1431 – Joan of Arc is Accused of Heresy
On May 28, 1431, the trial of Joan of Arc concluded as she was declared guilty of heresy by a pro-English ecclesiastical court. A 19-year-old peasant girl who had led French forces to major victories during the Hundred Years’ War, Joan was captured by the Burgundians, handed over to the English, and subjected to a politically motivated trial in Rouen.
Joan’s conviction for wearing men’s clothing and claiming divine guidance was based more on politics than theology. She was burned at the stake two days later, becoming a martyr and symbol of French nationalism. Her canonization in 1920 cemented her legacy as a saint and warrior.
Lesser-Known Fact:
Joan’s retrial in 1456—25 years after her death—exonerated her completely, declaring her a victim of political machinations.
1961 – Amnesty International is Founded
On this day in 1961, British lawyer Peter Benenson launched Amnesty International with his article “The Forgotten Prisoners” in The Observer. Moved by the unjust imprisonment of two Portuguese students, Benenson called for a global campaign to protect individuals jailed for their beliefs.
Amnesty quickly grew into one of the world’s foremost human rights organizations, known for its impartial investigations and tireless advocacy. It has since won the Nobel Peace Prize and has helped release thousands of political prisoners worldwide.
Historical Significance:
Amnesty redefined global activism, showing how ordinary citizens could unite to hold governments accountable.
Interesting Fact:
The organization’s symbol—barbed wire surrounding a lit candle—was inspired by the ancient Chinese proverb: “Better to light a candle than curse the darkness.”
1998 – Pakistan Conducts Nuclear Tests
On May 28, 1998, Pakistan detonated five nuclear devices in the Chagai Hills of Balochistan, responding to India’s tests earlier that month. Codenamed Chagai-I, these tests marked Pakistan’s entry into the nuclear arms club, making it the seventh nation to do so.
The tests shifted the balance of power in South Asia and intensified an arms race with India. International condemnation and sanctions followed, but within Pakistan, the move was hailed as a triumph of national security and technological achievement.
Interesting Fact:
To this day, Pakistan observes May 28 as “Youm-e-Takbeer” (Day of Greatness).
1937 – Volkswagen is Founded in Nazi Germany
May 28, 1937, marked the founding of Volkswagen, commissioned by Adolf Hitler to create a “people’s car” (Volkswagen in German). The goal was to produce an affordable, reliable vehicle for German citizens—the result was the iconic Beetle, designed by Ferdinand Porsche.
Although World War II delayed mass production for civilians, the Beetle would later become one of the most beloved and best-selling cars in automotive history. Volkswagen’s rebirth after the war was a symbol of West Germany’s postwar economic recovery.
Lesser-Known Fact:
The Beetle’s official name was the Type 1, but it earned its nickname from its rounded, bug-like shape.
1918 – Battle of Cantigny: America’s First Major WWI Victory
On May 28, 1918, U.S. forces launched their first major offensive in World War I at the Battle of Cantigny in France. The 1st Division of the American Expeditionary Forces successfully seized the village of Cantigny from German troops.
Though a relatively small operation, the victory was a morale booster for the Allies and proved that American forces were capable of effective combat. It also helped secure U.S. leadership on the world stage in the decades to come.
Interesting Fact:
This battle marked the first use of coordinated artillery and infantry tactics by the U.S. military in a European war.
