January 28

On January 28, 1851, the Illinois General Assembly granted a charter to establish Northwestern University, making it the first university in the state. Founded by the Methodist Episcopal Church, the institution began with a commitment to liberal arts education and moral development. It opened its doors two years later in Evanston, a suburb north of Chicago, on land donated by local residents. The university attracted students from across the region, offering courses in classics, sciences, and theology. Over time, Northwestern expanded its campuses, faculties, and research programs, becoming a leading private university. Its growth mirrored the rapid development of Chicago and the Midwest during the nineteenth century. Today, Northwestern University is renowned for excellence in both the arts and sciences, embodying its early vision of combining scholarship with civic engagement.

On January 28, 1878, the first issue of the Yale Daily News rolled off the presses at Yale University in New Haven. Founded by a group of students seeking editorial freedom, it became the nation's first independent college daily. The newspaper covered campus events, national news, and student opinions, setting a model for university journalism. Its independence from university administration allowed for candid reporting and editorial commentary. Over the decades, the Yale Daily News has documented major historical events, from world wars to civil rights movements. The paper nurtured generations of journalists who went on to prominent media careers. Today, it remains one of the most respected college newspapers, known for its rigorous reporting and alumni influence in media. The success of the Yale Daily News inspired the creation of student-run newspapers across the country.

On January 28, 1916, Manitoba’s legislature passed a bill granting women the right to vote and run for provincial office, excluding those of Indigenous or Asian descent. This progressive law marked the first time women in Canada secured voting rights. The achievement was the culmination of years of advocacy by suffrage leaders and organizations. Manitoba’s decision sparked similar reforms in other provinces and ultimately influenced the federal government to grant women’s suffrage in 1918. The event represents a major milestone in Canada’s journey toward gender equality and democratic inclusion.

On January 28, 1935, Iceland passed legislation legalizing therapeutic abortion under specific medical conditions, marking a historic first in Western nations. The law allowed physicians to terminate pregnancies to protect a mother’s life and health, reflecting early recognition of women’s healthcare rights. Prior to this, abortion was widely prohibited across Europe, contributing to dangerous clandestine procedures. Iceland’s progressive measure influenced debates on reproductive rights in neighboring countries. The decision laid a foundation for the Nordic region’s later advances in gender equality and social welfare. It remains a landmark in the global struggle for women’s bodily autonomy.

On January 28, 2023, demonstrations began in Memphis, Tennessee, and quickly spread across the United States following the death of Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old man who was violently beaten by law enforcement officers. Graphic footage of the incident fueled public outrage and demands for accountability. Thousands of protesters gathered to call for justice, police reform, and an end to systemic brutality. The movement garnered support from civil rights organizations and activists nationwide. Federal and local authorities launched investigations into the conduct of the officers involved. The protests underscored ongoing concerns over racial bias and the use of force in American policing.