Some dates carry moments that continue to echo through history, shaping memory, culture and politics. April 15 brings together events linked to tragedy, artistic milestones and major political developments. Here is a fact-checked look at five notable events tied to this day.
Titanic sinks in the North Atlantic (1912)
In the early hours of April 15, 1912, the RMS Titanic sank after striking an iceberg the previous night. More than 1,500 people lost their lives, making it one of the deadliest maritime disasters in history.
Abraham Lincoln dies (1865)
US President Abraham Lincoln died on April 15, 1865, a day after being shot at Ford’s Theatre. His death came just after the end of the American Civil War and marked a moment of national mourning in the United States.
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Jackie Robinson breaks baseball colour barrier (1947)
On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson made his debut for the Brooklyn Dodgers, becoming the first African American to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era. His entry marked a significant step in the civil rights movement in sports.
McDonald’s opens first restaurant (1955)
On this day in 1955, Ray Kroc opened the first franchised McDonald's restaurant in Des Plaines, Illinois. The brand later grew into one of the world’s largest fast-food chains.
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Notre-Dame Cathedral fire breaks out (2019)
On April 15, 2019, a major fire broke out at the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. The blaze caused significant damage to the historic structure, prompting global attention and restoration efforts.
