All Events

Historical Events on August 5

  • American Civil War

    1861

    American Civil War: In order to help pay for the war effort, the United States government levies the first income tax as part of the Revenue Act of 1861 (3% of all incomes over US $800; rescinded in 1872).

  • World War I

    1914

    World War I: The German minelayer SS Königin Luise lays a minefield about 40 miles (64 km) off the Thames Estuary (Lowestoft). She is intercepted and sunk by the British light-cruiser HMS Amphion.

  • Cleveland, Ohio

    1914

    In Cleveland, Ohio, the first electric traffic light is installed.

  • World War II

    1940

    World War II: The Soviet Union formally annexes Latvia.

  • Apartheid

    1962

    Apartheid in South Africa: Nelson Mandela is jailed. He would not be released until 1990.

  • Vietnam War

    1964

    Vietnam War: Operation Pierce Arrow: American aircraft from carriers USS Ticonderoga and USS Constellation bomb North Vietnam in retaliation for strikes against U.S. destroyers in the Gulf of Tonkin.

  • Vietnam War

    1974

    Vietnam War: The U.S. Congress places a $1 billion limit on military aid to South Vietnam.

  • Afghanistan

    1979

    In Afghanistan, Maoists undertake an attempted military uprising.

  • Ronald Reagan

    1981

    President Ronald Reagan fires 11,359 striking air-traffic controllers who ignored his order for them to return to work.

All Births

Famous Birthdays on August 5

All Deaths

Famous Deaths on August 5

04. August

06. August