On this day, September 2 - Know what happened today in history

Today in history, September 2

From the formation of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile to the adoption of the Gregorian Calendar in the UK, September 2 has played host to transformative moments. This day has also seen notable births and deaths, including influential figures in politics, art, and sports.

1960: The First Election of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile

Marking a significant moment in Tibetan history, the Tibetan Parliament in Exile was elected on this day, forming the parliamentary body of the Central Tibetan Administration. This election, held by Tibetan exiles in India, is now celebrated as Democracy Day among the Tibetan community in exile.

1946: Interim Government of India is Formed

A crucial step towards India's independence from British rule, the interim government and Constituent Assembly were established to oversee the transition. Led by Jawaharlal Nehru, this government paved the way for the nation’s freedom and its subsequent political framework.

1789: U.S. Department of the Treasury is Established

On this day, the United States established the Department of the Treasury, tasked with managing the government’s revenue and expenditures. The first Secretary of the Treasury was Alexander Hamilton, whose financial policies significantly shaped the nation’s early economy.

1752: U.K. Adopts the Gregorian Calendar

The United Kingdom made the switch to the Gregorian Calendar, which is still widely used today. Prior to this change, Britain and its territories followed the Julian Calendar. The transition led to the loss of 11 days, as September 2 was immediately followed by September 14.

1666: Great Fire Ravages the City of London

Known as the Great Fire of London, this catastrophic event began in a bakery and raged for four days, devastating most of the city. The fire left many residents homeless and led to significant rebuilding efforts that shaped modern London.

Births on This Day, September 2

• 1982: Joey Barton, controversial English footballer
• 1966: Salma Hayek, acclaimed Mexican-American actress, director, producer
• 1964: Keanu Reeves, versatile Canadian actor
• 1953: Ahmad Shah Massoud, heroic Afghan commander
• 1913: Bill Shankly, legendary Scottish footballer, manager

Deaths on This Day, September 2

• 1973: J. R. R. Tolkien, renowned English philologist, author
• 1969: Ho Chi Minh, revolutionary Vietnamese politician, 1st President of Vietnam
• 1948: Sylvanus Morley, distinguished American archaeologist, scholar
• 1937: Pierre de Coubertin, visionary French historian, educator, IOC founder
• 1910: Henri Rousseau, pioneering French painter