What happened on February 20 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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Statue of Enver Hoxha toppled in Tirana
As communist rule crumbled in Albania, a massive statue of longtime dictator Enver Hoxha was torn down by enraged protesters in Tirana.
- Hoxha ruled Albania with an iron fist for over 40 years, isolating the country from the world and enforcing a harsh Stalinist regime.
- Fueled by economic hardship and political unrest, demonstrators took to the streets, signaling the end of Albania’s communist era.
- The fall of the statue marked a turning point, leading to Albania’s transition toward democracy and capitalism.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art opens in New York City
One of the world’s most renowned cultural institutions, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, welcomed visitors for the first time in New York.
- Founded by businessmen, artists, and philanthropists, the museum aimed to bring art and education to the American public.
- Over time, the Met expanded to house millions of artworks, spanning centuries and civilizations.
- Today, the Met is a cultural landmark, attracting millions of visitors and shaping the art world.
Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake premieres in Moscow
One of the most beloved ballets of all time, Swan Lake by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, had its first performance at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow.
- The initial reception was lukewarm, with critics finding the choreography and music too complex.
- Later revivals, particularly by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, transformed Swan Lake into a ballet classic.
Rihanna is born
Global music sensation Rihanna was born in Saint Michael, Barbados, later becoming one of the best-selling artists of all time.
- Discovered as a teenager, she skyrocketed to stardom with hits like Umbrella and Diamonds.
- Beyond music, Rihanna launched Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty, revolutionizing the beauty and fashion industries.