On this day: July 16
1779 – American Revolution: Spain declares war on Britain
On July 16, 1779, Spain officially declared war on Britain, joining forces with the American colonies in their fight for independence. This declaration of war marked a significant turning point in the American Revolution, as Spain’s involvement provided much-needed support for the colonies and helped to weaken Britain’s hold on the American colonies.
1945 – The first atomic bomb test in New Mexico
On July 16, 1945, the first atomic bomb test, code-named “Trinity,” took place in the desert of New Mexico. This test marked the beginning of the atomic age and the start of the Manhattan Project, which ultimately led to the development and use of atomic bombs during World War II.
1969 – Apollo 11 launches, carrying the first humans to the moon
On July 16, 1969, NASA’s Apollo 11 mission launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, carrying astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins on a historic journey to the moon. This mission would culminate in Armstrong and Aldrin becoming the first humans to set foot on the lunar surface on July 20, 1969.
1999 – John F. Kennedy Jr. dies in a plane crash
On July 16, 1999, John F. Kennedy Jr., the son of President John F. Kennedy, died in a tragic plane crash off the coast of Martha’s Vineyard. Kennedy, along with his wife Carolyn Bessette Kennedy and her sister Lauren Bessette, were on their way to a family wedding when their plane went down in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
2004 – Martha Stewart is sentenced to prison
On July 16, 2004, business magnate and television personality Martha Stewart was sentenced to five months in prison for charges related to insider trading. Stewart’s conviction and subsequent imprisonment marked a major scandal in the business world and led to her temporary removal from the public eye.
