Fact 1: Operation Mercury Commenced
During World War II, May 10, 1941, marked the commencement of Operation Mercury by Nazi Germany against Crete in Greece. It was the first mainly airborne invasion in military history, with the German forces deploying via parachute and glider into the Mediterranean island.
Fact 2: Independence Day in Micronesia
May 10 is a significant date for the Federated States of Micronesia as they recognize it as their Independence Day. The United Nations had initially given the USA trusteeship over Micronesia in 1947, but in 1979, Micronesia established a constitution, gaining autonomous control over their nation.
Fact 3: Historical Snail Mail
May 10, 1840, is an impressive date in the history of communication. It marked the inception of the first postage stamp, the Penny Black, in Great Britain, paving the way for prepaid postal service worldwide.
Fact 4: A Milestone for Transcontinental Railroad
On May 10, 1869, a remarkable feat in American infrastructure was accomplished. Known as the Golden Spike Day, it commemorates when the Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroads were connected in Promontory, Utah, creating the first transcontinental railroad in the United States.
Fact 5: The Beatles' Movie Premiere
May 10 in 1965 is iconic for Beatles fans. This was when the Fab Four's second film, "Help!" premiered in London.
Fact 6: Birth of the Father of Gliders
May 10, 1899, marked the birth of Otto Lilienthal's first successful flight with a glider, making him a significant entity in aviation history, often referred to as the father of flight.
Fact 7: Nelson Mandela Becomes President
On May 10, 1994, a crucial milestone was achieved in South Africa's history: Nelson Mandela was inaugurated as the nation's first black President, signifying a significant step towards racial equality in the country.
Fact 8: The Kentucky Derby Kicks Off
The Kentucky Derby, one of the most famous horse races worldwide, had its first-ever race on May 10, 1875.
Fact 9: World's Fair Exposition's Opening Day
Considered one of the largest world fairs in history, the "Century of Progress" Exposition in Chicago opened on May 10 in 1933.
Fact 10: A Leap for Microsoft
It is on May 10, 2011, that Microsoft acquired Skype for $8.5 billion, marking one of the highest price tags for a tech company acquisition.
Fact 11: Remarkable Invention: Lava Lamp
Edward Craven Walker filed a patent for the mesmerizing Lava Lamp on May 10, 1961.
Fact 12: Music History: The Eurovision Song Contest
The famous annual international TV song competition, The Eurovision Song Contest was first broadcast on May 10, 1956.
Fact 13: Salvador Dali's Birthday
Renowned surrealist Salvador Dali was born on May 10, 1904, in Figueres, Catalonia, Spain.
Fact 14: Introduction of Compact Discs
May 10, 1985, witnessed the introduction of compact discs (CDs) in the U.S, transforming how people listened to music.
Fact 15: Mark David Chapman Pleads Guilty
On May 10, 1981, Mark David Chapman pleaded guilty to the murder of Beatles member John Lennon, one of the most shocking celebrity assassinations of the 20th century.
Fact 16: Last Hanging in Scotland
May 10, 1961, was the date of the last hanging in Scotland. The execution took place at Craiginches Prison in Aberdeen.
Fact 17: First Synchronized Sound Cartoon Release
Walt Disney Studio's first synchronized sound cartoon, "Steamboat Willie," premiered on May 10, 1928.
Fact 18: Submission of the "Top Secret" Roswell Report
On May 10, 1995, U.S representative Steven H. Schiff submitted the famed "Top Secret" Roswell Report to Congress, adding to the UFO speculation and controversies.
Fact 19: Picasso's $95 million Painting
On May 10, 2006, “Dora Maar au Chat” by Pablo Picasso sold at Sotheby’s for over $95 million, making it one of the most expensive paintings ever sold.
Fact 20: A Day for Moms
Most importantly, for many countries including the United States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, India, China, Japan, the Philippines, and South Africa, May 10 is celebrated as Mother’s Day, a day dedicated to honouring and appreciating the love, care, and sacrifices of mothers. It is not a fixed date and varies each year, but it fell on May 10 in various years, such as 2015 and 2020.