1583day.year
Sir Humphrey Gilbert establishes the first English colony in North America, at what is now St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador.
In 1583, Sir Humphrey Gilbert established England’s first North American colony at St. John's, Newfoundland, under a charter from Queen Elizabeth I.
Sir Humphrey Gilbert’s 1583 expedition marked England’s first formal attempt at permanent settlement in North America. Departing from Plymouth with five ships, Gilbert aimed to expand English trade and influence in the New World. Harsh weather, shortages of fresh water, and navigational challenges tested the resolve of the colonists. Upon arrival, Gilbert claimed the territory in the queen’s name and erected a cross to symbolize English sovereignty. Despite the expedition’s initial promise, the colony struggled with resupply and morale. Most settlers returned to England the following year when hopes of riches and safe harbors faded. Nevertheless, Gilbert’s venture paved the way for future English colonization and inspired later expeditions along the Atlantic seaboard.
1583
Humphrey Gilbert
colony
St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador
1620day.year
The Mayflower departs from Southampton, England, carrying would-be settlers, on its first attempt to reach North America; it is forced to dock in Dartmouth when its companion ship, the Speedwell, springs a leak.
On this day in 1620, the Mayflower set sail from Southampton carrying settlers bound for North America, although its companion ship Speedwell forced a delay.
The Mayflower's departure on August 5, 1620, marked the beginning of one of history’s most famous voyages of settlement. Approximately 120 passengers, including Pilgrims seeking religious freedom, embarked on the cramped vessel alongside crew and supplies. Soon after leaving port, the Speedwell developed leaks, forcing both ships to dock at Dartmouth for repairs. After refitting and transferring passengers, the Mayflower continued alone across the Atlantic under Captain Christopher Jones. The arduous journey spanned 66 days, with storms, disease, and uncertainty testing the colonists’ endurance. Upon arrival in November, the settlers would draft the Mayflower Compact, laying an early foundation for self-governance. Their perseverance and faith became foundational elements of American cultural memory.
1620
Mayflower
Southampton
1969day.year
The Lonesome Cowboys police raid occurs in Atlanta, Georgia, leading to the creation of the Georgia Gay Liberation Front.
A police raid on the Lonesome Cowboys film screening in Atlanta sparked protests and led to the formation of the Georgia Gay Liberation Front.
On August 5, 1969, Atlanta police raided the screening of the underground film Lonesome Cowboys.
The raid arrested attendees on charges of 'obscenity' and targeted members of the LGBT community.
Outrage over the crackdown united local activists, leading to protests against police harassment.
In the raid’s aftermath, the Georgia Gay Liberation Front was founded to advocate for LGBT rights.
The group became one of the first organized gay rights organizations in the American South.
This event marked a critical moment in the early gay liberation movement nationwide.
1969
Lonesome Cowboys police raid
Atlanta, Georgia
2021day.year
Australia's second most populous state Victoria enters its sixth COVID-19 lockdown, enacting stage four restrictions statewide in reaction to six new COVID-19 cases recorded that morning.
Responding to a COVID-19 surge, Victoria imposed its sixth statewide lockdown on August 5, 2021, enacting strict stage four restrictions to curb the virus.
On August 5, 2021, the state of Victoria in Australia declared its sixth lockdown, rolling out stage four restrictions across Melbourne and surrounding areas. The measures included an 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew, limits on outdoor exercise, and the closure of all non-essential businesses. The decision came after six new local cases spurred fears of widespread community transmission amid low vaccination rates. Residents faced remote learning, restricted social interactions, and increased policing to enforce the lockdown rules. The move reignited public debates on balancing pandemic control with mental health and economic pressures. It also accelerated vaccination campaigns and testing efforts, highlighting the challenges of managing COVID-19 in urban centers.
2021
Australia
Victoria
COVID-19
lockdown