March 15

On March 15, 1875, Pope Pius IX elevated Archbishop John McCloskey of New York to cardinal. He became the first cardinal appointed in the United States, reflecting Catholicism’s growing influence. McCloskey was noted for pastoral care and efforts to integrate diverse immigrant communities. His elevation signaled recognition of the American Church by the Vatican hierarchy. It encouraged the expansion of Catholic institutions and parishes across the nation. McCloskey’s legacy influenced future generations of American Catholic leadership.

On March 15, 1919, delegates representing thousands of returning American soldiers gathered in Paris to establish The American Legion. The organization aimed to advocate for veterans’ benefits, foster camaraderie among servicemen, and uphold patriotic values. Chartered by the U.S. Congress later that year, it became a leading voice for veteran affairs and community service. The Legion worked to secure medical care, education, and employment support for former soldiers. Today, it stands as one of the largest veterans’ groups in the United States, with posts nationwide.

On March 15, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson addressed a joint session of Congress amid the Selma protests. He echoed civil rights anthem 'We Shall Overcome' while urging lawmakers to pass voting rights legislation. Johnson highlighted the violence faced by peaceful protesters in Alabama. His appeal paved the way for the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965. The speech became a defining moment in America's civil rights movement.

Citizens of Hong Kong mobilized millions in peaceful marches and sit-ins to oppose a bill that would allow extradition to mainland China. The protests expanded to include demands for democratic reforms, police accountability, and preservation of Hong Kong's autonomy under the ‘one country, two systems’ principle. Clashes between protesters and police frequently turned violent, involving tear gas, rubber bullets, and barricades. The movement drew global attention to issues of civil liberties and human rights in Hong Kong. Although the extradition bill was eventually withdrawn, the protests evolved into a broader struggle for political freedom and identity.

The global climate strike was inspired by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and organized under the ‘Fridays for Future’ movement. Participants staged walkouts from schools and workplaces to call on political leaders to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and commit to ambitious environmental policies. Events took place on every continent, with protesters gathering outside parliaments, civic centers, and corporate offices. The mass mobilization highlighted the growing urgency of the climate crisis and the rising influence of youth activism worldwide. Media coverage of the strikes helped to shape public discourse on sustainability and intergenerational responsibility.

Facing shortages of fuel, food, and medicines, Sri Lankans launched nationwide demonstrations against skyrocketing inflation and fiscal mismanagement. Protesters occupied government buildings, blocked roads, and organized sit-ins demanding accountability from President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s administration. The movement grew in size and scope, uniting citizens across ethnic and social lines in a common call for political reform. International observers noted the crisis as one of the most severe economic downturns in the country's history. The protests eventually led to the resignation of key political figures and sparked debates on governance and economic policy in Sri Lanka.