On May 13th:

1846 U.S. Congress Declares War on Mexico

On May 13, 1846, the U.S. Congress officially declared war on Mexico, initiating the U.S.-Mexican War. This conflict stemmed from the annexation of Texas and the disputes over its border, as well as American desires to acquire lands in what are now California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado. The war significantly altered the map of North America, leading to the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, which ceded large territories to the United States and had profound long-term implications for both nations, particularly in shaping regional and cultural identities.

1958 Vice President Nixon Attacked in Venezuela

Vice President Richard Nixon faced a violent mob attack while on a goodwill tour in Caracas, Venezuela, on May 13, 1958. The attack was a stark demonstration of anti-American sentiment in Latin America during a period of heightened Cold War tensions and U.S. interventions in Latin American politics. The incident prompted a reassessment of American foreign policies in the region and highlighted the risks and challenges of international diplomacy in volatile environments.

1981 Pope John Paul II Shot

Pope John Paul II was shot and critically wounded by Mehmet Ali Ağca, a Turkish gunman, in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican on May 13, 1981. The assassination attempt shocked the world and deeply affected the Catholic community. Pope John Paul II’s remarkable recovery and his subsequent forgiveness of his assailant were widely admired and reinforced his messages of peace and reconciliation. The motivations behind the attack remain the subject of much speculation and conspiracy theories, but it undeniably shaped the Pope’s legacy and influenced his focus on peace initiatives.