1809day.year
The Berners Street hoax is perpetrated by Theodore Hook in the City of Westminster, London.
Theodore Hook orchestrates a notorious prank in London that floods Berners Street with unwitting visitors and deliveries.
In 1809, British songwriter and prankster Theodore Hook carried out one of history’s greatest practical jokes in the affluent Berners Street district of London. He addressed hundreds of letters in the name of Mrs. Tottenham requesting services and deliveries to her address. On the designated day, an array of tradesmen, dignitaries, officers, and clergymen descended on the street, creating confusion and gridlock. Neighbors were overwhelmed as pastry chefs, physicians, ministers, and chimney sweeps all arrived simultaneously. The sight amused onlookers and bewildered residents, but also caused a major disturbance in the heart of the city. Hook later claimed the experiment cost him just a few shillings and secured his reputation as a mischievous genius. The hoax remains a celebrated example of elaborate social engineering in the 19th century.
1809
Berners Street hoax
Theodore Hook
City of Westminster
1830day.year
Saint Catherine Labouré experiences a Marian apparition.
Saint Catherine Labouré reports a vision of the Virgin Mary in Paris, leading to the famed Miraculous Medal devotion.
In 1830, 24-year-old novice Catherine Labouré of the Daughters of Charity in Paris experienced a series of Marian apparitions in the Chapel of the Rue du Bac. She described visions of the Virgin Mary standing on a globe, inscribed with the words ‘O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.’ Mary instructed her to have a medal struck reflecting her image and promises of graces. These events eventually led to the creation of the Miraculous Medal, which gained widespread popularity and devotion among Catholics worldwide. Catherine remained silent about the visions for many years until they were authenticated by Church authorities. Her humble and devout life became an example of faith and obedience. She was canonized in 1947, and her Marian devotion continues to influence millions of believers.
1830
Catherine Labouré
Marian apparition
2015day.year
An active shooter inside a Planned Parenthood facility in Colorado Springs, Colorado, shoots at least four police officers. One officer later dies. Two civilians are also killed, and six injured. The shooter later surrendered.
An active shooter attacked a Planned Parenthood clinic in Colorado Springs, killing three and injuring six before surrendering.
On November 27, 2015, a gunman opened fire inside a Planned Parenthood facility in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
The shooter targeted both civilians and responding police officers, injuring at least six others.
One police officer and two clinic visitors were fatally shot during the assault.
Police engaged the assailant in a standoff before he ultimately surrendered without further casualties.
The attack sparked a national debate over healthcare facility security and gun control policies.
Planned Parenthood and local authorities reviewed safety measures in its aftermath to protect patients and staff.
2015
Planned Parenthood
Colorado Springs, Colorado
shoots
police officers