Fact 1: A Special Day for Tango Lovers
On December 9th, Tango enthusiasts celebrate International Tango Day. This day was chosen in honor of the birthdays of two significant figures in the history of Tango, Carlos Gardel and Julio de Caro. Gardel was a prominent Tango singer, while de Caro was a well-known orchestra director and composer in the early 20th century.
Fact 2: Anniversary of the First Heisman Trophy
December 9th holds a significance in the world of college football. It was on this day in 1935 that the first Heisman Trophy was awarded to Jay Berwanger from the University of Chicago. This prestigious award is given annually to the most outstanding player in college football.
Fact 3: Birthday of a Famous Icon
World-renowned poet and civil rights activist, Maya Angelou, was born on December 9th, 1928. Her thought-provoking work and determination to fight against racial discrimination inspired millions.
Fact 4: The Geminid Meteor Shower
The Geminid Meteor Shower is one of the biggest celestial events in December. It usually peaks on December 14th, but it starts becoming visible around the 9th of December. This meteor shower is rumored to be the most spectacular of the year offering up to 50 'falling stars' per hour at its peak.
Fact 5: Winter Wonderland Commences
In many parts of the Northern Hemisphere, December 9th marks the onset of deeper winter. With shorter days and longer nights, it signifies the preparation for the Winter Solstice.
Fact 6: National Pastry Day
December 9th is National Pastry Day in the United States. On this day, many Americans celebrate by baking or enjoying a wide variety of delicious pastries. It's a perfect excuse for dessert lovers to indulge a bit more.
Fact 7: The Declaration of Human Rights
The United Nations adopted and proclaimed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10, 1948. As such, December 9th marks the eve of this historic day, celebrating global unity and human dignity.
Fact 8: The First Christmas Card
The first commercial Christmas card was created and mailed in December 1843. December 9th symbolizes this traditional holiday practice of expressing love and gratitude to friends and family.
Fact 9: Celebrations of Independence
December 9th is Independance Day in Tanzania, celebrating its sovereignty which took place officially in 1961. It's a day full of festivities and national pride.
Fact 10: The Genocide Convention
On December 9th, 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. This important day in history marked the international community's commitment to prevent and punish acts of genocide.
Fact 11: Birthday of a Theatre Star
Iconic British actor, Dame Judi Dench, was born on December 9th, 1934. She is one of Britain's most respected actors, having received numerous awards for her work in theatre, film, and television.
Fact 12: The Birth of a Tech Giant
On December 9th, 1906, Grace Hopper was born. She was a trailblazing computer scientist who invented the first compiler for a computer programming language, significantly contributing to the birth of the modern tech industry.
Fact 13: The Loss of a Music Legend
Renowned musician and Beatles member, John Lennon, was tragically murdered on this day in 1980. He left an indelible mark on the music industry and continues to be celebrated for his artistry and his message of peace.
Fact 14: Peak Online Shopping Day
December 9th is typically one of the busiest online shopping days in the lead up to the holiday season. With just over two weeks left for Christmas, the buying frenzy is at its high point.
Fact 15: The Discovery of San Francisco
On December 9, 1775, San Francisco Bay was discovered by Spanish Lieutenant, Juan Manuel de Ayala. This marked a significant point in the navigational history of the United States.
Fact 16: Launch of the Kea
December 9th marks another significant day in history in 1820. On this day, the first voyage vessel, the Kea, was launched in New Zealand. It played a crucial role in transportation during the European settlement period.
Fact 17: The Great London Smog
The Great London Smog began on December 5, 1952, and its aftermath was felt until December 9th. This extreme air-pollution event, resulted in thousands of fatalities, raising environmental awareness.
Fact 18: The First Nobel Prizes
December 10th is the day the first Nobel Prizes were awarded in 1901. Thus, December 9th marks the eve of this historic event, acknowledging those who made significant contributions to society across various fields.
Fact 19: A Day for Heroes
In the Philippines, December 9th is Heroes' Day, celebrated to commemorate the efforts of all Filipino heroes. Many celebrations center around sharing the history and nationalistic passion of these heroes.
Fact 20: Antarctica's Record High Temperature
The record high temperature in Antarctica was recorded on December 9, 1980. On this day, the temperature reached a surprising 19.8 degrees Celsius at Signy Research Station, providing compelling evidence of global climate change.