A quick look at Today in History, check out some Celebrity Birthdays, and find out what Days of the Year to celebrate.
TODAY IN HISTORY:
1620 – The Mayflower Compact was signed by the 41 men on the Mayflower when they landed in what is now Provincetown Harbor near Cape Cod, MA. The compact called for “just and equal laws.”
1675 – Gottfried Liebniz demonstrated integral calculus for the first time.
1851 – Alvan Clark patented the telescope.
1889 – Washington became the 42nd state of the United States.
1911 – Many cities in the midwestern U.S. broke their record highs and lows on the same day as a strong cold front rolled through.
1918 – World War I came to an end when the Allies and Germany signed an armistice. This day became recognized as Veteran’s Day in the United States.
1921 – The Tomb of the Unknowns was dedicated at Arlington Cemetery in Virginia by President Warren G. Harding.
1926 – The U.S. Numbered Highway System was established…including Route 66.
1928 – Grand Rapids, MI radio stations WOOD and WASH were assigned to the frequency of 1270 KC and told by the FCC that they must share the spot on the dial.
1929 – The Ambassador Bridge, between Detroit, MI and Canada, opened.
1930 – Albert Einstein and Leo Szilard were awarded a patent for the Einstein refrigerator.
1939 – Cedar Springs, MI help their first Red Flannel Festival.
1940 – The Jeep was introduced.
1952 – John Mullin and Wayne Johnson demonstrated the first video recorder in Beverly Hills, CA.
1965 – Walt Disney announced a theme park project in Florida.
1966 – NASA’s Gemini 12 was launched from Cape Kennedy, FL. The craft circles the Earth 59 times before returning.
1978 – The Cars released “My Best Friend’s Girl”. It was the first picture-disc single commercially available.
1981 – In about 6 hours, Stuntman Dan Goodwin scaled the outside of the 100-story John Hancock Center in Chicago, IL.
1981 – The first Trident class submarine, the U.S.S. Ohio, was commissioned at the Electric Boat Division in Groton, CT.
1984 – President Ronald Reagan accepted the Vietnam Veterans Memorial as a gift to the nation from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund.
1984 – Gary Coleman, at age 13, underwent his second kidney transplant in Los Angeles, CA. He had his first transplant at age 5.
1986 – Sperry Rand and Burroughs merged to form “Unisys,” becoming the second largest computer company.
1987 – Vincent Van Gogh’s “Irises” was sold for a then record $53.9 million in New York, NY.
1988 – Police in Sacramento, CA, found the first of seven bodies buried on the grounds of a boardinghouse. Dorothea Puente was later charged in the deaths of nine people, convicted of three murders and sentenced to life in prison.
1990 – Stormie Jones, the world’s first heart-liver transplant recipient, died at a Pittsburgh, PA, hospital at age 13.
1993 – Walt Disney Co. announced plans to build a U.S. history theme park in a Virginia suburb of Washington. The plan was halted later due to local opposition.
1993 – In Washington, DC, a bronze statue was dedicated to honor the more than 11,000 women who had served in the Vietnam War.
1996 – The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund unveiled “The Wall That Heals.” The work was a half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial that would tour communities throughout the United States.
1997 – The Eastman Kodak Company announced that they were laying off 10,000 employees.
1998 – Jay Cochrane set a record for the longest blindfolded skywalk. He walked 600 feet on a tightrope between the towers of the Flamingo Hilton in Las Vegas, NV.
1998 – Vincente Fernandez received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
2002 – Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates pledged $100 million to fight AIDS in India.
2014 – A collection of clothing worn by Madonna during her career in music and film helped a celebrity auction raise $3.2 million. A jacket from “Desperately Seeking Susan”, brought in $252,000 — the highest priced piece of clothing.
BIRTHDAYS:
Alicia Ostriker – 88 years old (1937) – Poet and scholar
Barbara Boxer – 85 years old (1940) – Journalist and politician
Dennis Coffey – 85 years old (1940) – Guitarist
Vince Martell – 80 years old (1945) – Singer and guitarist
Kathy Postlewait – 76 years old (1949) – Golfer
Jim Peterik – 75 years old (1950) – Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Marc Summers – 74 years old (1951) – Television host and producer
Fuzzy Zoeller – 74 years old (1951) – Golfer
Marshall Crenshaw – 72 years old (1953) – Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Mary Gaitskill – 71 years old (1954) – Novelist, essayist, and short story writer
Dave Alvin – 70 years old (1955) – Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Carlos Lacámara – 67 years old (1958) – Cuban-American actor and playwright
Lee Haney – 66 years old (1959) – Bodybuilder
Chuck Hernandez – 65 years old (1960) – Baseball player and coach
Peter Parros – 65 years old (1960) – Actor, producer, and screenwriter
Stanley Tucci – 65 years old (1960) – Actor and director
Demi Moore – 63 years old (1962) – Actress, director, and producer
Billy Gunn – 62 years old (1963) – Wrestler and actor
Calista Flockhart – 61 years old (1964) – Actress
Max Mutchnick – 60 years old (1965) – Screenwriter and producer
Frank John Hughes – 58 years old (1967) – Actor, producer, and screenwriter
Carson Kressley – 56 years old (1969) – Fashion designer, television personality, and actor
David DeLuise – 54 years old (1971) – Actor and director
Jason White – 52 years old (1973) – Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Jon B. – 51 years old (1974) – Singer-songwriter and producer
Leonardo DiCaprio – 51 years old (1974) – Actor and producer
Jason Grilli – 49 years old (1976) – Baseball player
Jill Vedder – 48 years old (1977) – Philanthropist, activist and fashion model
Scoot McNairy – 48 years old (1977) – Actor and producer
LA Knight – 43 years old (1982) – Wrestler
Austin Collie – 40 years old (1985) – Football player
Jessica Sierra – 40 years old (1985) – Singer
Jon Batiste – 39 years old (1986) – Singer and pianist
Victor Cruz – 39 years old (1986) – Football player
Mark Sanchez – 39 years old (1986) – Football player
Vinny Guadagnino – 38 years old (1987) – Actor
Joe Ragland – 36 years old (1989) – Basketball player
Adam Rippon – 36 years old (1989) – Figure skater
Christa B. Allen – 34 years old (1991) – Actress
Lio Rush – 31 years old (1994) – Wrestler
Tye Sheridan – 29 years old (1996) – Actor and producer
X González – 26 years old (1999) – Activist
Oakes Fegley – 21 years old (2004) – Actor
TODAY IS:
- Singles Day: Practice self-love and self-appreciation, treat yourself to a shopping spree or vacation and go on a “date” with your unattached friends.
- National Sundae Day: National Sundae Day is a delightful celebration held on November 11 every year, where dessert lovers indulge in the sweet, layered treat known as the sundae. This special day honors the simple joy of creating and enjoying a sundae. It consists of ice cream topped with sauce, nuts, and a...
- National Metal Day: National Metal Day celebrates and pays heed to the various aspects of metal music and heavy metal bands – as well as the comedy of a certain satirical film that has developed a cult following over the years.
- World Origami Day: Folding paper into intricate designs, this art form transforms simple sheets into miniature sculptures, a captivating blend of creativity and precision.
- National Education Day: National Education Day is a special occasion celebrating the vital role of education in shaping individuals and societies. It is a tribute to Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, India's first Education Minister, who emphasized the transformative power of education. The day highlights how education can empower people, foster personal growth, and...
- National Indiana Day: A vibrant Midwestern state that offers a rich blend of culture, sports, and history, creating a diverse urban experience.
- Pocky Day: Did you know there's a whole day dedicated to celebrating a snack? Yes, you heard it right! Pocky Day lights up November 11th every year with lots of sweetness and joy. Imagine a day when everyone enjoys thin, chocolate-coated biscuit sticks. On this unique day, that's what happens in Japan...
- Data Governance Day: As unethical practices and data breaches are becoming more and more common, it puts personal and organizational information at risk in a myriad of ways. Data Governance Day is here to serve as a helpful reminder of the strong practices and legal standards that are necessary to make today’s data-centric...
- National Survivors’ Day: Recognizing survivors of abuse, allies, and those who speak out against injustice, fostering healing and empowerment.
- Death/Duty Day: Death/Duty Day is a poignant day of remembrance dedicated to honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War I. It serves as a solemn reminder of the bravery and dedication of countless individuals who fought and died in the line of duty. The day is not just about...
- Remembrance Day: Honoring those who served with respect, gratitude, and ceremonies that pay tribute to their sacrifice and dedication.
- Veterans Day: Honoring the brave individuals who selflessly served and defended freedoms, often facing difficult and dangerous situations.
- Armistice Day in France: Armistice Day in France is a significant national holiday that commemorates the end of World War I. Each year, people across the country honor the memory of those who fought and those who fell. The day is marked with solemn ceremonies, military parades, and moments of silence. The most notable...
- Poland’s Independence Day: Poland's Independence Day stands as a powerful symbol of freedom and resilience. It represents the strength and spirit of the Polish people, who endured hardships and fought tirelessly to reclaim their nation's sovereignty. The day unites citizens in a shared sense of pride, celebrating the perseverance that led to their...
- Remembrance Day in Australia: Remembrance Day in Australia is a day filled with deep respect and reflection. It's a time when Australians pause to honor those who have lost their lives in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. This day brings people together in a shared moment of silence, symbolizing a collective memory and gratitude...
- National Book Award Week: National Book Award Week, celebrated from November 7 to 13, shines a spotlight on the power of storytelling and the diversity of voices in American literature. This special week marks a time to honor and discover the incredible works of authors that shape our understanding and enjoyment of books. From...
- National Split Pea Soup Week: Savoring a comforting blend of legumes, slow-cooked to perfection, offering warmth and nourishment during the cold season.
- National Recycling Week: National Recycling Week is an exciting time to highlight the significance of recycling. This week aims to educate and inspire individuals, communities, and organizations to improve their recycling habits. Celebrating National Recycling Week helps spread awareness about the importance of recycling. It emphasizes reducing waste, reusing materials, and recycling properly. These...
- Anti-Bullying Week: Bullying is an ongoing issue that affects individuals of all ages. Anti-Bullying Week aims to raise awareness and promote kindness and respect. The week emphasizes respect and kindness, encouraging people to celebrate differences and promote unity. It highlights the negative impact of bullying and the importance of creating a supportive...
- Nurse Practitioner Week: Nurse Practitioner Week is a lively celebration of the essential work nurse practitioners (NPs) do. This special week highlights their contributions to healthcare, emphasizing their role in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. The week draws attention to the unique combination of clinical expertise and compassionate care that NPs provide. It's a...
- Perioperative Nurse Week: Perioperative Nurse Week is a lively celebration that honors the vital work of perioperative nurses. These dedicated professionals play a key role in patient care before, during, and after surgeries. The week spotlights their dedication to ensuring smooth and safe surgical experiences for patients. Their specialized skills and compassion make...
- Dear Santa Letter Week: Have you ever wondered what it feels like to send a wish directly to Santa Claus? Every year, during Dear Santa Letter Week, children and adults alike take pen to paper to craft personal messages to the jolly old elf. Celebrated during November, this week captures the essence of childhood...
- Sugar Awareness Week: Have you ever checked the ingredients on your favorite snack? Sugar shows up in places you wouldn't expect—like pasta sauce, bread, and yogurt. Sugar Awareness Week brings attention to this sneaky habit in the food world. It challenges everyone to take a closer look at what they eat and drink each...
- Human-Animal Relationship Awareness Week: From our furry companions to majestic wildlife, our connection with the animal kingdom is a bond that goes beyond words.
- National Young Readers Week: Fostering young minds' love for stories and expanding horizons through the magic of books; opening doors to imagination.
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