Octavian (later known as Augustus) celebrates a triple triumph in Rome for his victories in the Battle of Actium.
View Historical Events by Day:
On This Day in History: January 16
Explore the historical events that shaped our world on January 16th. From major milestones to cultural achievements, see what happened on this day in history. Dates for earlier events may be approximate.
Note: Sources for the historical content shown, include research and reviews of relevant Online History Resources or printed material. When possible, we show a link to a source which provides additional or unique perspective about the event.
We do our best to provide accurate information but would appreciate being notified if any incorrect information is found. You may do so by using our Feedback link.
Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus is granted the title "Augustus" by the Roman Senate on January 16, 27 BCE, marking the beginning of the Roman Empire.
Ivan IV. known as Ivan the Terrible is crowned "Tsar and Grand Prince of all Russia" on January 16, 1547, at the age of 16, marking the beginning of a new era for Russia, with a more centralized and powerful ruler at its head.
1605, c. January 16
Miguel de Cervantes’s masterpiece Don Quixote ("The Ingenious Nobleman Don Quixote of La Mancha") is published. on 1605, c. January 16 .The second portion of the book was published in 1615. His book is considered the first modern novel and a foundational work of Western literature. More
The English Convention Parliament declares that James II has abdicated the throne, opening the way for William of Orange to become King of England which happened six days later on January 22, 1689.
The Act of Union, uniting the Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of Scotland into a single political state, is ratified is by the Scottish Parliament on January 16, 1707. The act received Royal assent on March 6, 1707 and became effective on May 1, 1707 when Scotland and England formally became the single Kingdom of Great Britain.
The Chinese Emperor Yongzheng bans Christian missions in China by issuing an imperial edict on January 12, 1724 and expelling most missionaries
The first large-scale bodybuilding competition in America is held at Madison Square Garden, New York City.
The first telephone line across the Atlantic Ocean is established between New York and London.
The Eighteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, prohibiting the sale, manufacture, or transportation of intoxicating liquors, is ratified on January 16, 1919. More
The 18th Amendment to the U. S. Constitution, establishing prohibition, is ratified by the States on January 16, 1919, becoming effective on January 17, 1920, one year after its ratification. Almost 14 years later on December 5, 1933, the 21st Amendment was passed, officially repealing the 18th amendment.
Hitler moves his headquarters to his underground bunker (Führerbunker) on January 16, 1945 as the Soviet Army approaches and Berlin is under bombardment.
His aides, bodyguards, servants, and his girlfriend Eva Braun joined him in the bunker. Later, propaganda minister Joseph Goebbels and his wife Magda moved into the bunker with their six children. Hitler stayed in the bunker for 105 days and married Eva Braun there on April 29, 1945, less than 40 hours before they committed suicide. More
After almost 40 years of ruling, the Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi flees Iran amidst growing unrest, paving the way for the Islamic Revolution. More
Algerian militants attack the Tigantourine gas facility, resulting in the deaths of 37 foreign hostages, one Algerian guard, and 29 militants, following a four-day siege and final assault by Algerian special forces. The motives for the attack were linked to French operations in Mali and the desire to establish a jihadist state.
Implementation of the Iran nuclear deal (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) begins following international agreement.
Zimbabwe experiences protests and violent crackdowns over a significant fuel price hike.
The impeachment trial of President Donald Trump begins in the U.S. Senate. Three weeks later on February 5 the U.S. Senate acquited President Donald Trump of impeachment charges on both articles of impeachment – abuse of power and obstruction of Congress made by the House of Representatives in December 2019.