Fact 1: The Birth of a President
On November 2, 1795, James K. Polk, the 11th President of the United States, was born. He was the first president for whom the people voted. Given that he was born in a log cabin in North Carolina and grew up to be the leader of the country, his inspiring rags-to-riches story adds a sense of historical significance to this date.
Fact 2: The Day of the Dead's Second Day
November 2 is the second day of a famous Mexican holiday, Dia de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead. During this celebration, families honor their loved ones who have passed away. The second day typically sees the most elaborate celebrations as families visit the graves of their loved ones.
Fact 3: The Day of a Historic Flight
In 1947 on this day, Howard Hughes piloted the maiden (and only) flight of the "H-4 Hercules", also known as the "Spruce Goose". This wooden monstrosity is still the largest flying boat ever constructed and it has the largest wingspan of any aircraft in history at 320 feet and 11 inches.
Fact 4: The Celebration of International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists
The United Nations observes November 2 as the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists in order to raise awareness of the violence and crimes committed against journalists and to fight against impunity for these crimes.
Fact 5: Creation of a Renowned TV Channel
November 2, 1983, marked the launch of the Disney Channel in the UK. It was the first international Disney Channel, which ultimately turned into a global brand that we now recognize today.
Fact 6: The Mysterious Disappearance of Amelia Earhart
In 1930, on November 2, Amelia Earhart set out to break yet another aviation record. This time, she planned a solo endurance test over Los Angeles. Unfortunately, she disappeared during the flight and did not complete her endeavor, thus adding to her mythic status.
Fact 7: A Great Event in Infamy
On November 2, 1936, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) initiated the world's first regular high definition television service. The station was broadcasted from Alexandra Palace in London marking a significant moment in the history of broadcasting.
Fact 8: The IRA Ceasefire
In 1994, the Irish Republican Army (IRA) declared an end to its ceasefire, adding a significant moment in Irish history to the date of November 2.
Fact 9: The Birthday of an Oscar Winner
November 2, 1962, is the birthday of American actress, Demi Moore, who is known for her iconic roles in films such as ‘Ghost’ and ‘A Few Good Men.’ She is a three-time Golden Globe nominee and is one of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood.
Fact 10: Birth of the World’s Bestselling Living Author
Famed author and Harvard professor, Stephen King, celebrates his birthday on November 2. King is known for his contributions to the horror genre with books like 'Carrie,' 'The Shining,' and 'It.'
Fact 11: The Establishment of North Dakota
November 2, 1889, is the date North Dakota became the 39th state in the United States of America. This date holds a special place in the heart of North Dakotans who equate this with a sense of pride in their state’s individuality.
Fact 12: All Soul’s Day
The Catholic Church commemorates All Soul's Day on November 2. This day, believers remember and pray for the souls who have passed into the afterlife and have not yet reached heaven.
Fact 13: Creation of the World’s First Thriller
On the same date in 1960, Alfred Hitchcock’s film "Psycho" was released in the UK, creating the world's first true thriller and changing the face of horror cinema forever.
Fact 14: The Birthday of an Indian Cricket Legend
For millions of cricket fans, the 2nd of November is a special day as it is the birthday of Sachin Tendulkar, one of the greatest cricketers of all time, known as ‘The God of Cricket’ in his home country.
Fact 15: Scientific Advancement
November 2, 2000, saw the first crew arrival at the International Space Station, a momentous day for space exploration and scientific advancement.
Fact 16: The Atomic Theory
British chemist and physicist John Dalton first announced his atomic theory on November 2, 1803. This theory formed the basis of modern chemistry.
Fact 17: Landmark in Women's Rights
In 1920 on November 2, American actress and producer, Mabel Normand, became the first woman granted a studio contract. This event played a significant role in the women's rights movement, particularly in Hollywood.
Fact 18: Birth of an Iconic Fashion Designer
November 2, also marks the birth of Anna Wintour, London-born editor-in-chief of Vogue, in 1949. Known for her iconic bob haircut and sunglasses, Wintour's birthday adds glitz to November 2.
Fact 19: An Examination of Zero
In 2008 on this day, the symbol '0' was recognized as the number zero in Indian numeric systems. The recognition of zero as a number in its own right marked a milestone in world mathematics.
Fact 20: The Birth of a Horror Writer
American novelist, Neil Gaiman, was born on November 2, 1960. Known for his horror fantasy novels, the memorable date marks the birth of one of the greatest writers in the genre. An entire generation grew up reading Gaiman’s works like 'Coraline' and 'The Graveyard Book', making November 2 a delightful date for his fans.