On this day, September 26 - Know what happened today in history

September 26 has seen a number of historic events that shaped various aspects of the world. From devastating natural disasters to critical military battles and key political developments, this day in history remains a testament to human resilience and change.

1959: Typhoon Vera Hits Japan

On this day, Japan was struck by Typhoon Vera, the most powerful typhoon in the country’s recorded history. Categorised as a Category 5 storm, Vera unleashed torrential rains and triggered landslides. The devastation caused by the storm claimed around 5,000 lives. The typhoon left a lasting mark on Japan, pushing authorities to enhance disaster preparedness and response strategies.

1917: The Battle of Polygon Wood Begins

The Battle of Polygon Wood, part of the broader Third Battle of Ypres in World War I, started on September 26, 1917. Fought between British and Australian forces against the German army near Ypres, Belgium, the battle concluded with an Allied victory. It remains one of the critical moments in the war, symbolising the determination of the Allied forces in reclaiming territory.

1914: The Establishment of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

On this day, the United States saw the birth of a critical independent agency—the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Established through the Federal Trade Commission Act, the FTC was designed to protect consumers and promote market fairness. It became a cornerstone of American economic policy, safeguarding against unfair business practices and monopolies.

1810: Sweden’s Act of Succession

In 1810, Sweden passed its Act of Succession, shaping the royal succession of the country. This legal framework, adopted by the Riksdag of the Estates, forms a fundamental part of Sweden's Constitution. It ensures that the succession to the Swedish throne is governed by clear rules, which continue to guide the nation today.

1786: Shays' Rebellion in Springfield, Massachusetts

September 26, 1786, saw the beginning of Shays' Rebellion in Springfield, Massachusetts. Named after its leader Daniel Shays, the uprising stemmed from an economic crisis that led to debtors being imprisoned. It marked the first armed internal conflict in post-revolutionary America. Despite initial success, the rebellion was quashed by the government, highlighting the fragility of the early republic.

Notable Births on September 26

• 1981: Serena Williams – Iconic, American tennis player.
• 1943: Ian Chappell – Influential, Australian cricketer.
• 1897: Pope Paul VI – Respected, religious leader and reformer.
• 1889: Martin Heidegger – Pioneering, German philosopher.
• 1888: T. S. Eliot – Renowned, American-English writer and Nobel laureate.

Notable Deaths on September 26

• 2008: Paul Newman – Legendary, American actor and philanthropist.
• 2003: Robert Palmer – Talented, English singer-songwriter.
• 1959: Leslie Morshead – Distinguished, Australian military leader.
• 1945: Béla Bartók – Innovative, Hungarian composer and pianist.
• 1820: Daniel Boone – Famous, American explorer and frontiersman.

These events, births, and deaths reflect the diverse and enduring impact of the people and occurrences associated with September 26 across various fields of history, culture, and human achievement.