Fact 1: International World Thinking Day
World Thinking Day, celebrated annually on 22nd February, is an international event during which people are encouraged to appreciate the global community and think about issues affecting children worldwide. The date was chosen as it honors the birthday of both Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scout Movement, and his wife, Olave, who served as World Chief Guide.
Fact 2: An Important Date for George Washington
The 22nd of February is also the recognized birth date of George Washington, the first President of the United States. Although his official birth date is February 11th, after the switch from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar, it's now marked on February 22nd.
Fact 3: The Day "Miracle on Ice" Happened
In sporting history, February 22nd is the anniversary of the "Miracle on Ice" - one of the biggest upsets in ice hockey history. On this day in 1980, the United States men's hockey team, made up largely of amateurs, defeated the heavily favored Soviet team at the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York.
Fact 4: Release of The Beatles' Please Please Me single
On this day, in 1963, The Beatles enjoyed their move into the spotlight with their single 'Please Please Me' topping the UK singles chart. This started a series of number one hits for the iconic band.
Fact 5: A Significant Date for Women's Empowerment
February 22nd, 1972 marked an important day in the fight for gender equality. It was on this day that a federal grand jury indicted seven members of the US mind-controlled cult "Symbionese Liberation Army" including its leader, Patricia Hearst.
Fact 6: Birthdate of Famous Actors
Robert Wadlow, the tallest known person in history, was born on this day in 1918. 22nd February is also the birthdate of several famous actors, including Drew Barrymore, Julie Walters, and James Hong.
Fact 7: Day of Freedom for US Slaves
On February 22, 1865, Tennessee adopted a new constitution that abolished slavery. This was a significant step towards the freedom of many enslaved individuals in the United States.
Fact 8: Proclaimed as National Margarita Day
While the origins of National Margarita Day are unclear, many in the United States and beyond enjoy this unofficial holiday on February 22nd. It's a day to enjoy this popular citrus-based cocktail, made of tequila, lime juice, and triple sec.
Fact 9: Steve Irwin’s Memorial Day
Australia's beloved 'Crocodile Hunter', Steve Irwin, is celebrated every year on February 22nd. On this day, Australians hold a variety of charity events in honour of his extensive wildlife preservation efforts.
Fact 10: First Woolworth store Opens
On February 22, 1879, the first Woolworth store opened in Utica, New York. Despite its initial failure and subsequent closure, the brand rebounded and became a major retail company.
Fact 11: Completion of Washington Monument
On the 22nd of February, 1885, the Washington Monument was finally completed in Washington, D.C. The monument had been halted for more than twenty years due to lack of funding.
Fact 12: Date of Some Iconic Music Performances
The 22nd of February has witnessed some iconic music performances. On this day in 1987, Andy Warhol's final work, which was the cover art for the album "Menlove Ave," was unveiled.
Fact 13: Einstein Theory Confirmation
On February 22, 1920, Sir Arthur Eddington announced the confirmation of Einstein's theory of relativity. This became a major leap forward in the world of physics.
Fact 14: Incredible Cricket Records
In the world of cricket, it was on February 22, 2003 that Sachin Tendulkar, an Indian cricketer, became the first player to reach 13,000 runs in One Day International cricket.
Fact 15: Day the Euro was Introduced
On February 22, 2002, the Euro became the official currency for 12 countries in the European Union. This marked a huge change in the international financial landscape.
Fact 16: Notable Book Releases
The 22nd of February has seen the release of several notable books, including "The Complete Tales and Poems of Winnie-the-Pooh" in 1928 and "The Bell Jar" by Sylvia Plath in 1963.
Fact 17: First Day of The Battle of Los Angeles
Also known as the "Great LA Air Raid," this event began on February 22, 1942, lasting until the morning of the 23rd. During this time, the US responded to a rumored enemy attack by firing around 1,400 anti-aircraft shells into the sky over Los Angeles.
Fact 18: Apple's first OS X was released
On February 22, 2001, Apple introduced its first version of the OS X operating system. This marked a new era for Apple in terms of modernizing their software and streamlining their product line.
Fact 19: Prolific Rainfall in Réunion
It was on February 22, 2007 that the island of R̩union set a new world record for the most rainfall in 72 hours Р12.78 inches, following Cyclone Gamede.
Fact 20: Introduction of First Telephone Directory
On February 22, 1878, the world's first telephone directory was issued by the District Telephone Company of New Haven. However, it didn't have any phone numbers listed - just a list of subscribers whom operators could connect manually.