In History, Today on June 30

The Spanish conquistadors, led by Hernán Cortés, experienced La Noche Triste (The Night of Sorrows) as they attempted to escape from Tenochtitlán, the Aztec capital, facing heavy resistance and suffering significant losses.

French acrobat Charles Blondin crossed Niagara Falls on a tightrope, a feat that captivated audiences and demonstrated the daring nature of 19th-century entertainment.

The Tunguska event occurred in Siberia, Russia, when a large explosion, believed to be caused by the airburst of a small comet or asteroid, flattened an estimated 2,000 square kilometers of forest.

The Night of the Long Knives began in Nazi Germany, a purge in which Adolf Hitler ordered the execution of potential rivals within the Nazi Party, consolidating his power.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo gained independence from Belgium, marking the end of colonial rule and the beginning of a tumultuous period in the nation's history.

The National Organization for Women (NOW) was founded in Washington, D.C., aiming to advocate for women's rights and equality in the United States.

The crew of the Soviet Soyuz 11 mission was tragically killed during re-entry after a successful mission to the Salyut 1 space station, marking the first human deaths in space.

The United Kingdom transferred sovereignty over Hong Kong to the People's Republic of China, ending 156 years of British colonial rule and marking a significant moment in the region's history.

Brazil won the FIFA World Cup, defeating Germany 2-0 in the final held in Yokohama, Japan. This victory marked Brazil's fifth World Cup title, the most by any nation.

Spain legalized same-sex marriage, becoming the third country in the world to do so after the Netherlands and Belgium. The law granted same-sex couples the same legal rights as heterosexual couples.

A terrorist attack occurred at Glasgow Airport in Scotland when a Jeep Cherokee loaded with propane canisters was driven into the terminal. The attack was foiled, and the perpetrators were apprehended.

Croatia became the 28th member of the European Union, marking a significant milestone in its post-Yugoslav history and integration into European structures.

The United States and Cuba reopened embassies in each other's capitals, marking the restoration of diplomatic relations after more than 50 years of hostility.

U.S. President Donald Trump became the first sitting U.S. president to set foot in North Korea during a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un at the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). This meeting was part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to address North Korea's nuclear program.