Fact 1: It's the Second National Day of Iceland
You are probably aware that Iceland celebrates its National day on June 17. But do you know why this specific date was chosen? It's because the Republic of Iceland was formally established on this day in 1944, making June 17th the birth date of the Icelandic nation. The day is celebrated with parades, fireworks, music, and ceremonies involving all regions of the country, which makes this day one of the most important and entertaining days in the country’s calendar.
Fact 2: The Union of Watermelon Growers Day
June 17 marks an unusual celebration in Japan. It's the Union of Watermelon Growers Day. Why watermelons? Apparently, this date signifies the time that watermelons hit the peak of their growth. So, it is a sort of celebration for the farmers and an announcement for the consumers about the impending arrival of juicy, sweet watermelons in the markets!
Fact 3: Place in History - Battle of Bunker Hill
June 17 holds a significant place in American History as it marks the anniversary of the Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775, during the American Revolutionary War. This battle, despite being a loss for the colonies, proved that the newly formed American militia could stand up against the British army, boosting the morale of the fledgling country.
Fact 4: Venetian architect Palladio's birthday
June 17 is the birth date of the Italian Renaissance architect, Andrea Palladio. Born in 1508, Palladio rose to prominence for his architectural works that later influenced modern Western architecture. His designs inspired the Neoclassical architectural movement in the 18th century and the Palladian architectural style, named after him, became popular in Britain.
Fact 5: South African Youth Day
June 17 holds a great significance in the history of South Africa as it marks the Youth Day. This day commemorates the Soweto Uprising that happened on June 16, 1976, when thousands of students protested against the government’s directive that education would be given in Afrikaans instead of their native language. The protests continued into June 17 and marked a turning point in the fight against apartheid.
Fact 6: Global Garbage Man Day
On June 17 every year, we celebrate the Global Garbage Man Day. It's a day to show our appreciation for the hard work done by those who keep our communities clean. The holiday encourages individuals to leave a note, provide refreshments, or simply say a heartfelt "thank you" to their local waste management workers.
Fact 7: National Apple Strudel Day
Yes, you read it right! June 17 is the day to celebrate the delicious pastry, Apple Strudel. Known to have originated in Austria, this delectable dessert has found its place in various cultures and cuisine around the world with its perfect blend of tart apples, sweet raisins, and flaky pastry.
Fact 8: Mandela's Imprisonment
June 17 marks the beginning of Nelson Mandela's life sentence in 1964. Mandela, along with seven other activists, was sentenced for his efforts to overthrow the South African apartheid government. The day symbolizes a significant moment in the fight for racial equality.
Fact 9: First Woman in Space
June 17 is a significant day in the history of space exploration. On this day in 1963, Soviet astronaut Valentina Tereshkova became the first woman to ever travel to space in a mission that lasted almost three days.
Fact 10: Icelandic National Costume Day
June 17 isn’t just marked as National Day in Iceland, but also as the National Costume Day. On this day, individuals will often wear the Icelandic National Dress, known as Þjóðbúningurinn, during the National Day festivities, proudly showcasing the colorful and intricate traditional Icelandic attire.
Fact 11: Edward Grieg's Birthday
Edward Grieg, the renowned Norwegian composer, was born on June 17. His music, which often incorporated Norwegian folk elements, continues to be celebrated worldwide for its unique, lyrical beauty.
Fact 12: The Birth of Ford Model T
June 17 marks an important day in the history of automobiles. On this day, in 1903, the Ford Motor Company was established. This company’s Model T revolutionized the industry and made cars accessible to the common man.
Fact 13: Constitution Day in the UK
June 17 in the United Kingdom is celebrated as the Constitution Day. It commemorates the ratification of the Magna Carta, a seminal document in the history of constitutional law, in 1215. It was on this day that King John of England signed the Magna Carta, limiting his powers as a king and laying down legal rights for his people.
Fact 14: Battle of Solferino
June 17 is remembered for the Battle of Solferino, fought in 1859 during the Second Italian War of Independence. The aftermath of this battle led to the establishment of the International Committee of the Red Cross and the signing of the first Geneva Convention.
Fact 15: The Launching of the Vanguard 1
June 17 proved momentous in the annals of space exploration. On this day in 1954, the first solar-powered satellite, Vanguard 1, was launched. It remains the oldest man-made satellite still in orbit today.
Fact 16: Statpacks Company Establishment
June 17 marks the founding of Statpacks, a company dedicated to creating innovative emergency medical bags for the modern EMT, in the year 2003. The company’s story begins with a goal to revolutionize the way first responders carry equipment and has since then become a key player in the medical industry.
Fact 17: National Lobster Day
If Apple Strudel Day wasn't enough, June 17 also commemorates National Lobster Day! It's a special day to enjoy and appreciate the culinary delight that lobster brings to seafood lovers everywhere.
Fact 18: Birth of Igor Stravinsky
Music lovers might know that June 17 is the birthdate of the famous Russian composer, pianist, and conductor Igor Stravinsky. Born in 1882, Stravinsky is remembered for his contributions to the world of music with works like "The Rite of Spring" and "The Firebird.”
Fact 19: Discovery of The Statue of Antinous
On June 17, in 1732, the remarkably well-preserved Statue of Antinous was discovered in the ruins of Hadrian's Villa, near Tivoli, Italy. This statue is now housed in the Vatican Museums and is considered one of the most highly esteemed pieces of the Vatican's art collection.
Fact 20: The First Monte Carlo Rally
June 17 holds significance in the world of automobile racing. On this day in 1925, the first Monte Carlo Rally took place. This famous rally motorsport event, organized by the Automobile Club de Monaco, attracts competitors from around the world even today.