1. U.S. Enters World War I (1917)
On April 2, 1917, President Woodrow Wilson delivered his famous war message to Congress, asking for a declaration of war against Germany. After maintaining neutrality for nearly three years while the conflict raged in Europe, Wilson cited Germany’s resumption of unrestricted submarine warfare and the intercepted “Zimmermann Telegram” as key factors in his decision. Four days later, Congress officially declared war, bringing America into the global conflict that would reshape the 20th century.
2. Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey” Premieres (1968)
On April 2, 1968, Stanley Kubrick’s groundbreaking science fiction film “2001: A Space Odyssey” had its world premiere at the Uptown Theater in Washington, D.C. Co-written by Kubrick and science fiction author Arthur C. Clarke, the film revolutionized the sci-fi genre with its stunning visual effects, philosophical themes, and minimal dialogue. Despite initially polarizing critics, it’s now considered one of the greatest and most influential films ever made.
3. Argentina Invades the Falkland Islands (1982)
On April 2, 1982, Argentine forces launched a surprise invasion of the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), a British territory in the South Atlantic. The invasion triggered the Falklands War between Argentina and the United Kingdom. The conflict lasted 74 days, with Britain ultimately reclaiming the islands on June 14, 1982. The war claimed the lives of 649 Argentine military personnel, 255 British military personnel, and three Falkland Islanders.
4. Pope John Paul II Dies (2005)
On April 2, 2005, Pope John Paul II died at the age of 84 after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease and other ailments. Born Karol Józef Wojtyła in Poland, he was the first non-Italian pope in 455 years when elected in 1978 and the first from a Slavic country. His 26-year papacy was marked by his opposition to communism, efforts to improve Catholic-Jewish relations, and extensive global travel. His funeral drew millions to Rome, and he was canonized as a saint in 2014.
5. First Human Cannonball Act Performed (1877)
On April 2, 1877, the first human cannonball act was performed at the Royal Aquarium in London by 14-year-old Rosa Matilda Richter, known professionally as “Zazel.” Using a spring-loaded cannon designed by Canadian showman William Leonard Hunt (known as “The Great Farini”), Zazel was launched over an audience and into a safety net. This daring act revolutionized circus performances and created a new category of entertainment that continues to captivate audiences today.
