Pope Benedict XVI resigns
Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation on February 11, 2013, was a momentous event in the history of the Catholic Church. The 85-year-old Pope announced that he would step down due to his declining health and age, making him the first Pope to resign in 600 years. His decision sparked much speculation and debate, but ultimately, it was seen as a courageous and selfless act. Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, now Pope Francis, was elected as the new Pope just two weeks later.

The first Gulf War ends
On February 28, 1991, the first Gulf War officially came to an end with the signing of a ceasefire agreement between Iraq and the allied forces led by the United States. The six-week conflict, known as Operation Desert Storm, began in January of that year after Iraq invaded neighboring Kuwait. The coalition forces, consisting of 34 countries, achieved a decisive victory over Iraq, but the conflict left a lasting impact on the region and the world. In the years following the war, the United Nations imposed harsh sanctions on Iraq and the country was plagued by instability.

Swedish prime minister Olof Palme is assassinated
The assassination of Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme on February 28, 1986, sent shockwaves through the country and the world. Palme was a popular and progressive leader, known for his support of peace and nuclear disarmament. He was shot while walking home from a movie theater with his wife in Stockholm. Despite an extensive investigation, the case remains unsolved to this day. The assassination had a lasting impact on Swedish politics and society, and it continues to be a source of debate and speculation.

Nylon is invented
On February 28, 1935, Wallace Carothers, a research chemist for the DuPont company, patented nylon – a revolutionary new synthetic fiber. This invention marked a turning point in the history of textiles, as it was the first truly synthetic fabric. Nylon was stronger, more durable, and easier to produce than natural fibers like cotton and wool. The fabric quickly gained popularity, and by 1941, it accounted for 75% of the U.S. hosiery market. Today, nylon is used in a wide range of products, from clothing to carpets to car parts.