1492CE
War
Reconquista Ends as Granada Falls
The Emirate of Granada, the last Muslim stronghold in Spain, surrendered to the forces of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, ending the Reconquista.
Daily Chronicle
January 2
4 Historical Records
1900CE
Politics
Open Door Policy Announced
US Secretary of State John Hay announced the Open Door Policy, advocating for equal trading rights for all nations in China.
1920CE
Birth
Isaac Asimov Born
American writer and professor of biochemistry, known as one of the 'Big Three' science fiction writers alongside Robert A. Heinlein and Arthur C. Clarke. He wrote or edited more than 500 books, including the Foundation series and I, Robot.
1974CE
Politics
National 55 mph Speed Limit Set
US President Richard Nixon signed a law setting a national maximum speed limit at 55 mph to conserve gasoline during the oil crisis.