What happened on January 3 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.
Pope John XXIII excommunicates Fidel Castro
Pope John XXIII, the head of the Catholic Church, made a significant move by excommunicating Cuban leader Fidel Castro, a decision that was rooted in the strained relations between the Vatican and Cuba under Castro’s communist regime. This action reflected the growing tension between the religious authority and Castro’s revolutionary government.
- The excommunication came as a result of Castro's policies that contradicted the Church’s teachings, particularly his support for atheism and the nationalization of church property.
- Pope John XXIII’s decision symbolized the Church's opposition to the Marxist-Leninist ideology, which Castro’s regime embraced, leading to a deepening rift between the two.
- Castro, who initially showed some respect for the Church, became a staunch critic of its involvement in political matters after this excommunication, a move that further alienated religious groups in Cuba.
Source: Wikipedia
Michael Schumacher is born
Michael Schumacher, one of the most successful Formula 1 drivers in history, was born in Germany. His extraordinary career would set new records in the sport, cementing his place as one of the greatest race car drivers of all time.
- Schumacher began his Formula 1 career at a young age and quickly made an impact, securing seven world championships throughout his career.
- His legendary rivalry with other drivers, most notably Ayrton Senna, and his association with teams like Ferrari and Mercedes, elevated his status within the motorsport world.
- Schumacher's achievements on the track, including a record 91 Grand Prix victories, earned him global recognition and numerous awards, making him a household name.
Source: Wikipedia
Apple II PC hits the market
The Apple II, one of the first successful personal computers, was launched by Apple Inc. It played a pivotal role in the development of the personal computing industry and helped establish Apple as a major technology company.
- Designed by Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs, the Apple II was a breakthrough product, featuring color graphics and a user-friendly interface that attracted both individuals and businesses.
- It became the first pre-assembled computer that could be used by the general public, breaking down barriers for home users and schools to adopt computing technology.
- The Apple II’s success led to the creation of a new market for personal computers, influencing the development of future products, and setting the stage for the evolution of modern computing.
Source: Wikipedia
Last original weekday Peanuts comic strip is published
The final original weekday Peanuts comic strip, created by Charles M. Schulz, was published, marking the end of an era in comic history. The strip had been a beloved feature for decades and was deeply woven into American culture.
- Schulz, who had drawn the iconic characters for nearly 50 years, announced his retirement due to health reasons, and the last strip captured a poignant farewell from his characters.
- The strip focused on Charlie Brown and his relationship with Snoopy, encapsulating the series' universal themes of friendship, childhood, and life's challenges.
Source: Wikipedia