On this day: April 23
1516 – The Reinheitsgebot Beer Purity Law is enacted in Bavaria
On April 23, 1516, the Reinheitsgebot Beer Purity Law was enacted in Bavaria, Germany. This law, also known as the German Beer Purity Law, regulated the ingredients that could be used in the production of beer. According to the law, beer could only be made with water, barley, and hops, with the later addition of yeast. This law helped to ensure the quality of beer produced in Bavaria and has since become a symbol of purity and quality in the brewing industry.
1616 – William Shakespeare dies
On April 23, 1616, the world lost one of its greatest playwrights and poets, William Shakespeare. The English writer, known for his plays such as Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, and Macbeth, passed away at the age of 52 in Stratford-upon-Avon. Shakespeare’s works continue to be celebrated and performed around the world, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential figures in literature.
1789 – President George Washington moves into the first executive mansion
On April 23, 1789, President George Washington moved into the first executive mansion, also known as the President’s House, in New York City. The mansion, located at 3 Cherry Street, served as the residence and office of the President of the United States until the White House was completed in 1800. Washington’s time at the executive mansion marked the beginning of a long tradition of presidents living and working in the nation’s capital.
1850 – The first National Day of Mourning is observed in the United States
On April 23, 1850, the first National Day of Mourning was observed in the United States. The day was declared by President Zachary Taylor following the death of former President William Henry Harrison, who passed away on April 4, 1841. The National Day of Mourning was a time for the nation to come together to remember and honor the life of a former leader, setting a precedent for future days of national mourning in the country.
1910 – President Theodore Roosevelt delivers his “The Man in the Arena” speech
On April 23, 1910, former President Theodore Roosevelt delivered his famous “The Man in the Arena” speech at the Sorbonne in Paris, France. In the speech, Roosevelt emphasized the importance of taking risks and putting oneself in the arena of life, rather than sitting on the sidelines as a critic. The speech has since become a source of inspiration for many, encouraging individuals to strive for greatness and not be afraid of failure.
1968 – Students at Columbia University begin a week-long protest
On April 23, 1968, students at Columbia University in New York City began a week-long protest in response to the university’s ties to the Vietnam War and its plans to build a gymnasium in a nearby park. The protest, which involved thousands of students, faculty, and community members, ultimately resulted in the occupation of several university buildings and clashes with police. The events at Columbia University sparked a larger conversation about student activism and the role of universities in social and political issues.
1993 – Eritrea gains independence from Ethiopia
On April 23, 1993, the African nation of Eritrea officially gained independence from Ethiopia following a long and bloody struggle for self-determination. Eritrea had been a province of Ethiopia for over 30 years before declaring independence in 1991. The independence of Eritrea marked a significant moment in African history and paved the way for the nation to establish itself as a sovereign state.
