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Explore the historical events that shaped our world on June 26th. 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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The Council of Pisa elects Alexander V as the new pope on June 26,1409 further deepening the Western Schism, since the two existing popes refused to abdicate resulting in three competing claims to the papacy, further weakening the authority of the Church.
The Western Schism was not resolved until the Council of Constance in 1417, which deposed the three claimants and elected Martin V, finally reuniting the papacy.
Lightning hits a fortress in Luxembourg being used as an armory during the occupation by Napoleon’s French forces, igniting the gunpowder stored inside resulting in a massive explosion that destroyed two city blocks with an estimated 300 or more fatalities and widespread fires and devastation. The Luxembourg disaster may have been the most deadly lightning strike in history. According to the NWS Storm Data, over the last 30 years (1989-2018) the U.S. has averaged 43 reported lightning fatalities per year. Only about 10% of people who are struck by lightning are killed, leaving 90% with various degrees of disability.
The first American troops, the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF), arrive in Europe during WWI. They were under the command of General John Joseph Pershing. However they did not fully participate at the front until October, when the First Division, one of the best-trained divisions of the AEF, entered the trenches at Nancy, France. More
1945, June 26 - The United Nations Charter was signed by 50 nations in San Francisco. Poland signed it later on October 15, 1945, The United Nations Charter was ratified on October 24, 1945. More
In response to the Soviet blockade, the U.S. and Great Britain begin an emergency airlift of food and fuel to West Berlin to relieve two million isolated West Berliners. The Russians blockade of Berlin ended on May 12, 1949. More
President Clinton orders missile attack against Iraq in retaliation for alleged plot to assassinate former President Bush.
The U.S. Supreme Court legalizes same-sex marriage nationwide. More
