From Empires to Microchips: Nov 15!
Welcome to 'Today in History' for November 15th! This date is packed with world-changing moments, from the birth of a massive South American republic to a giant leap for computer science. Get ready to discover how events long ago still affect the way we live, learn, and play today. It’s time to see history in action!
Did you know that on this day, a general started a march that totally changed a huge war, and later, a company released a tiny chip that kicked off the digital age we live in? Whether it’s armies on the move or tiny circuits, November 15th is about major shifts!
What Happened on This Day
Pizarro Arrives at the Incan Capital, Cuzco
Imagine walking up to the greatest city you’ve ever seen—that’s what happened when Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro reached Cuzco, the amazing capital of the Incan Empire! This powerful city was the heart of a massive empire stretching down the Andes Mountains. Pizarro’s arrival here in 1533 was a huge moment that signaled the beginning of the end for the mighty Inca rulers. It was a clash of two totally different worlds!
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America Adopts its First Rulebook: Articles of Confederation
After fighting the Revolutionary War, the brand new United States needed rules! On November 15, 1777, the Continental Congress officially approved the Articles of Confederation. Think of it as the first rough draft for how the country would run, long before the Constitution we know today. It was a huge step toward creating a nation, but it turned out to be a little too weak. They learned from it and made an even stronger government later!
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Sherman Burns Atlanta and Starts His March
Get ready for some intense history! In 1864, during the American Civil War, Union General William T. Sherman set fire to Atlanta, Georgia, and began his famous 'March to the Sea.' It wasn't a polite stroll; Sherman wanted to show the Southern states that their ability to fight was crumbling. His army destroyed farms, railroads, and supplies all the way to the coast. It was a devastating tactic designed to bring the war to a faster end.
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Brazil Wakes Up as a Republic!
For hundreds of years, Brazil was ruled by an Emperor, like a king! But on November 15, 1889, a group of military leaders decided it was time for a change. They convinced Emperor Pedro II to step down, and suddenly, Brazil switched from a monarchy to a republic—a country ruled by elected officials! This was a big deal, making it the largest country in South America to become a republic. Talk about a massive government makeover!
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The Brain of the Computer is Born: The Microprocessor
This tiny thing changed *everything*! In 1971, Intel launched the Intel 4004, which was the world's first commercial single-chip microprocessor. Seriously, all the calculating power of a whole computer (in the 70s!) was squished onto a chip smaller than your pinky nail. This little powerhouse is the ancestor of the super-fast chips in your phone, gaming console, and computer today. It made modern electronics possible!
Learn moreFun Facts About November 15
- In 1806, Zebulon Pike spotted a massive mountain peak in Colorado, which was later named Pikes Peak!
- Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, made his big movie debut in 'Love Me Tender' on this day in 1956.
- The very first Wendy's fast-food restaurant opened its doors in Columbus, Ohio, on November 15, 1969.
- The League of Nations, a group formed to keep world peace after WWI, held its very first assembly on this day in 1920.
A Look Back in Time
November 15th falls deep in the late autumn, a time of harvest completion and preparation for winter, which historically often meant major political and military moves before the bad weather set in. In 1864, Sherman’s March was a desperate, late-season gamble in the American Civil War. Meanwhile, in the 18th century, the new United States was busy trying to figure out its basic governmental structure. The 20th century saw a huge leap from political organization (League of Nations) to technological revolution (microprocessors).
Born on This Day
Georgia O'Keeffe
Get ready to see flowers like never before! Georgia O'Keeffe was a super famous American painter, often called the 'Mother of American Modernism.' She took close-up, vibrant pictures of flowers and painted huge desert landscapes. Her colorful, unique style made her one of the most important artists of the 20th century.
William Pitt the Elder
William Pitt was a powerful British politician who became Prime Minister during a major global conflict, the Seven Years' War. He was known for being a brilliant leader who helped lead Britain to victory against France in North America and India. He was so respected that he was often called 'The Great Commoner'!
Ed Asner
You might know Ed Asner best as the loud, funny, and sometimes grumpy news editor Lou Grant from *The Mary Tyler Moore Show*! He was a beloved actor famous for his distinct voice and powerful performances in TV and movies. He won multiple Emmy awards for his incredible acting talent over many decades.
Shailene Woodley
Shailene Woodley is a talented actress who has starred in action-packed blockbusters and serious dramas. She first became a big star in a TV series and later starred in popular movies like *The Descendants* and the *Divergent* series. She is also known for being an environmental activist in real life!