1. 1969 – Apollo 11 Returns Safely to Earth
After making history with the first moon landing, Apollo 11 splashed down in the Pacific Ocean on July 23, 1969, completing a successful mission that changed humanity’s place in the cosmos.
Following Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin’s moonwalk on July 20, their return—along with command module pilot Michael Collins—was a triumphant moment not just for the United States, but for the world. The astronauts spent 21 days in quarantine after splashdown to prevent the risk of “moon germs.”
Why it matters:
The Apollo 11 mission marked a monumental achievement in human exploration and geopolitical competition during the Cold War. It showcased American innovation and inspired generations in science, technology, and space exploration.
Fun fact:
The astronauts had to declare moon rocks and dust on their U.S. customs forms upon re-entry!
2. 1923 – The Treaty of Lausanne Officially Ends the Ottoman Empire
The Treaty of Lausanne was signed on July 23, 1923, formally recognizing the boundaries of modern Turkey and dissolving what remained of the Ottoman Empire.
Replacing the earlier and harsher Treaty of Sèvres, this agreement ended years of conflict following World War I and acknowledged the sovereignty of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s new Turkish Republic. It also led to the population exchange between Greece and Turkey.
Why it matters:
The treaty shaped the Middle East and Balkans, set modern Turkish borders, and ended centuries of Ottoman rule. Its effects are still evident in regional tensions today.
Interesting detail:
Turkey’s insistence on rejecting the Treaty of Sèvres and negotiating anew was a bold political move that defined its national independence.
3. 1952 – Military Coup Overthrows King Farouk in Egypt
On July 23, 1952, Egypt’s Free Officers Movement, led by General Muhammad Naguib and Gamal Abdel Nasser, launched a coup that overthrew King Farouk I, ending the monarchy.
This pivotal moment marked the rise of Nasser, a leader who would dominate Middle Eastern politics for decades, advocate for Arab nationalism, and confront Western powers during the Suez Crisis.
Why it matters:
The Egyptian Revolution set the stage for post-colonial Middle Eastern politics and inspired anti-imperialist movements across the region. It also led to the eventual nationalization of the Suez Canal.
Lesser-known fact:
King Farouk was exiled to Italy, where he reportedly lived lavishly despite the fall of his regime.
4. 1999 – Crown Prince Mohammed Becomes King Mohammed VI of Morocco
On July 23, 1999, King Hassan II of Morocco died, and his son Mohammed VI ascended the throne.
Mohammed VI quickly embarked on a path of cautious reform, modernizing the economy, improving human rights (especially for women), and maintaining stability in a volatile region.
Why it matters:
Mohammed VI remains one of the longest-serving leaders in the Arab world and has been credited with steering Morocco toward greater liberalization while avoiding the turmoil of the Arab Spring.
Interesting note:
He was educated in France and holds a law degree, and he is often referred to as the “King of the Poor” for his social initiatives.
5. 1984 – Vanessa Williams Resigns as Miss America
On July 23, 1984, Vanessa Williams became the first Miss America to resign her crown after unauthorized nude photos were published by Penthouse magazine.
Williams had broken racial barriers as the first Black woman to win the title in 1983. Her resignation sparked national debates on privacy, race, and double standards in media.
Why it matters:
Despite the scandal, Williams rebuilt her career as a successful actress and singer, becoming a symbol of resilience and redemption. The Miss America Organization apologized to her publicly in 2015.
Lesser-known fact:
Her runner-up, Suzette Charles, also made history as the second Black woman to hold the Miss America title—though only for seven weeks.
