Fact 1: It commemorates Victory Day in Europe
May 9 is a significant date as it commemorates Victory Day, also known as V-E Day in Western countries. It marks the end of World War II in Europe. The holiday commemorates the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany to the Soviet Union and the Allies in 1945.
Fact 2: Inception of Pontifical Swiss Guard
On the 9th of May, 1506, the Pontifical Swiss Guard was founded. This small force maintains the safety of the Pope and serves as the de facto military of Vatican City. Out of the total 135 Swiss guards, 33 are officers, 13 are musicians, and the rest are halberdiers.
Fact 3: The Birth Anniversary of John Brown
May 9 marks the birth anniversary of John Brown, the famous American abolitionist who believed in the violent overthrow of the slavery system. Brown was born in 1800, and his actions played a significant role in the build-up to the American Civil War.
Fact 4: The 8th Malaysian General Election
The 8th Malaysian General Election was held on May 9, 1978, with the National Front coalition retaining power with an increased majority and more seats taken in Parliament. It signified the political stability and maturity in the Southeast Asian nation.
Fact 5: First American Woman to Win the Nobel Prize
May 9th, 1947 marked the day when Gerty Cori became the first American woman to win the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. This was a significant moment in history that opened new horizons for women in science and paved the way for future researchers.
Fact 6: The Founding of Minnesota
On May 9th, 1858, Minnesota was founded, making this date a significant one for Americans as it adds the 32nd star on their flag. Minnesota is popularly known as "Land of 10,000 Lakes."
Fact 7: The First Transatlantic Flight
May 9 is a milestone in aviation history. On this day in 1926, Richard E. Byrd and Floyd Bennett may possibly have made the first transatlantic flight, leading to significant developments in air travel.
Fact 8: The Great Gatsby's publication
F. Scott Fitzgerald's iconic novel, The Great Gatsby, was published on May 9, 1925. This work is considered a classic in American literature and remains widely read and studied even today.
Fact 9: Birth Anniversary of Ghostface Killah
Born on May 9, 1970, Ghostface Killah, is a well-known figure in the rap industry and is a member of the Wu-Tang Clan. This date is a notable one in the music industry.
Fact 10: Ford Motors at its Peak
On May 9, 2003, Ford Motor Company's stock hit a five-year high, symbolizing the peak of its success. It's exciting for car enthusiasts, especially those with a preference for the iconic brand, Ford.
Fact 11: Independence Day in Paraguay
May 9th is also marked as Independence Day in Paraguay, one of the only two landlocked countries in South America. This day celebrates Paraguay's independence from Spanish rule in 1811.
Fact 12: Arthur Miller wins Pulitzer Prize
On May 9, 1949, the award-winning American playwright Arthur Miller received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama for his famous play "Death of a Salesman".
Fact 13: First Woman to Summit Everest
May 9, 1995, is an important day in mountaineering history as it marks the day when Tabei Junko of Japan became the first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest.
Fact 14: Royal Navy Sank the "Bismarck"
On May 9, 1941, the Royal Navy sank the German battleship "Bismarck". The sinking of the Bismarck was a significant naval engagement during World War II.
Fact 15: Microsoft Announced SharePoint
On May 9, 2001, Microsoft announced SharePoint, their web-based collaborative platform. This product has since become a vital tool in business management and operation.
Fact 16: The Publication of American Cookery
American Cookery, the first known cookbook authored by an American, was published on May 9, 1796. It was written by Amelia Simmons and was the first cookbook to suggest using native American ingredients.
Fact 17: The Launch of New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
May 9, 1970, saw the inception of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Today, this festival is an annual celebration of the music and culture of New Orleans and Louisiana.
Fact 18: Italy Joins the Allies in World War I
On May 9, 1915, Italy joined the Allies in World War I. This decision was after long negotiations in the secret Treaty of London, aiming to win territorial gains at the end of the war.
Fact 19: National Liberation Day of Korea
Though not celebrated on May 9, it is a special date in Korean history. It was on this day in 1948 that the Republic of Korea was officially proclaimed, leading Koreans to eventually celebrate their National Liberation Day on August 15.
Fact 20: Birth Anniversary of J.M Barrie
Scottish author J.M Barrie, best known for creating the character Peter Pan, was born on May 9, 1860. His work has been cherished by generations of children worldwide.