On this day, October 29 - Know what happened today in history

Today in History, October 29

October 29 has seen a mix of monumental moments, from natural disasters and pioneering achievements to impactful milestones in science, culture, and politics. As we look back, let’s revisit some of the pivotal events that shaped this day.

Historic Events

2012: Hurricane Sandy Strikes the Eastern Coast of the U.S.

Hurricane Sandy, which escalated into a destructive force by the time it reached the U.S. as a Category 2 storm, wreaked havoc on the East Coast. The hurricane's impact was profound, leaving a damage toll estimated at a staggering $50 billion.

2008: Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines Merge

In a landmark merger that created the world’s largest airline, Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines combined forces. The merger led Delta to adopt Northwest’s routes and retire the Northwest name, marking a major shift in the aviation industry.

2005: Bombings Shock Delhi Before Diwali

Delhi, India’s capital city, witnessed a tragic day with three bombings just before the Diwali festivities. The attacks, which struck markets and other public areas, left around 60 people dead and many more injured, casting a shadow over the festival of lights.

1998: John Glenn Becomes the Oldest Person in Space

At 77, John Glenn made history aboard the Discovery shuttle as the oldest astronaut to venture into space. Glenn’s journey, which reignited his legacy as an astronaut and politician, marked a significant moment in space exploration, demonstrating that age is no barrier to exploration.

1863: Red Cross is Founded

Known today as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), this humanitarian organisation was established with a mission to provide aid to those affected by conflicts and disasters. Over the years, the Red Cross has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize three times, becoming a global symbol of humanitarian relief.

Births on This Day

• 1974: Michael Vaughan – Dynamic English cricketer
• 1971: Winona Ryder – Versatile American actress
• 1938: Ralph Bakshi – Visionary American director, screenwriter, producer
• 1938: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf – Trailblazing Liberian politician, former president of Liberia
• 1877: Wilfred Rhodes – Legendary English cricketer

Deaths on This Day

• 2011: Jimmy Savile – Notable English radio and television host
• 1995: Terry Southern – Influential American author, screenwriter
• 1949: George Gurdjieff – Pioneering Armenian mystic
• 1911: Joseph Pulitzer – Iconic Hungarian-American journalist, publisher, established Pulitzer Prize
• 1877: Nathan Bedford Forrest – Controversial American Confederate Army general

This day’s collection of events, births, and deaths offers a glimpse into significant moments across history, reminding us of the forces that shape our world, from natural disasters to cultural shifts and personal triumphs.