March 9 has witnessed moments that altered the course of empires, economies, science and sport. Here is a look at ten events that made this date matter.
Emperor Wu Takes the Han Throne – 141 BC
Liu Che ascended to power in China at a young age and went on to rule the Han Dynasty for 54 years. Known posthumously as Emperor Wu, he expanded China’s territory significantly, pushed trade along the Silk Road and left a legacy that shaped Chinese civilisation for centuries. Few rulers in history governed for as long or as consequentially.
Cabral Sets Sail for India – 1500
Portuguese explorer Pedro Álvares Cabral departed Lisbon with a fleet of 13 ships bound for India. His voyage took an unexpected turn when he landed on the coast of present-day Brazil, claiming it for Portugal. The journey redrew the map of the known world and established Portuguese influence across two continents.
Adam Smith Changes Economics Forever – 1776
On this day, Adam Smith published “The Wealth of Nations,” a work that laid the foundation for modern economic thought. His arguments for free markets, the division of labour and limited government interference influenced policymakers and economists for generations. It remains one of the most cited books in the history of economics.
Japan’s First Ambassador Reaches American Soil – 1860
The first Japanese ambassador arrived in San Francisco on his way to Washington. The visit marked a significant step in diplomatic relations between Japan and the United States, coming just years after Japan had opened its ports to foreign trade following centuries of isolation.
The Great Blizzard Hits England – 1891
A severe blizzard swept across England on this date and continued until March 13. The storm killed around 200 people and approximately 6,000 animals. Transport networks collapsed and coastal communities were cut off. It remains one of the most destructive weather events in British history.
Fall Calls for Cubanization of Mexico – 1914
US Senator Albert B. Fall used Senate proceedings to demand what he called the “Cubanization of Mexico,” pushing for direct American intervention in Mexican affairs. The remark reflected wider anxieties in Washington about political instability south of the border during a turbulent period in Mexican history.
Roosevelt’s 100 Days Begin – 1933
President Franklin D. Roosevelt called a special session of Congress, launching what became known as the first “100 days.” During this period, Congress passed 77 laws aimed at pulling the United States out of the Great Depression. It was one of the most concentrated bursts of legislative activity in American history.
Sputnik 9 Returns Its Passengers Safely – 1961
The Soviet Union launched Sputnik 9, carrying a dog named Chernushka, frogs and a guinea pig into orbit. All returned safely. The mission was part of the Soviet programme testing life support systems ahead of human spaceflight – Yuri Gagarin would follow just weeks later.
Three Scottish Soldiers Killed in Northern Ireland – 1971
Three off-duty Scottish soldiers were murdered by the Provisional IRA in Northern Ireland. The killings provoked an immediate and angry response. Around 4,000 shipyard workers marched through Belfast demanding the introduction of internment. The incident deepened tensions during one of the most volatile periods of the Troubles.
Dravid Steps Away from Test Cricket – 2012
Rahul Dravid announced his retirement from Test and domestic cricket. One of India’s most technically gifted batsmen, Dravid scored over 13,000 Test runs across a career spanning more than 16 years. His exit marked the end of an era for Indian batting.
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