Today in History, May 18

We reflect on significant political shifts, scientific breakthroughs and cultural landmarks that happened on this day. From the emergence of a French ruler, to India becoming a nuclear nation. Let's walk down memory lane to revisit those moments.

What happened on this day in History: 18 May

The following are some of the events that unfolded on this day in history:

King Henry II Marries Eleanor of Aquitaine (1152)

On this day, King Henry II of England married Eleanor of Aquitaine. This new royal alliance linked huge tracts of land in England and France under one banner. The historic alliance caused centuries of bitter war between these two great nations. 

Napoleon Bonaparte Becomes Emperor of France (1804)

The French Senate proclaims military leader Napoleon Bonaparte as the Emperor of the French. This bold political step ended the First French Republic and the beginning of the French Empire. Napoleon became a dictator of the country and extended his empire throughout Europe. His code of laws is still used in many legal systems across the world.

US Supreme Court Endorses Segregation (1896)

The United States Supreme Court rules on the famous Plessy v. Ferguson law case. The court supports state laws that mandate rigid racial segregation according to a "separate but equal" doctrine. This bad ruling allows hard racial discrimination in the American South for many decades. It delayed the true civil rights until the court finally overturned the decision in 1954.

India Releases Its First Feature Film (1912)

A crowded movie theater in Mumbai, India witnessed the opening with the film "Shree Pundalik" It was a silent movie. This beautiful film was made by director Dadasaheb Torne to convey a popular Hindu saint's story. 

Jacqueline Cochran Breaks the Sound Barrier (1953)

Jacqueline Cochran becomes the first woman to fly at a supersonic speed. She was an expert pilot, and was flying the jet over a desert test course in Mojave Desert, California. Her historic feat broke major barriers for women airmen in civil and military flying. 

India Conducts Its First Nuclear Test (1974)

India successfully detonated its first nuclear weapon in the desert of Pokhran, Rajasthan on 18th May, 1974. This peaceful test project was code named "Smiling Buddha". The historic event made India the first nation outside the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council to have nuclear capability.

Mount St. Helens Erupts in Washington State (1980)

Mount St. Helens in Washington State, USA, is violently shaken by a massive volcanic eruption. The tremendous explosion blasted away the summit of the mountain and spread dark ash clouds over numerous states. This natural disaster claimed 57 lives. It remains the largest volcanic eruption in modern American history.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Helen Sharman Becomes First British Astronaut (1991)

British scientist Helen Sharman becomes the first Briton to go into space on this day aboard a Russian Soyuz rocket. She travelled directly to the Mir space station, becoming the first British astronaut ever to achieve the feat. During her eight day mission titled Project Juno, she conducted essential medical and agricultural tests in orbit.

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