22 February in history
6 events that happened on 22 February, from 1495 to 1997.
✦ Anniversary of the day
1495 CE 531 years ago
Charles VIII of France enters Naples
After a rapid march through Italy, the French king took Naples almost without a fight. A coalition of Italian states, Spain and the Emperor soon forced him out, but the Italian Wars had begun.
1732 CE 294 years ago
George Washington is born in Virginia
Born at Popes Creek in Westmoreland County, Washington commanded the Continental Army in the Revolutionary War and became the first President of the United States.
1819 CE 207 years ago
Spain cedes Florida in the Adams-Onís Treaty
Spain gave Florida to the United States and agreed a boundary running to the Pacific. In return the US assumed claims of its citizens against Spain and gave up its claim to Texas.
1847 CE 179 years ago
Battle of Buena Vista begins in northern Mexico
Zachary Taylor's outnumbered army held off Santa Anna's attacks over two days near Saltillo. Santa Anna withdrew, and Taylor's fame carried him to the presidency in 1848.
1980 CE 46 years ago
US amateurs beat the Soviet Union in the 'Miracle on Ice'
A team of American college players defeated the Soviet Union, four-time Olympic champions, 4-3 at the Lake Placid Winter Olympics. The US went on to win the gold medal.
