And so on...
Fact 1: The Birth of Steam Power
On November 18, 1805, it was the day that essentially started the modern steam engine era. The inventor Charles Hatchett patented his method for making a substance called "niobium," a critical component to improving the mechanisms in early steam engine technology.
Fact 2: The Discovery of Niobium
November 18 was also a crucial day for modern technology but in a different century. On the same date in 1844, the chemist Heinrich Rose officially discovered the element Niobium, widely used today in various fields like the manufacturing of jet engines and rockets due to its heat-resistant properties.
Fact 3: The Emergence of Mickey Mouse
November 18 is also the day that a world-recognized cartoon character made his debut. The first Mickey Mouse film, "Steamboat Willie", was released on this day in 1928, marking the start of Disney's illustrious animation empire.
Fact 4: The Opening of the Air Force Memorial
On November 18, 2006, The United States Air Force Memorial was officially opened in Fort Myer, Virginia — a significant event for military and history buffs alike.
Fact 5: Pushkin's Inspiration Day
In Russian literary tradition, November 18 is celebrated as Pushkin's Inspiration Day. On this date in 1824, the famous poet Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin was inspired to write his novel in verse, "Eugene Onegin."
Fact 6: The Release of Electronic Gadgets
The 18th of November seems to be a lucky date for the release of electronic gadgets. Both Windows 1.0 (1985) and the Nintendo Wii (2006) were released on this date, which significantly impacted the digital world.
Fact 7: Establishment of Oman
On November 18, 1940, The Sultanate of Oman became an independent nation. Every year they celebrate this day as their National Day, commemorating the birth of the modern nation.
Fact 8: A Day of Liberation
Also known as the "Day of Mourning," November 18, 1918, marked the end of German occupation in Latvia during World War I. This day is celebrated annually as Latvia's Independence Day.
Fact 9: The Birth of Successful People
Many notable figures share a birthday on November 18. A few of these include actress Meg Ryan, Media Mogul Ted Turner, and Broadcast Journalist Megyn Kelly.
Fact 10: A Day for UNESCO Developments
On November 18, 1970, UNESCO adopted the Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export, and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property, which protects artifacts and historical sites around the world.
Fact 11: A Day to Quit Smoking
Every year on November 18, the American Cancer Society holds The Great American Smokeout, aimed at encouraging people to stop smoking and to raise awareness about the risks of tobacco use.
Fact 12: The Launch of Soviet Spacecrafts
In 1963 and 1975, Soviet Union launched two significant spacecrafts: The Mars 2 flyby module and Venera 10, both on November 18.
Fact 13: First Traffic Light Installed in the U.S.
In a milestone event for automobile travel, the first electric traffic light was installed in the U.S in Cleveland, Ohio on November 18, 1931.
Fact 14: Tall Building Day
Skyscraper day is celebrated on November 18 as New York City's One World Trade Center was officially opened in 2014. The building is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
Fact 15: Birth of the Dipping Bird
The now-iconic dipping bird toy was patented on November 18, 1946, by Miles V. Sullivan.
Fact 16: James Bond Movie Release
On November 18, 2006, Casino Royale, featuring Daniel Craig's first appearance as James Bond was released, a significant event for Bond movie fans.
Fact 17: An Important Day for Human Rights Activism
On Nov 18, 1991, Shiite Muslim kidnappers in Lebanon freed Anglican Church envoy Terry Waite and Thomas Sutherland after years of captivity during which they campaigned for peace and human rights.
Fact 18: A Day for Exceptional Cooking
In 1883, the use of standardized time zones started in the United States. Because of the “time” nature of the event, it is celebrated on November 18 as National Vichyssoise Day, a day for the famous leek-based soup - cooked and chilled.
Fact 19: The Last Public Execution in U.S.
November 18, 1936, Rainey Bethea was executed, marking the last public execution in the United States.
Fact 20: Day of the Astrologer
Every year on the 18th of November, Astrologers around the world celebrate International Astrology Day. This is the day when astrologers get together to exchange ideas, discuss future trends and celebrate their shared love for the stars.