Japan formally surrendered, officially bringing an end to the six years of World War II.
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Google launched Google Chrome, its own cross-platform web browser.
The largest known solar storm occurred, causing electrical problems to telegraph services.
Egypt's state TV lifted the ban on veiled news presenters.
Great Britain and its colonies spent their last day using the Julian calendar.
The Wars of Castro ended when Pope Innocent X and his forces destroyed the Italian city of Castro.