On this day, February 23, several significant events happened throughout history. Here are a few notable ones:
303 - Roman Emperor Diocletian orders the persecution of Christians to begin, initiating the "Great Persecution" that lasted until 311.
1821 - Mexican War of Independence: General Agustín de Iturbide and Vicente Guerrero sign the "Plan of Iguala," declaring Mexico an independent constitutional monarchy.
1905 - The Rotary Club, a global network of community service organizations, is founded in Chicago, Illinois, by Paul P. Harris and three other businessmen.
1945 - World War II: The Battle of Iwo Jima begins when US Marines land on the island of Iwo Jima in Japan.
1991 - In Thailand, a military coup overthrows the civilian government and imposes martial law.