This Day in History: April 22

1945 Adolf Hitler admits defeat

After learning that Soviet forces had entered Berlin, German dictator Adolf Hitler announced in the underground Führerbunker that he planned to commit suicide. This marked the end of World War II in Europe and the eventual surrender of Germany.

1977 Optical fiber is used for telephone transmissions for the first time

The first use of fiber-optic technology for long-distance telephone transmissions occurred in 1977. This breakthrough allowed for the faster and more efficient transmission of information over long distances by using light pulses, which has played a crucial role in the development of modern-day global communications.

1992 A series of massive explosions destroys parts of Guadalajara

A disaster occurred in the downtown district of Analco after gasoline leaked into the sewer system, causing massive explosions that destroyed parts of Guadalajara. At least 206 people died, nearly 500 were injured, and about 15,000 were left homeless.

1993 Holocaust Memorial Museum dedicated in Washington, D.C.

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum was dedicated in Washington, D.C. to honor the millions of people who died during the Holocaust. The museum's mission is to inspire citizens and leaders worldwide to confront hatred, prevent genocide, and promote human dignity.

1997 The Japanese embassy hostage crisis ends after 126 days

After 126 days, the Japanese embassy hostage crisis in Lima, Peru, ended when Peruvian troops successfully raided the building. However, the hero status of the troops involved was later called into question when evidence of summary executions of captured insurgents emerged.

2006 243 people are injured in pro-democracy protest in Nepal

After Nepali security forces opened fire on pro-democracy protesters against King Gyanendra, 243 people were injured in Nepal. This marked a significant moment in the country's history and the ongoing struggle for democracy.

2016 Paris Agreement on climate change signed in New York

The Paris Agreement was signed by 195 nations in New York, binding them to limit the increase in the global average temperature to less than 2°C above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the increase to 1.5°C. This historic agreement represented a major milestone in the global fight against climate change.

1915 First military use of poison gas in WWI

In 1915, Germany became the first country to use poison gas in warfare during World War I. This marked a significant turning point in the way wars were fought and led to the development of more deadly and destructive weapons in the future.

1906 The 1906 Olympic Games begin in Athens

The 1906 Olympic Games began in Athens, Greece, marking a significant moment in the history of the modern Olympic Games. While the meet in practice was the second Olympic Games of the modern era, it is not recognized as such by the International Olympic Committee.

1500 Pedro Álvares Cabral is the first European to discover Brazil