A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.’ — Marcus Garvey
List of historical events
1. The Catholic Church forced Galileo Galilei to renounce his heliocentric world view
On this day in history in 1633 The Catholic Church forced Galileo Galilei to renounce his heliocentric world view.
The Holy Office concluded that the Italian scientist, by stating that the Sun, not the Earth, is the center of the Universe, was “vehemently suspect of heresy”. Galileo spent the rest of his life under house arrest.
2. Germany invaded the Soviet Union
On this day in history in 1941 Germany invaded the Soviet Union. The initially successful attack soon proved a disaster for the Germans as wintry conditions and fierce Soviet resistance caused massive losses and ultimately forced them to retreat.
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3. Okinawa fell to U.S. troops
On this day in history in 1945 Okinawa fell to U.S. troops. The Battle of Okinawa marked a decisive defeat for Japan during World War II as the archipelago represented the last line of defense for mainland Japan. The country surrendered two months after the end of the battle when two atomic bombs were dropped on the mainland.
Read also: June 21st, this day in history
4. Diego Maradona coined the phrase “Hand of God”
On this day in history in 1986 Diego Maradona coins the phrase “Hand of God.” The Argentinian football star had scored a goal with his hand during the FIFA World Cup quarter-final against England. The referee allowed the goal, the Argentinian team were later crowned world champions. After the game, Maradona said that the goal was scored “a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.”
5. Checkpoint Charlie was dismantled
On this day in history in 1990 Checkpoint Charlie was dismantled. The crossing point on the sector border between East Berlin and West Berlin had become obsolete with the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Today, the former checkpoint, including the famous sign stating “You are leaving the American sector”, is a tourist attraction. History is origin.
