May 10

Established in Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery opened its doors to visitors on May 10, 1824. It housed 38 paintings from the collection of John Julius Angerstein, spanning the Italian, Flemish, and Dutch schools. The institution set a revolutionary precedent by providing free admission to the public. Over time, its holdings expanded to include works by Rembrandt, Turner, Van Gogh, and other masters. The gallery became a cultural landmark and educational resource for artists, scholars, and the general public. Its architecture and gallery layout evolved through successive expansions, blending classical and modern design. Today, it stands as one of the world's most visited art museums, celebrating creativity and history.

On May 10, 1876, the Centennial Exposition officially opened in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, marking the 100th anniversary of the United States' Declaration of Independence. This World's Fair spanned more than 285 acres and featured contributions from over thirty nations. Visitors marveled at groundbreaking inventions like the telephone and typewriter, alongside elaborate art exhibits and architectural feats such as the Main Exhibition Building. The exposition attracted millions of attendees who experienced cultural performances, agricultural displays, and scientific demonstrations. It served as a showcase for American innovation, industrial might, and artistic achievement during the Gilded Age. Organizers aimed to foster national pride and international goodwill, forging new diplomatic and trade relationships. The Centennial Exposition left a lasting legacy in museum culture and public engagement with technology and the arts.

On May 10, 1962, Marvel Comics released The Incredible Hulk #1, created by writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby. The issue narrated the origin of Dr. Bruce Banner, whose exposure to gamma radiation transforms him into the monstrous but misunderstood Hulk when angered. The character’s duality of intellect and brute strength resonated with readers, quickly establishing the Hulk as one of Marvel’s flagship heroes. Over decades, the character has appeared in comics, television series, and blockbuster films, cementing his place in pop-culture history.