Fact 1: June 18 is the 169th Day of the Year on Non-Leap Years
Yes, you read that right; June 18 is the 169th day of the year! It becomes the 170th day in a leap year. This implies we're pretty much halfway through the year when June 18 rolls around.
Fact 2: Gemini's Reign Continues
People who are born on June 18 fall under the zodiac sign of Gemini. A Gemini personality is versatile, outgoing, and intelligent. However, Geminis are known for being indecisive and lack patience due to their dualistic nature.
Fact 3: World War II Evacuation
On June 18, 1940, during World War II, more than 200,000 British troops were rescued from Dunkirk, France, in a heroic mission called Operation Dynamo. The accomplishment was welcome news amid the adversity of war.
Fact 4: The War of 1812 Commenced
On June 18, 1812, the war between the United States and Great Britain began, commonly known as the War of 1812. The conflict resulted primarily from trade restrictions introduced by Britain as part of its ongoing war with France.
Fact 5: The First Woman Space Tourist
On June 18, 2006, Anousheh Ansari, an Iranian-American engineer and co-founder of Prodea Systems, Inc., became the world's first woman space tourist.
Fact 6: The Incorporation of San Francisco
June 18, 1850, witnessed the incorporation of San Francisco, a popular American city known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, and colorful Victorian houses.
Fact 7: Nelson Mandela was Sentenced
June 18, 1964, was the day Nelson Mandela was sentenced to life imprisonment for conspiring to overthrow South Africa's apartheid government – a dark day marking crucial steps toward change.
Fact 8: The Statue of Liberty’s Arrival
The Statue of Liberty, originally known as 'Liberty Enlightening the World,' arrived in New York from France on June 18, 1885. However, it wasn't erected until a year later due to the delay in building the pedestal.
Fact 9: Amusement Park Fun
One of the oldest surviving amusement parks in the United States, Cedar Point in Ohio, opened its doors to the public for the first time on June 18, 1870.
Fact 10: First Hot Air Balloon Experiment
June 18 marked a notable advancement in aviation history. In 1783, the Montgolfier brothers performed the first public demonstration of their hot air balloon in Annonay, France.
Fact 11: The Inception of United Nations War Crimes Commission
On June 18, 1943, during the midst of WWII, the United Nations War Crimes Commission was established to examine war crimes under international law, marking a crucial step in asserting human rights worldwide.
Fact 12: Disneyland Tokyo Opens Its Doors
June 18, 1983, witnessed the grand opening of Disneyland Tokyo, bringing all the magic of Disney fairytales to Japan.
Fact 13: Happy International Sushi Day!
Did you know June 18 is recognized as International Sushi Day? It was first established in 2009 and has become a day where sushi lovers around the world celebrate their love for these delicious Japanese dishes.
Fact 14: The Start of NASCAR
June 18th, 1948, marked the acceptance of NASCAR's (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) formal incorporation papers. Today, NASCAR is America's most popular spectator sport.
Fact 15: Paul McCartney’s Birthday
Born on June 18, 1942, Sir Paul McCartney is an integral part of the Beatles, who is widely hailed as the most successful composer and performer in pop music history.
Fact 16: The Birth of the Paycheck Fairness Act
An act seeking to close loopholes in equal pay legislation in the United States, the Paycheck Fairness Act, was introduced on June 18, 2015.
Fact 17: UN’s Autistic Pride Day
June 18th is recognized as Autistic Pride Day by the United Nations, aiming to change the world's perception of those with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).
Fact 18: The Publication of 1984
George Orwell’s dystopian book "1984" was published on June 8, 1949. The novel, renowned for its critique of ruthless totalitarianism, continues to make waves in the world of literature and beyond.
Fact 19: Watergate Scandal Arrests
June 18, 1972, marked a significant moment in American history, five men were arrested for breaking into the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate Complex, leading to the infamous Watergate Scandal that eventually led to President Richard Nixon’s resignation.
Fact 20: The Death of Samuel Butler
June 18, 1902, saw the death of Samuel Butler, a noted Victorian-author known for his works like "Erewhon” and “The Way of All Flesh." His satirical outlook and distinctive voice placed him among the most innovative writers of his time.