May 4

What happened on May 4 in history

3 events fall on May 4, from 1493 to 1970. Read them below, then try to place a historical scene yourself — guess where in the world it happened and in what year.

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

Events on May 4

  1. 1493

    The pope divides the New World

    A bull draws a line between Spanish and Portuguese claims.

    Play the Medieval & Renaissance round

  2. 1886

    The Haymarket affair

    A bomb and gunfire at a Chicago labour rally lead to the founding of May Day.

    Play the 19th century round

  3. 1970

    The Kent State shootings

    National Guardsmen kill four students at an anti-war protest in Ohio.

    Play the 20th century round