August 31

Events - Society & Lifestyle

1936day.year

Radio Prague, now the official international broadcasting station of the Czech Republic, goes on the air.

Radio Prague began broadcasting internationally on August 31, 1936, becoming Czechoslovakia's window to the world.
On this day in 1936, Radio Prague went on the air as Czechoslovakia's first international broadcasting service. Established to share Czech culture, news, and viewpoints abroad, it transmitted in multiple languages to audiences across Europe. The station played a vital role in promoting democratic ideals and national identity during a turbulent era. Despite censorship and political changes, Radio Prague survived World War II and the Cold War, adapting its programming to global audiences. Today, as the Czech Republic's official international broadcaster, it continues to offer news, music, and cultural content worldwide. Its enduring legacy highlights the power of radio as a tool for diplomacy and cultural exchange.
1936 Radio Prague international broadcasting
1943day.year

USS Harmon, the first U.S. Navy ship to be named after a black person, is commissioned.

The USS Harmon was commissioned on August 31, 1943, as the first U.S. Navy ship named in honor of an African American.
Commissioned on August 31, 1943, the USS Harmon served as a destroyer escort protecting Atlantic convoys during World War II. Its naming marked a watershed moment in U.S. naval history, breaking racial barriers within the military by honoring a black service member. The vessel's crew carried out numerous missions, demonstrating skill and resilience in anti-submarine warfare. The USS Harmon's commissioning symbolized growing recognition of African Americans' contributions to the war effort. Over its service life, the ship earned commendations for its performance and crew discipline. It became a beacon of progress amid the segregated environment of the time. The legacy of USS Harmon endures as a testament to bravery, equality, and progress in the U.S. Navy.
1943 USS Harmon