Cleveland History
August 19, 1978: The Cleveland Orchestra performed at the prestigious Salzburg Festival for the first time, showcasing Cleveland’s rich musical talent on an international stage.
August 20, 1955: The first race was held at the Cleveland National Air Races after their revival post-World War II. These races, held at the Cleveland Municipal Airport, drew large crowds and were a significant event in the city’s aviation history.
August 21, 1993: The Cleveland Museum of Art inaugurated a significant exhibition called “Egypt’s Dazzling Sun: Amenhotep III and His World.” This exhibition highlighted international artifacts and was pivotal in enhancing Cleveland’s reputation as a cultural center.
August 23, 2007: The Innerbelt Bridge, a key component of Cleveland’s freeway system, was officially listed as structurally deficient, leading to accelerated plans for its replacement to ensure the safety and efficiency of urban transportation.
August 25, 1967: Cleveland’s Hough area was declared a federal Model Cities Program site, receiving significant federal funding aimed at urban renewal and combating poverty, following the devastating Hough riots of 1966.
World History
August 19, 1960: The Soviet space dogs Belka and Strelka were safely returned to Earth aboard Sputnik 5, becoming the first living beings to orbit the Earth and return alive, paving the way for human spaceflight.
August 20, 1989: The pleasure boat Marchioness collided with the dredger Bowbelle on the River Thames in London, resulting in the deaths of 51 people. This tragic event led to significant improvements in river safety regulations.
August 21, 1959: Hawaii was admitted as the 50th state of the United States. This marked the last significant addition to the geographic makeup of the U.S., and the event celebrated Hawaiian culture and its unique heritage.
August 23, 1305: Scottish patriot and leader William Wallace was executed in London for high treason against King Edward I of England. His death became a symbol of the struggle for Scottish independence.
August 25, 1944: Paris was liberated from Nazi occupation during World War II by the Allied forces. This event, known as the Liberation of Paris, was a significant turning point in the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi control.
