Fact 1: It's United Nations Day in Austria
Did you know that October 26 is considered the United Nations Day in Austria? It's a day to commemorate and understand the importance of world peace, cooperation, and unity. It marks Austria's neutrality, established in 1955.
Fact 2: National Pumpkin Day in the U.S.
October 26 is dedicated to celebrating pumpkins in the United States. This is the perfect time for pumpkin pie, pumpkin bread, pumpkin soup, and other pumpkin-themed delicacies as people across the nation rejoice in the orange-hued fruit.
Fact 3: The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral
One of the most famous shootouts in the Wild West, the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, happened on October 26, 1881, in Tombstone, Arizona. The 30-second shootout between outlaw Cowboys and lawmen has been the topic of many films and books.
Fact 4: The Tragic Day for AC/DC
On October 26, 1977, AC/DC guitarist Angus Young almost lost his life during a performance when his costume caught fire during a concert in Melbourne where they were shooting footage for a music video.
Fact 5: Birth of Hillary Clinton
The former first lady, senator, and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was born on this day in 1947. She was also the presidential candidate for the Democratic Party in the 2016 U.S. election.
Fact 6: The New York Stock Exchange Crash
The infamous "Black Tuesday" crash of the New York Stock Exchange, which kicked off the Great Depression, occurred on October 26, 1929. This day saw panicked investors trade nearly 16 million shares.
Fact 7: Baby Ruth Day
Apart from National Pumpkin Day, October 26th is also National Baby Ruth Day, honoring the famous candy bar Baby Ruth. Although it's often believed to be named after baseball legend Babe Ruth, it is reportedly named after President Grover Cleveland's daughter.
Fact 8: Creation of the Erie Canal
On October 26, 1825, the Erie Canal was opened, providing a direct water route from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean. This made New York the Empire State and was a significant step in the progress of the U.S.
Fact 9: First Electronic Digital Watch
On October 26, 1972, the Hamilton Watch Company introduced the world's first commercial electronic digital wristwatch. It was named "Pulsar" and initially cost $2,100.
Fact 10: The Metro Day in Portugal
October 26 is observed as Metro Day in Portugal. This dates back to 1988 when the first Metro de Lisboa ran on this day. This public transportation system is a significant part of the city's infrastructure.
Fact 11: Freedon on the Net Day
On October 26, Freedom on the Net Day is celebrated. This day was chosen to emphasize the importance of the internet's role in modern society and the value of preserving its openness and accessibility.
Fact 12: End of Pony Express
On October 26, 1861, the famous mail delivery service, Pony Express, officially ceased operations. Despite its iconic status, it was in operation only for 18 months.
Fact 13: First Female Prime Minister of Sri Lanka
On October 26, 1960, Sirimavo Bandaranaike became the world's first female Prime Minister, heading the Sri Lankan government.
Fact 14: Release of the Thriller "Halloween"
The iconic horror film "Halloween" was first released on October 26, 1978. It became a cult classic, spurring a genre of horror films.
Fact 15: Opening of the Volga-Don Canal
The Volga-Don Canal officially opened on October 26, 1952, connecting two of the largest rivers in Russia and creating a vital commercial shipping route.
Fact 16: The Birth of Mahalia Jackson
The queen of gospel music, Mahalia Jackson, was born on October 26, 1911. Her powerful voice went on to inspire millions and she became one of the most influential gospel singers in the world.
Fact 17: Coronation of Elizabeth I
Though there are different historical accounts, it is believed by many that Queen Elizabeth I was coronated on October 26, 1558. She went on to become one of the most well-remembered monarchs in British history.
Fact 18: The Launch of the Space Shuttle Discovery
On October 26, 1984, NASA launched Space Shuttle Discovery, which became the third spacecraft in the space agency's orbiter fleet. The mission was considered a success.
Fact 19: Elvis Presley's First Movie Debut
October 26, 1956, saw the debut of Elvis Presley's first movie, "Love Me Tender." The movie was a box office hit, cementing Presley's status as a music and movie star.
Fact 20: Catastrophic Imam Ali Mosque Bombing
On October 26, 2003, a suicide bombing at the Imam Ali Mosque in Najaf, Iraq, killed 125 people and injured more than 200. This incident remains one of the deadliest attacks in post-war Iraq.