1863: The Battle of Chattanooga commenced, marking a key engagement in the American Civil War. 1936: LIFE magazine released its inaugural issue, revolutionizing photojournalism. 1940: Romania became an official member of the Axis powers by signing the Tripartite Pact. 1942: In World War II, Soviet forces successfully encircled German troops at Stalingrad, a decisive moment … Continue reading This Day In History