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First Post
a day ago
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History Today: Apple launched its first iPhone and began the smartphone era
On June 29, 2007, Apple released the first-ever iPhone, revolutionising the way people used technology and setting the foundation for a company that became the world's most valuable tech giant. On the same date in 1958, Brazil won its first FIFA World Cup, with Pele starring in the victory over Sweden read more June 29 is a day to remember for many. It was on this day in 2007 that Apple released the first-ever iPhone, giving rise to the smartphone era and setting the foundation for a company that would go on to become the world's most valuable tech giant. If you are a history geek who loves to learn about important events from the past, Firstpost Explainers' ongoing series, History Today will be your one-stop destination to explore key events. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD It was also a big day for football fans. Back in 1958, Brazil won its first FIFA World Cup title, setting the stage for what would later become a football powerhouse. Here's what all happened on this day. Apple launched its first iPhone On June 29, 2007, Apple released the first iPhone , a product that would go on to completely change how people used technology in their daily lives. When Steve Jobs first introduced the iPhone earlier that year, he described it as a device that combined three things: a mobile phone, an iPod, and an internet browser. It had no physical keyboard, just a touchscreen, which felt new and futuristic at the time. At launch, it came in 4GB and 8GB models, priced at $499 and $599. When Steve Jobs first introduced the iPhone earlier that year, he described it as a device that combined three things: a mobile phone, an iPod, and an internet browser. File image/Reuters The original iPhone also offered web access through Wi-Fi and EDGE, allowing users to browse the internet, check emails, and access information on the go—something that was still rare for phones at the time. It wasn't just a communication device either. The iPhone doubled as an iPod, giving users the ability to carry their music, videos, and photos in the same device they used to make calls and send messages. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Then there was design. With its glass front and aluminium back, the first iPhone looked unlike anything else on the market. While it didn't have an App Store yet or many of the features we now consider basic, like a front-facing camera or copy-paste, it still stood out for its smooth interface, sleek design, web browsing abilities, and overall user experience. . People lined up outside Apple stores to get their hands on it, and within just 74 days, Apple had sold over 1 million units. Image courtesy: Reuters At the time, the Wall Street Journal touted the phone as 'on balance, a beautiful and breakthrough handheld computer.' Whereas Time magazine hailed it as the 'Invention of the Year'. Excitement was high. People lined up outside Apple stores to get their hands on it, and within just 74 days, Apple had sold over 1 million units. This marked the beginning of Apple's dominance in the smartphone market. Over the years, the iPhone has gone through many updates, and more than 2.3 billion units have been sold globally. Brazil wins its first FIFA World Cup On June 29, 1958, Brazil beat host nation Sweden 5–2 to win its first-ever FIFA World Cup title. The team had entered the tournament as one of the favourites and went on to impress the world with their fast-paced, skillful style of play, often referred to as the 'beautiful game.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Brazil beat host nation Sweden 5–2 to win its first-ever FIFA World Cup title in 1958. Reuters One of the standout stars of the tournament was Edson Arantes do Nascimento, better known as Pele. Born to a professional footballer named Dondinho, Pele was actually named after the American inventor Thomas Edison. His mother, having seen the financial struggles her husband faced, didn't want her son to follow the same path. But Pele remained determined. Pele earned his first call-up to the national team at just 16, and by 17, he was on the world stage, making his mark at the 1958 World Cup in Sweden. File image At age 14, he was discovered by Waldemar de Brito, a former Brazilian international, who recognised his talent and helped him begin a professional career. Pele earned his first call-up to the national team at just 16, and by 17, he was on the world stage, making his mark at the 1958 World Cup in Sweden. In the final match, both Pele and Vava scored two goals each, helping Brazil secure a memorable win and their place in football history. That tournament marked the beginning of Brazil's legacy in international football. Since 1958, the country has gone on to win five World Cup titles in total — in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, and 2002 — more than any other nation. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The 1958 victory remains a proud and defining moment in Brazilian sports, and it continues to inspire generations of players around the world. With input from agencies
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First Post
3 days ago
- General
- First Post
History Today: When ex-Indian Army chief Sam Manekshaw breathed his last
On June 27, 2008, Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw, one of the most distinguished officers of the Indian Army, passed away at the Military Hospital in Wellington. His defining achievement came as the Chief of the Army Staff during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War which led to the liberation of Bangladesh. Also, on this day in 1871, Japan officially adopted the yen as its national currency read more Sam Manekshaw was a pioneer officers of the Indian Army during the Indo- Pakistan War of 1971. File image One of the most decorated officers of the Indian Army, Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw bid adieu to the world on June 27, 2008. Revered as 'Sam Bahadur', Manekshaw served the Indian Army for over four decades and played a pivotal role in shaping its modern legacy. If you are a history geek who loves to learn about important events from the past, Firstpost Explainers' ongoing series, History Today will be your one-stop destination to explore key events. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD America witnessed a technological milestone on this day in 1951, with the first-ever colour television broadcast in the country. On this day in 1871, Japan officially adopted the yen as its national currency. Here is all that happened on this day. Sam Manekshaw breathed his last It was on June 27, 2008, that the distinguished officer of the Indian Army, Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw passed away at the age of 94. Affectionately known as 'Sam Bahadur', he died at the Military Hospital in Tamil Nadu's Wellington due to complications from pneumonia. Born on April 3, 1914, in Amritsar, he was among the first batch of cadets to graduate from the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun in 1934. He served with distinction in World War II and rose through the ranks over the years with his trademark wit, courage and integrity. His most defining achievement came as the Chief of the Army Staff during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War, which led to the liberation of Bangladesh. Manekshaw's strategic brilliance , unwavering resolve and charismatic leadership were instrumental in India's decisive victory. Under his command, the Indian forces achieved a swift and overwhelming triumph, leading to the surrender of nearly 93,000 Pakistani troops. Sam Manekshaw became the first Field Marshal of country in 1973. Image source/X@adgpi In recognition of his extraordinary service and contributions, Sam Manekshaw was promoted to the rank of Field Marshal in January 1973, becoming the first Indian Army officer to achieve this highest honorary rank. He was also honoured with the Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan, India's second and third-highest civilian awards, respectively. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD After retirement, he lived a quiet life in Coonoor. Despite his immense contributions, controversy surrounded the lack of national recognition at his passing as no top government leaders attended his funeral, drawing criticism from many quarters. Japan adopted the Yen History was scripted on June 27, 1871, in Japan after the country adopted the yen as its national currency. This marked a major step in the country's economic modernisation during the Meiji Restoration. With this move, Japan aimed to unify its fragmented monetary system and bring it in line with international standards. Before the Yen's introduction, Japan had a complex and decentralised currency system, with various feudal domains issuing their own notes and coins. The Meiji government introduced the New Currency Act of 1871 which sought to replace this patchwork system with a consistent currency, mirroring the decimal systems prevalent in Western nations. The Yen was defined as 1.5 grams of gold or 24.26 grams of silver, establishing a clear value and facilitating international trade. The name 'yen' (meaning 'round object' in Japanese) reflected the coin's shape. Representational image/Reuters The name 'yen' (meaning 'round object' in Japanese) reflected the coin's shape and followed the naming convention of other Asian currencies like the Chinese yuan and Korean won. The adoption of the yen helped in Japan's transformation from a feudal society into a modern industrial state. The coins were minted at the newly established Osaka Mint while banknotes were also introduced shortly after . STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In the decades that followed, the yen evolved through wars, inflation, and economic reforms. After World War II, it was fixed to the US dollar under the Bretton Woods system and later became a floating currency in 1973. Today, the yen is one of the most traded and trusted currencies in the world. First colour TV broadcast in US One of the path-breaking discoveries in the history of American television took place on this day in 1951. The Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS) aired the first commercial colour broadcast in the United States. The program, a musical variety special simply titled 'Premiere,' aired over a network of five East Coast CBS affiliates. The broadcast was made from CBS's New York City studio and transmitted to a small group of specially equipped colour television sets in Washington, DC, New York, Philadelphia and Baltimore. Premiere featured appearances by CBS stars such as Arthur Godfrey, Ed Sullivan, and Garry Moore and included musical performances, comedy and variety segments. All of these were designed to showcase the possibilities of colour television. This landmark moment came after years of research and development. CBS's colour system, based on a mechanical rotating disk technology, was approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) earlier that year. However, it was not compatible with existing black-and-white TVs, which limited its reach and led to resistance from other networks and manufacturers. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Eventually, a competing electronic colour system developed by Radio Corporation of America (RCA), which was compatible with black-and-white TVs, became the industry standard by 1953. While CBS's June 27, 1951, broadcast was short-lived in its immediate impact, it remains a historic milestone. This Day, That Year On this day in 1977, Djibouti gained its independence from France. During World War I Greece declared war on the Central Powers on June 27, 1917. In 1844, the founder of the Mormon church Joseph Smith, was murdered by an armed mob in Carthage, Illinois.
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First Post
5 days ago
- Politics
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History Today: The day Indira Gandhi imposed Emergency and history took a dark turn
On this day in 1975, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi invoked special constitutional powers to declare a national emergency. It remained in effect from June 25, 1975, to March 21, 1977, and is seen as one of the darkest periods in India's history. It was also a turning point for the Indian National Congress. During this time, several opposition leaders were imprisoned, fundamental rights, including the right to free speech under Article 19(1)(a), were suspended, and the press came under strict censorship read more June 25, 1975, is often considered one of the 'darkest chapters' in Indian history. On this day in 1975, then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi invoked special powers granted by the Constitution to announce a national emergency. The order was issued by signed off by the then President, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed under Article 352 of the Constitution. What followed was the curtailing of fundamental rights of Indian citizens, the imprisonment of several opposition leaders, and censorship of the media. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Also on this day in 1983, the Indian cricket team lifted its first World Cup title. The team was led by Kapil Dev. If you are a history geek who loves to learn about important events from the past, Firstpost Explainers' ongoing series, History Today, is your one-stop destination to explore key events. Let's take a look at these events in detail: When Indira Gandhi declared Emergency On June 25, 1975, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi addressed the nation through All India Radio and said, 'The President has proclaimed the Emergency. This is nothing to panic about. I am sure you are all aware of the deep and widespread conspiracy, which has been brewing ever since I began to introduce certain progressive measures of benefit for the common man and woman in India.' The Emergency lasted from June 25, 1975, to March 21, 1977. It is often considered the darkest period in independent India and a turning point for the Indian National Congress. Many opposition leaders were jailed during this time. Fundamental rights, including the right to free speech under Article 19(1)(a) were suspended, and the press came under strict censorship. But why was Emergency declared? In the 1971 Lok Sabha election, Indira Gandhi won from the Rae Bareli seat in Uttar Pradesh, defeating socialist leader Raj Narain. He later challenged the result, accusing her of election misconduct and violating election laws under the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Prime Minister Indira Gandhi invoked special powers granted by the Constitution to announce a national emergency. News18/File Photo It was alleged that her election agent, Yashpal Kapoor, was a government servant and that she had used government officials for personal election-related work. On June 12, 1975, the Allahabad High Court found her guilty of electoral malpractice and barred her from holding elected office. This verdict was one of the reasons behind the Emergency declaration. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD On June 25, 1975, President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed signed the Emergency order, citing 'internal disturbances.' The move effectively suspended elections and handed full control to the Prime Minister. Indira Gandhi defended the move by saying the nation was under a serious threat and that strong measures were needed to restore order. Notably, the country had just fought a war with Pakistan and was dealing with severe economic difficulties. With the Emergency in place, fundamental rights of citizens were stripped away. Opposition leaders were taken into custody, the press was heavily controlled, and voices of dissent were silenced. Trade unions were no longer allowed to function, strikes were prohibited, and workers were forced to accept fixed wages without any extra benefits. Meanwhile, Indira Gandhi's son Sanjay Gandhi launched a mass sterilisation campaign across the country, which became another controversial element of this period. The Emergency was lifted on March 21, 1977. Soon after, Indira Gandhi announced the General Elections. The Congress was defeated, and the Janata Party, led by Morarji Desai, came to power with 298 seats in the Lok Sabha. Desai became the first non-Congress Prime Minister. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Supporters of the Janata Party, after their party's victory in the parliamentary elections, as Indira Gandhi and her Congress party were defeated. AFP/File Photo In her stronghold of Rae Bareli, Indira Gandhi was defeated by Raj Narain by a margin of over 55,000 votes. Team India lifted first World Cup It was on this day in 1983 that India won its first Cricket World Cup, defeating the West Indies in a memorable final at Lord's Cricket Ground in London. At the time, the West Indies were a dominant force in world cricket, having already won the previous two editions in 1975 and 1979. The team was led by Kapil Dev. Image: X/BCCI Led by skipper Kapil Dev, India posted a total of 183 in 54.4 overs, despite frequent setbacks. Kapil chipped in with a crucial 15 runs, while Mohinder Amarnath made a huge contribution with both bat and ball, scoring 26 runs and taking 3 wickets. For the West Indies, Andy Roberts and Malcolm Marshall led the bowling attack, taking three wickets each. The West Indies began steadily, with openers Gordon Greenidge and Desmond Haynes putting together a strong partnership. But the breakthrough came when Amarnath dismissed Haynes, giving India the opening they needed. The match's biggest turning point came when Kapil Dev took a running catch to dismiss Viv Richards, who was seen as the biggest threat to India's chances. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD From there, the West Indies began to lose wickets in quick succession, and the Indian team was handed a famous and historic win. Led by skipper Kapil Dev, India posted a total of 183 in 54.4 overs. Image: X/@INCIndia This Day, That Year 1947: 'The Diary of a Young Girl' was published. It was the journal of Anne Frank, a German-born Jewish teenager who went into hiding with her family in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam. 1950: The Korean War began as communist North Korean forces invaded South Korea. 1993: Kim Campbell took oath as Canada's 19th Prime Minister, becoming the first woman to hold the office. 2009: Michael Jackson, the globally celebrated American singer and dancer known as the 'King of Pop', died at the age of 50 due to a lethal mix of sedatives and the anaesthetic propofol.
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First Post
22-06-2025
- General
- First Post
History Today: When Checkpoint Charlie was dismantled
One of the most iconic reminders of the Cold War era, Checkpoint Charlie, was dismantled on June 22, 1990. The iconic checkpost served as a gateway between the two parts of the German capital during the Cold War. On this day in 1986, Argentine footballer Diego Maradona scored a memorable goal against England that later came to be known as the 'Hand of God' read more West Germans applaud as East Berlin citizens travel through Checkpoint Charlie, at the Berlin Wall, at the border of West Berlin, November 10, 1989. File image/Reuters Checkpoint Charlie, the iconic border crossing between East and West Berlin during the Cold War, was officially dismantled on June 22, 1990. It stood as a powerful symbol of the ideological divide between the United States and the Soviet Union during one of the most tense periods in modern history. If you are a history geek who loves to learn about important events from the past, Firstpost Explainers' ongoing series, History Today will be your one-stop destination to explore key events. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD On this day in 1986, Diego Maradona etched his name into footballing immortality by scoring one of the sport's most infamous goals against England and subsequently coining the unforgettable phrase 'Hand of God'. Here is all that happened on this day. Checkpoint Charlie was dismantled One of the most iconic symbols of the Cold War, Checkpoint Charlie, was dismantled on June 22, 1990. It was a reminder of the Cold War-era division between East and West Berlin . The pulling down of the checkpost is a powerful moment that marked the reunification of Germany and the fading away of the Iron Curtain. Located at the intersection of Friedrichstrasse and Zimmerstrasse, Checkpoint Charlie was established by the US military in 1961, shortly after the Berlin Wall was constructed. It served as the only designated crossing point for Allied military personnel, diplomats, and foreign visitors between East and West Berlin. The name 'Charlie' came from the Nato phonetic alphabet (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie). East German citizens climb the Berlin wall at the Brandeburg gate after the opening of the East German border was announced, November 10, 1989. File image/Reuters Over the years, it witnessed several dramatic events, including standoffs between American and Soviet tanks in October 1961, and numerous escape attempts by East Germans trying to flee to the West, some of them successful, others tragically fatal. For many, Checkpoint Charlie became an enduring image of the Cold War's human cost . With the fall of the Berlin Wall on November 9, 1989, and the rapid political changes in East Germany, the checkpoint's significance faded. By June 1990, as East and West Germany moved towards reunification, Checkpoint Charlie was dismantled in a symbolic act marking the end of division and confrontation. Maradona coins the phrase 'Hand of God' One of the most controversial goals in the history of football was scored on this day in 1986. It was the quarter-final of the Fifa World Cup played between Argentina and England when Diego Maradona scored this iconic goal at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The goal is often referred to as the 'Hand of God'. In the 51st minute of the game, Maradona leapt into the air near England goalkeeper Peter Shilton and used his left hand to punch the ball into the net. The referees missed the foul, and the goal was allowed to stand, sparking outrage among English fans and players. Just minutes later, Maradona scored again, this time dribbling past five English players in what is widely regarded as the 'Goal of the Century.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A wall in Argentina displaying a mural of Diego Maradona's Hand of God moment. File image/Reuters At a press conference after the game, Maradona cheekily described the first goal as being scored 'a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.' The phrase stuck, becoming one of the most famous quotes in football history and cementing Maradona's reputation as both a genius and a provocateur. Argentina went on to win the match 2–1 and ultimately lifted the 1986 World Cup, with Maradona as captain and star player. The 'Hand of God' incident became a symbol of of the Argentinian player's brilliance, cunning and controversial legacy. This Day, That Year On this day in 1978, the largest moon of Pluto Charon was discovered. In 1955, the animated musical Lady and the Tramp was released in US theatres. Napoleon abdicated as French emperor for the second time on this day in 1815.
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First Post
21-06-2025
- Politics
- First Post
History Today: How the US constitution was ratified and came to life
On June 21, 1788, the US constitution was ratified and became the law after New Hampshire became the ninth of the 13 states to approve it. Also on this same day in 1990, a powerful earthquake ripped through Iran, killing more than 50,000 people read more The U.S. Constitution was ratified in 1788, with the process concluding on June 21, 1788, when New Hampshire became the ninth state to approve it. Representational image/Pixabay Today, many in America claim that Donald Trump is eroding the values enshrined in America's constitution. But did you know that the constitution in the United States came into law on June 21, 1788? Also, on this day in 1990, one of the world's most devastating earthquakes struck Iran, killing an estimated 50,000 people and injuring another 100,000 people. If you are a history fan, Firstpost Explainers' ongoing series, History Today , will be your one-stop destination to explore key events. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD US Constitution becomes law Until June 21, 1788 when the constitution was ratified, America was governed by the Articles of Confederation. However, this changed when New Hampshire became the ninth of 13 states to ratify it. The journey to ratification was a long and arduous process. Rewind to six months back and in December, five states — Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, and Connecticut — ratified it in quick succession. However, other states, especially Massachusetts, opposed the document, as it failed to reserve undelegated powers to the states and lacked constitutional protection of basic political rights, such as freedom of speech, religion, and the press. John Trumbull's painting, Declaration of Independence, depicting the five-man drafting committee of the Declaration of Independence presenting their work to the Congress. File image/Wikimedia Commons It was in February 1788 that a compromise was struck and Massachusetts and other states agreed to ratify the document based on the promise that amendments would be immediately proposed. Finally, on June 21, 1788, New Hampshire became the ninth state to ratify the document, and it was subsequently agreed that government under the US Constitution would begin on March 4, 1789. In June, Virginia ratified the Constitution, followed by New York in July. Today, the US Constitution is recognised as the oldest written constitution in the world. It consists of seven articles and has been amended 27 times until now. Notably, the US constitution's first three words are 'We The People', which affirms that the government of the United States exists to serve its citizens. Earthquake devastates Iran One of the world's deadliest earthquakes took place on June 21, 1990 causing unprecedented destruction in Iran. On this day, a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck near the Caspian Sea, killing an estimated 50,000 and injuring another 100,000 people. The powerful temblor hit Iran post midnight, shaking people up from their slumber and shattering the night tranquillity. Following the quake, the cities of Rudbar and Manjil lay in absolute ruin with the National Geophysical Data Center estimating that the devastation amounted to a whopping $8 billion. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A man stands among the the ruins of a building destroyed by the June 21 massive earthquake that killed over 50,000 people in northwest Iran. File image/AFP What made matters worse was that a 6.5-magnitude aftershock the following morning caused a burst dam in Rasht, wiping out a large stretch of farmland. Landslides made many roads impassable and many of the people who initially survived under the rubble could not be rescued before their air supply ran out. An estimated 400,000 people were left homeless by the earthquake. Following the devastation, worldwide relief efforts began with Iran grudgingly accepting assistance from the United States, though it refused help from Israel and South Africa. Greenland assumes self-rule June 21, 2009 also marks the day when Greenland gained self-rule. This came after the people of Greenland held a referendum in November 2008 and subsequently approved the Self-Government Act. Through this, Greenland assumed responsibility for self-government of its judicial affairs, policing matters, and natural resources. Moreover, Greenlanders were recognised as a separate people under international law. However, foreign policy, defence policy, and security policy remains in the hands of Denmark. This Day, That Year >> Battle of Okinawa concludes with the defeat of Japanese forces on June 21, 1945. >> On this day, in 1893, the first Ferris wheel, invented by George Washington Gale Ferris, Jr, made its debut, at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago.
