On November 2, history reveals dramatic shifts across continents and centuries. In 1889, the U.S. admitted North Dakota and South Dakota as the 39th and 40th states—ending the Dakota Territory and altering America’s map. In 1917, the Balfour Declaration signalled British support for a “national home for the Jewish people” in Palestine—a watershed in Middle Eastern geopolitics. 

The next year, US-presidential politics made waves when Harry S. Truman stunned the world by defeating Thomas E. Dewey in one of America’s most famous election upsets. Later, in 2000, the arrival of the first resident crew aboard the International Space Station marked the dawn of continuous human habitation in outer space.

Together, these events make November 2 a date defined by territorial change, political symbolism, cultural debate and scientific milestone. Whether it’s founding states, declaring futures or launching humans into orbit, the day invites reflection: how singular moments can redirect the course of nations and humanity itself.