Fact 1: A Day of Symbols
October 16 is recognized as the United Nations’ World Food Day, first celebrated in 1979. It marks the founding day of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in 1945. The day is celebrated in over 150 countries to raise alertness of the issues behind poverty and hunger.
Fact 2: A Diplomatic Founding
On this day in 1901, Booker T. Washington became the first African American to dine at the White House as President Theodore Roosevelt's guest. This was an important milestone in history, despite the fact that it was met with extensive outrage and backlash at the time.
Fact 3: Birth of a Hollywood Legend
The brilliantly versatile and iconic Hollywood actress, Angela Lansbury, was born on October 16, 1925. Lansbury starred in successful productions like "Murder, She Wrote" and the classic movie, "The Manchurian Candidate."
Fact 4: October 16 – A Day for Bosses
October 16 is "Boss's Day" in the United States - a day when employees show appreciation to their bosses. Patricia Bays Haroski, a secretary from Deerfield, Illinois, first initiated this holiday in 1958.
Fact 5: The First Woman to Conquer the Air
On October 16, 1908, Edith Berg became the first woman to take a flight as a passenger in an airplane. The pilot was none other than Wilbur Wright, one of the Wright Brothers commonly accredited with inventing and building the world's first successful airplane.
Fact 6: A Mathematical Giant
The influential Norwegian mathematician, Niels Henrik Abel, was recognized for his gigantic contributions to the field of mathematics by the Norwegian government on October 16, 2002. Now, the prestigious Abel Prize is given in his honor annually.
Fact 7: The Dawn of the "King of Pop"
October 16, 1972, marked the birth of pop music in a new light with the release of Michael Jackson's “Ben,” his second solo album, topping the Billboard 200 album chart.
Fact 8: National Liqueur Day
October 16 is celebrated as National Liqueur Day. This day recognizes the myriad flavors and recipes of liqueurs. So, if you're of legal drinking age, raise a glass to celebrate!
Fact 9: Creation of the Department of Labor
The United States Department of Labour was first established on this day in 1913 by President William Howard Taft to promote the welfare and rights of American workers.
Fact 10: The Innovative Compact Disc
Originally marketed as "The Sound of the Future," the first Compact Disc (CD) players were released to the public in Japan on October 16, 1982.
Fact 11: Foundation of Modern Astronomy
On October 16, 1852, Friedrich Bessel, the German astronomer known for his accurate measurements of stellar distances, passed away, leaving behind a legacy that would further the field of modern Astronomy.
Fact 12: A Parisian Achievement
In 1846, the world's first adjustable opera seats were installed in the Palais Garnier, a historic opera house in Paris. These were made available to the public on October 16 of that year.
Fact 13: The Birth of "Black Poetry Day"
Since 1985, October 16 is celebrated as Black Poetry Day to honor Jupiter Hammon, the first published black poet in the U.S., who was born on this day.
Fact 14: A Literary Birth
October 16, 1854, marked the birth of Oscar Wilde, a celebrated Irish writer and poet best known for his sharp wit, flamboyant style, and infamous imprisonment for homosexuality.
Fact 15: Recognition of the “King of Blues”
On October 16, 1925, B.B. King, the world-renowned “King of Blues,” was born. His influential music career earned him a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Fact 16: Iconic Sports History
October 16, 1968, was a notable day in sports history when Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their fists in a black power salute during the Summer Olympics award ceremony, a powerful political protest against racial discrimination.
Fact 17: The World’s Largest Theme Park
On October 16, 2001, Walt Disney World's fourth theme park, Animal Kingdom Lodge, officially opened in Florida. This park is now renowned as one of the largest animal theme parks in the world.
Fact 18: The Legendary "Pretty Woman"
The globally beloved "Pretty Woman", Julia Roberts, made her movie debut on October 16, 1988, in "Mystic Pizza," marking the start of her illustrious Hollywood journey.
Fact 19: David Copperfield's Magic
On October 16, 1993, David Copperfield, an admired illusionist, managed to make a 45-ton Orient Express dining car vanish in front of a live audience, a feat that left spectators awestruck.
Fact 20: The First Royal Mail Collection
October 16, 1855 marked a significant milestone in postal history. On this day, Britain's first pillar post boxes (mail collection boxes) were installed, revolutionizing the way people sent and received mail.