October 10: Incredible Things That Happened on This Day in History

October 10 is a date rich with pivotal moments in history. Here are ten significant events that occurred on this day.

1. Battle of Tours Ends – 732

On October 10, 732, Charles Martel defeated the Umayyad Caliphate in the Battle of Tours, halting Muslim expansion into Western Europe.

“Here was the turning point in the battle for the soul of Europe.”
— Historian Edward Gibbon.

2. Founding of the United States Naval Academy – 1845

The United States Naval Academy was established in Annapolis, Maryland, on October 10, 1845, training future officers for the U.S. Navy.

“A sailor without education is a ship without a rudder.”
— Naval Academy motto.

3. Wuchang Uprising – 1911

The Wuchang Uprising, which started on October 10, 1911, led to the collapse of the Qing Dynasty and the founding of the Republic of China.

“The people have awakened, and the time for change has come.”
— Dr. Sun Yat-sen.

4. Panama Canal Treaty Signed – 1977

On October 10, 1977, the United States and Panama signed the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, marking the gradual transfer of the Panama Canal to Panama.

“This treaty is a symbol of partnership and mutual respect.”
— U.S. President Jimmy Carter.

5. Second Opium War: The British Capture Guangzhou – 1856

The Second Opium War escalated on October 10, 1856, when British forces seized Guangzhou, marking a significant moment in China’s clash with Western powers.

“The gates of China shall be opened by force.”
— British official during the war.

6. The Cleveland Agreement Signed – 1944

On October 10, 1944, the Cleveland Agreement was signed between the U.S. and France, restoring French sovereignty after World War II.

“France rises again, through sacrifice and struggle.”
— Charles de Gaulle.

7. The London Bridge Reopens in Arizona – 1971

The famous London Bridge reopened in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, on October 10, 1971, after being relocated from England.

“I bought it, and now it’s part of America’s landscape.”
— Robert P. McCulloch.

8. Nobel Peace Prize Awarded to Wangari Maathai – 2004

Kenyan environmentalist Wangari Maathai was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on October 10, 2004, for her environmental and human rights work.

“Humanity is called to shift to a new level of consciousness.”
— Wangari Maathai.

9. Earthquake Strikes Pakistan – 2005

A powerful earthquake hit Pakistan’s Kashmir region on October 10, 2005, killing over 80,000 people and displacing millions.

“The world mourned together.”
— UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan.

10. The Yom Kippur War – 1973

On October 10, 1973, Israel launched a counteroffensive against Syria during the Yom Kippur War, marking a critical moment in the conflict.

“We shall defend our land, no matter the cost.”
— Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir.