Fact 1: American Independence Was Almost on July 2nd
While Americans celebrate their Independence day on July 4th, it’s interesting to note that the Continental Congress actually voted for independence on July 2, 1776. Thomas Jefferson suggested that Independence Day should be on July 2nd, but the final written document was not approved until July 4th. Thus, July 3rd lies in between the two significant dates making it a pivotal day of U.S. History.
Fact 2: Julius Caesar's Death Connection
On this day in the year 46 BC, Julius Caesar defeated Gnaius Pompey, marking the end of the Roman Civil War. It's intriguing that the man who shaped so much of our modern calendar has a significant historical event linked to July 3rd.
Fact 3: A Special Day for Idaho
On July 3, 1890, Idaho became the 43rd state to join the United States of America. Known for its impressive landscapes and mighty rivers, Idaho commemorates this day as an essential part of its rich history.
Fact 4: Birth of Franz Kafka
The internationally renowned author Franz Kafka was born on July 3, 1883. Kafka's works, such as "The Metamorphosis," have fascinated readers for generations with their ethereal and contemplative themes.
Fact 5: Proclamation Day in South Australia
July 3rd marks an important day in Australia's history. On this day in 1858, the British monarchy's rule over South Australia officially ended, and it became a self-governing colony, a significant step towards the Australia we know today.
Fact 6: Battle of Gettysburg’s Last Day
On July 3, 1863, the last day of the Battle of Gettysburg took place during the American Civil War. This significant battle is known to be one of the deadliest and was a turning point in the war.
Fact 7: The 007 Connection
The renowned actor, known for his role as James Bond, Tom Cruise was born on July 3rd, 1962. His action-filled performance as a secret agent in the much-celebrated film series has left an undying impact on his fans worldwide.
Fact 8: The Dog Days Begin
Historically, July 3rd was considered the start of the "Dog Days" of summer. This term comes from the ancient Romans, as they would notice the star Sirius (the Dog Star) rising with the sun at this time, believed to be the hottest days of the year.
Fact 9: The Eiffel Tower’s Connection
On July 3, 1889, Gustave Eiffel ascended to the top of the Eiffel Tower, marking its completion. It's now one of the world's most iconic landmarks visited by millions of people each year.
Fact 10: Launch of the First 'Trekkie'
The revolutionary Star Trek series debuted its first episode at a fan convention on July 3, 1982. This was the starting point of an iconic fan base known now as 'Trekkies.'
Fact 11: The Birth of a Famous Cartoonist
The man who brought laughter and joy to countless people through his cartoons, Tom Grimes, the creator of "The Jetsons" and "Tom & Jerry," was born on July 3, 1911. This makes July 3 an important day in animated entertainment history.
Fact 12: Will Shakespeare's Marriage
William Shakespeare, known as the world's greatest dramatist, got married to Anne Hathaway on July 3, 1582. The marriage of arguably the most iconic writer in the English language makes this day a notable one in literary history.
Fact 13: The World's Tallest Man
Robert Wadlow, listed in the Guinness World Records as the world's tallest man, was born on July 3, 1918. Wadlow reached a height of 8 feet 11.1 inches, making him regarded as the tallest person in history.
Fact 14: First Walmart Store Opened
The first Walmart store opened in Rogers, Arkansas, on July 3, 1962. Today, it's considered one of the world's largest corporations by revenue.
Fact 15: The Origin of Spam
On July 3, 1937, a shelf-stable canned meat product known as Spam was introduced by Hormel Foods Corporation. Spam went on to become an iconic part of American culture.
Fact 16: Beatles’ ‘A Hard Day's Night’ Premiered
The Beatles' first-ever film, "A Hard Day’s Night," premiered on July 3, 1964, in the United Kingdom. The film was a commercial and critical success, leading to a new found appreciation for pop and rock music.
Fact 17: Lithuania's Coronation Day
Lithuania commemorates the coronation of King Mindaugas on July 3rd. He was crowned in 1253, making it the only king's coronation in the nation’s history, which makes this day an important national holiday.
Fact 18: Birth of Tom Stoppard
The acclaimed playwright and screenwriter, Tom Stoppard, was born on July 3, 1937. His notable works include 'Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead' and 'Arcadia' which are celebrated worldwide.
Fact 19: Elvis Presley’s Final Concert
On July 3, 1977, Elvis Presley, the "King of Rock and Roll," performed his last concert at Market Square Arena in Indianapolis, Indiana. He passed away just a few weeks later, making his July 3rd concert an unforgettable event in music history.
Fact 20: The Tunguska Event
On July 3, 1908, a massive explosion that is now known as the Tunguska Event occurred in remote Siberia. The explosion, caused by a meteor approximately 330 feet wide, is the largest impact event in recorded Earth's history.