Here are 10 significant events that occurred on January 20th throughout history:

1. In 2021, Kamala Harris made history by becoming the first female vice president of the United States, as well as the first African American and Asian American vice president, marking a significant milestone in American politics and representation.
2. The first confirmed case of COVID-19 in the United States was reported in 2020, signaling the start of a pandemic that would profoundly affect global health, economies, and daily life for years to come.
3. Marvin Gaye’s iconic hit single “What’s Going On?” was released in 1971, bringing attention to social issues and resonating with audiences for its powerful messages of love, peace, and justice.
4. Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 45th President of the United States in 2017, setting the stage for a controversial and polarizing tenure that would provoke significant political discourse and activism.
5. In 1809, the first American geology book authored by William Maclure was published, contribuing to the advancement of geological science and education in the fledgling nation.
6. The Battle of Yungay took place in 1839, where Chile achieved a decisive victory over a coalition of Peruvian and Bolivian forces, significantly impacting the geopolitical landscape of South America.
7. In 1840, French explorer Dumont D’Urville discovered new islands in the Antarctic region, expanding European knowledge of polar geography and paving the way for future exploration.
8. Barack Obama was sworn in as the 44th president of the United States in 2009, making history as the first African American to assume the office, representing a monumental shift in the nation’s socio-political landscape.
9. The Iran hostage crisis officially ended in 1981, concluding a dramatic 444-day standoff that had a profound impact on U.S.-Iran relations and American foreign policy.
10. The killing of student activist Rafiq Uddin Ahmed on this day in 1969 is often seen as a significant catalyst for the Bangladesh Liberation War, igniting a movement for independence and shaping the future of Bangladesh.

Additionally:

• In 1649, the High Court of Justice commenced its proceedings against King Charles I of England, ultimately leading to his execution, which marked a dramatic shift in the monarchy and governance of Britain.
• In 1783, Great Britain signed preliminary articles of peace with the United States, officially acknowledging American independence and bringing an end to the Revolutionary War, a pivotal moment in the history of both nations.