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What Happened Today in History on March 17

Explore the historical events that shaped our world on March 17th. From major milestones to cultural achievements, see what happened on this day in history. Dates for earlier events may be approximate.

Harald Hardrada becomes King of Norway after the death of Magnus I.

King Baldwin I of Jerusalem dies.

The Treaty of of Edinburgh–Northampton between England and Scotland, recognizing Scottish independence is signed by Robert the Bruce in Edinburgh on March 17, 1328 and ratified by the English Parliament on behalf of 15-year old King Edward III in Northampton on April 24, 1328

King Robert II of Scotland is crowned, beginning the Stuart dynasty.

Siege of Falaise: English forces under Richard II fail to capture the town of Falaise in Normandy.

Tamerlane captures the city of Damascus, strengthening his influence in the region.

Magellan and his crew first came into contact with inhabitants of the Homonhon Island, which would later become part of the archipelago known as the Philippines. Five weeks later, on April 27 Magellan was mortally wounded by the warriors of island chief Lapu-Lapu during a battle on the island of Mactan in the Philippines. He died at the age of 41.

Ferdinand I succeeds his father, Charles V, as Holy Roman Emperor.

England's House of Commons passes an act abolishing the House of Lords.

British forces evacuate Boston during the American Revolutionary War.

Sir Ralph Abercromby lands in Egypt with British troops during the French Revolutionary Wars.

Sir Ralph Abercromby lands in Egypt with British troops during the French Revolutionary Wars.

The Kingdom of Bavaria becomes the first German state to adopt a constitution.

The Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire begins with an uprising in the Peloponnese.