Alexander the Great Defeats Darius III at Gaugamela
On October 1, 331 BC, Alexander defeated Darius III at Gaugamela, opening the Persian Empire to Macedonian conquest.
Yosemite National Park Is Established
On October 1, 1890, Yosemite National Park was created in California, the second American national park.
The Soviet Union Launches Its First Five-Year Plan
On October 1, 1928, the Soviet Union launched its first five-year plan, forcing industrialization and collectivization.
The Nuremberg Tribunal Sentences Nazi Leaders
On October 1, 1946, the Nuremberg tribunal sentenced twelve Nazi leaders to death after the first war crimes trial.
The People's Republic of China Is Proclaimed
On October 1, 1949, Mao Zedong proclaimed the People's Republic of China from the Tiananmen Gate in Beijing.
NASA Begins Operating
On October 1, 1958, NASA began operating in the United States, replacing the NACA after the Sputnik launches.
Nigeria Becomes Independent From Britain
On October 1, 1960, Nigeria became independent from Britain with about 45 million people and three regions.
Japan's Shinkansen Begins High-Speed Service
On October 1, 1964, Japan's Tokaido Shinkansen opened between Tokyo and Osaka at 210 km/h.