What Happened on August 15?

August 15 is National Relaxation Day — slow down and recharge! The same date the Panama Canal opened in 1914, India became independent in 1947, and Woodstock began in 1969.

• 1057 — Macbeth is killed at the Battle of Lumphanan

  On August 15, 1057, Scottish king Macbeth fell in battle at Lumphanan — the historical figure behind Shakespeare's famous tragedy. Read the full story →

• 1914 — The Panama Canal opens to ship traffic

  On August 15, 1914, the steamship Ancon made the first official transit of the Panama Canal, linking the Atlantic and Pacific. Read the full story →

• 1945 — Emperor Hirohito announces Japan's surrender by radio

  On August 15, 1945, Emperor Hirohito's recorded "Jewel Voice" broadcast told the Japanese people that the war must end. Read the full story →

• 1947 — India becomes an independent nation

  At midnight on August 15, 1947, India gained independence from British rule after a long nonviolent struggle led by figures like Gandhi and Nehru. Read the full story →

• 1965 — The Beatles play Shea Stadium in New York

  On August 15, 1965, the Beatles performed for more than 55,000 fans at Shea Stadium — a landmark of stadium rock. Read the full story →

Famous birthdays

Napoleon Bonaparte (1769–1821) · Julia Child (1912–2004) · Jennifer Lawrence (1990) · Ben Affleck (1972)

Days & observances

National Relaxation Day · Assumption of Mary · India Independence Day · National Lemon Meringue Pie Day