June 22 stands out in history for major turning points in war, politics, science and sport. The date witnessed Germany's invasion of the Soviet Union during World War II, Napoleon's second abdication as French emperor and Galileo's forced recantation before the Inquisition. It also saw the signing of the G.I. Bill in the United States, a landmark measure for returning World War II veterans. In the world of sport, Diego Maradona's controversial "Hand of God" goal became one of football's most famous moments. Together, these events illustrate the lasting historical significance of June 22 across centuries.
