Osun Defender History Corner: February 19 In Focus

Today, on the history corner, we take a trip in the realm of flashback and recall some events that marked this day.

February 19, 1878

Thomas Edison receives a patent for his phonograph, an early version of the record player.

February 19, 1942

President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs Executive Order 9066, leading to the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.

February 19, 1945

Operation Detachment, the Battle of Iwo Jima, begins during World War II.

February 19, 1959

The United Kingdom grants Cyprus independence.

February 19, 1976

Iceland breaks off diplomatic relations with the UK over the Cod War dispute regarding fishing rights.

February 19, 1986

The Soviet Union launches the space station Mir into orbit.

February 19, 2002

NASA’s Mars Odyssey spacecraft begins mapping the surface of Mars.

February 19, 2003

A fire at The Station nightclub in Rhode Island kills 100 people and injures 230 others.

February 19, 2008

Fidel Castro resigns as President of Cuba after nearly 50 years in power.

February 19, 2011

The United States government announces the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” allowing openly gay and lesbian individuals to serve in the military.

February 19, 2015

A terrorist attack by Boko Haram in Nigeria’s northeast region kills at least 50 people.

February 19, 2018

The SpaceX Falcon Heavy, the most powerful operational rocket in the world, successfully launches for the first time.

February 19, 2019

Saudi Arabia announces that it will release 850 Indian prisoners from its jails as a goodwill gesture.

February 19, 2020

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange appears in court in London for an extradition hearing to the United States.

February 19, 2021

NASA’s Perseverance rover successfully lands on Mars, beginning its mission to search for signs of past life and collect samples for return to Earth.

February 19, 2022

Ukraine declares a state of emergency due to escalating tensions with Russia.

February 19, 2023

The World Health Organization (WHO) announces the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, marking a significant milestone in global health efforts.

Please note that these are just a few historical events that happened on February 19. History is full of numerous other significant events on this day, ranging from politics and warfare to cultural and scientific milestones.