Fact 1: National Day of the Cowboy
July 22 is recognized as the National Day of the Cowboy. It is annually observed on this date to honour the contribution of cowboys and cowgirls to American culture and heritage. Special events, poems, music, and festivities mark this day, celebrating the iconic and indispensable cowboy.
Fact 2: Selena Gomez’s Birthday
Popular singer and actress Selena Gomez was born on July 22, 1992, in Grand Prairie, Texas. She gained significant fame from her role as Alex Russo in the Disney Channel series "Wizards of Waverly Place" and has since become a renowned figure in the music industry.
Fact 3: Anniversary of the End of the Spanish Civil War
On July 22, 1936, the Spanish Civil War started, a brutal conflict that saw the Spanish Republic fight against a right-wing military group. It was on this day in 1939 that the war officially ended, marking a significant date in Spain's history.
Fact 4: The City of Toronto's Birthday
Toronto, the largest city in Canada, was founded on this day in 1793. Originally named "Town of York," it was later renamed as "Toronto" in 1834. The city is well-known for its vibrancy and cultural diversity.
Fact 5: Pi Approximation Day
Significantly for mathematics enthusiasts, July 22 is recognized as Pi Approximation Day owing to its representation as 22/7 in the day/month date format, which is a common approximation of the mathematical symbol Pi.
Fact 6: Alexander the Great’s Death Anniversary
July 22 allegedly marks the death anniversary of ancient Macedonian ruler Alexander the Great. Known as one of history's brilliant military strategists and tacticians, he died in the year 323 BC.
Fact 7: Falkirk Wheel’s Opening Ceremony
The Falkirk Wheel, the only rotating boat lift of its kind in the world, held its opening ceremony on July 22, 2002, at Falkirk, Scotland. It is a unique magnificence of engineering that connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal.
Fact 8: Composer Johann Sebastian Bach's Birthday
Acclaimed baroque composer Johann Sebastian Bach was born on July 22, 1685. The composer, known for his exceptional skill and ingenuity, made significant contributions to the western classical music tradition.
Fact 9: World Brain Day
The World Federation of Neurology established World Brain Day on July 22. The aim is to raise awareness about brain health and promote a better understanding of neurological disorders.
Fact 10: National Mango Day
July 22 is also National Mango Day in the United States. Mango lovers celebrate the day by enjoying this sweet and aromatic tropical fruit in various forms - fresh, frozen, canned or dried.
Fact 11: Anniversary of John Dillinger's Death
July 22 marks the death anniversary of infamous American gangster John Dillinger. He was shot by the FBI in 1934, ending his crime spree during the "public enemy era" of the United States.
Fact 12: National Hammock Day
July 22 is recognized as National Hammock Day, a day to celebrate and enjoy the simple pleasures of hammock relaxation. Whether in a backyard or on a tropical beach, this day encourages taking it easy.
Fact 13: The Landsat Program was initiated
The Landsat program, a series of satellite missions jointly managed by NASA and the U.S. Geological Survey, started on July 22, 1972. It collects valuable data for a wide range of direct, societal benefits to humans and environmental understanding.
Fact 14: Formation of the Department of Homeland Security
On July 22, 2002, U.S. President George W. Bush signed legislation creating the Department of Homeland Security. The department was established in response to the September 11 attacks.
Fact 15: National Penuche Fudge Day
July 22 is also celebrated as National Penuche Fudge Day. Penuche is a type of candy made from brown sugar, butter, and milk, and this day gives you the perfect excuse to indulge in this delicious sweet treat.
Fact 16: First Woman Swims English Channel
On July 22, 1926, Gertrude Ederle became the first woman to swim across the English Channel. Not only did she achieve this feat, but she also completed the swim faster than any man before her.
Fact 17: Birthday of Oscar de la Renta
Renowned fashion designer Oscar de la Renta was born on July 22, 1932. His designs have been adorned by numerous celebrities, from Hollywood stars to royalty.
Fact 18: Miniature Golf Day
In some parts of the United States, July 22 is celebrated as Miniature Golf Day, acknowledging the fun and accessible version of the traditional sport, enjoyed by people of all ages.
Fact 19: First Test Tube Baby is Born
On July 22, 1978, the world's first baby was born using in vitro fertilization (IVF). Louise Joy Brown's birth marked a significant medical landmark and fueled advancements in reproductive technology.
Fact 20: "Under Siege 2: Dark Territory" Premiere
On July 22, 1995, action film "Under Siege 2: Dark Territory" premiered. The movie, featuring Steven Seagal, was released. This film is the sequel to the 1992 film "Under Siege." It quickly gained popularity amongst action-thriller enthusiasts and became a significant part of Seagal's filmography.