This Day in History: August 15

2015 North Korea Introduces Pyongyang Time

To commemorate the 70th anniversary of the end of Japanese occupation in Korea, North Korea introduced a time change. The country, previously at UTC+09:00, adjusted its time to UTC+08:30.

1973 US involvement in Vietnam ends

The US Congress passed the Case-Church Amendment, which effectively ended the US military involvement in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. The amendment set forth August 15 as the last day for US military activities in these regions.

1969 The Woodstock Music & Art Fair opens its doors to participants and spectators

Hosted in Bethel, New York on Max B. Yasgur’s 600-acre farm, the iconic Woodstock music festival attracted over 400,000 people. The event is often regarded as a significant point in the rising popularity of anti-establishment movements in the United States.

1960 Congo gains its Independence

Formerly under French control since the late 19th century, the Central African country gained its independence in 1960 following violent protests and riots. Fulbert Youlou served as its first President after independence.

1947 India Becomes Independent From British Rule

British control of India, which began with the East India Company in the mid-1800s, ended in 1947. The country was partitioned into India and Pakistan at the time of independence, with Jawaharlal Nehru and Liaquat Ali Khan serving as their respective first Prime Ministers.

1461 Empire of Trebizond surrenders to forces of Sultan Mehmet II

This marks the fall of the last remnant of the Byzantine Empire. Following the surrender, Emperor David was exiled and later murdered.

1620 Mayflower sets sail from Southampton, England, with 102 Pilgrims

The historic voyage of the Mayflower started from Southampton, England, carrying 102 Pilgrims who were seeking religious freedom in the New World.

1900 The Boxer Rebellion in China

The Empress, along with her family and court retainers, had to escape while foreign troops entered Peking to suppress the Boxer Rebellion.

1998 Omagh Bombing in Northern Ireland

The Troubles' worst terrorist incident occurred in Omagh, Northern Ireland that killed 29 people and injured about 220.

2021 Afghan President Ashraf Ghani flees the country

As the Taliban forces entered Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, and took command, President Ashraf Ghani had to flee the country.