96day.year

Nerva, suspected of complicity of the death of Domitian, is declared emperor by Senate. The Senate then annuls laws passed by Domitian and orders his statues to be destroyed.

After Domitian’s death, the Roman Senate proclaimed Nerva as emperor, overturning his predecessor’s laws and ordering his statues destroyed.
In AD 96, following the assassination of Emperor Domitian, the Roman Senate declared Marcus Cocceius Nerva as the new emperor. Nerva had been a respected senator and magistrate, chosen to restore stability and restore senatorial authority. The Senate swiftly annulled laws passed under Domitian’s autocratic regime and ordered the destruction of his statues. Nerva’s ascension marked the beginning of the Nervan-Antonine dynasty, a period noted for relative peace. He enacted reforms to relieve financial burdens on the populace and reinforced the power of the Senate. Despite his short reign of less than two years, Nerva’s appointment set a precedent for adoptive succession. His reign also paved the way for the “Five Good Emperors” era that followed. Historians view this transition as a crucial turning point in the Roman Empire’s governance and stability.
96 Nerva Domitian
1778day.year

The Continental Congress passes the first United States federal budget.

The Continental Congress approved the first U.S. federal budget, establishing an early framework for national finance.
In 1778, amid the financial strains of the Revolutionary War, the Second Continental Congress took a landmark step in nation-building by approving the first federal budget of the fledgling United States. This budget outlined projected expenditures for the military, diplomatic efforts, and civil administration. To raise revenues, Congress authorized new taxes on imported goods and pledged to repay wartime loans with future tax receipts. The budget marked the first formal exercise of centralized fiscal authority, setting precedents for congressional oversight and public accountability. Delegates debated allocations to ensure soldiers and suppliers were paid, while also funding foreign alliances crucial to war efforts. Though funding remained a persistent challenge, this budget represented the embryonic stages of American public finance. The framework established in 1778 laid the groundwork for the U.S. Treasury and enduring budgetary processes. Historians view this measure as a critical step in the evolution of federal governance.
1778 Continental Congress United States federal budget
1796day.year

George Washington's Farewell Address is printed across America as an open letter to the public.

George Washington’s Farewell Address was published nationwide, offering reflections on governance and unity.
In September 1796, after nearly a decade as the first President of the United States, George Washington prepared his Farewell Address to announce his retirement and share his reflections. On September 19, the address was printed in newspapers across the young nation as a public letter from the retiring leader. Washington emphasized the importance of national unity, the rule of law, and the dangers of sectionalism. He cautioned against the rise of partisan politics and urged Americans to avoid entangling alliances with foreign powers. The address was widely reprinted and became a foundational document for American civic education. Its themes influenced U.S. foreign policy for generations and solidified Washington’s legacy as a guide to statesmanship. The Farewell Address remains one of the most influential political writings in American history.
1796 George Washington's Farewell Address
1868day.year

La Gloriosa begins in Spain.

La Gloriosa, the Spanish Revolution of 1868, begins on September 19, igniting the uprising that would depose Queen Isabella II.
On September 19, 1868, Spanish revolutionaries launched La Gloriosa (the Glorious Revolution) in Cádiz, challenging the monarchy of Queen Isabella II. Military uprisings spread quickly to Madrid and other key cities, fueled by widespread discontent over corruption and authoritarian rule. The insurrection prompted the flight of the queen into exile and the end of the Bourbon dynasty’s initial reign. A provisional government formed, paving the way for constitutional reforms and political experiments. La Gloriosa reshaped Spain’s political landscape and inspired future liberal movements. The revolution marked a turning point in 19th-century Spanish history by emphasizing popular sovereignty and parliamentary governance.
1868 La Gloriosa
1944day.year

World War II: The Moscow Armistice between Finland and the Soviet Union is signed, which officially ended the Continuation War.

The Moscow Armistice was signed, ending the Continuation War between Finland and the Soviet Union in World War II.
In September 1944 Finland and the Soviet Union signed the Moscow Armistice, formally ending the Continuation War. Negotiations took place under the supervision of Soviet representatives in the Soviet capital. The terms required Finland to cede territories, pay heavy war reparations, and expel German forces from its soil. Finland agreed to intern or expel the remaining German troops, leading to the Lapland War. Though Finland maintained its independence, the armistice shifted its foreign policy firmly into the Soviet sphere. The agreement laid the groundwork for Finland’s postwar neutrality and its 'Finlandization'. Finland’s economy and infrastructure were deeply affected by the reparations and territorial losses. The armistice ended hostilities on the Eastern Front and reshaped the geopolitical landscape of Northern Europe.
Moscow Armistice Continuation War
1946day.year

The Council of Europe is founded following a speech by Winston Churchill at the University of Zurich.

The Council of Europe was established to promote unity and human rights in postwar Europe after Winston Churchill’s call for a 'United States of Europe.'
In September 1946 British Prime Minister Winston Churchill delivered a pivotal speech at the University of Zurich calling for a 'United States of Europe.' Shortly thereafter, on September 19, the Treaty of London was signed by ten European nations to create the Council of Europe. The organization’s mission was to uphold human rights, democracy, and the rule of law across the continent. The Council established the European Court of Human Rights to enforce its landmark conventions. Headquartered in Strasbourg, France, it became the first pan-European intergovernmental body. It provided a framework for postwar reconciliation and cooperation among former adversaries. Over time, its work influenced the shaping of other European institutions, including the European Union. The Council of Europe remains a key defender of civil liberties and cultural collaboration in Europe.
1946 Council of Europe Winston Churchill
1960day.year

Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Pakistani President Ayub Khan sign the Indus Waters Treaty for the control and management of the Indus, Chenab, Jhelum, Ravi, Sutlej and Beas rivers.

India and Pakistan signed the Indus Waters Treaty to jointly manage and share the river resources of the Indus basin.
On September 19, 1960, Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Pakistani President Ayub Khan signed the Indus Waters Treaty in Karachi. Brokered by the World Bank, the agreement allocated the waters of six major rivers between two newly independent nations. India received unrestricted use of the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej), while Pakistan gained control over the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab). The treaty established a Permanent Indus Commission to resolve future disputes and oversee water distribution. It remains one of the most enduring water-sharing agreements in history, surviving multiple conflicts. The framework included provisions for dam construction, irrigation, and flood control projects. Despite political tensions, both countries have generally upheld the treaty terms over decades. The Indus Waters Treaty set a precedent for international cooperation on transboundary water resources.
1960 Jawaharlal Nehru Ayub Khan Indus Waters Treaty Indus Chenab Jhelum Ravi Sutlej Beas
1978day.year

The Solomon Islands join the United Nations.

On September 19, 1978, the Solomon Islands officially joined the United Nations, signaling their emergence on the world stage.
On September 19, 1978, the Solomon Islands accepted membership in the United Nations. The move came just three years after gaining self-government from the United Kingdom. As one of the smallest member states by population and land area, its admission highlighted the UN's commitment to global representation. This membership allowed the Solomon Islands to participate in General Assembly debates and specialized UN agencies. Since joining, the country has contributed to peacekeeping missions and international discussions on sustainable development in the Pacific region.
1978 Solomon Islands
1983day.year

Saint Kitts and Nevis gains its independence.

Saint Kitts and Nevis gained independence from the United Kingdom, becoming a sovereign nation within the Commonwealth.
On September 19, 1983, Saint Kitts and Nevis achieved full independence from British colonial rule. The twin-island federation became the newest member of the Commonwealth of Nations. Sir Lee L. Moore was appointed as the first Governor-General, representing the British monarch. Kennedy Simmonds became the first Prime Minister, leading the nation's government. Celebrations featured flag-raising ceremonies, parades, and cultural festivals that established a national identity.
1983 Saint Kitts and Nevis
1985day.year

Tipper Gore and other political wives form the Parents Music Resource Center as Frank Zappa, John Denver, and other musicians testify at U.S. Congressional hearings on obscenity in rock music.

Tipper Gore co-founded the Parents Music Resource Center to advocate for parental advisory labels on music deemed explicit.
On September 19, 1985, Tipper Gore and other political spouses launched the Parents Music Resource Center (PMRC). They campaigned for warning labels on albums with explicit lyrics to protect younger listeners. Artists like Frank Zappa and John Denver spoke before Congress to defend artistic freedom. The national debate centered on balancing free speech with parental concerns over controversial content. The initiative resulted in the Recording Industry Association of America adopting the 'Parental Advisory' label on albums.
Tipper Gore Parents Music Resource Center Frank Zappa John Denver
2006day.year

The Thai army stages a coup. The Constitution is revoked and martial law is declared.

The Thai military staged a coup d'état, abolishing the constitution and imposing martial law.
On September 19, 2006, the Royal Thai Army seized power from the civilian government in Bangkok. Top generals dissolved Parliament and revoked the constitution under claims of restoring order. Martial law was declared nationwide, curbing civil liberties and banning political gatherings. King Bhumibol Adulyadej later endorsed the coup, lending royal legitimacy to military rule. This event marked Thailand's ninth successful coup since 1932 and reshaped its political trajectory.
2006 stages a coup
2022day.year

The state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom is held at Westminster Abbey, London.

On September 19, 2022, Westminster Abbey hosted the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, a historic ceremony honoring Britain's longest-reigning monarch.
Following her passing on September 8, 2022, Queen Elizabeth II was honored with a state funeral at Westminster Abbey on September 19. The service brought together global leaders, heads of state, and members of royal families to pay their respects. Traditional hymns and prayers accompanied the solemn procession of the Royal Standard-draped coffin. Millions of viewers worldwide witnessed the ceremony, reflecting on a 70-year reign marked by stability and change. The event highlighted Elizabeth II's commitment to duty and her role as a unifying figure across the Commonwealth. After the service, her coffin was transported to St. George's Chapel, Windsor, for interment.
2022 state funeral Queen Elizabeth II United Kingdom Westminster Abbey London