This Day in History is DUE’s daily dose of trivia for all the history buffs out there. So sit back and take a ride of all the fascinating things that happened today!
People are trapped in history and history is trapped in people, and hence, every day has been a significant one in the foibles of history. Now, let’s take a tour of “This Day in History – 25th March”.
421: The city of Venice is formed
According to tradition, Venice formally came into existence at the stroke of noon on the 25th March, 421 A.D. After the collapse of the Roman Empire, various communities took refuge here. It wasn’t until around 450 A.D. that large numbers of people decided to settle permanently in the lagoon. Venice was separated from mainland Italy with its shallow water of two or three miles for nearly 1400 years. It had also kept the city away from Italy’s political life.
1807: British Parliament abolishes the slave trade.
The Act of Parliament to abolish the slave trade came into the British book of laws on this day. The act abolished the slave trade but not slavery. A charge of £100 was imposed on British naval captains if they were found to be guilty. Still, trafficking continued between Caribbean islands until 1811.
1931: Riots break out in Kanpur
On this day riots broke out in Kanpur over a hartal being organised which was objected to by the shopkeepers. Over 200 were wounded with 50 dead. Even Mahatma Gandhi had to face the heat of lathis. The riots continued for several days in the city.
1947: Elton John’s birth
British singer, composer and pianist, Sir Elton John, was born on this day. Popular for his music and stylistic showmanship he has been winning hearts since his first hit, “Your Song” hit the charts in 1970. After the Beatles and Madonna, Elton is the third most successful artist overall. With over 50 Top 40 hits, he has sold more than 300 million records worldwide.
1948: Farooq Sheikh was born
Farooq Sheikh remembered for his brilliant performances in Garm Hawa and Chashme Buddoor was born on this day. A law student who was very active in Bombay’s theatre circuit and IPTA made his name in the industry with his heartwarming skills. His play, Tumhaari Amrita which starred Shabana Azmi as well ran for 21 years worldwide in countries all over.
