From the birth of NASA to landmark moments in literature and exploration, July 29 has left its mark on history.
1858 – Harris Treaty Signed
The United States and Japan signed the Harris Treaty, opening additional Japanese ports to American trade and strengthening diplomatic relations between the two nations.
1890 – Vincent van Gogh Dies
Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh died two days after suffering a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Though little recognized during his lifetime, he became one of history’s most influential artists.
1914 – First Transcontinental Telephone Conversation
The first successful transcontinental telephone test call took place, demonstrating the growing reach of long-distance communications across the United States.
1954 – The Fellowship of the Ring Published
J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Fellowship of the Ring, the first volume of The Lord of the Rings, was published in the United Kingdom, launching one of the most celebrated fantasy series ever written.
1958 – President Eisenhower Signs NASA into Law
President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the National Aeronautics and Space Act, officially establishing NASA and ushering in a new era of American space exploration.
1967 – USS Forrestal Tragedy
A fire triggered by an accidental rocket launch swept across the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Forrestal in the Gulf of Tonkin, killing 134 sailors in one of the worst naval disasters in U.S. history.
1981 – Royal Wedding Draws Worldwide Audience
Britain’s Prince Charles married Lady Diana Spencer in a ceremony watched by hundreds of millions of television viewers around the world.
Did You Know?
Journalist Peter Jennings, filmmaker Ken Burns, and former NFL quarterback Dak Prescott all celebrate birthdays on July 29.
