This Day In History : March 30

1982 United States

NASA's 3rd Space Shuttle Mission: Columbia 3 Lands in New Mexico

On March 30, 1982, NASA's Space Shuttle Columbia concludes its third mission, STS-3, with a landing at White Sands, New Mexico. The successful mission, featuring various scientific experiments, enhances the Space Shuttle program. This landing marks a key achievement in NASA's ongoing space exploration efforts.

Also on This Day in History March 30

Discover what happened on March 30 with HISTORY's summaries of major events, anniversaries,
famous births and notable deaths.

Births on This Day, March 30
  • 1811 Robert Bunsen

    German chemist who invented the Bunsen Burner

  • 1894 Sergey Vladimirovich Ilyushin

    Russian airplane designer designed the world's most produced military aircraft - Il-2 Shturmovik

  • 1892 Stefan Banach

    Polish mathematician who founded modern functional analysis

  • 1876 Clifford Whittingham Beers

    American author and mental hygiene pioneer

  • 1957 Yelena Kondakova

    Russian cosmonaut who was the 1st woman to make a space flight of long duration

Deaths on This Day, March 30
  • 1783 William Hunter

    Scottish anatomist and physician

  • 1961 Philibert Melotte

    British astronomer who discovered Jupiter's 8th satellite Pasiphae

  • 1873 Benedict Augustin Morel

    Austrian-French psychologist (dementia praecox)

  • 1925 Rudolf Steiner

    Austrian spiritualist and philosopher who founded doctrine of anthroposophy

  • 1992 Manolis Andronicos

    Greek archaeologist who discovered ancient royal tombs in northern Greece

1867

Alaska Purchased from Russia by the United States

On March 30, 1867, the United States purchases Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million, roughly 2 cents an acre. The acquisition, negotiated by US Secretary of State William H. Seward, adds vast territory to the nation. This strategic purchase expands American resources and influence in the northern Pacific region.
1822

Florida Territory Created in the United States

On March 30, 1822, the United States Congress establishes the Florida Territory, following the acquisition of the region from Spain. The new territory paves the way for settlement and development, contributing to the nation's westward expansion. This formation marks a significant step in American territorial growth.
1856

The Treaty of Paris Signed, Ending the Crimean War

On March 30, 1856, the Treaty of Paris is signed, bringing an end to the Crimean War. The agreement, involving Russia and the allied powers of Britain, France, the Ottoman Empire, and Sardinia, aims to restore peace and balance in Europe. The treaty marks the conclusion of hostilities and sets new territorial arrangements.
1950

Invention of the Phototransistor Announced

In 1950, the phototransistor's invention is announced, revolutionizing the field of electronics. This new component, which responds to light, offers significant advancements in electronic devices and circuits. The phototransistor's development opens up new possibilities for technology and innovation.
Holiday
Special day
Discover invention