Fact 1: The Autumnal Equinox
A hallmark of September 23 is the autumnal equinox, also known as the September equinox. During this day, observers at the Earth's equator will see the sun directly overhead at noon. This is one of only two days when both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres experience roughly equal amounts of daylight.
Fact 2: International Day of Sign Languages
In 2017, the United Nations declared September 23 as the International Day of Sign Languages. This day serves to raise awareness about the importance of sign language in the full realization of the human rights of individuals who are deaf.
Fact 3: Remembering American Soldiers
In the United States, September 23 is celebrated as National Gold Star Mother's Day. This is a day to recognize and honor those that have lost their son or daughter while serving the country in the United States Armed Forces.
Fact 4: A Day to Celebrate Bunnies
Interestingly enough, September 23 is also known as International Rabbit Day. This is a day to promote the welfare and care of rabbits, both wild and domestic.
Fact 5: A Sad Day in Islamic History
For Muslims, September 23, 680 AD was the day of the tragic event of Karbala. The event occurred on the tenth day of Muharram (Islamic calendar), known as Ashura, but later Sunni historians started recording it as happening on 23rd September.
Fact 6: The Birth of a Music Legend
Music legend Bruce Springsteen was born on September 23, 1949. Known as “The Boss”, Springsteen has released a series of critically acclaimed albums and is known for his energetic stage presence.
Fact 7: The Beginning of Saudi Arabia
On September 23, 1932, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was founded by Abdulaziz Ibn Saud. This day is now celebrated as Saudi Arabia’s National Day.
Fact 8: The Debut of a Favorite TV Show
The popular sitcom, Friends, made its television debut on September 23, 1994, and went on to leave an indelible imprint on popular culture.
Fact 9: Birth of the iPod
On September 23, 2001, Apple released the first iPod. It revolutionized the way people listen to music and had a significant impact on the music industry.
Fact 10: An Important Day in Science
On this day in 1846, planet Neptune was first observed by Johann Gottfried Galle. Although it was not the first time Neptune was observed, this was the first time its identity as a planet was confirmed.
Fact 11: A Famous Silent Film's Premiere
On this day in 1927, The Jazz Singer, the first feature-length motion picture with synchronized dialogue sequences, premieres at The Strand Theatre in New York City.
Fact 12: A Day of Protest in History
On September 23, 1957, thousands of students in Little Rock, Arkansas staged a one-day strike to protest the integration of Central High School. This event played a crucial role in the American civil rights movement.
Fact 13: Revolution in the Dominican Republic
On September 23, 1965, a counter-coup in the Dominican Republic led to the end of a civil war and the reestablishment of constitutional rule.
Fact 14: First Published Book on Environmental Awareness
On this day in 1962, Rachel Carson's book "Silent Spring", which sparked the environmental movement, was published.
Fact 15: Celebrating Bisexuality
Since 1999, September 23 is observed as Celebrate Bisexuality Day or Bi Visibility Day. This day promotes bisexual visibility and challenges bisexual stereotypes and misconceptions.
Fact 16: Coincidental Presidential Death
September 23, 1881, saw the death of President James A. Garfield. He was shot a few weeks before, marking him as the second U.S. President to be assassinated.
Fact 17: A Leap Towards Universal Rights
On this day in 1952, Richard Nixon made his "Checkers speech", seen as starting the political usage of television for emotional appeals to voters.
Fact 18: Establishment of a Prestigious Award
On September 23, 1905, Norway and Sweden signed the "Karlstad treaty", leading to the peaceful dissolution of the Union between Sweden and Norway. The Nobel Peace Prize, named after Alfred Nobel, has its roots here.
Fact 19: A Spooky Movie Premiere
The cult classic "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre" had its premiere on September 23, 1974, becoming a game-changer for horror cinema.
Fact 20: Celebrating Punctuation
Last but not least, September 23 is National Punctuation Day in the United States — a day to celebrate commas, semi-colons, and exclamation points. It's a fun day of promoting proper punctuation in everyday writing.