Top 5 Historical Events on February 28
February 28th marks a day of significant historical events across various domains including religion, international conflict, science, territorial expansion, and domestic law enforcement. Here are key occurrences on February 28:
1. Pope Benedict XVI Resigns (2013):
Pope Benedict XVI became the first pope to step down from office in almost 600 years on February 28, 2013, which was a historic day for the Catholic Church. His extraordinary choice stunned the world and the Catholic community when it was revealed earlier that month. Pope Benedict XVI announced his resignation, citing age and waning health as the main causes. He said he believed he lacked the physical, mental, and spiritual stamina needed to carry out the responsibilities of his position in the contemporary world.
Following the demise of Pope John Paul II in April 2005, Joseph Ratzinger, who was born in Germany in 1927, was chosen pope. Pope Benedict XVI had to deal with a number of concerns for the Church during his pontificate, such as theology, interfaith harmony, and handling scandals involving sexual abuse in the Church. In spite of these obstacles, he was renowned for his profound theological understanding, his attempts to uphold traditional Catholic doctrines and values, and his dedication to fostering interfaith harmony and communication.
On February 28, 2013, Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation became official at 8:00 PM local time, and he assumed the title of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. He decided to spend his days in quiet contemplation and academic pursuits at a monastery located within Vatican City, choosing to retreat from public view. His departure made room for the conclave that elected Pope Francis, who has since guided the Catholic Church with an emphasis on pastoral outreach, social justice, and humility.
2. End of the Persian Gulf War (1991):
The First Gulf War, also referred to as the Persian Gulf War, ended on February 28, 1991, with Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein agreeing to a cease-fire deal, which brought an end to the fighting. The conflict was set off by Iraq’s invasion and subsequent annexation of Kuwait on August 2, 1990. Saddam Hussein’s aggressive action sparked global criticism and resulted in the creation of a wide coalition, spearheaded by the United States with the support of the United Nations, to drive out Iraqi troops from Kuwait and reinstate Kuwaiti independence.
The coalition, comprising forces from 34 countries, initiated a large-scale military campaign called Operation Desert Storm. After weeks of aerial and missile bombardment of key Iraqi military and infrastructure targets, ground forces initiated a swift and decisive offensive on February 24, 1991. In a remarkably short span of 100 hours, the coalition forces managed to free Kuwait and push into Iraqi territory, completely overwhelming the withdrawing Iraqi army.
The conclusion of the war was solidified through a cease-fire agreement that Saddam Hussein had to agree to due to his significant military loss and the possibility of ongoing conflicts. President George H. W. Bush declared a cease-fire, signaling the conclusion of combat operations. After that, the terms of the cease-fire were detailed in United Nations Security Council resolutions. These terms involved Iraq acknowledging Kuwait is sovereignty, dismantling Iraq’s weapons of mass destruction, and implementing a system of inspections and sanctions on Iraq.
3. Discovery of DNA’s Chemical Structure (1953):
On February 28, 1953, James Watson and Francis Crick unveiled a groundbreaking discovery by identifying the chemical structure of DNA, which showcased its iconic double helix formation. This significant finding represented a turning point in the field of molecular biology, providing unparalleled insights into the basic components of life. Watson and Crick’s discovery of the DNA structure unlocked the secrets of genetic information storage, replication, and transmission across generations. Their contributions set the stage for the rapid progress in genetics that led to the sequencing of the human genome, genetic engineering, and biotechnology. The discovery of the double helix as the structure of DNA completely transformed how scientists investigate life processes. It paved the way for groundbreaking research and advancements in various fields such as medicine and forensic science, reshaping our knowledge of biology and heredity.
4. Creation of Colorado Territory (1861):
In 1861, Congress’s establishment of the Colorado Territory marked a major milestone in the United States’ westward expansion narrative. This legislative act played a crucial role in shaping the future settlement and development of the American West, establishing the Colorado Territory as a key region for growth and progress. The establishment of the territory was influenced by the gold discovery in 1858, drawing a wave of settlers seeking riches and success, resulting in the swift increase in population and economic progress of the area. The establishment of the territory not only helped with governance and legal structuring for expansion but also set the stage for Colorado’s integration into the Union. On August 1, 1876, Colorado became the 38th state, marking its evolution from a frontier territory to a vital part of the United States, mirroring the significant transformations of the 19th century.
5. Waco Siege Begins (1993):
On February 28, 1993, a deadly gunfight broke out at the Branch Davidian compound located near Waco, Texas, marking the beginning of one of the most notorious standoffs in American history. Federal agents, aiming to arrest the sect’s leader, David Koresh, on charges related to illegal weapons, approached the compound. The operation quickly escalated into a violent confrontation, resulting in the loss of four federal agents and six members of the Branch Davidian sect. This initial clash set the stage for a protracted 51-day siege that would not only grip the nation but also raise significant questions about religious freedom, governmental authority, and the use of force in law enforcement. The standoff, which drew extensive media coverage and public attention, highlighted the complex interplay between religious sects and federal authorities, ultimately culminating in a tragic and controversial conclusion.
