What happened on March 28 in world history? Here are 4 events worth remembering: See them above in our 57-second video, and below for more details!
Get On This Day In History delivered straight to your inbox ✉️ each day! Sign up here.
The three mile island nuclear accident
The Three Mile Island nuclear accident remains the worst commercial nuclear disaster in U.S. history. A coolant leak at the Unit 2 reactor outside Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, led to overheating and a partial core meltdown, sparking widespread fear about nuclear energy.
• The accident was caused by a combination of mechanical failures and human error, resulting in a dangerous drop in coolant levels.
• While the partial meltdown released some radioactive gases, studies later concluded that radiation exposure to the public was minimal.
• The event had a lasting impact on the nuclear industry, leading to stricter safety regulations and a decline in new nuclear plant construction in the U.S.
The renaming of Constantinople and Angora
The official renaming of the Turkish cities of Constantinople and Angora to Istanbul and Ankara, respectively, marked a crucial step in Turkey’s modernization and national identity under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
• The shift reflected Atatürk’s efforts to reform and Westernize Turkey, distancing it from its Ottoman past and reinforcing its new national identity.
• Istanbul had been informally used for centuries, but the official adoption aimed to establish a unified naming system aligned with Turkish linguistic traditions.
• Ankara’s selection as the new capital symbolized a strategic move to centralize government power away from the former imperial seat in Istanbul.
The rise of Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga, an American singer-songwriter, dancer, producer, and actress, revolutionized pop music with her theatrical performances and genre-defying style. Her career spans multiple chart-topping albums and influential cultural moments.
• Gaga gained global fame with her debut album The Fame and hits like Poker Face and Just Dance, setting new standards for pop music.
• Beyond music, she has been a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, mental health awareness, and philanthropic initiatives through the Born This Way Foundation.
• Her artistic versatility extends into acting, with her critically acclaimed performances in A Star Is Born and House of Gucci, showcasing her broad talent.