History Today

Today in History — May 17

1954

17 May 1954: Supreme Court Rules Segregation Unconstitutional in Brown v. Board of Education

On May 17, 1954, the United States Supreme Court delivered one of the most important rulings in American history when it unanimously declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional in Brown v. Board of Education…

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1929

16 May 1929: First Academy Awards Ceremony Held at Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel

On May 16, 1929, Hollywood celebrated the first Academy Awards ceremony at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, an event that would establish the most prestigious recognition in the film industry and launch a tradition that continues…

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1940

15 May 1940: First McDonald\x27s Restaurant Opens in San Bernardino, California

On May 15, 1940, the first McDonald's restaurant opened its doors in San Bernardino, California, beginning what would become one of the most remarkable business success stories in American history. Brothers Maurice Mac and Richard…

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