What Happened On This Day – June 26
1963 U.S. President John F. Kennedy holds his iconic “Ich bin ein Berliner” speech
The speech was a welcome gesture of support for the people of West Berlin. East Germany had erected the Berlin Wall just two years earlier to stop mass emigration to the West.
1945 The United Nations Charter is signed
The United Nations is the world's most important international organization.
1936 The world's first practical helicopter lifts off
The twin-rotor Focke-Wulf Fw 61 was first tested in Bremen, Germany. None of the first prototypes survived World War II but a replica can be seen at the Hubschraubermuseum in Bückeburg, Germany.
1925 Charlie Chaplin's film “The Gold Rush” receives its premiere
The comedy featuring Chaplin in his famous Little Tramp role is a classic of the silent film genre. The English star actor repeatedly stated that this is the film he wants to be remembered for.
1906 The first Grand Prix car race is held
The competition was held on a circuit around Le Mans, France and organized by the Automobile Club de France (ACF). Renault's Ferenc Szisz won the competition.
Births On This Day – June 26
1980 Michael Vick
American football player
1961 Greg LeMond
American cyclist
1942 Gilberto Gil
Brazilian singer-songwriter, guitarist, politician
1909 Colonel Tom Parker
Dutch/American talent manager
1908 Salvador Allende
Chilean physician, politician
Deaths On This Day – June 26
1975 Josemaría Escrivá
Spanish priest, saint, founded Opus Dei
1957 Alfred Döblin
German writer
1856 Max Stirner
German philosopher
1830 George IV of the United Kingdom
1810 Joseph-Michel Montgolfier
French inventor, co-invented the hot air balloon