May 4th is a significant date in history. Many important events and occurrences have happened on this day. In this article, we will explore some of the most notable incidents that took place on May 4th.
Kent State Massacre
One of the most tragic incidents that occurred on May 4th was the Kent State Massacre. On this day in 1970, Ohio National Guard troops opened fire on a group of unarmed college students protesting the Vietnam War. Four students were killed and nine were injured in the shooting. The incident sparked widespread outrage and protests across the country.
First Flight Across The Atlantic
May 4th also marks the anniversary of the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean. In 1919, aviators John Alcock and Arthur Brown completed the first non-stop flight from Newfoundland to Ireland in just over 16 hours. Their achievement paved the way for future developments in aviation and exploration.
Nelson Mandela Elected President
May 4th, 1994, was a historic day for South Africa as Nelson Mandela was elected as the country's first black president. Mandela had spent 27 years in prison for his anti-apartheid activism before being released in 1990. His election marked the end of apartheid and the beginning of a new era in South African history.
Star Wars Day
May 4th is also known as Star Wars Day. The date was chosen because of a pun on the famous line "May the force be with you" which sounds like "May the fourth be with you". Fans of the franchise celebrate this day by dressing up as their favorite characters, watching the movies, and attending fan events.
Cyclone Nargis
On May 4th, 2008, Cyclone Nargis struck Myanmar, also known as Burma. The cyclone was one of the deadliest natural disasters in the country's history, killing over 138,000 people and leaving millions homeless. The disaster highlighted the need for better disaster preparedness and response measures in the region.
Death of Audrey Hepburn
May 4th, 1993, marked the passing of legendary actress Audrey Hepburn. Hepburn was known for her iconic roles in classic films such as "Roman Holiday" and "Breakfast at Tiffany's". She was also a humanitarian and worked as a UNICEF ambassador in her later years.
Conclusion
May 4th has seen a range of significant events throughout history, from tragic incidents such as the Kent State Massacre to milestone achievements such as the first flight across the Atlantic. It is a day that continues to be remembered and celebrated for different reasons around the world.