Fact 1: It's International Lefthanders Day
August 13 is globally recognized as International Lefthanders Day. It was first celebrated in 1976 by Lefthanders International, aiming to raise awareness about the daily challenges of being left-handed in a predominantly right-handed world.
Fact 2: Invention of the Tin Can Opener
On this day in 1858, Ezra Warner invented the tin can opener. Before his invention, people had to use chisel and hammers to open cans. His invention is undoubtedly one of the most practical ones, which made food storage and consumption much easier.
Fact 3: Creation of the Berlin Wall
August 13 is a significant historical day. On this day in 1961, the East German government started to build the Berlin Wall, isolating East Berlin from the West to prevent its inhabitants from fleeing to the West.
Fact 4: The Beatles' Last Live Concert
On August 13, 1966, The Beatles performed their last live concert in Candlestick Park, San Francisco, marking the end of their touring days.
Fact 5: Planet Neptune's Discovery
On August 13, 1846, the English astronomer William Lassell discovered Neptune's largest moon, Triton, just 17 days after the German astronomer Johann Gottfried Galle discovered the planet itself.
Fact 6: The First Cartoon Appearance of Mickey Mouse
Mickey Mouse's first cartoon, 'Steamboat Willie', was copyrighted on August 13, 1928. This lovable character has since become an icon and symbol of the Walt Disney Company.
Fact 7: Earth's Closest Approach to Planet Mars
On August 13, 2003, Earth came the closest to Mars than it had been in the past 60,000 years, a mere 34,646,418 miles away!
Fact 8: Alfred Hitchcock's Birthday Identity
Famed British filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock, renowned for his suspense-filled films, was born on August 13, 1899. Planning a movie night? Some ‘staying in’ to watch his classic films is an ideal way to celebrate his birthday.
Fact 9: The Recognition of Pakistan
On August 13, 1947, Britain recognized Pakistan as an independent dominion within the British Commonwealth five days after its creation.
Fact 10: Death of Florence Nightingale
On August 13, 1910, the world lost 'The Lady with the Lamp' Florence Nightingale, a pioneer in nursing known for her diligent care during the Crimean War.
Fact 11: First climb up the Matterhorn
In 1865, the Matterhorn's first successful ascent took place on August 13. Edward Whymper led the expedition, making it a remarkable day in mountaineering history.
Fact 12: Herman Melville’s Death
August 13 also marks the death of Herman Melville, a famous American novelist, short story writer, and poet. His best-known works include "Moby-Dick" and "Bartleby, the Scrivener".
Fact 13: The Helsinki Accords
On August 13, 1975, the Helsinki Accords, a major diplomatic agreement during the Cold War, was signed by 35 nations, including the U.S., Canada, and all European nations except Albania.
Fact 14: Lucy Stone’s Birthday
Lucy Stone, an American abolitionist and suffragist, was born on August 13, 1818. She was a prominent advocate for women’s rights and the first woman in Massachusetts to earn a college degree.
Fact 15: Google Acquires Android
On August 13, 2005, Google acquired Android, Inc., leading to the development of the Android OS. Today, Android is one of the most used operating systems in the world.
Fact 16: The Creation of South Ossetia
South Ossetia declares its independence from Georgia on August 13, 2008, after a five-day war between Russia and Georgia. However, the United Nations member states largely do not recognize its sovereignty.
Fact 17: Comedienne Phyllis Diller's Birthday
On August 13, 1917, groundbreaking comedienne Phyllis Diller was born. With her wild hair and outlandish clothing, she broke into the male-dominated field and paved the way for future female comedians.
Fact 18: Chinese Valentine’s Day
In the Chinese lunar calendar, the seventh day of the seventh lunar month, also named Qixi Festival or Chinese Valentine's Day, often falls on August 13. This romantic festival is celebrated with various customs across China.
Fact 19: Tropical Strom Charley
On August 13, 2004, Tropical Storm Charley hit Florida, causing widespread destruction and becoming one of the most damaging hurricanes in United States history.
Fact 20: Michael Phelps broke the world record
On August 13, 2008, during the Beijing Olympic Games, swimmer Michael Phelps set a new world record while winning the gold medal in the 200-meter butterfly final. This impressive achievement contributed to his total of eight gold medals in a single Olympics.