Sukhdev Thapar, born on May 15, 1907, in Ludhiana, was a pivotal figure in India’s fight for independence. Deeply moved by the death of freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai during the Simon Commission protests in 1928, Sukhdev, along with Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad, and Rajguru, resolved to avenge his martyrdom. Together, they orchestrated various revolutionary acts against British rule, shaking the very foundation of colonial authority. Their most notable action came in 1929, when they planned and executed the assassination of J.P. Saunders, the police officer responsible for Lala Lajpat Rai’s death. Subsequently arrested, Sukhdev emerged as a prime accused in the case. Despite facing the gallows, Sukhdev remained steadfast in his commitment to the motherland. On March 23, 1931, Sukhdev, along with Bhagat Singh and Rajguru, was executed, leaving an indelible mark on India’s struggle for freedom. His unwavering patriotism and selfless sacrifice continue to inspire generations, symbolizing the courage and determination of India’s revolutionary heroes.
May 15, 1907: Revolutionary Sukhdev Thapar was born in Ludhiana
Sukhdev Thapar was hanged along with Bhagat Singh and Rajguru
Sukhdev had shaken the foundation of the British government
On May 15, 1993, India bid farewell to its first Chief of Army Staff, KM Cariappa, in Bengaluru. A legendary figure in Indian military history, Cariappa’s legacy is commemorated every January 15 as ‘Army Day’, marking his appointment as Army Chief in 1949. Cariappa’s illustrious career began as a second lieutenant in the Rajput Regiment of the Indo-British Army. Rising through the ranks, he left an indelible mark on the Indian Army, eventually retiring in 1953. Post-retirement, he served as India’s ambassador to Australia and New Zealand, leveraging his expertise to assist in the reorganization of several foreign armies. Notably, Cariappa’s influence extended beyond India’s borders. Before partition, he mentored and supervised then-young officer General Ayub Khan, who later became Pakistan’s Army Chief and President. This lesser-known facet of Cariappa’s journey underscores his far-reaching impact on military affairs. In recognition of his exceptional service, the Government of India bestowed upon Cariappa the esteemed rank of Field Marshal in 1986. His leadership, strategic vision, and contributions continue to inspire generations of soldiers and leaders, both in India and abroad.
May 15, 1993: KM Cariappa died in Bengaluru
KM Cariappa was the first Chief of Army Staff of India
He was appointed Army Chief on January 15, 1949
This day is celebrated as ‘Army Day’
On May 15, 1957, Britain marked a significant milestone in its military history by conducting its first hydrogen bomb test. The test took place on Christmas Island in the South Pacific Ocean, where the bomb was dropped from a considerable altitude to minimize its impact. Despite limited resources and a tight timeline, Britain successfully developed and tested the bomb, making it the third nation in the world to possess thermonuclear weapons. The hydrogen bomb, known for its immense destructive power, is estimated to be a thousand times more potent than an atomic bomb. Britain’s entry into the realm of thermonuclear weaponry followed similar tests by the United States in 1952, intensifying the global arms race during the Cold War era. This landmark achievement underscored Britain’s determination to assert its military capabilities on the world stage and marked a significant chapter in the history of nuclear proliferation.
May 15, 1957: Britain tested its first hydrogen bomb
Britain conducted this test with very little resources and in a short time
On May 15, 1859, the world welcomed French physicist Pierre Curie in Paris. Alongside his wife, Marie Curie, Pierre made one of the most groundbreaking discoveries in scientific history: radium. This remarkable element was isolated from pitchblende on April 20, 1902, opening new horizons in medicine, particularly in cancer treatment. Their pioneering work led to Pierre being awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1903. Marie later received a Nobel Prize for her efforts in radium purification in 1911. Tragically, Pierre’s life was cut short by a road accident on April 19, 1906, but Marie continued their research. Despite her immense contributions, Marie succumbed to leukemia, likely due to prolonged exposure to radiation, on July 4, 1934. The Curies’ legacy endures as a testament to their dedication to science and their profound impact on the world of medicine and beyond.
May 15, 1859: French physicist Pierre Curie was born in Paris
Pierre Curie and his wife Marie Curie made the discovery that opened the way to cancer treatment
Pierre Curie and his wife Marie Curie received the Nobel Prize for this great work
On May 15, 1928, the beloved cartoon character Mickey Mouse made his debut on the big screen in Disney’s first short film, ‘Plane Crazy’. Inspired by aviator Charles Lindbergh’s historic transatlantic flight, the six-minute film showcased Mickey and other characters attempting to build an airplane. Notably, ‘Plane Crazy’ also marked the introduction of Minnie Mouse, Mickey’s iconic companion, to audiences worldwide. Walt Disney, the creative genius behind Mickey Mouse, capitalized on the character’s immense popularity by establishing the Mickey Mouse Club and Fan Club for Children, paving the way for a cultural phenomenon. Mickey Mouse’s endearing charm and his colorful cast of friends have captured the hearts of audiences for generations, cementing his status as one of the most iconic and enduring figures in the world of entertainment.
May 15, 1928: Children’s favorite cartoon character Mickey Mouse appeared on screen for the first time
The film was inspired by Charles Lindbergh’s first flight across the Atlantic
The character of Mickey Mouse was created by Walt Disney
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