Spacewalks, Stolen Art, and Big Shakes!
Get ready, history explorers! March 18th packs a punch with moments that shook the world—literally and figuratively. We’re talking about floating in outer space for the very first time, a daring art heist that still baffles detectives, and even the end of a major global energy headache. Today’s date proves history is anything but boring!
What do an ancient Roman Emperor, a world-changing spacewalk, and a $500 million robbery have in common? They all have a date with March 18th! It's a day where humans reached new heights in the sky and thieves pulled off a legendary caper on the ground. Let's dive into the adventure!
What Happened on This Day
First Human Steps Out Into Space!
Hold your breath! On this day, Soviet cosmonaut Aleksei Leonov bravely floated out of his Voskhod 2 spacecraft, becoming the very first person to walk in space—a 'spacewalk' or EVA! He was only tethered to the ship, like a cosmic dog on a leash. This incredible 12-minute trip proved humans could survive and work outside our planet. It was a giant leap for space exploration!
The Biggest Art Heist in US History
Imagine waking up to find priceless treasures gone! In 1990, two sneaky thieves dressed as police officers talked their way into the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston. They tied up the guards and then stole 13 incredible works of art, including paintings by famous artists like Rembrandt. The haul was worth over $500 million, and guess what? They still haven't found any of the paintings!
The End of the Mysterious Knights Templar
The powerful and secretive Knights Templar, a group of warrior-monks famous from the Crusades, met a tragic end on this day. Their last Grand Master, Jacques de Molay, was burned at the stake in Paris after being accused of heresy by the King of France and the Pope. It was a dramatic and sad conclusion for one of the Middle Ages' most famous military orders, ending years of persecution.
Oil Crisis: The Gas Pump Lines End
Remember when grown-ups had to wait in super long lines just to get gasoline for the car? That happened because Arab oil-producing nations placed an embargo (they stopped sending oil!) to the US for supporting Israel in a war. On March 18, 1974, the embargo finally ended! This meant gas prices would start to drop after soaring incredibly high. Phew, no more waiting forever for a fill-up!
Stanley Cup's First Promise Made in Canada
History on ice! In 1892, Lord Stanley of Preston, who was the Governor General of Canada, pledged to donate a silver and gold cup to be given every year to the top amateur ice hockey team in Canada. This gift was the start of what became the famous Stanley Cup! Today, it's the ultimate prize in professional hockey. It all started with a very generous promise from a Canadian leader.
Fun Facts About March 18
- Aleksei Leonov’s spacesuit actually ballooned in space, making re-entry incredibly hard!
- There is still a $10 million reward for information leading to the recovery of the stolen Gardner Museum art!
- The 1973 Oil Embargo caused gas prices in the US to jump by nearly 400%!
- The first Stanley Cup was awarded to a Montreal amateur team in 1893.
A Look Back in Time
March 18th falls in the early days of Spring in the Northern Hemisphere, a time of new beginnings, which fits many of the 'firsts' that happened on this date—the first spacewalk, the first commitment to the Stanley Cup, and even the first free elections in East Germany in 1990, marking a step toward German reunification after the Cold War. This date is bookended by the very ancient (the death of the last Templar Grand Master in 1314) and the very modern (the end of the 1970s oil crisis).
Born on This Day
Grover Cleveland
Grover Cleveland was the 22nd and 24th President of the United States—the only one to serve two non-consecutive terms! He was known for being honest and fighting against corruption. He was nicknamed 'Grover the Good' by some supporters.
Rudolf Diesel
Rudolf Diesel was a clever German engineer who invented the engine that is named after him: the diesel engine! This powerful engine helped make trains, ships, and big trucks much more efficient for moving heavy things around the world.
Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah is a super-talented American star who shines in music, movies, and TV! She’s won Grammys for her music and is an amazing actress. She proves you can be a pioneer in hip-hop and a Hollywood hit all at once!
Adam Levine
Adam Levine is the lead singer and guitarist for the super-popular band Maroon 5! You've probably heard their catchy songs on the radio. He was also a coach on a famous singing competition TV show for many seasons.