Fact 1: World Sickle Cell Day
On June 19, every year, World Sickle Cell Day is recognized. This day was chosen to raise the public understanding of sickle cell disease and the struggles sufferers and their families endure.
Fact 2: The Longest Day of the Year
For the Northern Hemisphere, June 19 is typically one of the longest days of the year. This day falls very close to the summer solstice which is the longest day of the year, making daylight last longer than usual.
Fact 3: Juneteenth
June 19 is also known as Juneteenth, which is a blend of the words 'June' and 'nineteenth'. It marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans were informed about their freedom, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed.
Fact 4: Amy Johnson's Solo Flight
On June 19, 1930, pioneering aviator Amy Johnson arrived in Australia. She had flown solo from England, becoming the first woman to do so, and the journey took 19 days.
Fact 5: The Dot-Com Bubble Burst
The so-called Dot-Com Bubble, a speculative market rise driven by investments in internet-based companies, burst on June 19, 2000. The dramatic crash that followed led to many internet startups going out of business.
Fact 6: The Start of Garlic Festivals
In California, the Gilroy Garlic Festival, which would later inspire similar events around the world, begins its annual run every June 19. The festival features various garlic-infused foods, including the famous garlic ice cream.
Fact 7: The Formation of the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps
It was on June 19, 1942, when the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) was established to work with the United States Army during World War II, marking a significant milestone in women's military involvement.
Fact 8: The Birth of Moe Howard
American actor and comedian, Moe Howard, famous for his role in 'The Three Stooges', was born on June 19, 1897. His iconic bowl haircut and eye-poking antics are fondly remembered around the world.
Fact 9: Rosa Parks' Courageous Action
Civil rights icon, Rosa Parks, was arrested on June 19, 1956, for violating segregation laws in Montgomery, Alabama, her courageous action was a critical moment in the Civil Rights Movement.
Fact 10: Lou Gehrig's Career High
June 19, 1925, marks the day when famous baseball player Lou Gehrig hit his first career grand slam. He went on to become one of the most celebrated players in the history of American baseball.
Fact 11: Patty Smyth's Birthday
Patty Smyth, an American singer and songwriter, was born on June 19, 1957. She is recognized for her powerful performances both as a solo artist and as the frontwoman for the band Scandal.
Fact 12: The Publication of Bluest Eyes
On June 19, 1970, the first novel by renowned author Toni Morrison titled "The Bluest Eye" was published, setting the stage for her celebrated literary career.
Fact 13: The Debut of Garfield
Popular comic strip character, Garfield, created by Jim Davis made its debut on June 19, 1978. Garfield’s love for lasagna and his lazy, sardonic, yet endearing personality quickly charmed audiences worldwide.
Fact 14: Voyager 1’s Jupiter Discovery
On June 19, 1979, NASA's Voyager 1 discovered the first of Jupiter's rings. The discovery of the ring system added to our understanding of the complexities of the solar system.
Fact 15: Salman Rushdie's Birthday
Famed British-Indian novelist, Salman Rushdie was born on June 19, 1947. He rose to fame with novels like 'Midnight's Children' and 'The Satanic Verses', becoming one of the most prominent contemporary authors.
Fact 16: The First Drive-In Theater
The first-ever Drive-In Theater was opened on June 19, 1933, in Camden, New Jersey, providing a unique movie-watching experience and becoming an iconic symbol of American culture.
Fact 17: Canada's National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 19 is also recognized as National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada. The day is set aside to celebrate the unique heritage and diverse cultures of Aboriginal Peoples in Canada.
Fact 18: The Founding of the City of La Paz
La Paz, the administrative capital of Bolivia, was founded on June 19, 1548. Known for its unique topography and vibrant culture, the city attracts visitors from around the world.
Fact 19: The Death of Blaise Pascal
The 17th-century French philosopher, mathematician, and physicist Blaise Pascal passed away on June 19, 1662. His significant contributions to science and philosophy continue to influence thinkers today.
Fact 20: The Birth of Kathleen Turner
Hollywood actress Kathleen Turner, known for her performances in films like 'Romancing the Stone', was born on June 19, 1954. Her distinctive husky voice continues to charm audiences.