Fact 1: 'National Almond Day'
Did you know February 16 is marked as 'National Almond Day'? The day is devoted to recognizing the immense health benefits of almonds. Almonds are a fantastic source of antioxidants, high-quality protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Fact 2: February 16 in Roman Times
February 16 had a unique significance in Roman Culture. The day was part of the Roman festival, Lupercalia, that celebrated fertility and the coming of spring. During this festival, the Roman priests sacrificed goats and dogs, symbols of fertility.
Fact 3: Sharing the Date with Lithuania
February 16 is a big day for Lithuania. On this day, in 1918, Lithuania declared its independence from the Soviet Russia. It is therefore celebrated as Lithuania's Independence Day.
Fact 4: Celebrating Kyoto Protocol
The environmental treaty, Kyoto Protocol, came into effect on February 16, 2005, aiming to reduce greenhouse gases that cause climate change. The date marks an important milestone in the global effort to combat global warming.
Fact 5: Ice-T's Birthday
Famous American rapper, actor, and record producer Ice-T was born on February 16, 1958. He has greatly influenced the music industry, particularly the Hip Hop genre.
Fact 6: Discovery of the Ivory-Billed Woodpecker
The critically endangered or possibly extinct species, the Ivory-billed Woodpecker, was officially discovered on February 16, 1890. This day brought attention to the species and sparked ongoing conversation about its existence and conservation.
Fact 7: The Weeknd's Birthday
Acclaimed Canadian singer-songwriter, The Weeknd, was born on this day. His brand of moody, R&B-inspired pop has earned him a massive international fan base and countless music awards.
Fact 8: Prohibition Law Passes
On February 16, 1918, the U.S. Congress passed legislation known as the Prohibition law. This act outlawed the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages within the U.S.
Fact 9: First 911 Call
On February 16, 1968, the first-ever 911 call was made in the United States. This marked the beginning of the universally recognized emergency number system that's still used today.
Fact 10: First Woman to Command a Space Shuttle
February 16 marks a remarkable achievement in women's history. On 16th February 1995, Eileen Collins became the first woman to pilot a space shuttle mission during the Discovery’s trip to space.
Fact 11: Post-It Notes Inventor's Birthday
This day is also the birthday of the inventor of the Post-It notes, Spencer Silver. His simple yet revolutionary invention has changed the way people organize information.
Fact 12: King Tut's Burial Chamber
This historic day also marks the opening of King Tutankhamun’s burial chamber in Egypt by archaeologist Howard Carter in 1923. The discovery provided invaluable insights into Ancient Egyptian civilization.
Fact 13: Birth of LeVar Burton
LeVar Burton, best known for his roles in "Reading Rainbow" and "Star Trek: The Next Generation," was born on February 16. His contributions to literature and science fiction have left a lasting impact on those genres.
Fact 14: Miracle Granted Patent
Mr. Miracle, a device that's synonymous with safety for gas stoves, was granted a patent on this day. It prevents the gas from leaking and causing potential damage and was a crucial invention for household safety.
Fact 15: Saxophone Patent
Did you know the saxophone's patent was also granted on February 16? It was patented in 1843 by Adolphe Sax, a Belgian musician and inventor, adding a unique instrument to the musical world.
Fact 16: Mathematician Gauss’s Major Work
February 16 marks the completion of the German mathematician Carl Friedrich Gauss's major work 'Disquisitiones Generales Circa Superficies Curvas'. This work is cornerstone of modern mathematics.
Fact 17: Northampton Bridge Opened
The Northampton Bridge, the world's first Y-shaped bridge, was opened to the public on this day, February 16, in 1810. This pre-eminent structure still stands in Northampton, England.
Fact 18: Robert F. Kennedy's Historic Peace Corps Speech
Robert F. Kennedy delivered his historic speech on the Peace Corps on February 16, 1966. The speech highlighted America's role in international cooperation and development.
Fact 19: Launch of New Amsterdam
On February 16, the Television Series 'New Amsterdam' premiered. The show, based on the Bellevue hospital in New York, struck a chord with audiences for its gripping medical narratives and complex characters.
Fact 20: Demolition of Ebbets Field Stadium
Nostalgia washes over baseball fans on this day, as it marks when the iconic Ebbets Field stadium, home of the Brooklyn Dodgers, was demolished in 1960. This historic baseball park housed numerous memorable moments in sports history before being replaced by an apartment complex.