On this day: October 27
1922 – Benito Mussolini becomes Prime Minister of Italy
On October 27, 1922, Benito Mussolini, the leader of the National Fascist Party, became the Prime Minister of Italy after staging a coup known as the March on Rome. Mussolini’s rise to power marked the beginning of fascist rule in Italy, which would last until the end of World War II.
1962 – Cuban Missile Crisis ends
The Cuban Missile Crisis, a 13-day confrontation between the United States and the Soviet Union over the presence of nuclear missiles in Cuba, came to an end on October 27, 1962. The crisis had brought the world to the brink of nuclear war, but a resolution was reached when Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev agreed to remove the missiles from Cuba in exchange for a pledge from the U.S. not to invade the island.
1904 – New York City subway opens
On October 27, 1904, the first underground subway line in New York City opened to the public. The subway system, which was operated by the Interborough Rapid Transit Company, revolutionized transportation in the city and quickly became a vital part of daily life for millions of New Yorkers.
1986 – International Red Cross declares famine in Ethiopia
On October 27, 1986, the International Red Cross declared a famine in Ethiopia, citing severe food shortages and widespread starvation. The famine, which was caused by a combination of drought, civil war, and government policies, would lead to the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people and prompt a massive international relief effort.
1949 – Chinese Communists capture Beijing
On October 27, 1949, Chinese Communist forces led by Mao Zedong captured the city of Beijing, effectively ending the Chinese Civil War and establishing the People’s Republic of China. The capture of Beijing marked a significant turning point in Chinese history and set the stage for decades of communist rule in the country.
1992 – U.S. Navy SEALs rescue American hostage in the Philippines
On October 27, 1992, U.S. Navy SEALs successfully rescued American missionary Gracia Burnham from Abu Sayyaf militants in the Philippines. Burnham had been held captive for over a year and her rescue was a major victory for the U.S. military and a source of hope for other hostages still in captivity.
1947 – “You Bet Your Life” debuts on radio
On October 27, 1947, the popular radio quiz show “You Bet Your Life” hosted by Groucho Marx made its debut. The show, which later transitioned to television, was known for its humor and wit, as well as for featuring ordinary people as contestants.
2004 – Boston Red Sox win World Series for the first time in 86 years
On October 27, 2004, the Boston Red Sox won the World Series for the first time in 86 years, ending the so-called “Curse of the Bambino.” The Red Sox defeated the St. Louis Cardinals to claim their first championship since 1918, bringing joy to generations of long-suffering Red Sox fans.
