1807

Most of the town of Chudleigh, England is destroyed by a fire. AI analysis

On May 22, 1807, a devastating fire swept through the town of Chudleigh in England, leaving most of it in ruins. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but it marked a significant event in the town's history. --AI analysis

1840

The Penny Black, the first official adhesive postage stamp, is introduced in the United Kingdom. AI analysis

On May 22, 1840, the Penny Black, the world's first adhesive postage stamp, was introduced in the United Kingdom. This innovation revolutionized postal services and made sending mail more accessible and affordable for the general population. --AI analysis

1849

Abraham Lincoln patents a buoying vessel. AI analysis

On May 22, 1849, Abraham Lincoln, the future President of the United States, was granted a patent for a device to lift boats over shallow waters. This invention demonstrated Lincoln's ingenuity and problem-solving skills outside of politics. --AI analysis

1906

The Wright brothers are granted a patent for their "Flying Machine". AI analysis

On May 22, 1906, Orville and Wilbur Wright were awarded a patent for their "Flying Machine," marking a significant milestone in aviation history. Their invention would go on to change the world by making air travel possible. --AI analysis

1942

Mexico declares war on Germany, Italy and Japan during World War II. AI analysis

On May 22, 1942, Mexico declared war on Germany, Italy, and Japan, joining the Allied forces in World War II. This decision was made in response to the sinking of two Mexican oil tankers by German U-boats, and Mexico's contribution to the war effort included providing air support and supplies. --AI analysis

1947

The Truman Doctrine is enacted by the U.S. Congress to provide foreign aid to the Greece and Turkey. AI analysis

On May 22, 1947, the U.S. Congress enacted the Truman Doctrine, a policy initiated by President Harry S. Truman to provide economic and military aid to Greece and Turkey. This marked the beginning of the Cold War era, as the United States sought to counter Soviet influence in the region. --AI analysis

1960

An earthquake measuring 9.5 on the Richter scale, then the largest instrumentally recorded megathrust earthquake in history, hits southern Chile, causing tsunamis and other secondary natural disasters which will leave about 2,000–6,000 people dead. AI analysis

On May 22, 1960, a massive earthquake struck southern Chile, measuring 9.5 on the Richter scale, making it the largest recorded earthquake at the time. The quake triggered tsunamis and other natural disasters, resulting in an estimated 2,000 to 6,000 deaths. --AI analysis

1967

The L'Innovation department store in Brussels, Belgium burns down, resulting in 323 dead and missing. AI analysis

On May 22, 1967, a devastating fire engulfed the L'Innovation department store in Brussels, Belgium, resulting in the loss of 323 lives. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but it led to significant changes in fire safety regulations in Belgium. --AI analysis

1992

After 30 years, 69-year-old Johnny Carson hosts his final episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. AI analysis

On May 22, 1992, Johnny Carson, the legendary host of The Tonight Show, aired his final episode after an impressive 30-year run. Carson's departure marked the end of an era in late-night television and paved the way for future hosts. --AI analysis

2011

A tornado devastates Joplin, Missouri, killing 158 people and injuring over 1,000. AI analysis

On May 22, 2011, a devastating tornado struck Joplin, Missouri, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The tornado resulted in 158 fatalities and over 1,000 injuries, making it one of the deadliest tornadoes in U.S. history. --AI analysis