What happened on March 31 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.
Oklahoma! opens on broadway
The groundbreaking Rodgers and Hammerstein musical Oklahoma! debuted on Broadway, revolutionizing musical theater with its innovative storytelling and integration of songs into the narrative.
• Oklahoma! was the first musical to fully integrate music, dance, and plot, setting a new standard for Broadway productions.
• The show introduced hit songs like “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’” and “People Will Say We’re in Love,” which became American classics.
• Its success led to a national tour, an Academy Award-winning film adaptation, and continuous revivals worldwide.
The Eiffel Tower is officially opened
The Eiffel Tower, one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks, was officially inaugurated in Paris, France, standing as a testament to engineering and artistic innovation.
• Designed by Gustave Eiffel, the 330-meter tower was initially criticized but later became a global icon of France.
• It was the tallest structure in the world until the Chrysler Building was completed in New York in 1930.
• Originally intended to be dismantled, it was saved due to its usefulness as a radio transmission tower.
Coup d'État in Brazil establishes military government
A military coup in Brazil led to the ousting of President João Goulart and the rise of a military dictatorship that lasted for over two decades.
• General Humberto de Alencar Castelo Branco became the first president of the military regime, initiating a period of repression.
• The coup was supported by sectors of the Brazilian elite and had the tacit backing of the United States.
• The dictatorship curtailed political freedoms, censored the press, and implemented economic reforms that had long-term consequences for Brazil.
Ewan McGregor: A versatile star
Scottish-American actor Ewan McGregor rose to international fame through his diverse roles in both independent films and major Hollywood franchises.
• He gained recognition with Trainspotting and later became a household name as Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars: The Phantom Menace.
• McGregor has won critical acclaim for his performances in films like Moulin Rouge! and The Ghost Writer.
• Apart from acting, he is known for his charity work and adventurous motorcycle journeys, as seen in Long Way Roundand Long Way Down.