What happened on February 13 in world history? Here are 4 events worth remembering: See them above in our 57-second video, and below for more details!
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New Delhi becomes the capital of India
New Delhi officially replaced Calcutta as the capital of India, marking a significant shift in British colonial administration.
- The British government decided to move the capital from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911 to reflect India’s historical and political importance.
- Designed by British architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, New Delhi features grand buildings, wide boulevards, and the iconic Rashtrapati Bhavan.
- After India’s independence in 1947, New Delhi became the center of governance, housing Parliament, the Supreme Court, and key ministries.
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd makes a historic apology
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd delivered a formal apology to the Stolen Generations—Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children forcibly taken from their families under government policies.
- Rudd’s speech in Parliament recognized the trauma caused by decades of forced removal and assimilation policies.
- The apology was a major step toward healing and fostering unity between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.
- While the apology was widely praised, Indigenous communities continue to advocate for greater rights, reparations, and social justice.
Switzerland's neutrality is recognized
Switzerland’s long-standing policy of neutrality was internationally reaffirmed when the League of Nations formally recognized it.
- Switzerland had maintained a neutral stance since the Congress of Vienna in 1815, avoiding involvement in European wars.
- Despite joining the League, Switzerland secured an exception allowing it to avoid military action in conflicts.
- Switzerland’s non-aligned status continues today, shaping its diplomatic policies and international peacekeeping roles.
Jesse James holds up his first bank in Missouri
Jesse James, the infamous American outlaw, carried out his first known bank robbery, marking the start of his legendary criminal career.
- The robbery took place at the Clay County Savings Association in Liberty, Missouri, with James and his gang escaping with around $60,000.
- James, a former Confederate guerrilla, became famous for his bold heists, often seen as a Robin Hood figure by some.
- His crime spree lasted over a decade before he was shot and killed by Robert Ford in 1882.