Fact 1: National Umbrella Day
Did you know that February 10 is recognized as National Umbrella Day? This day celebrates one of the world's most indispensable inventions. The umbrella is believed to be over 4,000 years old and was initially designed to provide shade from the sun. However, it soon became a symbol of power and dignity and eventually adapted to shield people from rain.
Fact 2: The Death of Arthur Miller
On February 10, 2005, iconic playwright Arthur Miller passed away. He was best known for his award-winning plays like "The Crucible" and "Death of a Salesman". His pivotal contributions to American literature and drama made him one of the most influential figures in the world of theatre.
Fact 3: Laura Dern's Birthday
Renowned Hollywood actress Laura Dern was born on February 10, 1967. Over the years, she has carved a niche for herself with performances in wide array of films including "Jurassic Park", "Little Women", and "Marriage Story".
Fact 4: National 'Have a Brownie' Day
February 10 annually celebrates a dessert favorite - The National 'Have a Brownie' Day. The first published recipe for brownies appeared in the "Boston Cooking-School Cook Book" by Fannie Merritt Farmer in 1896, making this sweet treat a longstanding part of American culinary history.
Fact 5: Establishment of the Vatican City
On February 10, 1929, the Vatican City, the smallest city-state in the world, was established. The Lateran Treaty made between the Holy See and Italy recognizes Vatican City as an independent state.
Fact 6: French and Indian War
The French and Indian War formally began on February 10, 1763. This war greatly influenced North American history, eventually becoming a contributing factor to the American Revolution.
Fact 7: The Day Pluto Was Named
On its discovery in 1930, Pluto, the ninth planet in our solar system, was officially named on February 10, following an 11-year-old girl's suggestion. The name was endorsed because it symbolizes the Roman god of the underworld, fitting for a planet in the dark, cold outer reaches of our solar system.
Fact 8: The Winter Olympics 2006
On February 10, 2006, the Winter Olympics kicked off in Turin, Italy. This marked the second time Italy hosted the Winter Olympic Games.
Fact 9: The Founding of the YMCA
February 10 also marks the founding day of the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) in 1844. The establishment of this organization in London, England reshaped youth development and remains influential worldwide today.
Fact 10: Patent of the Telephone
Alexander Graham Bell, inventor of the telephone, applied for his patent on February 10, 1876. This reinvented global communication, paving the way for modern technologies we use today.
Fact 11: The Release of The Beatles' 'Hard Day's Night'
On February 10, 1964, Brittish band The Beatles’ first album in the United States, “Meet The Beatles”, was certified Gold. This marked a significant milestone in the 'British Invasion' of the American music scene.
Fact 12: Emma Roberts’ Birthday
Famous actress Emma Roberts was born on February 10, 1991. She gained popularity after her role in the Nickelodeon television series "Unfabulous" and has since had a successful acting career.
Fact 13: Jamaican Earthquake
In the history books, February 10, 1907, is recorded as the day of the catastrophic Jamaican earthquake that claimed over 1,000 lives and left Kingston in ruins.
Fact 14: Eruption of Mount Etna
Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in Italy, began one of its many major eruptions on February 10, 1974. This particular eruption lasted for several days, causing significant local damage but no loss of life.
Fact 15: Cape Verde Gains Independence
On February 10, 1975, Cape Verde, an island nation off the coast of West Africa, gained political independence from Portugal after more than five centuries of colonization.
Fact 16: Elizabeth Banks’ Birthday
Elizabeth Banks, the award-winning actress and director known for her roles in "The Hunger Games" and "Pitch Perfect," was born on February 10, 1974.
Fact 17: Release of 'The Sims'
Popular life simulation video game "The Sims" was first released on February 10, 2000. Designed by Will Wright and published by Maxis, the game quickly gained a cult following and spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs.
Fact 18: Satchel Paige Inducted into Baseball Hall of Fame
On February 10, 1971, Leroy 'Satchel' Paige, one of the most famous pitchers in Negro league history, became the first Negro league veteran to be nominated for the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Fact 19: Mark Spitz's Birthday
Mark Spitz, the Olympic champion and world record-holding swimmer, was born on February 10, 1950. He is best known for winning seven gold medals at the 1972 Munich Olympic Games, an achievement only surpassed by Michael Phelps in 2008.
Fact 20: The Knesset’s Inaugural Meeting
On February 10, 1949, the first Israeli parliament known as 'The Knesset' held its inaugural meeting. That marked a crucial moment in the establishment of Israel’s democratic government.