block entrance of Ostend Harbor
Race riot in Charleston, South Carolina, 2 blacks killed
The Charleston riot of 1919 took place on the night of Saturday, May 10, between members of the US Navy and the local black population.
Luigi Pirandello's "Sei Personaggi in Cerca d'Autore" premieres
Luigi Pirandello's "Sei Personaggi in Cerca d'Autore" premieres
Dr Ivy Williams is 1st woman to be called to the English Bar
Dr Ivy Williams is 1st woman to be called to the English Bar
To control demonstrations against foreigners, British troops in Shanghai fire into a crowd, leading to a boycott against
To control demonstrations against foreigners, British troops in Shanghai fire into a crowd, leading to a boycott against British goods
Golf ball size hail falls in Burlington, New Jersey
Golf ball size hail falls in Burlington, New Jersey
Government of Netherland declares "Wilhelmus" as the national anthem
Government of Netherland declares "Wilhelmus" as the national anthem
Deutsche Arbeitsfront (DAF) forms
Deutsche Arbeitsfront (DAF) forms
Busmen strike in London
Busmen strike in London
Banning speech on anti-fascism demonstration in Amsterdam
Anti-fascism is a political movement in opposition to fascist ideologies, groups and individuals.
Dutch-Indies Governor Van Starkenborch proclaims end to state of siege
Dutch-Indies Governor Van Starkenborch proclaims end to state of siege
World War II: The Thai Phayap Army invades the Shan States during the Burma Campaign
The Burma campaign was a series of battles fought in the British colony of Burma as part of the South-East Asian theatre of World War II.
Chinese offensive in West-Yunnan
The Crimean offensive (8 April – 12 May 1944), known in German sources as the Battle of the Crimea, was a series of offensives by the Red Army directed at the German-held Crimea.
Allies capture Rangoon from the Japanese
The Japanese invasion of Burma, referred to by the BIA in 1941 as the fourth Anglo-Burmese war or the war of Burmese Independence, was a series of battles fought in the British colony of Burma...
1st attack by Egyptian irregular forces at Kfar Darom Israel
1st attack by Egyptian irregular forces at Kfar Darom Israel
1st Netherlands-US telex sent
1st Netherlands-US telex sent
Z Alexander Looby elected to Nashville City Council
Zephaniah Alexander Looby (April 8, 1899 – March 24, 1972) was a lawyer in Nashville, Tennessee, who was active in the civil rights movement.
KCBD TV channel 11 in Lubbock, TX (NBC) begins broadcasting
KCBD (channel 11) is a television station licensed to Lubbock, Texas, United States, affiliated with NBC.
Bolshoi Ballet does not appear in Paris
Bolshoi Ballet does not appear in Paris
8th Cannes Film Festival: "Marty" directed by Delbert Mann wins Palme d'Or
Marty is a 1955 American romantic drama film directed by Delbert Mann in his directorial debut.
1st meeting of legislative of Cameroon
1st meeting of legislative of Cameroon
Giants Jim Hearn allows 2 runs against Pirates, game is suspended, Hearn is released & charged with loss 2 months after
Giants Jim Hearn allows 2 runs against Pirates, game is suspended, Hearn is released & charged with loss 2 months after his retirement
25°F lowest temperature ever recorded in Cleveland in May
25°F lowest temperature ever recorded in Cleveland in May
Foundation AZ soccer team forms in Alkmaar
Foundation AZ soccer team forms in Alkmaar
Vietnam peace talks began in Paris between the US and North Vietnam
The Paris Peace Accords (Vietnamese: Hiệp định Paris về Việt Nam, lit. 'Paris Treaty about Vietnam'), officially the Agreement on ending the war and restoring peace in Viet-Nam (Hiệp định về chấm dứt...
US special delivery rates go from 45 cents to 60 cents
The system for mail delivery in the United States has developed with the nation. Rates were based on the distance between sender and receiver in the nation's early years.
An Irish Republican Army bomb starts a fire that destroys the Belfast Co-operative store
An Irish Republican Army bomb starts a fire that destroys the Belfast Co-operative store
Brian Oldfield of US put shot 75', an unofficial record
Brian Oldfield of US put shot 75', an unofficial record
Federated States of Micronesia becomes self-governing
The Federated States of Micronesia (abbreviated FSM), or simply Micronesia, is an island country in Micronesia, a region of Oceania.
Lee Chin Yong performs 170 continuous chin-ups in Seoul
Lee Chin Yong performs 170 continuous chin-ups in Seoul
International Court of Justice rules on US blockade of Nicaragua
The International Court of Justice (ICJ; French: Cour internationale de justice, CIJ), or colloquially the World Court, is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations (UN).
Challenger transports back to Kennedy Space Center via Kelly AFB
Challenger transports back to Kennedy Space Center via Kelly AFB
"Rock Me Amadeus" by Falco hits #1 on UK pop chart
"Rock Me Amadeus" is a novelty song recorded by Austrian musician Falco for his third studio album, Falco 3 (1985).
French TGV-train hits record speed of 510.6 kph (317.3 mph)
French TGV-train hits record speed of 510.6 kph (317.3 mph)
Bible Lands Museum opens in Jerusalem Israel
Jerusalem is a city in the Southern Levant, on a plateau in the Judaean Mountains between the Mediterranean and the Dead Sea.
Britain lifts a 23-year ban on ministerial talks with Sinn Féin
Britain lifts a 23-year ban on ministerial talks with Sinn Féin
Chicago Cubs turn baseballs 68th triple play (vs SF Giants)
Chicago Cubs turn baseballs 68th triple play (vs SF Giants)
India's population reaches 1 billion, baby girl Aastha born at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital chosen as symbolic billionth
India's population reaches 1 billion, baby girl Aastha born at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital chosen as symbolic billionth
Anaheim Angels crush the Chicago White Sox 19-0. The Angels join the 1923 Indians, 1939 Yankees and 1950 Red Sox as the
Anaheim Angels crush the Chicago White Sox 19-0. The Angels join the 1923 Indians, 1939 Yankees and 1950 Red Sox as the only teams to beat two opponents by 19 or more runs in the same season
Tornado outbreak sequence takes place across the Great Plains and Eastern United States
From May 3 to May 11, 2003, a prolonged and destructive series of tornado outbreaks affected much of the Great Plains and Eastern United States.
Kate Gosselin gives birth to sextuplets in Hershey, Pennsylvania
Kate Gosselin gives birth to sextuplets in Hershey, Pennsylvania
Giogio Napolitano is elected President of Italy, first former communist to become President
Giogio Napolitano is elected President of Italy, first former communist to become President
Peeter Vähi's "Antarctic Concerto" world première, with guitar soloist Rémi Boucher and the Glasperlenspiel Sinfonietta
Peeter Vähi's "Antarctic Concerto" world première, with guitar soloist Rémi Boucher and the Glasperlenspiel Sinfonietta led by Andres Mustonen, at Nordea Concert Hall in Tallinn, Estonia
Kara Walker's artwork "The Subtlety" opens - an installation of a sphinx made of sugar at the Domino Sugar factory in Br
Kara Walker's artwork "The Subtlety" opens - an installation of a sphinx made of sugar at the Domino Sugar factory in Brooklyn, NY [1]
Indian fertility clinic announces that a 70-year-old woman has successfully gave birth to a baby boy
Indian fertility clinic announces that a 70-year-old woman has successfully gave birth to a baby boy
Apple becomes the first company to be worth more than $800 billion
Apple becomes the first company to be worth more than $800 billion
China announces plans for the world's largest weather-control mechanism, rain-inducing machines for the Tibetan Plateau
China announces plans for the world's largest weather-control mechanism, rain-inducing machines for the Tibetan Plateau (area the size of Alaska)
Global confirmed cases of COVID-19 rise above 4 million with death toll above 270,000, according to Johns Hopkins
Global confirmed cases of COVID-19 rise above 4 million with death toll above 270,000, according to Johns Hopkins
Chinese safari park in Fuyang forced to apologize for not informing the public that three leopards had escaped April 19
Chinese safari park in Fuyang forced to apologize for not informing the public that three leopards had escaped April 19 and been roaming nearby neighborhoods
Apple ends production of its iPod music player after 21 years
The iPod was a series of portable media players and multi-purpose mobile devices that were designed and marketed by Apple from 2001 to 2022.
Soviet-era failed Venus probe, Kosmos 482, re-enters Earth's atmosphere, crash-landing into the Indian Ocean [1]
Kosmos 482 (Russian: "Космос 482" meaning Cosmos 482) was an attempted Soviet Venus probe. Launched 31 March 1972, at 04:02:33 UTC, it failed to escape low Earth orbit.
Famous Births on May 10
birth
Gustav Stresemann is born
Gustav Stresemann is born
birth
Alfred Jodl is born
Alfred Jodl, German general and war criminal, known for german general and war criminal, was born on 1890-05-10.
birth
Ariel Durant is born
Ariel Durant, American historian, known for american historian, was born on 1898-05-10. Ariel Durant (May 10, 1898 – October 25, 1981) was a Ukrainian-born American researcher and writer.
birth
Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin is born
Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin, American american astronomer, known for british and american astronomer, was born on 1900-05-10.
birth
Arthur Kopit is born
Arthur Kopit, American playwright, known for american playwright, was born on 1937-05-10. Arthur Lee Kopit (né Koenig; May 10, 1937 – April 2, 2021) was an American playwright.
birth
Fred Astaire is born
Fred Astaire, American dancer and actor, known for american dancer and actor, was born on 1899-05-10.
birth
Maybelle Carter is born
Maybelle Carter, American musician, known for american country musician, was born on 1909-05-10.
birth
Sid Vicious is born
Sid Vicious, English musician, known for english bassist, was born on 1957-05-10. Simon John Ritchie (better known by his stage name Sid Vicious; 10 May 1957 – 2 February 1979) was an English…
birth
Donovan is born
Donovan, Scottish musician, known for scottish musician, was born on 1947-05-10. Donovan Phillips Leitch, known mononymously as Donovan, is a Scottish musician, songwriter and record producer.
birth
Bono is born
Bono, Irish musician, known for irish musician and activist, was born on 1961-05-10. Paul David Hewson, known by the nickname Bono, is an Irish singer-songwriter and activist.
Notable Deaths on May 10
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happened on May 10, 1497?
- Italian navigator Amerigo Vespucci leaves for his first voyage to the New World (disputed)
- What happened on May 10, 1775?
- The Second Continental Congress (1775–1781) was the meeting of delegates from the Thirteen Colonies that united in support of the American Revolution and Revolutionary War, which established American…
- What happened on May 10, 1801?
- The First Barbary War (1801–1805), also known as the Tripolitan War and the Barbary Coast War, was a conflict during the 1801–1815 Barbary Wars, in which the United States fought against Ottoman…
- What happened on May 10, 1857?
- Indian Mutiny against rule by the British East India Company begins with the revolt of the Sepoy soldiers in Meerut
- What happened on May 10, 1869?
- The Golden Spike is driven, completing the first US Transcontinental Railroad at Promontory Summit, Utah, connecting the Central Pacific Railroad with the Union Pacific
Complete Timeline — May 10 Through the Ages
Vienna's church orders all Jews to wear distinctive clothing
Vienna's church orders all Jews to wear distinctive clothing
Jews in England are imprisoned on charges of coin clipping and counterfeiting
Jews in England are imprisoned on charges of coin clipping and counterfeiting
Jews are expelled from Bern, Switzerland
Jews are expelled from Bern, Switzerland
Italian navigator Amerigo Vespucci leaves for his first voyage to the New World (disputed)
Italian navigator Amerigo Vespucci leaves for his first voyage to the New World (disputed)
Church reformer John Pistorius is captured in The Hague
Church reformer John Pistorius is captured in The Hague
Scottish Protestants under John Knox uprise against queen mother Mary
Scottish Protestants under John Knox uprise against queen mother Mary
Mughal prince Khurram, future Emperor Shah Jahan (20), marries Arjumand Banu Begum (19), the future Mumtaz Mahal, for wh
Mughal prince Khurram, future Emperor Shah Jahan (20), marries Arjumand Banu Begum (19), the future Mumtaz Mahal, for whom he later built the Taj Mahal
Essex County, Massachusetts is founded, which contains the town of Salem in which the notorious witch-trials will occur
Essex County, Massachusetts is founded, which contains the town of Salem in which the notorious witch-trials will occur in 1692
John Johnson, a free African-Virginian, is granted 550 acres in Northampton, Virginia by his father
John Johnson, a free African-Virginian, is granted 550 acres in Northampton, Virginia by his father
Jamaica captured by the English
The Crown Colony of Jamaica and Dependencies was a Crown colony of the British Empire from 1655 to 1962. English forces launched an invasion of Jamaica in 1655, capturing the existing Spanish colony.
Bacon's Rebellion begins, frontiersmen vs Virginia government
Bacon's Rebellion begins, frontiersmen vs Virginia government
Second Continental Congress convenes in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, issuing paper currency for the first time
The Second Continental Congress (1775–1781) was the meeting of delegates from the Thirteen Colonies that united in support of the American Revolution and Revolutionary War, which established American…
American Revolution: Green Mountain Boys capture Fort Ticonderoga, New York
American Revolution: Green Mountain Boys capture Fort Ticonderoga, New York
British Parliament impeaches Warren Hastings, Governor-General of Bengal
British Parliament impeaches Warren Hastings, Governor-General of Bengal
French government arrest 10 utopists
French government arrest 10 utopists
1st US Navy ship, the "United States," is launched
1st US Navy ship, the "United States," is launched
First Barbary War: The Barbary pirates of Tripoli declare war on the United States of America (first US foreign war)
The First Barbary War (1801–1805), also known as the Tripolitan War and the Barbary Coast War, was a conflict during the 1801–1815 Barbary Wars, in which the United States fought against Ottoman…
Comte de Rochambeau dies
Comte de Rochambeau, American royal army officer, known for french royal army officer, died on 1807-05-10.
British steamship "Defiance" arrives at Rotterdam harbor
British steamship "Defiance" arrives at Rotterdam harbor
1st steamboat to navigate the Mississippi River arrives at Fort Snelling
1st steamboat to navigate the Mississippi River arrives at Fort Snelling
The National Gallery in London opens to the public in its temporary home in a townhouse on Pall Mall
The National Gallery in London opens to the public in its temporary home in a townhouse on Pall Mall
Panic of 1837: New York City banks fail and unemployment reaches record levels
Panic of 1837: New York City banks fail and unemployment reaches record levels
Astor Place Riot: Backers of American actor and working class hero Edwin Forrest attempt to disrupt British actor Willia
Astor Place Riot: Backers of American actor and working class hero Edwin Forrest attempt to disrupt British actor William McReady's performance at Astor Place Opera House in NYC; Military troops supporting police shoot at the crowd, killing between 22 and 31 [1]
Indian Mutiny against rule by the British East India Company begins with the revolt of the Sepoy soldiers in Meerut
Indian Mutiny against rule by the British East India Company begins with the revolt of the Sepoy soldiers in Meerut
Union troops march on state militia in St Louis, Missouri
Missouri is a landlocked state in the Midwestern region of the United States. Ranking 21st in land area, it borders Iowa to the north, Illinois, Kentucky and Tennessee to the east, Arkansas to the...
Battle of Plum Run Bend, Tennessee
The Battle of Plum Point Bend took place in Tennessee during the American Civil War on May 10, 1862, on the Mississippi River, between ships of the Confederate River Defense Fleet and the Union...
Battles at Spotsylvania Court House, Virginia
The Battle of Spotsylvania Court House, sometimes more simply referred to as the Battle of Spotsylvania (or the 19th-century spelling Spottsylvania), was the second major battle in Lt. Gen.
American Equal Rights Association forms at the Eleventh National Woman's Rights Convention in New York City
The American Equal Rights Association (AERA) was formed in 1866 in the United States.
The Golden Spike is driven, completing the first US Transcontinental Railroad at Promontory Summit, Utah, connecting the
The Golden Spike is driven, completing the first US Transcontinental Railroad at Promontory Summit, Utah, connecting the Central Pacific Railroad with the Union Pacific
Jem Mace defends his heavyweight crown against Irish champ Joe Coburn; the match lasts 1 hour and 17 minutes, and neithe
Jem Mace defends his heavyweight crown against Irish champ Joe Coburn; the match lasts 1 hour and 17 minutes, and neither is struck by a punch
Peace of Frankfurt-am-Main concluded between France & Germany ends Franco-Prussian war
The Franco-Prussian War or Franco-German War, often referred to in France as the War of 1870, was a conflict between the Second French Empire and the North German Confederation led by the Kingdom of...
Centennial Fair opens in Philadelphia
The Centennial International Exhibition, officially the International Exhibition of Arts, Manufactures, and Products of the Soil and Mine, was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 10 to...
Gustav Stresemann is born
Gustav Stresemann is born
Meteor falls near Estherville, Iowa
Meteor falls near Estherville, Iowa
Lighthouse on Ameland begins operation
Lighthouse on Ameland begins operation
First appendectomy performed in North America by Abraham Groves in Canada
Abraham Groves (September 8, 1847 – May 12, 1935) was a Canadian physician and surgeon in Fergus, Ontario, who is credited with performing the first appendectomy in North America, in 1883.
Alfred Jodl is born
Alfred Jodl, German general and war criminal, known for german general and war criminal, was born on 1890-05-10.
Imperial Institute in London opens
London is the capital and largest city of both England and the United Kingdom, with a population of 9.1 million people in 2024.
Hong Kong government declares port is infected with the plague. The outbreak will go on to kill 20,489 over 29 years.
Hong Kong government declares port is infected with the plague. The outbreak will go on to kill 20,489 over 29 years.
Ariel Durant is born
Ariel Durant, American historian, known for american historian, was born on 1898-05-10. Ariel Durant (May 10, 1898 – October 25, 1981) was a Ukrainian-born American researcher and writer.
Fred Astaire is born
Fred Astaire, American dancer and actor, known for american dancer and actor, was born on 1899-05-10.
Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin is born
Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin, American american astronomer, known for british and american astronomer, was born on 1900-05-10.
Dutch soccer club FC Blauw-Wit (Blue-White) is formed in the Kinkerbuurt area of Amsterdam; merge with VV De Beursbengel
Dutch soccer club FC Blauw-Wit (Blue-White) is formed in the Kinkerbuurt area of Amsterdam; merge with VV De Beursbengels in 2015
Russian Duma (Parliament) meets for 1st time
Russian Duma (Parliament) meets for 1st time
Paul Dukas' opera "Ariane et Barbe Bleue" premieres in Paris
Ariane et Barbe-bleue is an opera in three acts by Paul Dukas. The French libretto is adapted (with very few changes) from the symbolist play of the same name by Maurice Maeterlinck, itself loosely...
1st Mother's Day observed (Philadelphia)
Mother's Day is an annual holiday celebrated in the United States on the second Sunday in May.
Winchester's Fred Toney no-hits Lexington for 17 inning
Fred Toney (December 11, 1888 – March 11, 1953) was an American right-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball for the Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds, New York Giants and St.
Maybelle Carter is born
Maybelle Carter, American musician, known for american country musician, was born on 1909-05-10.
1st aircraft air display held (Hendon, England)
1st aircraft air display held (Hendon, England)
MLB New York Yankees commit 8 errors, but manage to defeat Detroit Tigers 10-9 in 10 innings
The Detroit Tigers are an American professional baseball team based in Detroit. The Tigers compete in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a member club of the American League (AL) Central Division.
Historic Shipport Museum opens in Amsterdam
Historic Shipport Museum opens in Amsterdam
Atlantic ships get destroyer escorts to stop German attacks
The Atlantic U-boat campaign of World War I (sometimes called the "First Battle of the Atlantic", in reference to the World War II campaign of that name) was the prolonged naval conflict between...
HMS Vindictive sunk to block entrance of Ostend Harbor
HMS Vindictive sunk to block entrance of Ostend Harbor
Race riot in Charleston, South Carolina, 2 blacks killed
The Charleston riot of 1919 took place on the night of Saturday, May 10, between members of the US Navy and the local black population.
John Wesley Hyatt dies
John Wesley Hyatt dies
Luigi Pirandello's "Sei Personaggi in Cerca d'Autore" premieres
Luigi Pirandello's "Sei Personaggi in Cerca d'Autore" premieres
Dr Ivy Williams is 1st woman to be called to the English Bar
Dr Ivy Williams is 1st woman to be called to the English Bar
To control demonstrations against foreigners, British troops in Shanghai fire into a crowd, leading to a boycott against
To control demonstrations against foreigners, British troops in Shanghai fire into a crowd, leading to a boycott against British goods
American "The Sun Also Rises" novelist Ernest Hemingway (27) weds for second time, to American journalist Pauline Pfeiff
American "The Sun Also Rises" novelist Ernest Hemingway (27) weds for second time, to American journalist Pauline Pfeiffer (31); divorce in 1940
Golf ball size hail falls in Burlington, New Jersey
Golf ball size hail falls in Burlington, New Jersey
Government of Netherland declares "Wilhelmus" as the national anthem
Government of Netherland declares "Wilhelmus" as the national anthem
Deutsche Arbeitsfront (DAF) forms
Deutsche Arbeitsfront (DAF) forms
Busmen strike in London
Busmen strike in London
Arthur Kopit is born
Arthur Kopit, American playwright, known for american playwright, was born on 1937-05-10. Arthur Lee Kopit (né Koenig; May 10, 1937 – April 2, 2021) was an American playwright.
Banning speech on anti-fascism demonstration in Amsterdam
Anti-fascism is a political movement in opposition to fascist ideologies, groups and individuals.
Winston Churchill succeeds Neville Chamberlain as British Prime Minister at the head of a coalition government
Arthur Neville Chamberlain (18 March 1869 – 9 November 1940) was a British politician who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from May 1937 to May 1940 and Leader of the Conservative Party…
Dutch-Indies Governor Van Starkenborch proclaims end to state of siege
Dutch-Indies Governor Van Starkenborch proclaims end to state of siege
World War II: The Thai Phayap Army invades the Shan States during the Burma Campaign
The Burma campaign was a series of battles fought in the British colony of Burma as part of the South-East Asian theatre of World War II.
Chinese offensive in West-Yunnan
The Crimean offensive (8 April – 12 May 1944), known in German sources as the Battle of the Crimea, was a series of offensives by the Red Army directed at the German-held Crimea.
Allies capture Rangoon from the Japanese
The Japanese invasion of Burma, referred to by the BIA in 1941 as the fourth Anglo-Burmese war or the war of Burmese Independence, was a series of battles fought in the British colony of Burma...
Donovan is born
Donovan, Scottish musician, known for scottish musician, was born on 1947-05-10. Donovan Phillips Leitch, known mononymously as Donovan, is a Scottish musician, songwriter and record producer.
1st attack by Egyptian irregular forces at Kfar Darom Israel
1st attack by Egyptian irregular forces at Kfar Darom Israel
1st Netherlands-US telex sent
1st Netherlands-US telex sent
Z Alexander Looby elected to Nashville City Council
Zephaniah Alexander Looby (April 8, 1899 – March 24, 1972) was a lawyer in Nashville, Tennessee, who was active in the civil rights movement.
KCBD TV channel 11 in Lubbock, TX (NBC) begins broadcasting
KCBD (channel 11) is a television station licensed to Lubbock, Texas, United States, affiliated with NBC.
Bolshoi Ballet does not appear in Paris
Bolshoi Ballet does not appear in Paris
8th Cannes Film Festival: "Marty" directed by Delbert Mann wins Palme d'Or
Marty is a 1955 American romantic drama film directed by Delbert Mann in his directorial debut.
Tommy Burns dies
Tommy Burns dies
9th Cannes Film Festival: "The Silent World" directed by Jacques Cousteau and Louis Malle wins the Palme d'Or
9th Cannes Film Festival: "The Silent World" directed by Jacques Cousteau and Louis Malle wins the Palme d'Or
1st meeting of legislative of Cameroon
1st meeting of legislative of Cameroon
Sid Vicious is born
Sid Vicious, English musician, known for english bassist, was born on 1957-05-10. Simon John Ritchie (better known by his stage name Sid Vicious; 10 May 1957 – 2 February 1979) was an English…
British stage actress and singer Julie Andrews (23) weds British theatrical set designer Tony Walton (24) in Weybridge,
British stage actress and singer Julie Andrews (23) weds British theatrical set designer Tony Walton (24) in Weybridge, Surrey, England; divorce in 1968
Giants Jim Hearn allows 2 runs against Pirates, game is suspended, Hearn is released & charged with loss 2 months after
Giants Jim Hearn allows 2 runs against Pirates, game is suspended, Hearn is released & charged with loss 2 months after his retirement
US atomic submarine USS Triton completes first submerged circumnavigation of the globe
USS Triton (SSRN/SSN-586), the only member of her class, was a nuclear powered radar picket submarine in the United States Navy. She was the only Western submarine powered by two nuclear reactors.
Bono is born
Bono, Irish musician, known for irish musician and activist, was born on 1961-05-10. Paul David Hewson, known by the nickname Bono, is an Irish singer-songwriter and activist.
Decca Records signs The Rolling Stones on the advice of Beatles guitarist George Harrison [1]
The Rolling Stones are an English rock band formed in London in 1962. Active for over six decades, they are one of the most popular, influential, and enduring bands of the rock era.
25°F lowest temperature ever recorded in Cleveland in May
25°F lowest temperature ever recorded in Cleveland in May
Foundation AZ soccer team forms in Alkmaar
Foundation AZ soccer team forms in Alkmaar
Vietnam peace talks began in Paris between the US and North Vietnam
The Paris Peace Accords (Vietnamese: Hiệp định Paris về Việt Nam, lit. 'Paris Treaty about Vietnam'), officially the Agreement on ending the war and restoring peace in Viet-Nam (Hiệp định về chấm dứt...
Stanley Cup Final, Boston Garden, Boston, MA: Bobby Orr scores a famous OT winner as Boston beats the St. Louis Blues 4-
Stanley Cup Final, Boston Garden, Boston, MA: Bobby Orr scores a famous OT winner as Boston beats the St. Louis Blues 4-3 for a 4-0 series sweep; Bruins win their first title since 1941
US special delivery rates go from 45 cents to 60 cents
The system for mail delivery in the United States has developed with the nation. Rates were based on the distance between sender and receiver in the nation's early years.
An Irish Republican Army bomb starts a fire that destroys the Belfast Co-operative store
An Irish Republican Army bomb starts a fire that destroys the Belfast Co-operative store
Brian Oldfield of US put shot 75', an unofficial record
Brian Oldfield of US put shot 75', an unofficial record
Federated States of Micronesia becomes self-governing
The Federated States of Micronesia (abbreviated FSM), or simply Micronesia, is an island country in Micronesia, a region of Oceania.
Lee Chin Yong performs 170 continuous chin-ups in Seoul
Lee Chin Yong performs 170 continuous chin-ups in Seoul
International Court of Justice rules on US blockade of Nicaragua
The International Court of Justice (ICJ; French: Cour internationale de justice, CIJ), or colloquially the World Court, is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations (UN).
Challenger transports back to Kennedy Space Center via Kelly AFB
Challenger transports back to Kennedy Space Center via Kelly AFB
"Rock Me Amadeus" by Falco hits #1 on UK pop chart
"Rock Me Amadeus" is a novelty song recorded by Austrian musician Falco for his third studio album, Falco 3 (1985).
French TGV-train hits record speed of 510.6 kph (317.3 mph)
French TGV-train hits record speed of 510.6 kph (317.3 mph)
Bible Lands Museum opens in Jerusalem Israel
Jerusalem is a city in the Southern Levant, on a plateau in the Judaean Mountains between the Mediterranean and the Dead Sea.
Nelson Mandela is sworn in as South Africa's first Black president
The president of South Africa is the head of state and head of government of the Republic of South Africa.
American "E.T." actress Drew Barrymore (19) files for divorce from Welsh bar owner Jeremy Thomas (31) after less than tw
American "E.T." actress Drew Barrymore (19) files for divorce from Welsh bar owner Jeremy Thomas (31) after less than two months of marriage
Britain lifts a 23-year ban on ministerial talks with Sinn Féin
Britain lifts a 23-year ban on ministerial talks with Sinn Féin
Chicago Cubs turn baseballs 68th triple play (vs SF Giants)
Chicago Cubs turn baseballs 68th triple play (vs SF Giants)
India's population reaches 1 billion, baby girl Aastha born at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital chosen as symbolic billionth
India's population reaches 1 billion, baby girl Aastha born at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital chosen as symbolic billionth
Anaheim Angels crush the Chicago White Sox 19-0. The Angels join the 1923 Indians, 1939 Yankees and 1950 Red Sox as the
Anaheim Angels crush the Chicago White Sox 19-0. The Angels join the 1923 Indians, 1939 Yankees and 1950 Red Sox as the only teams to beat two opponents by 19 or more runs in the same season
Tornado outbreak sequence takes place across the Great Plains and Eastern United States
From May 3 to May 11, 2003, a prolonged and destructive series of tornado outbreaks affected much of the Great Plains and Eastern United States.
Kate Gosselin gives birth to sextuplets in Hershey, Pennsylvania
Kate Gosselin gives birth to sextuplets in Hershey, Pennsylvania
Giogio Napolitano is elected President of Italy, first former communist to become President
Giogio Napolitano is elected President of Italy, first former communist to become President
Peeter Vähi's "Antarctic Concerto" world première, with guitar soloist Rémi Boucher and the Glasperlenspiel Sinfonietta
Peeter Vähi's "Antarctic Concerto" world première, with guitar soloist Rémi Boucher and the Glasperlenspiel Sinfonietta led by Andres Mustonen, at Nordea Concert Hall in Tallinn, Estonia
Kara Walker's artwork "The Subtlety" opens - an installation of a sphinx made of sugar at the Domino Sugar factory in Br
Kara Walker's artwork "The Subtlety" opens - an installation of a sphinx made of sugar at the Domino Sugar factory in Brooklyn, NY [1]
Indian fertility clinic announces that a 70-year-old woman has successfully gave birth to a baby boy
Indian fertility clinic announces that a 70-year-old woman has successfully gave birth to a baby boy
Apple becomes the first company to be worth more than $800 billion
Apple becomes the first company to be worth more than $800 billion
China announces plans for the world's largest weather-control mechanism, rain-inducing machines for the Tibetan Plateau
China announces plans for the world's largest weather-control mechanism, rain-inducing machines for the Tibetan Plateau (area the size of Alaska)
Global confirmed cases of COVID-19 rise above 4 million with death toll above 270,000, according to Johns Hopkins
Global confirmed cases of COVID-19 rise above 4 million with death toll above 270,000, according to Johns Hopkins
Chinese safari park in Fuyang forced to apologize for not informing the public that three leopards had escaped April 19
Chinese safari park in Fuyang forced to apologize for not informing the public that three leopards had escaped April 19 and been roaming nearby neighborhoods
Apple ends production of its iPod music player after 21 years
The iPod was a series of portable media players and multi-purpose mobile devices that were designed and marketed by Apple from 2001 to 2022.
Soviet-era failed Venus probe, Kosmos 482, re-enters Earth's atmosphere, crash-landing into the Indian Ocean [1]
Kosmos 482 (Russian: "Космос 482" meaning Cosmos 482) was an attempted Soviet Venus probe. Launched 31 March 1972, at 04:02:33 UTC, it failed to escape low Earth orbit.