Fact 1: July 1 is Mid-Year Day
Believe it or not, July 1 marks the mid-point of a calendar year. It is the 182nd day of the year and from this point onwards, we head towards the end of the year. If this is not a great reason to celebrate, we don't know what is!
Fact 2: Canada Day Celebrations
On July 1, 1867, Canada officially became a separate country from England. Therefore, every July 1, the country celebrates its formation with Canada Day, also known as Dominion Day. There are parades, fireworks, barbecues, and concerts all over the country in celebration.
Fact 3: Hong Kong returned to China
July 1, 1997, is a significantly important date for both Hong Kong and China as the British rule in Hong Kong ended and it was returned to China on this date. This day is marked as 'Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Establishment Day'.
Fact 4: Sony Walkman Debuts
On July 1, 1979, Sony introduced the Walkman, a portable music player that revolutionized listening to music. It empowered individuals to carry their personal music with them, marking one of the major advancements towards portable consumer electronics.
Fact 5: The Battle of Gettysburg
One of the most decisive battles in American history, the Battle of Gettysburg began on July 1, 1863, during the American Civil War. It turned the tide of the war in favor of the Union forces.
Fact 6: The 26th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution
The 26th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution lowered the voting age from 21 to 18. It was ratified on July 1, 1971, largely in response to Vietnam War protests, as it was argued that those old enough to fight for their country should be allowed to vote.
Fact 7: The First Automated Teller Machine (ATM)
Barclays Bank installed the first automated teller machine in London, England on July 1, 1967. It revolutionized banking, allowing customers to withdraw cash 24/7.
Fact 8: The First U.S. Postage Stamps
On July 1, 1847, the first U.S. postage stamps went on sale. The stamps featured portraits of Benjamin Franklin and George Washington.
Fact 9: Spam Introduced
The canned meat product Spam, known for its long shelf-life and versatility, was introduced by Hormel Foods Corporation on July 1, 1937.
Fact 10: First Edition of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Released
The first edition of Lewis Carroll’s iconic children's book Alice's Adventures in Wonderland was released on July 1, 1865.
Fact 11: NASA’s Pathfinder Landed on Mars
NASA's Pathfinder mission successfully landed on Mars on July 1, 1997. The mission deployed the first-ever robotic rover on the Red Planet.
Fact 12: International Joke Day
July 1st also marks International Joke Day which was created to spread laughter and cheer all around. A perfect day to share your favorite jokes.
Fact 13: Princess Diana's Birthday
Princess Diana, one of the most beloved figures in British royal history was born on July 1, 1961. Her birthday is remembered and celebrated around the world.
Fact 14: Tour de France
The first-ever Tour de France, a multiple stage bike race, began on July 1, 1903. It has since become one of the most important annual events in sports.
Fact 15: The Brussels Treaty Comes into Effect
July 1, 1948 marked the enactment of the Brussels Treaty. It was a critical step toward the formation of NATO and helped lay a foundation for cooperative European defense.
Fact 16: Somalia Gains Independence
On July 1, 1960, Somalia gained full independence from Italian colonial rule, leading to the united Somali Republic. This day is celebrated as 'Somalia Independence Day'.
Fact 17: Zip Code Day
July 1st is also known as Zip Code Day. US Postal Service instituted ZIP (Zone Improvement Plan) codes on this day in 1963.
Fact 18: Rwandan Independence Day
July 1 is a national holiday in Rwanda, as the country celebrates its Independence Day marking the end of Belgian colonial rule in 1962.
Fact 19: The Foundation of China’s Communist Party
July 1, 1921, is the day the Chinese Communist Party was founded. It is marked as the Party's "birthday" in China and is often celebrated with various events and speeches.
Fact 20: The Beatles' First Single in the U.S.
The iconic music band The Beatles released their first single, "Love Me Do," in the United States on July 1, 1963. It marked the beginning of the Beatles' unmatched popularity and influence in the global music industry.