Today is Saturday, May 17, 2025, marking the 137th day of the year with 228 days left. On this day in history, a significant event took place in 1954 when the U.S. Supreme Court delivered the landmark Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka decision, declaring racially segregated public schools unconstitutional due to their inherent inequality.
In addition, in 1792, the Buttonwood Agreement was signed by 24 New York stockbrokers, officially establishing rules for securities trading and laying the foundation for the formation of the New York Stock Exchange. The inaugural Kentucky Derby was held on this day in 1875, with Aristides emerging victorious under the skilled guidance of jockey Oliver Lewis.
Moving forward to 1946, President Harry S. Truman took control of the nation’s railroads to avert a potential strike by engineers and trainmen. Fast forward to 1973, a special Senate committee began televised hearings on the Watergate scandal, uncovering significant political misconduct. In 1980, Miami was engulfed in riots following the acquittal of four former police officers accused of killing Black insurance executive Arthur McDuffie.
Tragedy struck in 1987 when an Iraqi warplane attacked the U.S. Navy frigate Stark in the Persian Gulf, resulting in the loss of 37 American sailors. On a more progressive note, Massachusetts became the first state to legalize same-sex marriages in 2004, marking a significant milestone for LGBTQ rights.
In 2015, a violent shootout erupted between motorcycle club members and police in Waco, Texas, leading to the death of nine bikers and injuries to 20 individuals. Celebrating birthdays today are notable figures such as musician Taj Mahal (83), boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard (69), and sports announcer Jim Nantz (66).
Other notable personalities include singer-composer Enya (64), TV host-comedian Craig Ferguson (63), and musician Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails (60). Actor Sasha Alexander (52), basketball Hall of Famer Tony Parker (43), and screenwriter-producer Lena Waithe (41) also celebrate their birthdays today.
Dancer-choreographer Derek Hough (40), former NFL quarterback Matt Ryan (40), and actor Nikki Reed (37) round out the list of individuals marking their special day on May 17th. Today’s historical events and celebrity birthdays serve as a reminder of the diverse and impactful moments that have shaped our world.
