August 17

    What happened on August 17 in history

    3 events fall on August 17, from 1585 to 1962. Read them below, then try to place a historical scene yourself — guess where in the world it happened and in what year.

    Events on August 17

    1. 1585

      The Roanoke colonists land

      English settlers arrive at the island later found deserted.

      Play the Medieval & Renaissance round

    2. 1945

      Indonesia declares independence

      Sukarno reads the proclamation in Jakarta two days after Japan's surrender.

      Read about V-J Day Celebration in Times SquarePlay the 20th century round

    3. 1962

      The first death at the Berlin Wall

      Peter Fechter is shot trying to cross and left to die in the death strip.

      Read about Construction of the Berlin WallPlay the 20th century round

    Guess where and when

    Explore a 360° historical scene and place it on the map and the timeline. Free, no sign-up.

    Play today's challenge