Calendar icon showing March 20 for Today in History post

March 20 in History: Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, Kmart Founded, and the First U.S. Aircraft Carrier

Scott Winters March 20, 2026 0 Comments

Discover what happened on March 20 in history, along with notable events that shaped science, business, and culture.

What Happened on March 20 in History?

Important events on this day include Albert Einstein publishing his theory of relativity, the founding of the Kresge dime store that became Kmart, and the commissioning of the U.S. Navy’s first aircraft carrier.

MARCH 20 – TODAY IN HISTORY:

1854 – The Republican Party was organized in Ripon, WI. About 50 slavery opponents began the political group.

1865 – A plan by John Wilkes Booth to abduct President Abraham Lincoln was ruined when Lincoln changed his plans and did not appear at the Soldier’s Home near Washington, DC.

1885 – John Matzeliger of Suriname patented the shoe lacing machine.

1886 – The first AC power plant in the U.S. began commercial operation.

1891 – The first computing scale company was incorporated in Dayton, OH.

1897 – Sebastian Spering Kresge and associates opened the first Kresge dime store in Detroit. The company grew and later became known as Kmart. The company evolved into Sears Holdings Corporation, who own Kmart and Sears.

1897 – The first intercollegiate basketball game that used five players on each team was held. The game was between Yale and Pennsylvania. Yale won by a score of 32-10.

1914 – The first international figure skating championship was held in New Haven, CT.

1916 – Albert Einstein published his general theory of relativity.

1922 – The USS Langley (CV-1) was commissioned. It was the first aircraft carrier for the U.S. Navy.

1930 – Colonel Harland Sanders started selling fried chicken out of his roadside restaurant in Corbin, KY.

1963 – The first “Pop Art” exhibit began in New York, NY.

1969 – John Lennon and Yoko Ono were married.

1972 – 19 mountain climbers were killed on Japan’s Mount Fuji during an avalanche.

1976 – Patricia Hearst was convicted of armed robbery for her role in the hold up of a bank in San Francisco, CA.

1980 – The U.S. made an appeal to the International Court concerning the American Hostages in Iran.

1984 – The Senate rejected an amendment to permit spoken prayer in public schools.

1985 – For the first time in its 99-year history, Avon representatives received a salary. Previously, they had been paid only commissions.

1985 – Libby Riddles won the 1,135-mile Anchorage-to-Nome dog race becoming the first woman to win the Iditarod.

1986 – Fallon Carrington and Jeff Colby were wed on the TV drama “The Colby’s”. “The Colby’s” was an spin-off of the television show “Dynasty”.

1987 – The Food and Drug Administration approved AZT. The drug was proven to slow the progress of AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).

1989 – It was announced that Cincinnati Reds manager Pete Rose was under investigation.

1990 – The Los Angeles Lakers retired Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s #33.

1990 – Gloria Estefan and her band were injured in a bus accident near Scranton, PA.

1991 – The Supreme Court ruled unanimously that employers could not exclude women from jobs where exposure to toxic chemicals could potentially damage a fetus.

1991 – Eric Clapton’s 4 year old son, Conor, died after falling from a 53rd story New York, NY apartment window.

1992 – Model Janice Pennington was awarded $1.3 million for an accident on the set of the television game show “The Price is Right”.

1996 – In Los Angeles, brothers Erik and Lyle Menendez were found guilty of first-degree murder for killing their parents.

1996 – The U.K. announced that humans could catch CJD (Mad Cow Disease) after the disease killed 10 people.

1997 – Brian Grazer received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

1997 – Liggett Group, the maker of Chesterfield cigarettes, settled 22 state lawsuits by admitting the industry marketed cigarettes to teenagers and agreed to place a warning on every pack that smoking is addictive.

1999 – Bertrand Piccard and Brian Jones became the first men to circumnavigate the Earth in a hot air balloon. The non-stop trip began on March 3 and covered 26,500 miles.

1999 – Legoland California, the first Legoland outside of Europe, opened Carlsbad, CA.

2000 – 52 missing Oscar statuettes were found in a trash bin.

2002 – Actress Pamela Anderson disclosed that she had hepatitis C.

2002 – Arthur Andersen pleaded innocent to charges that it had shredded documents and deleted computer files related to the energy company Enron.

2003 – Cisco Systems Inc. announced it was buying The Linksys Group Inc. for $500 million in stock.

2003 – The war in Iraq began as the United States (along with the UK, Australia and Poland) launched operation “Iraqi Freedom”. The predawn air strike targeted Saddam Hussein and other Iraqi leaders in Baghdad.

2005 – After sexually explicit audio recordings of Pat O’Brien appeared on the Internet, the host of the television show “The Insider” announced he was checking himself into an alcohol rehab facility.

2006 – Donald Trump’s third wife gave birth to his fifth child, a boy they name Barron William Trump.

2015 – A solar eclipse, vernal equinox, and a supermoon all occurred on the same day.

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS ON MARCH 20:

George Altman – 93 years old (1933) – Baseball player

Willie Brown – 92 years old (1934) – Soldier, lawyer, and politician, 41st Mayor of San Francisco

Lois Lowry – 89 years old (1937) – Author

Robin Luke – 84 years old (1942) – Singer-songwriter

Gerard Malanga – 83 years old (1943) – Poet and photographer

Camille Cosby – 82 years old (1944) – Author, producer, and philanthropist

Pat Riley – 81 years old (1945) – Basketball player, coach and executive

Douglas B. Green – 80 years old (1946) – Singer-songwriter and guitarist

John de Lancie – 78 years old (1948) – Actor

Mike Francesa – 72 years old (1954) – Radio talk show host and television commentator

Paul Mirabella – 72 years old (1954) – Baseball player

Nina Kiriki Hoffman – 71 years old (1955) – Author

Anne Donahue – 70 years old (1956) – Lawyer and politician

Spike Lee – 69 years old (1957) – Actor, director, producer, and screenwriter

Chris Wedge – 69 years old (1957) – Animator, producer, screenwriter, and voice actor

Rickey Jackson – 68 years old (1958) – Football player

Mary Roach – 67 years old (1959) – Author

Sting – 67 years old (1959) – Wrestler

Norm Magnusson – 66 years old (1960) – Painter and sculptor

Stephen Sommers – 64 years old (1962) – Director, producer, and screenwriter

Paul Annacone – 63 years old (1963) – Tennis player and coach

Mookie Blaylock – 59 years old (1967) – Basketball player

A. J. Jacobs – 58 years old (1968) – Journalist and author

Ultra Naté – 58 years old (1968) – Singer, songwriter, record producer, DJ, and promoter

Ken Ono – 58 years old (1968) – Japanese-American mathematician

Edoardo Ballerini – 56 years old (1970) – Actor, director, producer, and screenwriter

Touré – 55 years old (1971) – Journalist and author

Ramin Bahrani – 51 years old (1975) – Director, producer, and screenwriter

Daniel Cormier – 47 years old (1979) – Mixed martial artist

Jamal Crawford – 46 years old (1980) – Basketball player

Michelle Snow – 46 years old (1980) – Basketball player

IJustine – 42 years old (1984) – YouTuber

Ronnie Brewer – 41 years old (1985) – Basketball player

Jon Brockman – 39 years old (1987) – Basketball player

Brad Hand – 36 years old (1990) – Baseball player

Nick Leddy – 35 years old (1991) – Ice hockey player

Justin Faulk – 34 years old (1992) – Ice hockey player

JaKarr Sampson – 33 years old (1993) – Basketball player

Trevor Zegras – 25 years old (2001) – Ice hockey player

Jahmyr Gibbs – 24 years old (2002) – Football player

Cooper Hoffman – 23 years old (2003) – Actor

DAYS OF THE YEAR FOR MARCH 20:

World Oral Health Day: Oral hygiene is the behind-the-scenes hero of daily health: mostly invisible when it is going well, painfully memorable when it is not. World Oral Health Day shines a spotlight on teeth and gums, reminding everyone that a healthy mouth supports comfort, confidence, and the ability to eat, speak, and smile...
French Language Day: Celebrating rich heritage, the melodious language of romance captivates with its elegance, sparking cultural curiosity and connection.
International Day of Happiness: Finding joy in the little moments, and appreciating life's simple pleasures are key ingredients to a fulfilling life.
World Rewilding Day: In the midst of talk about conservation and sustainability, many people are working hard to provide opportunities and spaces for nature to grow and thrive in its wild and wonderful ways. Embracing solutions to social, economic and environmental challenges, the concept of rewilding is all about giving space back to...
National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day: National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NNHAAD) focuses on HIV education, testing, and support for Native communities, including American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. This day encourages Native people to protect their health by learning about HIV risks, getting tested, and accessing treatment. It tackles unique challenges these communities face...
March Equinox: The March Equinox is a unique day when Earth’s position around the Sun aligns so that day and night are nearly equal everywhere on the planet. This balance happens as the Sun’s rays shine directly on Earth’s equator, making it a significant astronomical event. The equinox signals the beginning of spring...
World Flour Day: It's amazing how a simple ingredient like flour connects us all. World Flour Day celebrates this humble powder that forms the backbone of so many dishes. From the bread that starts our mornings to the pasta that fills our dinners, flour is there. This day invites everyone to appreciate its...
National Macaron Day: The perfect combination of crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, with deliciously decadent fillings to match.
Hufflepuff Pride Day: The Hogwarts house known for its loyalty and hard work has a badger as its symbol, yellow and black colors, and a great sense of community!
World Storytelling Day: Weaving magical tales, captivating listeners with every word, transporting them to new worlds - it's a skill that has been cherished for centuries.
Won’t You Be My Neighbor Day: Fred Rogers, beloved host of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, taught us to be kind and empathetic, and his legacy continues to inspire and brighten the world.
National Snowman Burning Day: Lighting up chilly effigies as winter wanes, this fiery tradition ushers in the warmth and vibrancy of the approaching spring.
Bibliomania Day: Bibliomania Day celebrates the curious world of obsessive book collecting. It highlights the fine line between a deep love for books and an overwhelming urge to gather them. At its best, collecting builds personal libraries, preserves printing history, and keeps stories circulating. At its worst, the desire to possess can outweigh...
National Proposal Day: Sparkling rings, heartfelt surprises, and unforgettable moments - taking the next step towards forever has never been more exciting!
World Sparrow Day: World Sparrow Day shines a spotlight on one of nature’s tiniest yet most familiar neighbors—the sparrow. These lively birds have fluttered through our backyards, balconies, and city parks for generations, adding music to our mornings. Their soft chirps once filled the air, but now they’re slowly disappearing. This day reminds us...
World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People: World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People celebrates the vital role of theatre in young lives. This global day encourages children to explore worlds of imagination and creativity through live performances that spark wonder and foster empathy. How to Celebrate World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People Celebrating...
National #DogsInYellow Day: Raising awareness about dogs' emotional needs, using a cautionary color to help create a supportive environment for them.
Bock Beer Day: Bock Beer Day is all about celebrating a robust, malt-forward lager with deep German roots and a reputation for cozy, caramel-like richness. It is the kind of beer that invites slow sipping, thoughtful tasting notes, and the occasional appreciative nod at the craftsmanship required to make something this smooth while...
National Preschool Teachers Appreciation Day: National Preschool Teachers Appreciation Day is a vibrant celebration honoring the dedication of preschool teachers. These educators play a crucial role in shaping young minds and fostering a love for learning in children aged 3 to 5. The day reminds us of the immense contributions these teachers make, often going...
National Ravioli Day: Pasta pillows filled with mouth-watering surprises. Every bite of this Italian classic is a tantalizing journey for your taste buds.
MeatOut Day: MeatOut Day encourages people to skip meat and explore plant-based alternatives. It highlights the environmental and health benefits of eating less meat and promotes a shift towards more sustainable and compassionate food choices. Many participants see it as a chance to experience the variety and richness of plant-based meals. Beyond personal health, this...
World Behavior Analysis Day: Some days make you pause and think about how we grow, learn, and connect. World Behavior Analysis Day does just that. It brings attention to a science that helps us understand why people do what they do. This isn't just theory—it’s used every day to support real change. From classrooms...
National Westie Day: National Westie Day brings attention to one of the most spirited and lovable terriers around—the West Highland White Terrier. With their bright eyes, upright ears, and snow-white fur, Westies leave lasting impressions wherever they go. Their bold personality wrapped in a tiny, fluffy body wins hearts in parks, homes, and city...
World Frog Day: If you wondered why frogs have a special day, it's because they truly deserve one. These little creatures do big things in nature. They help keep bug numbers in check and give clues about the health of rivers, lakes, and forests. Frogs live in many places, from deep rainforests to...
Alien Abduction Day: Mysterious encounters of the otherworldly kind that keep the curious among us wondering about what's out there beyond the stars.
National Kiss Your Fiance Day: Feeling your heart race as you lean in, anticipating the moment your lips meet, creating a spark that ignites love.
Spring Begins: Spring Begins is a day full of life and new starts. It falls on March 19 or 20, depending on where you live. This date marks the spring equinox in the Northern Hemisphere. It's a special moment when day and night are almost the same length. People welcome warmer weather...
National Jump Out Day: National Jump Out Day, celebrated annually, sparks a wave of fun and excitement as people come together to jump and enjoy this physical activity. This special day encourages everyone to step outside and engage in various jumping exercises. It's not just about jumping high or far but enjoying the process...
American Frog Day: American Frog Day is a special event for people who love frogs and care about amphibian life. It brings together hobbyists, breeders, conservationists, and curious visitors. The focus? Frogs of all shapes, sizes, and vibrant colors. People come to admire them, learn about their care, and swap stories. Some bring their...
Astrology Day: Astrology Day marks the start of the astrological year, coinciding with the Sun's entry into Aries, the first sign of the zodiac. This event symbolizes a time of renewal and fresh beginnings. Enthusiasts and practitioners come together to honor the influence of celestial bodies on human affairs. The day serves...
Eid al-Fitr: Marking the end of fasting, celebrations fill the air with joy, unity, and the richness of diverse cultural traditions.
March Madness: Get your game face on for March Madness! This high-energy tournament is a slam dunk of excitement, passion, and heart-pumping action. So grab your team colors, gear up for the showdown, and let the madness begin!
National Agriculture Week: National Agriculture Week shines a spotlight on the farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers who fill our plates and fuel our lives. Behind every meal and everyday product is someone who works hard, from dawn to dusk, to ensure we all have what we need. This week connects us to the...
International Teach Music Week: International Teach Music Week is a vibrant celebration that lights up every year's third week of March, and unites over 750 music schools and various organizations globally. They offer free 30-minute lessons to new students, encouraging everyone from kids to adults to explore the joy of music. It's a time when...
Global Money Week: Every year, Global Money Week (GMW) kicks off excitedly, focusing on enhancing financial awareness among the young. This vibrant event is organized by the OECD International Network on Financial Education, the launch brings together participants from around the world to share knowledge and strategies for managing finances safely and responsibly. How...
National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week: While education about drugs, alcohol, and addiction has been going on for many decades, a great deal of misinformation around the topic has continued to pervade culture, particularly among young people. The aim of this important event is to bring together teens and scientific experts, working to shatter myths about...
Make Mine Chocolate: "Make Mine Chocolate" is a lively campaign urging people to think twice before giving live rabbits as Easter gifts. The campaign encourages people to opt for chocolate bunnies instead. This approach helps spread the message of responsible pet ownership while offering a sweet alternative that won't end up in shelters...
American Chocolate Week: American Chocolate Week is a delightful celebration of one of America's most beloved treats: chocolate. This week-long event allows people to indulge their sweet tooth and explore different ways to enjoy chocolate in its many forms. From creamy milk chocolate to rich dark varieties, there's something for everyone. People take the...
National Fragrance Week: Scent has the remarkable power to shape moods and spark memories. National Fragrance Week celebrates this magic by inviting everyone to explore the world of fragrance. Throughout the week, fragrance experts share insights, and companies offer special promotions, making it the perfect time to discover new scents or deepen appreciation...
Neurodiversity Celebration Week: Understanding diverse minds, embracing unique perspectives, neurodiversity celebrates the richness of human cognition and experiences.
National Clean Out Your Closet Week: National Clean Out Your Closet Week is a fun and practical event that encourages everyone to tidy up their closets. It’s the perfect time to sort through clothes, shoes, and accessories, deciding what to keep, donate, or discard. This activity not only helps you organize your space but also gives...
National Animal Poison Prevention Week: National Animal Poison Prevention Week highlights the hidden dangers our pets face from everyday household items. Many substances that seem harmless to us can be toxic for our furry friends. Things like certain plants, human medications, and even some foods can cause severe health issues if ingested by pets. This week...
National Introverts Week: Introverts often have an amazing inner world — they make great listeners and thinkers, adding depth to any conversation.
National Bubble Week: National Bubble Week celebrates the joy of bubbles, offering a lighthearted break that everyone can enjoy. This fun event showcases the mesmerizing beauty of bubbles as they drift through the air, glowing in soft colors and popping with gentle splashes! How to Celebrate National Bubble Week National Bubble Week is all about...
European-wide Action Week Against Racism: European-wide Action Week Against Racism connects communities across borders to take a clear stand against hate. It’s not just a campaign—it’s a shared effort. Schools, community groups, and everyday citizens take part. They speak out in their own way, using clear messages and public spaces to reject racism. The focus stays...
Schools Library Media Center Week: Schools Library Media Center Week highlights the invaluable role of library media centers in schools across the nation. These centers are much more than book collections; they are dynamic spaces that connect students to a world of knowledge, resources, and inspiration. Through their unique blend of traditional books and digital...
National Inhalants and Poisons Awareness Week: National Inhalants and Poisons Awareness Week is a critical event dedicated to educating the public about the dangers of inhalant abuse and accidental poisonings. During this week, communities emphasize the risks associated with everyday household items that can be abused for their fumes. Many people don’t realize that common products like...
National Green Week: National Green Week is an exciting initiative that brings attention to the importance of environmental sustainability. Schools and organizations across the country use this week to engage students in activities that promote greener living. The event aims to inspire young minds to adopt eco-friendly habits that can make a lasting...
AKC National Agility Championship: The AKC National Agility Championship is one of the most exciting events for dog lovers. It showcases the speed and precision of canine athletes. Dogs of all breeds and sizes compete in timed obstacle courses that test their agility, coordination, and teamwork with their handlers. The event is fast-paced and...
National Button Week: National Button Week invites people to celebrate the charm and versatility of buttons. This week shines a spotlight on these small but significant items, often overlooked in daily life. Buttons play many roles, from fastening clothing to adding a touch of style or even showing a little personality. During National Button...
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Week: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Week celebrates the remarkable work of nurse practitioners who specialize in children's health. These professionals play a unique role in pediatric healthcare, providing not only routine checkups but also managing chronic conditions, guiding families, and responding to a wide range of health issues from infancy through...
Wellderly Week: Wellderly Week is a special time set aside each year to celebrate and focus on the well-being of our senior community, and is dedicated to promoting health, happiness, and the importance of staying active and engaged, regardless of age. The celebration highlights the significant role that seniors play in our society...
National Anonymous Giving Week: National Anonymous Giving Week highlights a unique form of generosity. This week, people focus on acts of kindness without the need for public praise. The idea is simple: help others without expecting thanks. Whether it’s a donation to a local charity, food for a shelter, or funds for a community...
World Folktales & Fables Week: World Folktales & Fables Week sweeps us into the timeless magic of storytelling. This week invites everyone to dive into tales that have traveled across generations and lands, from clever tricksters to brave heroes and magical creatures. Learn More About World Folktales & Fables Week These stories capture universal ideas—love, courage...