Fact 1: Hollywood Icons Born on this Date
Two of Hollywood's most iconic figures share July 13 as their birthday: Patrick Stewart and Harrison Ford. Sir Patrick Stewart, known for his roles in Star Trek and X-Men, was born on this date in 1940, while Harrison Ford, famous for playing Indiana Jones and Han Solo, was born on this day in 1942.
Fact 2: A Day for Embracing Geekiness
Interestingly, July 13 is celebrated as "Embrace Your Geekiness Day." So, take advantage of this date to let your inner geek shine by indulging in your favorite comics, video games, tech gadgets, or whatever else you geek out on.
Fact 3: Mongolia's First Space Mission
On July 13, 1981, Mongolia launched its first satellite as part of a space mission that was conducted by the Soviet Union – thus making this date truly historic for Mongolian space exploration.
Fact 4: French National Day's Eve
In France, July 13 is the day before the country's National Day, and festive preparations begin from the evening of July 13, with dazzling fireworks and communal meals that continue all night.
Fact 5: Black Saturday in Australia
July 13 marks a grim day in Australia's history, named as Black Saturday. This tragic bushfire event happened in 1939 and resulted in 71 deaths and numerous property damages.
Fact 6: Hollywood Walk of Fame Completion
The Hollywood Walk of Fame, a renowned American landmark, was completed on July 13, 1960. Since then, thousands of celebrities have been honored with their names immortalized in bronze stars on the Walkway.
Fact 7: Birthday of Julius Caesar
This date is said to be the birthdate of the infamous Roman dictator, Julius Caesar, in 100 BC. His contributions to Roman history make this date unforgettable.
Fact 8: Cassandra Clare’s Debut
July 13, 2007, marks the release of the first book in the 'Mortal Instruments' series, 'City of Bones', by Cassandra Clare. The series has since become a major success and been adapted into both movies and TV series.
Fact 9: Record-breaking Diamond Unearthed
On this day in 1893, the world's second-largest diamond, known as "The Excelsior", was discovered in South Africa weighing a staggering 995.2 carats.
Fact 10: Apollo 11 Launched
July 13, 1969, saw the building momentum for the historic Apollo 11 launch, with final preparations and checks being performed leading up to its departure on July 16 for the first manned lunar landing mission.
Fact 11: Formation of the Skeleton Nation
July 13, 1971, marks the formation of the Skeleton Coast Park in Namibia. This national park, famous for its shipwrecks and foggy conditions, is a fascinating reminder of nature's power.
Fact 12: Golden Ice Cream Day
In the United States, July 13 is recognized as National Ice Cream Day. Created by presidential proclamation in 1984, it's a day to enjoy this favorite frozen treat.
Fact 13: Corsica Announced Free
On July 13, 1755, after an arduously-fought rebellion against Genoese rule, Corsica announced its independence, becoming a self-governed republic for 14 years.
Fact 14: A Day for Beans
Not just limited to ice cream, July 13 also celebrates National Baked Beans Month in the USA. Baked beans, an American staple, gets its due day of recognition.
Fact 15: Fateful Black Friday
July 13, 1979, was known as Black Friday in Hollywood since this marked an economic downturn in the film industry with both earnings and attendance at theaters falling drastically.
Fact 16: The Invention of 'Whiff-Whaff'
July 13, 1898, was the day when the game ‘Whiff-Whaff’ was registered by game maker Jacques & Son. This game is considered a precursor to modern table tennis or ping pong.
Fact 17: Colored TV Makes a Splash
On July 13, 1951, NBC used its live coast-to-coast color transmission system for the first time. The event was a show presented by variety artist Eddie Fisher.
Fact 18: Royal Mail Established
This date in 1635 saw the establishment of Britain's Royal Mail by Charles I, bringing about the beginnings of organized postal service in the United Kingdom.
Fact 19: A Day of Turkish Delight
July 13 in Turkey is celebrated as Sugar Festival Day. Marking the end of the Ramadan fasting period, Turkish families celebrate with sweets and joyful gatherings.
Fact 20: Lightning Bug Inspiration
Finally, July 13, 2011, saw the filing of a patent by Japan’s Koichi Matsumoto for a toy bug inspired by fireflies. His invention is used worldwide as a fun and educational toy for children.