1054 - A supernova explosion is observed by the Chinese, the Arabs and probably the Indians near the star ζ Tauri. For several months it remains bright enough to be seen throughout the day. Her residue forms the Rocky Nebula.
1776 - The Universal Declaration of Independence of the United States of America was adopted at the Continental Congress in Philadelphia; This day in the United States is celebrated as the Day of Independence in the United States.
1790 - George Everest, a geographer, a Welsh researcher, was born, followed by Mount Everest.
1796 - The Day of Independence in the United States is celebrated for the first time.
1817 - Engineer James Geddes begins the construction of the Erie Canal, one of the first major engineering projects in North America.
1827 - Slavery is abolished in New York.
1836 - The territory of Wisconsin was established.
1870 - Pieter van der Lijn, a Dutch geologist, was born.
1906 - Britain, France and Italy declare independence of Ethiopia.
1946 - The Philippines gained independence from the United States.
