The Battle of Alesia during the Gallic Wars takes place. The Rome military forces under the command of Julius Caesar surround and blockade the city of Alesia where the Gallic general Vercingetorix and his forces were sheltered. Caesar directed his troops to erect a series of extensive fortifications, including two walls encircling the city, to keep the defenders in and potential reinforcements out. Vercingetorix’s eventual surrender secured Roman authority over Gaul in its entirety. More
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What Happened Today in History on October 3
Explore the historical events that shaped our world on October 3rd. 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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President Abraham Lincoln encourages Americans to recognize the last Thursday of November as “a day of Thanksgiving. More
The War Revenue Act of 1917 is enacted to fund the US participation in World War I. It dramatically increased federal income tax rates and significantly expanded the number of Americans paying income tax by lowering tax exemptions and increasing tax rates.
The act also introduced a wartime excess-profits tax on corporations, raising their tax rates from 1% to 12%. Overall, the act increased the federal tax revenue tenfold and marked a fundamental shift by making income the primary source of federal revenue replacing tariffs and excise taxes; expanding government power and foreshadowing the modern tax system. More
Iraq Independence day - Britain ends its 17 year mandate and Iraq is admitted to the League of Nations, making Iraq an independent nation after centuries of Ottoman rule. More
Italy invades Ethiopia, initiating the Second Italo-Ethiopian War.
The V-2 first successful launch takes place. It flew at speeds in excess of 3,500 miles per hour and delivered a 2,200-pound warhead to a target 200 miles away. Beginning in September 1944, it was employed against targets in Western Europe, including London, Paris, and Antwerp. More
Germany Day of Unity. Commemorates the Reunification of Germany which ended decades of division. More
The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act is signed into law in the United States, establishing the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) to address the financial crisis.