Fact 1: A Ragamuffin Day Tradition
The first day of November was once known as “Ragamuffin Day” in parts of the United States. Kids would dress up in rags and go from door to door, asking "Anything for Thanksgiving?", and they would collect candies, fruits, and pennies. Though it's rarely observed nowadays, it's one of the fascinating historical tidbits about the day.
Fact 2: November 1st is All Saints' Day
The first day of November marks All Saints' Day, a holy day of obligation for many Catholic followers. The day honors all the saints, known and unknown. This Christian holiday dates back to the 7th century, prior to which it was broadly celebrated on May 13.
Fact 3: Mexico’s Day of the Dead
In Mexican culture, November 1st is known as “Dia de los Muertos,” or “Day of the Dead.” This is a day in which families remember their loved ones who have deceased, creating beautifully decorated altars with their favorite foods and drinks.
Fact 4: A Day of Independence
On November 1, 1954, Algeria began its struggle for independence from France. This day is now widely recognized and celebrated as Revolutionary Day, marking the beginning of the Algerian War.
Fact 5: The College Football Championship Day
College football fans know November 1st all too well. It's often referred to as the start of the "championship month," as many important games are scheduled throughout November that play a crucial role in determining the bowl standings.
Fact 6: Van Morrison's Birthday
Legendary musician Van Morrison, who gave the world hits like 'Brown Eyed Girl' and 'Moondance', was born on November 1st, 1945. Since then, he has gone on to become one of the most influential artists in rock music history.
Fact 7: An Eclipsing Event
A historical astronomical event took place on November 1, 1919. A rare hybrid solar eclipse was visible from eastern North America, the Atlantic Ocean, and western Europe. It was categorized as a hybrid because it was a total solar eclipse along some parts of its path and an annular solar eclipse in others.
Fact 8: The Launch of World's Second Artificial Satellite
The Soviet Union launched Sputnik 2 carrying Laika, the first animal ever to orbit the Earth, on November 1, 1957. This marked a significant stride in space exploration making November 1st a memorable day in history.
Fact 9: A Significant Day for Literature
November 1st also marks the beginning of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo). It is an annual international event in which participants aim to write a 50,000-word novel in one month. The event has been in existence since 1999.
Fact 10: The End of Daylight Saving Time
In the United States, Daylight Saving Time often ends on the first Sunday in November. Individuals get an extra hour of sleep that night, traditionally setting clocks back one hour.
Fact 11: London Gatwick Airport Opens
On November 1st, 1958, the London Gatwick Airport was officially opened by Her Majesty The Queen. It marked a new era of flight for Britons, and till today, it remains one of the busiest airports in the country.
Fact 12: November 1st as a Holiday in Many Countries
November 1st is a public holiday in many countries all over the world, including, but not limited to, France, Belgium, Hungary, Poland, Italy, Spain, and the Philippines.
Fact 13: Birth of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC)
On November 1, 1936, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) officially started its broadcasting service. Since then, the CBC has played a crucial role in delivering news, entertainment, and sports content throughout the country and much of North America.
Fact 14: The Day of Seven Billion
The United Nations declared November 1, 2011, as the day the world’s population reached seven billion people. This day was designated to highlight the challenges such as poverty, the environment, and health issues related to a rapidly growing population.
Fact 15: The Birth of Nerve Gas
Notorious nerve gas Sarin was first recorded synthesized on November 1, 1938. Originally developed in Germany, it's considered one of the most potent warfare agents, infamous for its lethality.
Fact 16: Victoria’s Secret's Origin
The highly recognized and iconic brand, Victoria's Secret, was founded by Roy and Gaye Raymond on November 1, 1977. The brand is synonymous with women's lingerie and beauty products and continues to be successful to date.
Fact 17: A Pope’s Inauguration
On November 1, 1896, Pope Pius XI was inaugurated as the 259th Pope, and his pontificate lasted until his death in 1939. His reign is known for introducing the Catholic Action and the reformation of canon law.
Fact 18: Michelangelo’s Divine Talent
November 1, 1512 marked the completion and reveal of the Renaissance master Michelangelo’s paintings on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. These paintings, including the renowned ‘The Creation of Adam,’ are some of the most famous artworks in the world.
Fact 19: A Magazine Makes History
Popular Science Monthly, one of the oldest and most influential magazines in the world, was first published on November 1, 1872. It caters to a large population of science enthusiasts and remains widely read today.
Fact 20: Debut of The Ed Sullivan Show
November 1, 1959, saw the premiere of the iconic 'The Ed Sullivan Show.' The show brought many legendary musicians into American living rooms, including Elvis Presley, the Beatles, and Jackson 5, among others. This day marked a significant change in television and popular culture.