February 24 has seen events that shaped politics, culture, science, and sports across the world. From landmark reforms to historic victories, the day holds a mix of triumphs and tragedies.
Pope Gregory XIII Introduces the Gregorian Calendar – 1582
On February 24, 1582, Pope Gregory XIII announced the New Style calendar, now known as the Gregorian calendar. The reform corrected inaccuracies in the Julian calendar, helping to better align dates with the seasons and astronomical observations. This calendar remains the standard for civil use worldwide.
Charles Cornwallis Appointed Governor-General of India – 1786
In 1786, Charles Cornwallis became Governor-General of India. He is remembered for administrative reforms, including the Cornwallis Code, which overhauled civil services and revenue collection. His policies shaped the structure of British governance in India for decades.
Execution Tragedy in England – 1807
Seventeen people died and fifteen were injured in a crush while attending the public execution of Holloway, Heggerty, and Elizabeth Godfrey. Public hangings drew large crowds, and this incident highlighted the risks of mass gatherings at such events.
Plan of Iguala Declares Mexican Independence – 1821
Mexico moved closer to independence when Agustín de Iturbide and Vicente Guerrero signed the Plan of Iguala. It proposed a constitutional monarchy, Roman Catholicism as the official religion, and equal political and social rights for Peninsulares and Creoles. This agreement paved the way for Mexico’s formal independence.
Impeachment of President Andrew Johnson – 1868
The US House of Representatives voted 126 to 47 to impeach President Andrew Johnson. The charges were linked to his violation of the Tenure of Office Act. Johnson narrowly avoided removal in the Senate, marking a major constitutional moment in American history.
Juan Perón Elected President of Argentina – 1946
General Juan Perón was elected President of Argentina. His administration focused on labour reforms, social welfare programmes, and industrialisation. Perón’s election marked the beginning of a long-lasting political legacy in Argentina.
Junagarh Votes to Join India – 1948
The state of Junagarh, whose accession was contested by Pakistan at the UN, held a referendum on 20 February 1948 and voted to join India. This formalised its integration into the Indian Union after a period of diplomatic uncertainty.
Madras Renamed Tamil Nadu – 1961
On February 24, 1961, the state of Madras was officially renamed Tamil Nadu. This change recognised the cultural identity and pride of the Tamil-speaking population, reflecting the region’s heritage and language.
Sachin Tendulkar Scores First ODI Double Century – 2010
Cricket fans celebrated as Sachin Tendulkar scored the first double century in One Day International cricket. His 200 not out set a benchmark for limited-overs cricket and inspired a generation of players.
Russia Invades Ukraine – 2022
In the early hours of February 24, 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, targeting multiple cities by land, air, and sea. President Vladimir Putin called it a “special military operation” to demilitarise Ukraine, triggering global condemnation and a severe geopolitical crisis.
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