The Birth of Johnny Weissmuller
Born on June 2, 1904, Johnny Weissmuller was a five-time Olympic swimming gold medalist who later starred as Tarzan in twelve films between 1932 and 1948. He established numerous world records in swimming during his career, and his portrayal of Tarzan remains one of the most iconic performances of the character to this day.
1909's Patent for the First Pancake Mix
On June 2, 1909, Chris L. Rutt and Charles G. Underwood patented the first pancake mix. Their brand, Aunt Jemima, is a staple in American kitchens and continues to bring forth the joy of fluffy pancakes to millions of breakfast tables.
Discovery Day in Italy
On June 2 each year, Italy celebrates 'Festa della Repubblica' or Republic Day which marks the day Italians voted to abolish the monarchy in 1946. This is an official public holiday in Italy that includes parades, fireworks, concerts, and food festivals.
The Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
On June 2, 1967, The Beatles released their hit album, "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" in the United States, two days after it was first released in the United Kingdom. It soon reached No.1 in the US Billboard 200, where it remained for 15 weeks.
The Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II
Queen Elizabeth II was crowned on June 2, 1953, over a year after she initially assumed the throne following the death of her father, King George VI. The coronation ceremony was a groundbreaking event in that it was the first British coronation broadcast on television.
Madagascar Independence Day
On June 2, 1975, Madagascar officially declared independence from France. The island in the Indian Ocean becomes the scene of massive celebrations each year as they observe their national day.
Thomas Hardy's Birthday
June 2, 1840, was the birth map of Thomas Hardy, one of the greatest English novelists and poets. Hardy's novels, including Tess of the D'Ubervilles and Far from the Madding Crowd, are considered classics in English literature.
National Rocky Road Ice Cream Day
In the United States, June 2 is celebrated as National Rocky Road Day. A delicious excuse to indulge in the chocolate, nut, and marshmallow-filled ice cream flavor!
Burning of Washington's Print Series
On June 2, 1877, Pyotr Pavlovich Vereshchagin, a Russian realism painter burned his 'Trilogy of Executions' in protest. The trilogy consisted of three paintings, each depicting a different method of execution.
Charlie Watts Joins the Rolling Stones
Drummer Charlie Watts officially joined the British rock band, 'The Rolling Stones,' on June 2, 1962. His versatile and steady drumming style played a crucial role in the success of the band.
Mariner 1's Failed Launch
In a debacle of cosmic proportions, the launch of NASA's first Mars-bound spacecraft, Mariner 1, was aborted on June 2, 1962, just seconds after liftoff.
The Debut of Talk Show Host Johnny Carson
Legendary American television host Johnny Carson had his debut as the host of the Tonight Show on June 2, 1962. Carson redefined the landscape of American late-night television shows during his three-decade career.
Release of ‘The Safety Dance’
On June 2, 1983, the Canadian band Men Without Hats released their international hit ‘The Safety Dance'. The song was an anthem for the 80s counterculture and controversially represented protesting nuclear proliferation.
Daniel Webster’s Compromise of 1850
On June 2, 1850, Daniel Webster, US senator from Massachusetts, delivered a famous speech in favor of the Compromise of 1850, a package of five separate bills that prevented a possible civil war. Webster's speech had a significant impact on expanding the scope of the political debate about slavery.
Harvard Establishment
On June 2, 1636, Harvard College was authorized by the Massachusetts Colony. However, it was only after two years, on March 13, 1639, that the college was renamed to 'Harvard College' after clergyman John Harvard, who was the institution’s first benefactor.
First Drive-In Movie Theater
On June 2, 1933, the first drive-in movie theater opened in Camden, New Jersey, creating a new American pastime of watching movies under the stars from the comfort of a car.
National Italian Ice Cream Day 'Gelato'
June 2, in Italy, is also celebrated as National Italian Ice Cream Day or 'Gelato'. It’s a day when Italians enjoy their iconic frozen dessert, which is loved worldwide.
Yet Another Beatles Milestone
June 2, 1967, was the day when 'All You Need Is Love' was sung by The Beatles for the first time on the live broadcast of “Our World”. This event reached over 400 million people in 25 different countries.
Birth of Justin Long
Actor and comedian Justin Long was born on June 2, 1978. He has starred in a wide variety of films and is arguably best known for his work in comedies such as Dodgeball and Accepted.
Marquis de Sade’s Escape
Known for his erotic works that led to the term "sadism", Marquis de Sade managed a daring escape from prison on June 2, 1790. After a year, he was caught and remained in various prisons and an insane asylum for about 10 years of his life.