On this day, September 16 - Know what happened today in history

Today in history, September 16

September 16 has witnessed a number of historic moments, some tragic and others defining. These events span different regions and eras, shaping our collective history. From deadly conflicts to remarkable innovations, let’s take a look at some key moments that occurred on this day.

1982: Massacre at Sabra and Shatila Refugee Camps
In a tragic three-day event, a right-wing Lebanese Christian militia attacked the Sabra and Shatila refugee camps. The militia killed between 1,500 to 3,000 Palestinians, marking one of the darkest moments in Lebanon’s history. This massacre remains a symbol of the brutal violence during the Lebanese Civil War.

1978: Earthquake Strikes Tabas, Iran
An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 rocked the Iranian city of Tabas. This devastating natural disaster resulted in over 11,000 deaths and left a lasting impact on the region. The earthquake was one of the deadliest to hit Iran.

1963: The Creation of Malaysia
On this day, the Federation of Malaya joined forces with Sabah, Sarawak, and Singapore, forming Malaysia. However, the unity was short-lived as Singapore withdrew just two years later. Despite this, the formation of Malaysia was a significant moment in Southeast Asian history.

1920: Wall Street Bombing
A bomb exploded on Wall Street, killing 38 people and injuring hundreds more. Known as the Wall Street Bombing, this attack was the deadliest in American history at that time. The identity of those responsible remains a mystery to this day.

1908: General Motors Founded
General Motors, or GM, was established in Flint, Michigan by William C. Durant and Charles Stewart Mott. The company went on to become one of the world’s largest car manufacturers. Over the years, GM produced iconic brands such as Cadillac, Buick, Chevrolet, and Pontiac.
Notable Births on September 16

• 1963: Richard Marx, talented American singer-songwriter and producer
• 1956: David Copperfield, legendary American magician
• 1952: Mickey Rourke, versatile American boxer, actor, and screenwriter
• 1925: B.B. King, influential American singer-songwriter and guitarist
• 1858: Bonar Law, notable Canadian/Scottish politician, Prime Minister of the UK Notable Deaths on September 16
• 1980: Jean Piaget, pioneering Swiss psychologist
• 1977: Maria Callas, renowned Greek soprano
• 1898: Ramón Emeterio Betances, prominent Puerto Rican doctor and politician
• 1824: Louis XVIII, reigning King of France
• 1701: James II, ousted King of England