/r/historyvideos
A place to share and discuss any history related videos.
/r/historyvideos
Travel back to April 4, 1975, a pivotal moment in technology history, when Bill Gates and Paul Allen founded Microsoft, a company destined to revolutionize the computer software industry. From its humble beginnings producing software for the Altair 8800 to becoming a dominant force in the tech world, this video explores Microsoft's meteoric rise, its innovations, and the challenges it faced along the way. Witness how Microsoft's journey from a small startup in Albuquerque to a multinational technology titan changed the way we work, play, and interact with technology. Discover the key milestones, including the launch of MS-DOS, Windows, and the Xbox, and how Microsoft navigated legal battles and competition to shape the future of digital technology.
Step back in time to April 3, 1860, when the Pony Express made its daring debut, revolutionizing mail delivery across the American frontier. This video narrates the ambitious undertaking of connecting Missouri to California with horse and rider relay teams, completing the 1,800-mile journey in a record-breaking 10 days. Explore the challenges, adventures, and legacy of this iconic yet fleeting chapter in American history, from its inception to the rapid technological advancements that soon rendered it obsolete. Discover the tales of bravery and endurance of the riders, including the young William 'Buffalo Bill' Cody, and how the Pony Express has been immortalized in American folklore.
Journey back to April 2, 1972, to witness a pivotal moment in cinematic and political history: Charlie Chaplin's return to the United States after two decades of exile. This video unveils the story of Chaplin, one of the most iconic figures in the film industry, and his return to the U.S. for the first time since the height of the Red Scare. Explore the complex backdrop of Chaplin's departure, marked by accusations and controversy, and his emotional comeback to receive an honorary Oscar. Discover how Chaplin's legacy was shaped by both his unparalleled contributions to cinema and the political tensions of his time.
https://youtube.com/shorts/_VI-ngiOI7c
Embark on a journey back to April 1, 1700, when English pranksters set the stage for the worldwide tradition of April Fools' Day. This video delves into the whimsical beginnings and the evolution of a day dedicated to jests, japes, and harmless hoaxes. Discover how April Fools' Day found its roots in the shift from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar and how it blossomed into a global celebration of laughter and lightheartedness. From the placement of paper fish on one's back in France to the elaborate public pranks of modern times, explore the cultural impact and enduring charm of April Fools' Day.
Dive into the history of March 31, 1889, a day that forever changed the Paris skyline with the dedication of the Eiffel Tower. Designed by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 Exposition Universelle to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution, this iconic structure was met with skepticism but soon became a symbol of French ingenuity and a masterpiece of architectural innovation. This video explores the construction journey, the controversies, and the tower's enduring legacy as one of the most visited monuments in the world. Discover how this iron giant, initially criticized and nearly demolished, became an indispensable part of Parisian and global heritage.
March 30, 1981, marks a critical moment in American history as President Ronald Reagan survives an assassination attempt just outside a Washington, D.C., hotel. This video revisits the harrowing events of that day when John Hinckley Jr. fired six shots, wounding the President and three others. Dive into the details of the incident, from the chaos at the scene to Reagan's remarkable resilience and humor in the face of danger. Learn about the aftermath, including Reagan's recovery, the impact on gun control legislation, and the controversial trial of John Hinckley Jr. Join us as we explore the implications of this assassination attempt on Reagan's presidency, public perception, and American policy.
Dive into the captivating story of March 29, 1974, when local farmers in Xian, China, stumbled upon what would become one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century—the Terracotta Army of Emperor Qin Shi Huangdi. This video unveils the discovery and exploration of an ancient tomb complex that has fascinated the world. Learn about the thousands of unique, life-size warriors and horses, crafted over 2,200 years ago to protect China's first emperor in his afterlife. Experience the awe-inspiring sight of these statues in their original battle formation, facing eastward against eternal enemies, and explore the ongoing mysteries that surround the unexcavated parts of Qin Shi Huangdi's tomb.
Step onto the historic sidewalks of Hollywood on March 28, 1960, where the very first permanent star of the Hollywood Walk of Fame was laid, celebrating the influential film producer and director, Stanley Kramer. This video delves into the origins of the Walk of Fame, the significance of Kramer's contributions to cinema, and how this landmark moment paved the way for over 2,700 stars that now adorn Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street. Explore the legacy of socially conscious films like 'Inherit the Wind' and 'Guess Who's Coming to Dinner' and the impact of Kramer's work on the industry and society. Join us as we journey through the glittering history of Hollywood's most beloved sidewalk.
Journey back to March 27, 1912, when a simple act of planting cherry trees along the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., blossomed into a symbol of friendship between Japan and the United States. Witness the historical moment when Helen Taft and Viscountess Chinda, representing two distinct nations, came together to celebrate the gift of 3,020 cherry trees from Tokyo to the U.S. government. This video explores the origins of the idea, the challenges overcome to make it a reality, and how this gesture of goodwill evolved into the cherished annual Cherry Blossom Festival. Delve into the enduring legacy of this cross-cultural exchange and how it has fostered a deeper connection between the two countries, even contributing to the restoration of Tokyo's collection post-World War II.
Dive into the story of the Melissa Virus, a groundbreaking mass-mailing macro virus that wreaked havoc on Microsoft Word and Outlook systems on March 26, 1999. This video explores the origins, spread, and impact of one of the first major email worms to capture global attention, causing unprecedented disruption across corporate networks, including major companies and government organizations. Learn about the investigation that led to the arrest of creator David L. Smith and the legal consequences he faced. Discover how Melissa changed the cybersecurity landscape and the lessons learned in its wake.
Uncover the harrowing tale of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire that occurred on March 25, 1911, in New York City, claiming the lives of 146 workers and becoming a pivotal moment in America's industrial history. This video delves into the devastating fire, the perilous working conditions that led to such a tragedy, and the profound impact it had on labor laws and workplace safety regulations. Discover how this tragic event spurred a movement towards greater protection for factory workers and left an indelible mark on society's approach to workers' rights.
Dive into the fascinating origins of 'OK' on March 23, 1839, when this now ubiquitous term first appeared in The Boston Morning Post. Initially meant as a playful abbreviation for 'oll korrect,' a deliberate misspelling of 'all correct,' OK's journey from slang to a staple in American and global vernacular is a unique linguistic tale. This video explores how OK transitioned from 1830s slang to political campaigns and ultimately became one of the most recognizable phrases worldwide. Discover the story behind America's favorite two-letter word, its rise to fame, and how it reflects the quirky evolution of language.
Dive into the historical significance of March 22, 1765, a day that marked a turning point in colonial resistance to British rule with the imposition of the Stamp Act. This video unravels the contentious tax that fueled the fire of revolution in the American colonies, leading to widespread protests and the eventual struggle for independence. Explore how this act of taxation without representation united diverse colonial societies against a common foe and laid the groundwork for the United States of America.