San Francisco, United States. Several significant historical events have taken place on June 26 over the years, spanning diplomacy, independence, aviation, politics, science, law, business and sports.
United Nations Charter signed
In 1945, the United Nations Charter was signed by 50 nations in San Francisco, creating a successor to the League of Nations. It became effective on October 24.
Somaliland independence
In 1960, British Somaliland became independent. Five days later, it merged with Italian Somaliland to become the Somali Republic.
Air crash in France
In 1988, an Air France Airbus A320 crashed near Mulhouse, France.
Political change in Afghanistan
In 1996, Afghan guerrilla leader Gulbuddin Hekmatyar returned to Kabul and took over as prime minister.
Human genome draft completed
In 2000, an international team of scientists completed a working draft of the human genome, covering all the genes in the human body.
Belgian court ruling on Sharon case
In 2002, a Brussels appeals court threw out a lawsuit against Israeli leader Ariel Sharon, ruling that he was immune from investigation over his alleged role in a 1982 massacre of Palestinian refugees.
Death of Strom Thurmond
In 2003, former U.S. Senator Strom Thurmond died at the age of 100. He was the oldest and longest-serving senator.
Buffett donation to Gates Foundation
In 2006, U.S. billionaire Warren Buffett donated roughly $30.7 billion to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, uniting the world’s two richest people in a bid to fight disease, reduce poverty and improve education.
Clashes at football match in Argentina
In 2011, police used water cannon against soccer fans in Buenos Aires at a First Division playoff match.
