February 29

What happened on February 29 in history

3 events fall on February 29, from 1504 to 1960. Read them below, then try to place a historical scene yourself — guess where in the world it happened and in what year.

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Events on February 29

  1. 1504

    Columbus uses an eclipse to win supplies

    Stranded in Jamaica, he predicts a lunar eclipse and frightens his hosts into feeding his crew.

    Play the Medieval & Renaissance round

  2. 1940

    Hattie McDaniel wins an Oscar

    The first Academy Award to a Black performer, for Gone with the Wind.

    Play the 20th century round

  3. 1960

    The Agadir earthquake

    A quake destroys much of the Moroccan port and kills over twelve thousand.

    Play the 20th century round