ON THIS DAY

The past leaves a trace.

Choose a date and follow its stories through time. Browse the calendar

A date. A doorway to the past.

Choose a day and discover what happened.

January 31Across the years

8 selected records · Newest first

1966
Science & Discovery · January 31

The Soviet Union launches the unmanned Luna 9 spacecraft as part of the Luna program.

The Soviet Union launches the unmanned Luna 9 spacecraft as part of the Luna program.

1945
Historical Events · January 31

US Army private Eddie Slovik is executed for desertion, the first such execution of an American soldier…

US Army private Eddie Slovik is executed for desertion, the first such execution of an American soldier since the Civil War.

1938
Historical Figures · January 31

Birth of Beatrix of the Netherlands

Born: Beatrix of the Netherlands.

1901
Arts & Culture · January 31

Anton Chekhov's Three Sisters premieres at Moscow Art Theatre in Russia.

Anton Chekhov's Three Sisters premieres at Moscow Art Theatre in Russia.

1865
Historical Events · January 31

American Civil War: Confederate General Robert E. Lee becomes general-in-chief of all Confederate armies.

American Civil War: Confederate General Robert E. Lee becomes general-in-chief of all Confederate armies.

1856
Historical Figures · January 31

Death of 11th Dalai Lama

Died: 11th Dalai Lama (born 1838).

1747
Science & Discovery · January 31

The first venereal diseases clinic opens at London Lock Hospital.

The first venereal diseases clinic opens at London Lock Hospital.

314
Historical Events · January 31

Pope Sylvester I is consecrated, as successor to the late Pope Miltiades.

Pope Sylvester I is consecrated, as successor to the late Pope Miltiades.

Dates follow the source calendar pages; older dates may use different calendars. About the sources