This Day in History
May 12, 1984 — Nelson Mandela Reunites with Winnie After 22 Years
On May 12, 1984, Nelson Mandela reunited with his wife Winnie Mandela for the first time in 22 years while imprisoned under South Africa’s apartheid regime. Their emotional meeting symbolized resilience, sacrifice, and hope during the global struggle against racial segregation, injustice, and political oppression in one of history’s defining freedom movements.
May 11, 1924 — Robert Frost Wins Pulitzer Prize for New Hampshire
19th Century Writers American Literature Poet Poetry
Robert Frost won the Pulitzer Prize for poetry on May 11, 1924, for New Hampshire: A Poem with Notes and Grace Notes. The award established Frost as a leading voice in American literature, celebrating his ability to transform rural New England life into timeless poetry filled with insight, emotion, and philosophical depth.
May 9, 1754 — “Join or Die” Cartoon Published - Benjamin Franklin
American History American Revolution Political Leaders
Benjamin Franklin’s “Join, or Die” cartoon, published on May 9, 1754, became the first political cartoon in an American newspaper. Created during the French and Indian War, the segmented snake symbolized the need for colonial unity and later evolved into a powerful emblem of resistance during the American Revolution.
May 8, 1945 — V-E Day: Germany Surrenders, Ending World War II in Europe - Harry Truman
On May 8, 1945, Victory in Europe Day marked the end of World War II in Europe after Nazi Germany formally surrendered to the Allied powers. Celebrations erupted worldwide as millions welcomed peace after years of devastation, honoring the sacrifices, courage, and unity that defeated tyranny and restored hope across Europe.
May 7, 1956 — Pulitzer Prize Honors The Diary of Anne Frank
On May 7, 1956, Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama for their adaptation of The Diary of Anne Frank. The award honored a powerful stage production that introduced millions to Anne Frank’s story, preserving her message of hope, humanity, and resilience during one of history’s darkest periods.