THIS DAY IN MILITARY HISTORY, APRIL 24 1. 1877 – Russo-Turkish War ignites Russia backs Balkan rebels, taking on the Ottoman Empire. This would eventually lead to the Balkan Wars and consequently, WWI. ⸻ 2. 1898 – Spain vs. USA: War declared Spain draws the line—and America answers. In weeks, the U.S. gains an empire and global power status by driving Spanish forces from Cuba and the Philippines. ⸻ 3. 1916 – Easter Rising shakes Ireland Irish rebels take Dublin by storm, defying British rule. It fails fast—but fuels a revolution and sets the stage for Irish independence. ⸻ 4. 1941 – British scramble out of Greece The Nazis blitz through Greece, forcing a British retreat. A gutsy evacuation, and another hard loss for the Allied powers. ⸻ 5. 1980 – Iran hostage rescue fails Delta Force moves in—but sandstorms and crashes end the mission. A daring rescue becomes a national heartbreak and tough lesson for US Special Forces.