Fact 1: February 20 is the 51st Day of the Year
The uniqueness of February 20th begins with the fact that it's the 51st day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. Notably, there are 314 days remaining until the end of the year after this day. This figure can change to 315 if it's a leap year.
Fact 2: Celebrating National Love Your Pet Day
Each year, the United States celebrates National Love Your Pet Day on February 20. It's a day to give extra attention to your pets and show them how special they are. Whether they have fins, feathers, or fur, this day encourages pet owners to pamper their pets a little bit more than usual.
Fact 3: World Day of Social Justice
February 20th is also known as the World Day of Social Justice, as declared by the United Nations. This day promotes efforts to tackle issues such as poverty, exclusion and unemployment. It's therefore an important day to recognize globally for those passionate about social justice.
Fact 4: Occurrence of Literary Masterpieces Release
Two of the most influential novels of 20th century, 'The Old Man and the Sea' by Ernest Hemingway and 'Silent Spring' by Rachel Carson, were published on February 20 in different years. This date therefore plays a significant role in the realm of literature.
Fact 5: Meteors Making a Spectacle
One of the most divine spectacles, the Iron Ides meteor shower, can be expected to peak on February 20th each year. Stargazers can anticipate a magical celestial display provided they have clear weather.
Fact 6: Memorable Day for NASCAR
On February 20, 1948, the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, famously known as NASCAR, was established. This makes the date absolutely special for NASCAR fans and organizers.
Fact 7: Founding of the Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution, which is now world-renowned, began its journey on February 20, 1846. It was founded for the "increase and diffusion of knowledge" and remains a key part of global knowledge dissemination today.
Fact 8: Landmark Day for Photographer Ansel Adams
Acclaimed American photographer Ansel Adams was born on February 20, 1902. Adams is renowned for his stunning black-and-white landscape photographs.
Fact 9: A Day That Marks the Launch of Mir Space Station
The famous Mir Space Station was launched by the Soviet Union on February 20, 1986. This pioneer in space stations orbited earth for more than 15 years before its final descent in 2001.
Fact 10: The Day that Chocolate Turned Cherry
On February 20, 1931, the first patent was filed for the Chocolate Cherry Blossom. This beloved candy featuring a whole cherry buried in sweet cream and enrobed in chocolate has since made countless mouths water.
Fact 11: A Notable Leap Day
It's also interesting to note that February 20th is actually February 29th or Leap Day for people born in a leap year and celebrating their birthday in common years.
Fact 12: The Launch of John Glenn into Orbit
The famous American astronaut John Glenn flew into orbit around the Earth on this day in 1962. He became the first American to orbit the Earth and revolved around it three times on the spacecraft Friendship 7.
Fact 13: Birthday of the Electric Light
Thomas Edison patented his electric incandescent lamp on February 20, 1880, making it a special day for those who appreciate the vast impact of this invention on modern living.
Fact 14: Introduction of the Postal Code
The United Kingdom introduced the Postal code system on February 20, 1971, improving the efficiency of mail delivery.
Fact 15: The Day When Jimi Hendrix Became a Rock Star
On this day in 1966, Jimi Hendrix, a name that became one of the most influential in the rock music world, recorded his famous single "Purple Haze".
Fact 16: California's Admission to US
On February 20, 1850, California was recommended for admission to the US as a free state through the Compromise of 1850, which plays a crucial role in American history.
Fact 17: The Rise of Chester Nimitz
February 20, 1944, saw Chester Nimitz given the rank of five-star admiral in the United States Navy. As the United States' last surviving Fleet Admiral, this day is momentous in naval history.
Fact 18: The Day Ayrton Senna Made His F1 Debut
On February 20, 1984, Ayrton Senna, the Brazilian motor racing champion, made his Formula 1 debut with the Toleman Motorsport team, marking a significant date for F1 fans.
Fact 19: The Foundation of Japan Airlines
February 20, 1951, marks the date when Japan Airlines, now the country's flagship airline, was established.
Fact 20: The First Self-rising Flour
To the delight of bakers everywhere, the first patent for self-rising flour (flour that already contains a leavening agent) was issued on February 20, 1849.