What Happened on August 19?
August 19 is World Photography Day — celebrating the camera's power to freeze moments — on the same date France announced the daguerreotype in 1839, hard-liners launched a Soviet coup in 1991, and USS Constitution defeated Guerriere in 1812.
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1812 — USS Constitution defeats HMS Guerriere
On August 19, 1812, the American frigate USS Constitution shattered the British frigate Guerriere — earning the nickname "Old Ironsides." Read the full story →
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1839 — France announces the daguerreotype process as a gift to the world
On August 19, 1839, the French government publicly detailed Louis Daguerre's photographic process — effectively giving practical photography to the world. Read the full story →
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1909 — The first auto races are held at Indianapolis Motor Speedway
On August 19, 1909, drivers roared around the new Indianapolis Motor Speedway — launching one of motorsport's most famous tracks. Read the full story →
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1919 — Afghanistan gains full independence from British control
On August 19, 1919, the Treaty of Rawalpindi recognized Afghanistan's independence in foreign affairs after the Third Anglo-Afghan War. Read the full story →
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1991 — Hard-liners launch a coup against Mikhail Gorbachev
On August 19, 1991, communist hard-liners detained Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev and tried to seize power — a coup that collapsed within three days. Read the full story →
Famous birthdays
Orville Wright (1871–1948) · Bill Clinton (1946) · Coco Chanel (1883–1971) · Matthew Perry (1969–2023)
Days & observances
World Photography Day · National Soft Ice Cream Day · World Humanitarian Day · Independence Day (Afghanistan)