Fact 1 – Gold Discovery Day
On January 24, 1848, James Marshall discovered gold at Sutter's Mill in California, marking a pivotal moment in American history that triggered the notorious Gold Rush. Every year, this day is celebrated as National Gold Discovery Day.
Fact 2 – Sandwich Was Born
Earl of Sandwich, John Montagu, is said to have invented the sandwich so he wouldn't have to leave his gambling table to take a meal. His birth anniversary falls on January 24, and each year, sandwich lovers across the world commemorate this day by enjoying this convenient meal.
Fact 3 – Voyager 2’s Historic Moment
January 24, 1986, was the day when NASA’s Voyager 2 became the first spacecraft to fly by Uranus. The event expanded our understanding of the solar system and space exploration.
Fact 4 – Apple's First Macintosh Computer
On January 24, 1984, Apple Computers introduced its first Macintosh model. The event marked a historical milestone in the computing world, as this machine was the first commercially successful home computer with a mouse and a graphical user interface.
Fact 5 – Beer Can Appreciation Day
January 24 is also celebrated as Beer Can Appreciation Day, marking the day in 1935 when beer was first sold in cans.
Fact 6 – Birth of the Boy Scouts
On January 24, 1908, the first Boy Scout troop was organized in England by Robert Baden-Powell, marking the inception of a globally recognized movement for youth development.
Fact 7 – Al Capone's Birthday
Notorious American gangster Al Capone was born on January 24, 1899. Despite his criminal reign during the Prohibition era, Capone's influence and persona continue to fascinate historians and enthusiasts.
Fact 8 – Mary Lou Retton’s Triumph
January 24th marks the birth of Mary Lou Retton, the first American woman to win a gold medal in the all-around competition at the Olympic Games. Retton’s victory in Los Angeles 1984 inspired countless young girls to take up gymnastics.
Fact 9 – The Birth of Michelin
This date in 1889 saw the birth of the world-renowned tire manufacturer - Michelin. The company was founded by two brothers, André and Édouard Michelin, in France.
Fact 10 – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Awarded Nobel Peace Prize
On January 24, 1967, the commemorative issue of the Nobel stamps honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s receipt of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 was unveiled.
Fact 11 – India’s Republic Day Eve
January 24 is a significant day in India as the country prepares for its Republic Day, which is celebrated on January 26.
Fact 12 – Break-Up of the Beatles
On January 24, 1969, Georgie Fame and the Blue Flames performed at the Savile Theater in London, marking the last live performance at the venue before it was bought by EMI – the same company that recorded the Beatles.
Fact 13 – Winston Churchill’s Death
January 24 marks the death of the great British statesman Winston Churchill in 1965, who led Britain through World War II.
Fact 14 – PlayStation Makes Groundbreaking Sales
This date in 2011 marks when Sony's PlayStation 2 made a formidable achievement by becoming the best-selling game console of all time.
Fact 15 – National Compliment Day
January 24 is National Compliment Day in the U.S., a day to boost spirits through the power of positive words.
Fact 16 – "A Room of One’s Own" Published
January 24, 1929, is the publication date of Virginia Woolf’s extended essay "A Room of One’s Own," a classic feminist text arguing for both a literal and figural space for women writers.
Fact 17 – First Flight of the A300
Airbus made its first flight of the A300, the first twin-engine wide-body aircraft, from Toulouse, France, on this day in 1972.
Fact 18 – Sharon Tate's Birthday
January 24 marks the birth of Sharon Tate, a promising American actress whose short-lived career was significantly marked by her tragic murder in 1969.
Fact 19 – First Winter Olympics in Japan
On January 24, 1972, Sapporo in Japan became the first Asian city to host the Winter Olympic Games.
Fact 20 – Most Expensive Autograph on eBay
January 24, 2001, saw the most expensive autograph being sold on eBay for $3.22 million. The autograph was that of William Shakespeare.