Fact 1: It’s World Autism Awareness Day
April 2 is designated as World Autism Awareness Day, initiated by the United Nations in December 2007. It is a day dedicated to spreading awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) around the world. On this day, various events and activities are organized globally to foster understanding and acceptance for people with autism.
Fact 2: The Second Day of National Poetry Month
April is known as National Poetry Month in the United States and Canada. So, April 2nd is the second day of a month-long celebration of poetry and its vital role in culture. On this day, poetry readings and workshops take place in various parts of the countries to celebrate the art of poetry.
Fact 3: International Children's Book Day
Interestingly enough, April 2 is also International Children's Book Day. It marks the birthday of classic fairy-tale author Hans Christian Andersen. This day is dedicated to promoting the love of reading and children’s books.
Fact 4: First U.S Shopping mall Opened on April 2
On April 2nd, 1956, the first-ever shopping mall in the United States, Southdale Center, opened in Edina, Minnesota. The mall’s concept was designed by Austrian-born architect Victor Gruen. This entirely enclosed, two-story mall became the archetype for future shopping centers.
Fact 5: A day in the history of Pisa's Tower
On April 2, 1172, the construction of the Tower of Pisa project began. The tower took about 200 years to build due to various wars. Today, it's one of the world's most famous landmarks mainly because of its unintended tilt.
Fact 6: Rodney King Riots in Los Angeles
April 2, 1992, doesn't boast a fun fact but a significant historical event. The Rodney King riots in Los Angeles, which led to profound social changes and reforms, began on this day. These riots were the result of police brutality against an African-American motorist, Rodney King.
Fact 7: Star Spangled Banner turns official
The "Star Spangled Banner" was adopted as the national anthem of the United States on April 2, 1931. The lyrics come from the "Defence of Fort M'Henry," a poem written in 1814 by Francis Scott Key.
Fact 8: Change of currency in France
On April 2, 2002, France switched from the French Franc to the Euro as its official currency. This was a significant event as part of a unifying move across many European nations.
Fact 9: The debut of "2001: A Space Odyssey"
Stanley Kubrick's revolutionary film "2001: A Space Odyssey" premiered in Washington D.C. on April 2, 1968. The film is considered to be one of the most influential in the history of cinema.
Fact 10: Birth of Charlemagne
Charlemagne, also known as Charles the Great, is believed to have been born on April 2, 742 AD. He became the King of the Franks and Lombards and later the Emperor of Romans, playing a significant role in shaping the map and the future of Europe.
Fact 11: Giacomo Casanova's Birthday
The world renowned Italian playboy, Giacomo Casanova, was born on April 2, 1725 in Venice. His name is now synonymous with the art of seduction.
Fact 12: Release of first iPad
Apple Inc. released its first generation of the iPad in the United States on April 2, 2010. This event not only revolutionized the field of tablet computers but also paved new directions for mobile technology applications.
Fact 13: The Launch of Gmail
Google launched its free, advertising-supported email service, Gmail on April 2, 2004. Most people first thought it was an April Fools' Day joke, given its unprecedented offering of 1GB storage at the time.
Fact 14: The American Civil War Ended
On April 2, 1865, the American Civil War unofficially came to an end when Confederate forces evacuated Richmond, Virginia, the Confederate capital.
Fact 15: Breakthrough in Nuclear Technology
On April 2, 1952, the world's first ever nuclear power plant, "EBR-I" (Experimental Breeder Reactor-I), became the first to generate a substantial amount of electricity from nuclear energy.
Fact 16: Fact about Pop Music
On April 2, 1977, Fleetwood Mac's "Rumours" album went to No.1 on the US album chart. The album is considered one of the greatest and has won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1978.
Fact 17: A Significant Day for Beatles' Fans
On April 2, 1970, Paul McCartney issued a press release announcing that The Beatles were breaking up. This day is considered one of the most significant in music history.
Fact 18: Establishment of the American Automobile Association
The American Automobile Association (AAA), a federation of motor clubs throughout North America, was established on April 2, 1902. It has been advocating for driver's safety and rights since its inception.
Fact 19: The Disappearance of a Prime Minister
Harold Holt, the 17th Prime Minister of Australia, went missing while swimming at Cheviot Beach near Portsea, Victoria on April 2, 1967, and was presumed drowned.
Fact 20: A Proud Moment for Women
On April 2, 1917, Jeanette Rankin took her seat as the first woman member of the U.S House of Representatives. Her successful run for the House of Representatives in Montana was a significant milestone in women's rights in America.