On this day in 1918, Germany, Austria and Russia signed the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk ending Russia's involvement in World War I, and leading to the independence of Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland.
On this day in 1931, the United States adopted The Star-Spangled Banner as its national anthem.
On this day in 1938, oil was discovered in Saudi Arabia.
On this day in 2005, Margaret Wilson was elected as Speaker of The House of Representatives in New Zealand. This began a period lasting until August 23, 2006 where all the highest political offices (including Elizabeth II as Head of State), were occupied by women, making New Zealand the first country for this to occur.