This Day in History – July 13
1. 1793 – Jean-Paul Marat Assassinated During French Revolution
On July 13, 1793, radical French revolutionary Jean-Paul Marat was assassinated in his bath by Charlotte Corday, a Girondin sympathizer who blamed him for the Reign of Terror’s violent excesses. Marat was a prominent Jacobin journalist whose inflammatory writings fueled revolutionary fervor. Corday, believing she was saving France from tyranny, was executed four days later.
Significance:
Marat’s death became a symbol of martyrdom for the Jacobins. It intensified the radicalization of the Revolution, fueling further purges and violence. His assassination illustrated how internal conflicts among revolutionaries could be just as deadly as external enemies.
Interesting Fact:
The famous painting “The Death of Marat” by Jacques-Louis David became one of the most iconic images of the French Revolution, portraying Marat as a fallen hero.
2. 1863 – New York City Draft Riots Begin
On July 13, 1863, New York City erupted into one of the most violent civil disturbances in U.S. history—the Draft Riots. Sparked by anger over the Union draft law during the Civil War, which allowed wealthy men to pay for substitutes, working-class white men—many Irish immigrants—lashed out at African Americans, abolitionists, and government institutions. The riots lasted four days, leaving more than 100 dead.
Significance:
The riots exposed deep racial and economic divides in the North and underscored the fragility of civil order during wartime. They also highlighted opposition to the war from Northern Democrats and immigrants fearing job competition from freed slaves.
Interesting Fact:
The Colored Orphan Asylum, housing over 200 Black children, was burned down by rioters, though the children escaped thanks to quick-thinking staff.
3. 1930 – First FIFA World Cup Begins in Uruguay
On July 13, 1930, the inaugural FIFA World Cup kicked off in Montevideo, Uruguay. Thirteen teams participated, and the host nation eventually won the tournament by defeating Argentina 4-2 in the final on July 30.
Significance:
The World Cup became the most prestigious football tournament globally, eventually surpassing even the Olympics in cultural and commercial impact. The 1930 event laid the foundation for an international sporting tradition that today unites billions.
Interesting Fact:
All matches were played in Montevideo, and due to transportation limitations, only four European teams made the trip to South America.
4. 1960 – JFK Nominates Lyndon B. Johnson as Running Mate
On July 13, 1960, Senator John F. Kennedy surprised many by selecting Texas Senator Lyndon B. Johnson as his vice-presidential running mate at the Democratic National Convention in Los Angeles. The move aimed to balance the ticket geographically and ideologically, attracting Southern Democrats.
Significance:
Johnson’s inclusion helped secure the electoral votes of key Southern states, contributing to Kennedy’s narrow victory over Richard Nixon. After JFK’s assassination in 1963, Johnson assumed the presidency and launched the transformative “Great Society” programs.
Interesting Fact:
Kennedy and Johnson had a tense relationship, and many of Kennedy’s aides were opposed to the selection.
5. 1985 – Live Aid Concert Raises Millions for Ethiopian Famine Relief
On July 13, 1985, the world watched as the dual-venue Live Aid concert was held in London and Philadelphia, with satellite performances across the globe. Organized by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, the event brought together the biggest names in music—including Queen, U2, Madonna, and David Bowie—to raise money for famine relief in Ethiopia.
Significance:
Live Aid set a precedent for charity concerts, showing the power of celebrity influence and global media to address humanitarian crises. It raised over $125 million and raised awareness of Africa’s food insecurity.
Interesting Fact:
Queen’s 20-minute performance is often cited as one of the greatest live rock performances of all time, boosting Freddie Mercury’s legendary status.
