Historical events for
Friday, 31 July 2026

Swedish-American engineer and inventor known for developing the USS Monitor, a Union warship during the American Civil War.

American economist, winner of the Nobel Prize in Economics, known for his theories on monetarism.

Italian writer and chemist, author of "If This Is a Man", one of the most important works on the Holocaust.

Russian clown and circus artist, one of the most famous figures in the Soviet circus.

British actress and daughter of Charlie Chaplin, known for her roles in films such as "Doctor Zhivago."

American actor, known for his role in the television series "Diagnosis: Murder".

British writer, author of the world famous "Harry Potter" book series.

American actor, famous for playing Superman in the television series "Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman".

Pedro Álvares Cabral returns to Lisbon after discovering Brazil and signing the first commercial agreement with the Calicut potentate in India.

In 1953, Fidel Castro led an attack on the Moncada barracks, marking the beginning of the Cuban Revolution that eventually led to the fall of the Batista regime.

The Cabril Dam, one of the largest dams in Portugal, was inaugurated on this day.

The Basque separatist organization ETA (Euskadi Ta Askatasuna – Basque Homeland and Freedom) was founded by dissident students from the nationalist groups EKIN-EGI.

Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Lisboa launched the instant lottery (scratch card) on this day, bringing a new form of gambling to the public.

Production of Volkswagen's iconic Beetle model has ceased, ending an era of more than six decades of production.

The first IKEA store in Portugal was opened in Matosinhos, marking the expansion of the Swedish brand in the country.

Terminal 2 at Lisbon Airport was opened, expanding the airport's capacity to receive more passengers and flights.

Feast of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits).

Day to raise awareness about the importance of microorganisms in life and the environment.

A day to promote awareness about the importance of sexual health and sexual pleasure.

Day dedicated to celebrating and recognizing the contributions and achievements of African women in various areas of society.

Commemoration of Saint Germanus, bishop and confessor.

Celebration and recognition of the work of professionals who protect and conserve nature.