Some dates record events that will significantly influence global politics, sciences, and policies. March 19 is one of these dates. Throughout history, this date marks the beginning of military actions, scientific discoveries, and legislative actions. Here is a fact-checked list of five notable events associated with this date.

Iraq War begins with US-led invasion (2003)

On March 19, 2003, a US-led coalition launched military operations in Iraq. The operation, under US President George W. Bush, was the beginning of the Iraq War. The Iraq War will be remembered as a military conflict with long-term effects.

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Pluto photographed leading to its discovery (1930)

On March 19, 1930, astronomers announced the discovery of Pluto. The announcement followed earlier observations made in 1930 by Clyde Tombaugh at Lowell Observatory. The discovery added a new member to the Solar System.

Swami Dayananda Saraswati born (1824)

The Hindu reformer Dayananda Saraswati was born on the 19th of March, 1824, in present-day Gujarat, India. He would eventually go on to found the Arya Samaj, promoting the teachings of the Vedas.

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Commonwealth Day observed (variable date context)

During this month of March, the nations of the Commonwealth of Nations celebrate Commonwealth Day, recognising the shared values of the nations involved.

Napoleonic Wars context developments (1815 period)

In the month of March, 1815, Napoleon Bonaparte began his move towards Paris after returning from exile on the island of Elba, marking the beginning of the Hundred Days, a notable period of European political history.