History Tap No. 22: October 20, 2026

Round 1: historic event, world

Great Fire of London

Happened in United Kingdom, on September 2, 1666.

• The fears of the homeless focused on the French and Dutch, England's enemies in the ongoing Second Anglo-Dutch War; these substantial immigrant groups became victims of street violence.
• On Tuesday, the fire spread over nearly the whole city, destroying Old St Paul's Cathedral and leaping the River Fleet to threaten Charles II's court at Whitehall Palace.
• Coordinated firefighting efforts were simultaneously getting underway.

Round 2: landmark

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Founded in Monterey, California, on October 20, 1984.

• Known for its regional focus on the marine habitats of Monterey Bay, it was the first to exhibit a living kelp forest when it opened in October 1984.
• Monterey Bay Aquarium was built at the site of a defunct sardine cannery and has been recognized for its architectural achievements by the American Institute of Architects.
• It is known for the artistry of its exhibits, which have featured Dale Chihuly glass, David Hockney pieces, 19th-century Ernst Haeckel lithographs and Douglas Morton music compositions.

Round 3: landmark

Jackson Square

Established in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1721.

• It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1960, for its central role in the city's history, and as the site where in 1803 Louisiana was made United States territory pursuant to the Louisiana Purchase.
• The square is named for Andrew Jackson, who was credited with victory in the 1815 Battle of New Orleans and later became the 7th president of the United States.
• Covers about 3 acres.

Round 4: landmark

Sun Studio

Opened in Memphis, Tennessee, on January 3, 1950.

• Reputedly the first rock and roll single, Jackie Brenston and his Delta Cats' "Rocket 88" was recorded there in 1951 with song composer Ike Turner on keyboards, leading the studio to claim status as the birthplace of rock and roll.
• Since Phillips had invested in the Holiday Inn Hotel chain earlier, he also recorded artists starting in 1963 on the label Holiday Inn Records for Kemmons Wilson.
• A National Historic Landmark.

Round 5: historic event, world

Battle of Manila Bay

Happened in Manila Bay, Philippines, on May 1, 1898.

• The battle was one of the most decisive naval battles in history and marked the end of the Spanish colonial period in Philippine history.
• Upon realizing that the battle was hopeless, Montojo, who had kept his fleet close to the coast to help survivors swim to safety, ordered his two protected cruisers to be scuttled to prevent them from falling into the hands of the Americans.
• The Spanish, aware that they were hopelessly outgunned, made a desperate defense against the Americans.