Russian Revolution
The Bolsheviks seized power in Russia, establishing the world's first communist state and reshaping global politics.
On November 7, 1917 (October 25 in the Julian calendar), the Bolsheviks, led by Vladimir Lenin, overthrew the Russian Provisional Government in Petrograd. The October Revolution, following the February Revolution that had toppled Tsar Nicholas II, established the world's first socialist state. The resulting Soviet Union would become a global superpower and the center of the communist world, profoundly shaping 20th-century geopolitics.
More in Politics & Governance
Code of Hammurabi Established
One of the earliest and most complete written legal codes, established by Babylonian King Hammurabi.
April 21, 753 BCEFounding of Rome
According to legend, Romulus founded the city of Rome, which would become the center of one of history's greatest empires.
508 BCEBirth of Democracy in Athens
Cleisthenes introduced democratic reforms in Athens, establishing the world's first known democracy.
51 BCECleopatra Rules Egypt
Cleopatra VII became the last active ruler of Ptolemaic Egypt, wielding political genius to preserve her kingdom against the might of Rome.