Fact 1 - Star Wars Day
May 25 is widely known amongst fans as Star Wars Day. This is because the iconic movie, Star Wars: A New Hope, was released on May 25th, 1977. This film set the momentum for a franchise that has, for decades, captured the hearts of millions around the world.
Fact 2 - Towel Day
Believe it or not, May 25 is also 'Towel Day,' a day dedicated to Douglas Adams, the author of the much-loved series, 'Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.' On this day, fans carry a towel in remembrance of Adams and his acclaimed work. In the series, a towel is considered the most essential item for space travel!
Fact 3 - African Liberation Day
Every year on May 25, African Liberation Day is observed. It was first established in 1963, when 32 African nations met in Ethiopia to form the Organization of African Unity (now the African Union). This day celebrates the fight for freedom from colonial rule and apartheid.
Fact 4 - Day of the Geek
In geek culture, May 25 is also known as Geek Pride Day. This informal holiday began in 2006 in Spain and quickly gained momentum across the globe. The date was specifically chosen to coincide with the release date of Star Wars - A New Hope.
Fact 5 - Arrival of Oscar Wilde
May 25, 1882, marked the arrival of beloved Irish writer Oscar Wilde in New York. Today, Wilde is remembered globally for his wit and his uncompromising commitment to individualism.
Fact 6 - Birthday of Ralph Waldo Emerson
Well-known American essayist, philosopher, and poet Ralph Waldo Emerson was born on May 25, 1803. His insightful works have had a profound influence on American literature and philosophical thought.
Fact 7 - Developments in Aviation
On May 25, 1927, the Ford Motor Company began to manufacture the Ford Trimotor airplane, also known as the “Tin Goose.” Known for being the first American all-metal plane, it revolutionized the aviation industry.
Fact 8 - The Golden Gate Bridge
The iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco was opened to the public on this day in 1937. It was the longest suspension bridge in the world until 1964 and remains a marvel in modern architecture.
Fact 9 - Indiana Jones Debut
May 25 turns out to be a popular day for film releases. In 1981, Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark was first released, marking another historical event for the cinematic world.
Fact 10 - The Invention of the Typewriter
On May 25, 1714, Henry Mill, an English engineer, received the patent for the first typewriter. It wasn't until over a hundred years later, however, that practical typewriters were available for mass usage.
Fact 11 - First US Space Walk
On this day in 1965, astronaut Edward H. White became the first American to walk in space. The spacewalk was achieved during the Gemini 4 mission and lasted over 20 minutes.
Fact 12 - Moving the Capital of Brazil
In 1961, on May 25, BrasÃlia officially replaced Rio de Janeiro as Brazil's capital. This modern-designed city was created from scratch in the remote interior of Brazil to help contribute to the development of the country's interior.
Fact 13 - Invasion of the Body Snatchers
The renowned science fiction horror film, Invasion of the Body Snatchers, was released on May 25, 1956. It's still considered a classic in the horror genre today.
Fact 14 - Birthday of Mike Meyers
Actor and comedian Mike Meyers, known for roles in movies like Wayne's World and Austin Powers, was born on May 25, 1963.
Fact 15 - The Stanley Cup's First "Steal"
On May 25, 1978, men's professional ice hockey team, the Montreal Canadiens, won their third consecutive Stanley Cup. This marked the first time the cup was "stolen" - during the celebrations, it briefly disappeared, only to be found the next day in the middle of a Montreal street!
Fact 16 - Direct Distance Dialing
On May 25, 1951, the debut of direct distance dialing, or simply making a long-distance call without operator assistance, was made for the area code 318. This changed the way we communicate forever!
Fact 17 - Birthday of the GPS
A significant leap in technology happened on May 25, 1989, when the first GPS satellite was sent into orbit. This technology is now essential in navigation and mapping around the globe.
Fact 18 - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Death Anniversary
May 25, 1930, marked the passing of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of the much-loved detective Sherlock Holmes. His stories continue to inspire and entertain millions.
Fact 19 - Patron Saint of Impossible Things
May 25 is also commemorated as the feast day of Saint Mary Magdalene de Pazzi, who is known as the patron saint of loss - acknowledging the impossible things one might lose.
Fact 20 - Return of the King
Finally, in the world of literature, J.R.R. Tolkien's legendary book, Lord of the Rings: Return of the King, first went on sale in the United Kingdom on May 25, 1955.