Historical events for
Monday, 4 May 2026

António José Branquinho da Fonseca (born May 4, 1905, and died May 7, 1974) was a notable Portuguese writer. Besides his vast literary work and co-founding the Presença magazine, he left a unique legacy as the main promoter and director of the Itinerant Libraries Service of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation.

Gregg Alexander (b. 1970) is an ingenious American producer and singer. Leader of the fleeting but legendary project New Radicals, he created the cult classic "You Get What You Give", a landmark of alternative rock in the late 90s.

Holding triple nationality (Italian, Swiss, and American), Elly Schlein (b. 1985) made history by becoming the youngest-ever leader of the Italian Democratic Party. With a markedly progressive and ecologist profile, she represented a breath of fresh air in the opposition, mobilizing younger generations with her vision of social and climate justice.

Navigators Diogo Gomes and António de Noli discover the archipelago of Cape Verde during their return voyage from the coast of Guinea, constituting a vital milestone in the expansion of Portuguese maritime routes.

Pope Alexander VI promulgates the papal bull "Inter Caetera". The historic document establishes a global line of demarcation, dividing the newly discovered lands of the New World between the crowns of Portugal and Spain.

The first edition of the Feminist and Education Congress takes place in Portugal. Organized by the pioneering National Council of Portuguese Women, the event intensely debated civic rights, education, and female emancipation in the country.

Margaret Thatcher is officially appointed Prime Minister of the United Kingdom following the Conservative Party's electoral victory. She became the first woman to hold the position, where her relentless leadership style earned her the famous nickname "Iron Lady".

The Unitary Democratic Coalition (CDU) is officially formed in Portugal. The political force was born as an electoral and permanent alliance between the Portuguese Communist Party (PCP) and the Ecologist Party "The Greens" (PEV).

Established in 1999 following the tragic bushfires in Australia, this day honors the courage, dedication, and supreme sacrifices of firefighters worldwide in protecting their communities and the environment.

Liturgical celebration in memory of Saint Thomas, one of the twelve original apostles of Christianity.