“To study history means submitting yourself to chaos, but nevertheless retaining your faith in order and meaning.”
Herman Hesse, German writer and poet.
1. Mount Tambora exploded in one of the largest volcanic eruptions recorded in history
On this day in history in 1815, mount Tambora exploded in one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history. At least 71,000 people were killed by the eruption. The explosion was heard up to 2000 km (1200 mi) away.
2. The Beatles broke up when Paul McCartney left the band
On this day in history in 1970 The Beatles broke up when Paul McCartney left the band. In their ten years of existence, the British rock group became one of the most successful bands of all time, selling over a billion albums, according to EMI. McCartney’s announcement came a week before the release of his debut solo album, the starting point of a successful solo career.
3. Negotiators in Northern Ireland reached a historic peace deal
On this day in history in 1998, negotiators in Northern Ireland reached a historic peace deal. The Good Friday Agreement ended 30 years of violent conflict about Northern Ireland’s constitutional status (“The Troubles”).
4. Mercy killings became legal in the Netherlands
On this day in history in 2001, mercy killings became legal in the Netherlands. In a controversial decision the Dutch senate approved a bill legalizing euthanasia for patients with unbearable, terminal illness.
5. The President of Poland, Lech Kaczyński, died in a plane crash
On this day in history in 2010, The President of Poland, Lech Kaczyński, died in a plane crash. Several high-ranking officials, senior members of the Polish clergy, as well as relatives of the Katyn massacre victims were killed. The accident was blamed on pilot error and bad weather.
