Fact 1: Charlemagne Recognized as the Holy Roman Emperor
On August 29, 800 AD, Charlemagne, also known as Charles the Great, was recognized as the Holy Roman Emperor and came to rule over most of western Europe. This particular day marks a significant event in history, launching the beginning of the Holy Roman Empire which persisted until 1806.
Fact 2: Birth of Philo Farnsworth
Philo Farnsworth, the inventor of the television, was born on August 29, 1906. Rarely given public accolade for his achievement, Farnsworth's invention went ahead to revolutionize the 20th century, allowing news and entertainment to be disseminated widely and quickly.
Fact 3: The Day Hurricane Katrina Struck
On August 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast of the US, proving to be one of the most devastating natural disasters in American history. Thousands lost their lives and billions of dollars worth of damage was done, changing the landscape of places like New Orleans forever.
Fact 4: International Day Against Nuclear Tests
August 29 is globally recognized as the International Day against Nuclear Tests, a day that aims to raise awareness about the harmful and lasting impacts of nuclear tests and explosions.
Fact 5: The Day Michael Jackson was Born
August 29 is a day loved by music fans worldwide as it marks the date that Michael Jackson, one of the most famous musical artists of all times, was born in 1958.
Fact 6: John Locke’s Birthday
Considered one of the most influential of Enlightenment thinkers, John Locke, was born on August 29, 1632. His theories and ideas have significantly influenced the development of political philosophy and education.
Fact 7: End of the Siege of Leningrad
August 29 marks the ending of one of the longest and most destructive sieges in history, the Siege of Leningrad – a major event in World War II. On this same day in 1941, the savage battle that had lasted 872 days finally came to an end, saving the remainder of a city that had been significantly depleted.
Fact 8: Opening of the Monterey Pop Festival
August 29, 1966, saw the opening of the Monterey International Pop Music Festival. Known for being one of the beginnings of the "Summer of Love" and the counterculture era, this festival still holds an important part of music history.
Fact 9: Seneca Falls Convention Adjourned
August 29, 1848, marked the adjournment of the Seneca Falls Convention, an event that signaled the start of the women's rights movement in America.
Fact 10: Chop Suey Day
Fans of Chinese-American cuisine rejoice, August 29 is officially recognized as National Chop Suey Day!
Fact 11: Lea Michele’s Birthday
August 29th is also the day "Glee" star Lea Michele was born.
Fact 12: The Day Ingrid Bergman Passed Away
Legendary actress Ingrid Bergman, known for her iconic role in "Casablanca," passed away on August 29, 1982. Remarkably, she died on her 67th birthday.
Fact 13: Swedish Day
August 29 is apparently also celebrated as Swedish Day in Sweden. Talk about loving national pride!
Fact 14: First Jet-Powered Aircraft Flight
On August 29, 1939, the first ever fully jet-powered flight took place. This was a crucial moment in flight history and the beginning of revolutionizing air travel.
Fact 15: The Beatles' Last Public Concert
August 29, 1966, also marks the day when the Beatles gave their last public concert at Candlestick Park in San Francisco.
Fact 16: Birthday of United States Senator John McCain
John McCain, the US Senator from Arizona and 2008 Republican Presidential Nominee, was born on August 29, 1936.
Fact 17: The Birth of Vaudeville Comedian Oliver Hardy
Oliver Hardy, part of the iconic comedic duo "Laurel and Hardy," was born on August 29, 1892.
Fact 18: Montreal Protocol Opened for Signatures
On August 29, 1987, a significant environmental treaty was opened for signatures - The Montreal Protocol on Substances That Deplete the Ozone Layer.
Fact 19: The Day Isabel Sanford Passed Away
On August 29, 2004, award-winning actress Isabel Sanford, popularly known for her role as Louise "Weezy" Jefferson on The Jeffersons, passed away.
Fact 20: A Day of Multiple Sporting Events
August 29 is a day of numerous sports events. These include but are not limited to baseball, cycling races, cricket, and football matches. For sports lovers, August 29 could mean a day of celebrating the spirit of sports.