Henry Bolingbroke lands in England at Ravenspur on the Yorkshire coast and begins his successful campaign to overthrow his cousin King Richard II, eventually becoming King Henry IV of England. Henry Bolingbroke landed at Ravenspur, beginning a rapid and successful campaign that led to the deposition of King Richard II. His return from exile was sparked by Richard's seizure of his inheritance, the vast Lancastrian estates, following the death of his father, John of Gaunt.
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On This Day in History: July 4
Explore the historical events that shaped our world on July 4th. From major milestones to cultural achievements, see what happened on this day in history. Dates for earlier events may be approximate.
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Pope Gregory XII resigned on July 4, 1415, to help end the Western Schism. His resignation was announced at the Council of Constance, a key event in reunifying the Catholic Church.
The Siege of Belgrade begins, with Hungarian forces led by John Hunyadi and Serbian forces defending the city against the Ottomans. successfully repelling Sultan Mehmed II's army. A major Hungarian-Serbian victory that halted the Ottoman advance into Central Europe.
The Battle of Plymouth takes place during the First Anglo-Dutch War, with the English fleet under Admiral Robert Blake repelling a Dutch attack on Plymouth.
The United States declares independence from Great Britain.
President Thomas Jefferson officially announces the Louisiana Purchase from Francia on July 4, 1803, doubling the nation's size. The deal, which was finalized in Paris on April 30, 1803, added over 800,000 square miles, stretching from the Mississippi River to the Rocky Mountains. doubling the size of the country and supporting westward expansion.
The United States adopts a new flag on July 4, 1822 featuring 24 stars to represent the number of states in the union after Missouri's admission on July 4, 1821. This flag, authorized by the 1818 Act of Congress added a star for each new state while keeping 13 stripes. It was used for 14 years until 1836.
The United States celebrates its bicentennial anniversary on July 4, 1976, with a day of parades, concerts, and fireworks.
Rwandan Patriotic Front troops capture the Rwandan capital of Kigali on July 4, 1994, ending the Rwandan Genocide against the Tutsi. July 4 is now Kwibohora, also known as Rwanda Liberation Day.