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Today in History: February 19, 2026
Key events and birthdays on the 50th day of 2026
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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Today, February 19, 2026, marks the 50th day of the year. On this date in history, notable events include President Franklin D. Roosevelt signing Executive Order 9066 during World War II, which led to the internment of 125,000 people of Japanese ancestry, and the resignation of Cuban leader Fidel Castro in 2008 after nearly 50 years in power. Several famous figures, including singer Smokey Robinson, actor Jeff Daniels, and NBA star Nikola Jokić, also celebrate their birthdays today.
Why it matters
Reflecting on historical events and notable birthdays on a given day can provide valuable context and perspective on the ongoing evolution of our world. This particular date in history encompasses a range of significant milestones, from wartime policies that had lasting impacts to the transition of power in a major world leader.
The details
On February 19, 1942, during World War II, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, which paved the way for the internment of 125,000 people of Japanese ancestry, including U.S.-born citizens. In 2008, ailing Cuban leader Fidel Castro resigned the presidency after nearly a half-century in power, with his brother Raúl later named as his successor. The day also marks the birthdays of several notable figures, including singer Smokey Robinson, actor Jeff Daniels, and NBA center Nikola Jokić.
- On February 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066.
- In 2008, Fidel Castro resigned the Cuban presidency after nearly a half-century in power.
- Today, February 19, 2026, is the 50th day of the year.
The players
Franklin D. Roosevelt
The 32nd President of the United States, who signed Executive Order 9066 during World War II, leading to the internment of 125,000 people of Japanese ancestry.
Fidel Castro
The former President of Cuba, who resigned from power in 2008 after nearly 50 years in office.
Raúl Castro
The brother of Fidel Castro, who was named as the successor to the Cuban presidency after Fidel's resignation in 2008.
Smokey Robinson
An American singer, songwriter, and record producer, who is celebrating his 86th birthday today.
Jeff Daniels
An American actor, who is celebrating his 71st birthday today.
Nikola Jokić
A Serbian professional basketball player, who is celebrating his 31st birthday today.
What they’re saying
“Executive Order 9066 was a sad day in American history.”
— Gerald R. Ford, Former President of the United States (Associated Press)
What’s next
The legacy of Executive Order 9066 and its impact on Japanese Americans continues to be a subject of ongoing discussion and examination by historians and policymakers.
The takeaway
Today's historical events and notable birthdays serve as a reminder of the complex and ever-evolving nature of our world, with both positive and negative milestones shaping the course of history. Reflecting on these moments can provide valuable context and perspective as we navigate the present and look towards the future.
