On this day: November 17
November 17 has been a significant day throughout history, with many important events taking place on this date. From political developments to scientific breakthroughs, November 17 has seen it all. Let’s take a look at some of the key events that have occurred on this day over the years.
1800 – The United States Congress Holds its First Session in Washington D.C.
On November 17, 1800, the United States Congress held its first session in Washington D.C. This marked the beginning of the government’s official move from Philadelphia to the nation’s new capital. The move was a result of the Residence Act of 1790, which established that the capital would be located along the Potomac River.
1869 – The Suez Canal Opens
The Suez Canal, a crucial waterway connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea, officially opened on November 17, 1869. The canal was a significant engineering achievement and greatly reduced the travel time between Europe and Asia. Its opening had a profound impact on global trade and transportation.
1917 – The Russian Revolution Begins
On November 17, 1917, the Russian Revolution began with the storming of the Winter Palace in Petrograd (now St. Petersburg). This event marked the start of the Bolshevik uprising, which ultimately led to the overthrow of the Provisional Government and the establishment of a communist regime in Russia.
1968 – The Heidi Game
One of the most famous incidents in American football history occurred on November 17, 1968, during a game between the Oakland Raiders and the New York Jets. The game, which was being broadcast on national television, was cut off in the final moments to air the TV movie “Heidi.” This decision led to widespread outrage among viewers and changed the way that sports broadcasts were handled in the future.
1970 – The Soviet Union Lands Luna 17 on the Moon
On November 17, 1970, the Soviet Union successfully landed the Luna 17 spacecraft on the Moon. Luna 17 carried the robotic rover Lunokhod 1, which became the first wheeled vehicle to explore the lunar surface. This mission was a significant milestone in the exploration of space and the study of the Moon.
2003 – Arnold Schwarzenegger Sworn in as Governor of California
On November 17, 2003, Arnold Schwarzenegger was sworn in as the Governor of California, following a recall election that removed incumbent Governor Gray Davis from office. Schwarzenegger, a former Hollywood actor and bodybuilder, served as governor until 2011. His election was seen as a major political upset and brought significant attention to the state of California.
2013 – Typhoon Haiyan Hits the Philippines
One of the strongest tropical cyclones ever recorded, Typhoon Haiyan, made landfall in the Philippines on November 17, 2013. The typhoon caused widespread devastation, with thousands of people killed and entire communities destroyed. The Philippines faced a long and difficult recovery process in the aftermath of the storm.
Conclusion
November 17 has been a day of significant events throughout history, from political upheavals to scientific achievements. This date serves as a reminder of the diverse and impactful events that have shaped the world we live in today.
