On This Day — May 19

From desperate naval battles to unforgettable music and moments that shaped Australia, May 19 has delivered its share of history.

1536 — Anne Boleyn is executed

One of the most famous queens in British history met her end on this day in 1536. Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII, was executed at the Tower of London after being accused of treason, adultery and incest. Her death changed the course of English history and paved the way for Henry’s third marriage just days later.

1962 — Marilyn Monroe sings to JFK

On May 19, 1962, actress Marilyn Monroe stepped onto the stage at Madison Square Garden and delivered her breathy rendition of Happy Birthday to US President John F. Kennedy. The performance instantly became one of the most iconic celebrity moments of the 20th century and remains endlessly replayed more than six decades later.

1994 — Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis dies

Former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis died on this day in 1994 at the age of 64. Elegant, guarded and enormously influential in fashion and culture, she remained one of the most recognisable women in the world long after leaving the White House.

An Australian moment — Dame Nellie Melba is born

Australia’s most celebrated opera singer, Dame Nellie Melba, was born in Melbourne on May 19, 1861. Born Helen Porter Mitchell, she became one of the world’s most famous sopranos and one of the first Australians to achieve international celebrity status. Her stage name “Melba” was taken from her hometown of Melbourne, and her legacy still lives on through the famous dessert Peach Melba.

What was playing in 1966?

Music fans around the world were listening to very different songs on this day in 1966.

In the United States, When a Man Loves a Woman by Percy Sledge was climbing towards the top spot.
In the United Kingdom, The Rolling Stones were dominating with Paint It, Black.

Some days are remembered for battles and politics. Others survive because of a song, a performance, or a moment caught forever on camera. May 19 manages to hold all of them.