Joan of Arc attacks Paris
On this day in 1429, Joan of Arc, a French farmer’s daughter who believed she was acting under divine guidance, attempted to oust the duke of Burgundy and take Paris for newly crowned King Charles VII. 1429.
A severe earthquake struck near the town of Oukaïmedene in western Morocco, killing more than 2,900 people and injuring 5,500. It was felt as far away as Portugal and Algeria. 2023.
After more than seven decades on the British throne, Elizabeth II died at the age of 96; her eldest son became King Charles III. 2022.
American comedian Stephen Colbert debuted as host of the Late Show, replacing David Letterman. 2015.
German filmmaker Leni Riefenstahl—a stylistically influential director who is best known for her association with Adolf Hitler and her creation of Nazi propaganda films—died at age 101. 2003.
The first episode of the sci-fi series Star Trek aired on American television. 1966.
