1882CE
Culture
1812 Overture Debuts
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's '1812 Overture' debuts in Moscow. The famous piece commemorates Russia's successful defense against Napoleon's invading army and features real cannon fire.
Daily Chronicle
August 20
4 Historical Records
1890CE
Birth
H. P. Lovecraft Born
An American writer of weird, science, fantasy, and horror fiction, best known for his creation of the Cthulhu Mythos. His unique cosmic horror philosophy has profoundly influenced the horror genre and popular culture.
1911CE
Invention
First Telegram Sent Around the World
The New York Times sends the first telegram around the world, taking 16 minutes and 30 seconds to complete the transmission. The message traveled across 29,000 miles of telegraph wire.
1968CE
War
Warsaw Pact Invades Czechoslovakia
Warsaw Pact forces invade Czechoslovakia to crush the reformist movement known as the Prague Spring. Over 100,000 troops entered the country, ending Alexander Dubček's attempts to create 'socialism with a human face'.