Fact 1: Revered Writer was Born
On January 16, 1901, Frank Zamboni, the inventor and writer was born. He is best known for his creation of the ice resurfacing machine known as the Zamboni. His novel creation has revolutionized ice skating rinks across the globe and has provided a smoother, cleaner ice experience for millions of ice skaters since its invention.
Fact 2: Honoring Civil Rights Leader
In the United States, January 16 is celebrated as Martin Luther King Day. On this day, the nation honors the civil rights leader’s commemoration, which is celebrated on the third Monday in January.
Fact 3: Beatles First Live American Performance
The Beatles played their first live American show on this day in 1964. The "Fab Four" performed live on the late-night talk show, "The Jack Paar Show".
Fact 4: A Significant Day for Car Lovers
January 16 is a significant day for car enthusiasts as Detroit's Auto Show, the most premiere auto show in North America, usually starts on January 16. Big manufacturers usually unveil their new models on this day.
Fact 5: Global Celebration of Spicy Heat
January 16 is recognized worldwide as International Hot and Spicy Food Day. On this day, spicy food lovers rejoice and indulge in their favorite spicy dishes.
Fact 6: The Treaty of Madrid in 1526
On January 16, 1526, The Treaty of Madrid was signed by Francis I of France and Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor. Francis renounced his claims to Milan, Flanders and Artois, as part of the treaty.
Fact 7: A Tribute to Religious Freedom
In the United States, January 16 is recognized as Religious Freedom Day. This day pays tribute to the free exercise of religion, a right bestowed upon the American people by the First Amendment of the U.S Constitution.
Fact 8: Major Earthquake in Japan's History
January 16, 1995, is remembered for the devastating Kobe earthquake in Japan, which led to more than 5,500 deaths and significant infrastructural damage.
Fact 9: Prohibition Ratified
On January 16, 1919, the United States ratified the 18th Amendment to the Constitution, which made the production, transport, and sale of alcohol illegal, marking the beginning of Prohibition.
Fact 10: USSR Record Breaking Space Launch
On this date in 1969, Soviet space mission Soyuz 5 was launched into space. This mission holds significance as it was the first time an individual transferred from one spacecraft to another while in orbit.
Fact 11: Celebrating 'Nothing'
Believe it or not, January 16 is also known as National Nothing Day which was proposed in 1973 by columnist Harold Pullman Coffin. The day's aim is to provide Americans with one day where they can just sit without celebrating, observing, or honouring anything - literally, do nothing!
Fact 12: ‘Operation Desert Storm’ Commences
January 16, 1991 marks the day ‘Operation Desert Storm’ commenced with allied forces launching a massive air bombardment against Iraq in response to its invasion of Kuwait, marking the start of the Gulf War.
Fact 13: Foundation of the Modern Insurance Industry
January 16, 1839 marked the incorporation of the Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company, a significant milestone in the modern insurance industry and financial services institution in the USA.
Fact 14: US Federal Witness Protection Program Established
On January 16, 1967, the US Federal Witness Protection Program was established. The program is intended to protect threatened witnesses, before, during, and after a trial.
Fact 15: Record-Breaking Cold Weather
January 16, 1885, marked the coldest January 16 in United States history with Minden, Nevada, recording a freezing -23 degrees Fahrenheit.
Fact 16: Azerbaijan Celebrates its Most Prominent Composer
In Azerbaijan, January 16 is commemorated as the birthday of Uzeyir Hajibeyov, a prominent composer, conductor, publicist, playwright, teacher, and translator.
Fact 17: 'The Joker' Premieres at Sundance
On January 16, 2019, Todd Phillips' ‘Joker’ had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival where it received a standing ovation and ultimately would mark a new era for comic book character adaptations in cinemas.
Fact 18: Nelson Mandela Gets Suspended Sentence
On January 16, 1962, Nelson Mandela received a suspended sentence for incitement, marking a crucial stage in the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa.
Fact 19: A Day of Fashionista
In the United States, January 16 is observed as National Boot Day, a day dedicated to celebrating boots in all shapes, sizes, colors, and styles.
Fact 20: The Rise of Mercedes-Benz
On January 16th, 1886, Carl Benz filed a patent for his “vehicle powered by a gas engine," a three-wheeled automobile, which later evolved into the dynamic Mercedes-Benz brand. This marks a pivotal moment in automotive history.