What happened on November 14 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 BBC begins radio broadcasting
The launch of the British Broadcasting Corporation's radio service marked the beginning of modern public broadcasting in the United Kingdom, with the BBC establishing itself as a reliable source of news, culture, and entertainment.
- The BBC was one of the world’s first public broadcasters, bringing news, music, and entertainment to households across the UK, and quickly set standards for quality and impartiality.
- As a public institution, the BBC emphasized education, culture, and unbiased reporting, setting the foundation for the public service mandate that continues to shape its programming.
Theodore Maiman patents the first laser
American physicist Theodore Maiman’s patent of the first working laser paved the way for groundbreaking advancements across science, medicine, and technology. Maiman’s laser, created in 1960, demonstrated the potential of harnessed light in ways previously unimaginable.
- Maiman’s pioneering work used a ruby crystal to produce the first successful laser beam, which emitted light amplified by stimulated emission—a concept predicted by earlier physicists.
- The laser technology revolutionized multiple fields, from surgical procedures to communication, enabling future innovations such as laser eye surgery, bar code scanners, and fiber-optic networks.
- Maiman’s invention opened new research pathways in fields like quantum mechanics and telecommunications, becoming a key tool in modern industry, research, and everyday technology.
The launch of the Eurostar
The launch of the Eurostar service established a high-speed rail connection between London and continental Europe, transforming travel and facilitating economic and cultural exchange between the United Kingdom and mainland Europe.
- The Eurostar operates through the Channel Tunnel, a 31-mile undersea tunnel connecting the UK and France, representing a marvel of engineering and international cooperation.
- With direct routes between London, Paris, and Brussels, the Eurostar made it possible to travel between major cities in hours, fostering increased tourism, trade, and cultural exchange across borders.
- As a rail alternative to air travel, Eurostar has promoted eco-friendly travel, reduced flight dependency, and strengthened business links between the UK and European Union member states.
King Charles is born
The birth of Prince Charles marked the arrival of a future monarch in the British royal family. As the eldest son of Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles would become a prominent figure, dedicating much of his life to charity and public service in the UK and Commonwealth.
- From a young age, Prince Charles was groomed for his future role as king, receiving education and training that emphasized public duty and service to the United Kingdom.
- Throughout his life, Charles has championed causes such as environmental conservation, sustainable agriculture, and architecture, and founded the Prince’s Trust to support youth development.
- In 2022, Prince Charles became King Charles III following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who held the crown for more than seven decades. He was 73 and made history as the oldest person ever to assume the British throne.