Historical events for
Friday, 18 September 2026

Greta Garbo, Swedish actress, one of the greatest icons of the Golden Age of Hollywood.

Eloísa Mafalda (born September 18, 1924, and died May 17, 2018) was a charismatic and multi-award-winning Brazilian actress. She became immortalized in television drama by bringing unforgettable characters to life, such as the iconic Dona Pombinha in "Roque Santeiro".

Jorge Sampaio, President of the Portuguese Republic between 1996 and 2006, defender of human rights.

James Gandolfini, American actor, known for his role as Tony Soprano in the series "The Sopranos".

Serenella Andrade, Portuguese television presenter, recognized for her work on RTP.

Jada Pinkett Smith (b. 1971) is a versatile American actress and producer. Besides her tactical and heroic performance as Captain Niobe in "The Matrix" saga, her vast resume stands out with striking roles in films like "Collateral" and "Girls Trip", as well as her influential digital presence in talk show formats.

Luísa Vilar Braamcamp Sobral, Portuguese singer and songwriter, sister of Salvador Sobral.

On September 18, 1499, Vasco da Gama returned to Lisbon after his successful expedition to India, consolidating Portuguese dominance on maritime routes and trade with the East.

Chilean Independence Day celebration, commemorating independence from Spain on September 18, 1818. Celebrations include parades, official ceremonies and cultural activities throughout the country.

The newspaper "The New York Times" was first published on September 18, 1851, becoming one of the most influential media outlets in the world.

On September 18, 1865, the Palácio de Cristal was inaugurated in Porto, becoming an architectural landmark in the city. The building was replaced by the Pavilhão Rosa Mota in 1951.

Companhia Carris de Ferro de Lisboa (Carris) was founded on September 18, 1872, with the aim of providing public transport services in Lisbon, initially with horse-drawn carriages.

The airship Graf Zeppelin made its maiden flight on September 18, 1928, marking the beginning of a new era in intercontinental air travel.

Fifth President of the Third Portuguese Republic. Lawyer and politician. Term: 1996-2006.

Atlético Clube de Portugal, founded on September 18, 1942, is a historic sporting institution, with a strong connection to the Alcântara area, in Lisbon.

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) was created on September 18, 1947, after World War II, with the aim of coordinating US intelligence services.

On September 18, 1970, the MRPP (Reorganizing Movement of the Proletariat Party) was founded, a Maoist-inspired political party that played an active role in the period before the April 25 Revolution.

On September 18, 1981, France officially abolished the death penalty, a measure approved by the National Assembly during the presidency of François Mitterrand, putting an end to guillotine executions in the country.

On September 18, 2002, ARTV (Canal Parliament) began its regular broadcast, broadcasting parliamentary sessions and other content related to politics in Portugal.

On September 18, 2009, Paula Rego's Casa das Histórias was inaugurated in Cascais. This museum is dedicated to the work of the artist Paula Rego, containing a vast collection of paintings, prints and drawings, being an important cultural center in Portugal.

The Moon enters the First Quarter phase at 03:31 (Legal Time).

Blessed João Masías, a 17th century Spanish Dominican, is celebrated on September 18 for his life dedicated to prayer and charity, being known for his mystical visions.

International Water Monitoring Day, celebrated on September 18, aims to raise awareness about the importance of monitoring and protecting water resources around the world.

Saint Joseph of Cupertino, famous for his mystical ecstasies and levitations, is celebrated on September 18th.