Fact 1: World Water Day
World Water Day is an annual UN observance day that falls on March 22. The day highlights the importance of fresh water, and advocates for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. The day is celebrated worldwide with various events like art exhibitions, educational sessions and the release of thematic reports.
Fact 2: The March Equinox
March 22 is close to the date of the March equinox. Although the equinox can occur on March 19, 20, 21 or 22, sometimes it does fall on March 22. The equinox signals the start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and autumn in the Southern Hemisphere.
Fact 3: A Lucky Day for Aries
In astrology, March 22 is considered a lucky day for Aries. This zodiac sign rules the period from March 21 to April 19, and the 22nd day of March falls under it. It is believed to be a day of strength, hope and good luck for people under this sun sign.
Fact 4: The Birth of Reese Witherspoon
Reese Witherspoon, famous Hollywood actress and producer, was born on March 22, 1976. She has won several awards for her performances in films such as "Legally Blonde", "Walk the Line", and "Wild".
Fact 5: Aerosmith's Flaming Moe's Debut
On March 22, 1991, classic American rock band Aerosmith made an appearance on the popular animated sitcom, "The Simpsons". They performed and were featured in the episode "Flaming Moe's."
Fact 6: The Beatles' Debut Album
The Beatles, one of the world's most influential bands, released their debut album "Please Please Me" in the United Kingdom on March 22, 1963. This was the start of decades of chart-topping success for the iconic band.
Fact 7: The Birth of Andrew Lloyd Webber
Renowned musical composer Andrew Lloyd Webber was born on March 22, 1948. He’s most famous for his contributions to theater, including the iconic "Cats," "Phantom of the Opera," and "Evita".
Fact 8: Emile Erckmann's Death
On this day, March 22, 1899, Emile Erckmann, one half of the famous 19th-century French author duo who went by the pseudonym Erckmann-Chatrian, passed away. Their books are classics of French literature and continue to be studied today.
Fact 9: Abolition of the African Slave Trade
The British Parliament passed the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act on March 22, 1807, which prohibited the African slave trade in the British Empire. It was a landmark moment in the fight against slavery around the world.
Fact 10: Charlotte Bronte Declined Marriage Proposal
On March 22, 1853, famous British author Charlotte Bronte declined a marriage proposal from her father’s curate, Arthur Bell Nicholls, sparking controversy and drama. She eventually changed her mind and married him.
Fact 11: "The Godfather" Released
On March 22, 1972, the iconic film "The Godfather," directed by Francis Ford Coppola and based on Mario Puzo's novel, was released in U.S. theaters. It's considered one of the best movies in cinematic history.
Fact 12: Space Shuttle Columbia’s First Launch
NASA's Space Shuttle Columbia, the first space-worthy shuttle in its orbital fleet, launched its first test flight mission from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, USA, on March 22, 1982.
Fact 13: Association Football Turns Semi-Professional in the Netherlands
Association football became a semi-professional sport in the Netherlands on March 22, 1954. This marked a significant turning point for Dutch football and its development into the renowned program it is today.
Fact 14: Laser Invention Patent
On March 22, 1960, the first functional laser was patented by Arthur Leonard Schawlow and Charles Hard Townes. This ground-breaking invention has since been used in many areas of technology, from medicine to telecommunications.
Fact 15: Stephen Sondheim’s Birthday
Stephen Sondheim, one of the most famous composers and lyricists in the American musical theater, was born on March 22, 1930.
Fact 16: Comet Hale-Bopp’s Closest Approach to Earth
On March 22, 1997, Comet Hale-Bopp made its closest approach to Earth during its recorded orbit. The comet, one of the brightest seen for many decades, was visible to the naked eye for a record 18 months.
Fact 17: Karl Marx’s Capital, Volume I Published
The first volume of Karl Marx's influential book, "Capital: Critique of Political Economy," was published in Hamburg, Germany on March 22, 1887. This book remains a foundational text in the field of economics and politics.
Fact 18: William Shatner's Birthday
William Shatner, known for playing Captain Kirk in "Star Trek," was born on March 22, 1931. He became one of the most recognized faces in sci-fi television thanks to his iconic role.
Fact 19: First Tunnel under the Thames
On March 22, 1890, construction was completed on the first tunnel under the River Thames in London, known as the Tower Subway. This marked a significant step forward in infrastructure development.
Fact 20: A Mozart Premiere
On this day, March 22, in 1783, Mozart's Symphony No. 36 was performed for the very first time. This symphony, also known as the 'Linz Symphony,' is one of the most famous and frequently performed works by the composer.