Fact 1: It’s the 290th Day of the Year
Yes, October 17 marks the 290th day in a non-leap year. This means there are just 75 days left of the year which are typically filled with festivities, celebrations and fun holidays like Halloween and Christmas getting ever closer!
Fact 2: A Day for Innovative Thinkers
October 17 is also known as 'National Mulligan Day' in the U.S., which represents "do-overs" or second chances. This makes the day special for innovative thinkers who missed their first chance to shine.
Fact 3: The End of Prohibition in the U.S
On October 17, 1919, the U.S Senate passed the Volstead Act over President Wilson's veto, paving the way for Prohibition. However, the interesting part is that on October 17, 1933 (exactly 14 years later), it was repealed by passing the 21st Amendment making it an iconic date in American history.
Fact 4: Alaska was Purchased
On October 17, 1867, Alaska was officially transferred from Russian control to the United States, marking it as a significant date in the history of American territorial expansion.
Fact 5: A Big Day for the Financial Market
Black Monday occurred on October 17, 1989, when a sudden severe stock market crash occurred, causing significant economic shock globally. It's an unforgettable date in the world of finance.
Fact 6: It’s the Descriptor of a Sweet Treat
The French dessert "Tarte Tatin," a French upside-down tart traditionally made with apples, was first created on October 17, 1898. This gives dessert lovers a fun reason to celebrate this day.
Fact 7: International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
The United Nations officially declared October 17 as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty in 1992. This day aims to promote awareness and actions towards eradicating poverty worldwide.
Fact 8: Birthday of Influential People
October 17 sees the birth anniversary of many famous personalities like Evel Knievel, Eminem, and Montgomery Clift. It seems to be a popular date for talent to be born!
Fact 9: A Famous Comedian's Death
October 17, 1994, saw the death of famous comedian Burt Lancaster. He was known for his distinctive deep voice and his notable performances in cinema.
Fact 10: The Biggest Earthquake of 1989
The San Francisco Bay Area was struck by the biggest earthquake since 1906 on October 17, 1989. This day is remembered as a significant natural disaster of the past century.
Fact 11: It’s the European Day Against Trafficking
The European Parliament declared October 17 as EU Anti-Trafficking Day in 2007. The aim of this is to raise awareness of the major issue of human trafficking and to promote steps to eradicate it.
Fact 12: Distinguished Literary Work Awarded
Each year on October 17, the Booker Prize, one of the world's most prestigious literary awards, is presented for the best original novel written in English and published in the UK.
Fact 13: The Launch of Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity
October 17, 1950, marked the official recognition of Mother Teresa's congregation, the Missionaries of Charity by the Vatican. This day marks a milestone in the philanthropic world.
Fact 14: The Only October Full Moon
In 2020, October 17 marked a rare occurrence of the third of three straight full moon Supermoons. This moon is known as the Full Hunter's Moon.
Fact 15: Invention of the Submarine
The first mechanically propelled submarine, The Fenian Ram, was launched on October 17, 1881. This innovation was a considerable milestone in naval warfare.
Fact 16: Release of a Classic Movie
The famous suspense thriller film "Psycho" by Alfred Hitchcock was released in France on October 17, 1960. This day marks an iconic moment in global cinema history.
Fact 17: Delightful National Pasta Day
In the United States, October 17 is celebrated as National Pasta Day. Food enthusiasts use this as an opportunity to enjoy their favorite pasta dishes.
Fact 18: Breakthrough in Aviation History
On October 17, 1907, Goupy No.1, the first French aeroplane to fly, celebrated its successful flight. This date played an integral part in global aviation history.
Fact 19: The Adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
On October 17, 2006, Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a bill implementing key provisions of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, making California the first state to do so.
Fact 20: Famous Cartoon's Premiere
On October 17, 1937, Huey, Dewey, and Louie, the nephews of Disney's character Donald Duck made their first appearance in a comic strip. The day has become quite significant in comic history.