In April of 1927, a large levee system in Mississippi collapsed, submerging over 23,000 miles of the Mississippi River valley beneath the waters of the Mississippi River. Over 200 people were killed and thousands more lost their homes, and public criticism of rescue efforts by authorities following the flood triggered shifts in political loyalties across the region.
More to Explore
This Day in History
May 23
Disaster
Tsunami hits Hawaii, 1960
A tsunami caused by an earthquake off the coast of Chile travels across the Pacific Ocean and kills 61 people in Hilo, Hawaii, on this day in 1960. The…
Recommended Articles
-
Civilian Conservation Corps
Formed in March 1933, the CCC, was a New Deal program intended to promote environmental conservation.
-
Northridge earthquake of 1994
On January 17, 1994, an earthquake rocked Los Angeles, California, killing 54 people and causing billions of dollars in damages.
-
Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire
The Triangle Shirtwaist Company factory burned down in 1911, killing 145 workers and raising awareness of dangerous factory conditions.
-
Challenger Disaster
In January 1986, the space shuttle Challenger broke up after liftoff, killing all seven astronauts aboard.
Fact Check We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, contact us!
Shop HISTORY
-
The Best of Modern Marvels DVD MegaSet
In this single stunning DVD collection you get the forty-five most popular, most amazing, most marvelous episodes of this landmark series - all for a single low, low price!
$99.95
Buy Now -
-
Swamp People Troy Mask
Want the ultimate Big Head? The Swamp People Troy Mask is for Cajuns and Cajuns at heart.
$44.99
Buy Now
Email Updates
Keep up with the latest History shows, online features, special offers and more.
Sign up
