Historical Events on October 26
1689: General Piccolomini’s Actions in Macedonia
On this day, General Piccolomini of Austria ordered the burning of Skopje, Macedonia, as a measure to halt the spread of cholera. Tragically, he succumbed to the disease shortly thereafter.
1977: The Last Natural Case of Smallpox
Ali Maow Maalin reported the emergence of a rash in Somalia, marking him as the last natural case of smallpox. This date is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as the anniversary of smallpox eradication.
1984: Baby Fae’s Heart Transplant
In a groundbreaking yet controversial medical procedure, “Baby Fae” received a heart transplant from a baboon. Unfortunately, she passed away within a month following the operation.