Michelangelo Begins Work on the David
On September 13, 1501, Michelangelo began work on the David, carving a marble block others had abandoned since 1464.
Michelangelo's David Is Unveiled in Florence
On September 8, 1504, Michelangelo's David was unveiled in Florence, a 5-metre marble figure that became a symbol of the republic.
Handel Finishes the Messiah
On September 14, 1741, Handel completed the oratorio Messiah, written in about 24 days and first performed in Dublin.
Francis Scott Key Writes the Defence of Fort McHenry
On September 14, 1814, Francis Scott Key wrote Defence of Fort McHenry, the poem that became the US national anthem.
The First Issue of The New York Times Is Published
On September 18, 1851, the first issue of the New-York Daily Times was published, founded by Henry Jarvis Raymond and George Jones.
J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit Is Published
On September 21, 1937, Tolkien's The Hobbit was published in London, with a print run of 1,500 copies that sold out within months.
Prehistoric Cave Paintings Are Found at Lascaux
On September 12, 1940, teenagers discovered the Lascaux cave paintings in France, some of the finest prehistoric art known.
The First Cannes Film Festival Opens
On September 20, 1946, the first Cannes Film Festival opened in France, seven years after it was originally planned for 1939.
ITV Goes on Air and Ends the BBC Television Monopoly
On September 22, 1955, ITV launched in London, ending the BBC's 19-year monopoly of British television.
Star Trek Premieres on NBC
On September 8, 1966, Star Trek premiered on NBC; cancelled after three seasons, it grew into one of TV's biggest franchises.