August 28

Founded by Rufus Porter and Orson Desaix Munn, Scientific American aimed to bring scientific developments to a broad readership. The magazine featured articles on innovations in mechanics, chemistry, and emerging technologies. Over time, it expanded to cover groundbreaking research and became an authoritative source for scientists and enthusiasts. Its continuous publication makes it one of the world's longest-running periodicals. Scientific American played a key role in popularizing science in the United States and beyond.

On August 28, 1850, Richard Wagner’s opera Lohengrin received its first performance at the Staatskapelle Weimar under the baton of Franz Liszt. The romantic German opera, based on the medieval Knight of the Swan legend, featured the future bridal chorus that would become a wedding standard. Commissioned by the Weimar court, the work showcased Wagner’s innovative orchestration and dramatic leitmotif technique. While Wagner was absent from Weimar, Liszt championed the premiere, greatly boosting the composer’s reputation. Lohengrin’s success marked a turning point in German opera, influencing later works in the Romantic repertoire. The premiere audience was captivated by the blend of mythic storytelling and Wagner’s sweeping musical style.