1. The Birthday of T.S. Eliot
On September 26, 1888, Thomas Stearns Eliot, popularly known as T.S. Eliot, was born. An influential poet, literary critic, and dramatist, he received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1948. His most famous works include "The Waste Land" and "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock."
2. The First Televised Presidential Debate
On September 26, 1960, the first-ever televised presidential debate took place. The debate was between Richard Nixon and John F. Kennedy, during their run-up to the 1960 Presidential election. Televised debates would then become a staple in every forthcoming election, changing the face of politics forever.
3. Shamu’s Birthday
September 26 is also known as "Shamu’s Birthday," honoring Sea World's first superstar orca. On this day in 1985, SeaWorld celebrated the birth of their first killer whale, Baby Shamu.
4. The Deadliest Avalanche in History
The deadliest avalanche in history occurred on September 26, 1970. It took place in Yungay, Peru, causing approximately 20,000 deaths as a massive chunk of Mount Huascarán collapsed, burying the towns beneath it.
5. Johnny Appleseed Day
Did you know September 26 is also known as Johnny Appleseed Day, celebrating a pioneer nurseryman who introduced apple trees to large parts of the United States? His real name was John Chapman, and his efforts eventually helped to promote apple farming across the country.
6. The Beatles' Abbey Road Album Release
On September 26, 1969, one of the most iconic albums ever released was launched. "Abbey Road" by The Beatles was their 11th studio offering, featuring the evergreen hits such as "Come Together" and "Here Comes the Sun."
7. The New York Stock Exchange Reopens After 9/11
Following the tragic September 11 attacks in 2001, the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) was closed for a period of time. It reopened on September 26, effectively signaling a move toward normality.
8. Mars Climate Orbiter Lost
On September 26, 1999, the Mars Climate Orbiter was lost in space due to a navigation error. The loss of this $125 million spacecraft still stands as a sobering reminder of the dangers involved in space exploration.
9. The Death of Daniel Boone
Daniel Boone, the American pioneer and explorer, died on September 26, 1820. His adventurous life made him one of the folk heroes of the United States.
10. Lindbergh lands in Belgium
On September 26, 1927, Charles Lindbergh, the first person to fly solo across the Atlantic, landed in Belgium on his goodwill tour of Europe after his historic flight.
11. The Opening of Disneyland in Hong Kong
On September 26, 2005, the world celebrated the grand opening of Hong Kong Disneyland. To this day, it remains the largest theme park in Hong Kong.
12. National Pancake Day
Who doesn't love a stack of pancakes, right? Well, National Pancake Day falls on September 26th in the U.S., providing perfect reasoning to indulge in this comforting breakfast treat.
13. Concorde Takes Off for the First Time Since Crash
Following the tragic 2000 Air France Concorde crash, commercial passenger flights of the supersonic jet were suspended. However, on September 26, 2001, Concorde took off once again, signaling a hopeful future for supersonic travel.
14. The Start of The French Revolution
On September 26, 1789, Thomas Jefferson was appointed America's first Secretary of State. His appointment came in the midst of the French Revolution, which started earlier that year.
15. The Birth of Fitness Guru Jack LaLanne
Some may argue that the entire fitness revolution began with a man named Jack LaLanne. Born on September 26, 1914, LaLanne is often called "the godfather of fitness."
16. The Discovery of Neptune's Moon, Triton
On September 26, 1846, William Lassell discovered Triton, the largest moon of the planet Neptune, just 17 days after Neptune itself was discovered.
17. The Birth of Serena Williams
One of the greats of tennis, Serena Williams, was born on September 26, 1981. She holds the most Grand Slam titles in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles combined among active players.
18. Kabul Falls to Taliban
On September 26, 1996, the city of Kabul fell to the Taliban, marking a major turning point in the Afghan Civil War.
19. Publication of J.R.R. Tolkien’s ‘The Hobbit’
On September 26, 1937, J.R.R. Tolkien’s renowned fantasy novel, ‘The Hobbit’ was first published, sparking imaginations and leading to the beloved 'The Lord of the Rings' series.
20. Foundation of Yosemite National Park
On September 26, 1890, Yosemite National Park was established by the U.S. Congress. Today, it is known worldwide for its waterfalls, granite cliffs, and giant sequoia trees.