Fact 1: The Birth of Geronimo
On May 13, 1829, Geronimo, who would later become a renowned Apache leader and warrior was born. The legendary freedom fighter resisted Mexican and U.S settlements on Apache tribal lands.
Fact 2: Official Ratification of The Country of Finland
On May 13, 1918, Finland's existence as a sovereign nation was officially approved by the countries Russia, Germany, and Sweden, making it a memorable day in the country's history.
Fact 3: The Invention of Crash Test Dummies
Did you know that the classic crash test dummy was patented on May 13, 1952? These dummies have since become crucial safety tools, instrumental in testing the impact of car crashes on humans.
Fact 4: Establishment of the Massachusetts Bay Colony
On May 13, 1624, the Massachusetts Bay Colony was officially established in present-day Salem. This marked a significant moment in the early colonization period of America.
Fact 5: Stevie Wonder’s Birthday
Legendary musician Stevie Wonder celebrates his birthday on May 13. The superstar, known for hits like "Isn't She Lovely" and "Superstition," was born on this day in 1950.
Fact 6: First Airplane Jump from Charles E. Taylor
Charles E. Taylor, known as the father of aviation maintenance, took his first ever airplane jump on May 13, 1912. This marked a significant milestone in the history of aviation.
Fact 7: Pope John Paul II Assassination Attempt
On May 13, 1981, Pope John Paul II survived an assassination attempt. The Pope was shot four times, but miraculously survived and went on to serve another 24 years.
Fact 8: Lucky Number 13
For some cultures, May 13 is considered a lucky day, as it is associated with the number 13. While western cultures often consider '13' unlucky, Eastern cultures like the Chinese consider 13 to be lucky.
Fact 9: The Spot Kick Rule in American Football
On this day in 1896, the American Football Association introduced the spot kick rule, a technical specification which transformed how the game was played.
Fact 10: The First Air Freight Delivery
The world's first air freight delivery took place on May 13, 1918. The plane was loaded with 200 pounds of silk and flew from Washington D.C. to Philadelphia.
Fact 11: The Birth of Daphne du Maurier
Famed English author Daphne du Maurier, known for classics like "Rebecca" and "Jamaica Inn," was born on May 13, 1907. Her unique writing style continues to inspire many today.
Fact 12: World Cocktail Day
May 13 is also World Cocktail Day, celebrating the date when the term "cocktail" was first defined in print. Make sure to enjoy your favorite concoction on that day!
Fact 13: The World's Oldest Submarine
On May 13, 1787, the world's first submarine was tested on the Thames in London. This significant milestone pushed the boundaries of exploration and military tactics.
Fact 14: The Great Fire of Jamestown
On May 13, 1607, the Great Fire of Jamestown took place, marking a significant event in the early colonial history of America.
Fact 15: The Apollo 10’s Test Flight
On May 13, 1969, Apollo 10 was launched from the Kennedy Space Center. It was the fourth crewed mission in the United States Apollo space program and was meant to serve as a dress rehearsal for the Apollo 11.
Fact 16: The Establishment of Georgia
On May 13, 1733, Georgia was established as the Thirteenth Colony in the USA. It was named after King George II of England.
Fact 17: Inauguration of Radio Broadcast
Reginald Fessenden conducted the first ever radio broadcast on May 13, 1900. That moment forever changed the way we communicate and consume news worldwide.
Fact 18: The Birth of Ritchie Valens
Renowned Rock-n-Roll legend Ritchie Valens, famously remembered for his hit "La Bamba," was born on May 13, 1941. His music continues to inspire countless artists around the world.
Fact 19: The England-Portugal Alliance
On May 13, 1386, England and Portugal signed the Treaty of Windsor, initiating one of the oldest diplomatic alliances in history that remains active to this day.
Fact 20: The Unveiling of The Treasures of Tut’s Tomb
May 13, 1923 marked the day when the innermost chamber of Pharaoh Tutankhamun’s tomb, filled with invaluable treasures, was unveiled to the public. This discovery stirred international interest in archeology and ancient civilizations.
These fascinating facts about May 13 show us the remarkable variety of historical, cultural, and scientific events connected to this one date. From the heights of aviation to the depths of submarines, and from the kingdoms of Pharaohs to modern-day nations, there's a lot more to May 13 than meets the eye!