This Day in History: April

Look back in time and examine the amazing events that happened on this day in history and which helped shape the world as we know it.

Course No. 90046

This collection of historical moments reveals pivotal April events that changed culture, science, and politics – from ancient Egyptian rulers to modern genetic breakthroughs. Each concise lecture brings a different day to life through expert storytelling and analysis.

Video Lessons

01: April 2, 1805 – Hans Christian Andersen Is Born (13 min)

Storyteller Hannah B. Harvey reveals Andersen’s history and performs a delightful “Thumbelina” retelling.

02: April 9, 1865 – Robert E. Lee Surrenders (6 min)

Professor Gary Gallagher analyzes the Civil War’s decisive surrender and its impact on American democracy.

03: April 18, 1906 – The Great San Francisco Earthquake (4 min)

Professor Patrick Allitt explores how the disaster reshaped California’s “Capital of the American West.”

04: April 22, 1509 – King Henry VIII Begins His Reign (5 min)

The political and religious shockwaves from Henry VIII’s first day of power.

05: April 23, 1564 – William Shakespeare Is Born (11 min)

English Professor Marc Connor recreates Elizabethan theater experiences of Shakespeare’s plays.

06: April 24, 1479 BC – Queen Hatshepsut Seizes Power (7 min)

An Egyptologist unravels the mystery of the female pharaoh erased from history.

07: April 3, 1973 – First Cellular Phone Call (7 min)

Professor Stephen Ressler traces how this breakthrough led to modern smartphone technology.

08: April 15, 1989 – Tiananmen Square Protests Begin (6 min)

The context and evolution of Beijing’s deadly pro-democracy demonstrations.

09: April 5, 1722 – European Discovery of Easter Island (8 min)

Dutch explorer Roggeveen’s astonishment at finding thriving culture amid giant statues.

10: April 14, 2003 – Human Genome Project Completed (8 min)

The triumphs and controversies behind mapping human DNA.

11: April 6, 1909 – Peary Reaches North Pole…or Does He? (5 min)

The enduring mystery surrounding this polar exploration claim.

12: April 14, 1865 – Lincoln Is Assassinated (7 min)

How Booth’s attack at Ford’s Theatre altered post-Civil War America.