The second Sudanese War ends. As an outcome, Southern Sudan is granted autonomy; in 2011, South Sudan becomes an independent nation.

The Battle of Gallipoli ends. The Gallipoli Campaign during World War I ended with the victory of the Ottoman Empire.

The first shots of the American Civil War are fired. The steamer, Star of the West, was fired upon by the Confederates as it attempted to enter Charleston Harbor

Philip Astley opens the world's first modern circus. The British equestrian, who is considered the father of modern circus, opened a riding school in London where he also performed tricks for an audience in the afternoons.

The trial against Joan of Arc begins. She was executed on May 30, 1431, exonerated in 1456, and canonized in 1920 by Pope Benedict XV.