34 fun facts for February, 20

Discover dozens of fun facts for this special day. Read the summary for a quick recap on what happened.
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Summary
February 20th is a day full of interesting and diverse fun facts. Some notable events include National Love Your Pet Day, World Day of Social Justice, the first American to orbit Earth, and the birth of influential figures such as Rihanna and Kurt Cobain. From historic moments to celebrating delicious treats like cherry pie, February 20th is a day to remember.
34 Fun facts
  1. February 20th is National Love Your Pet Day in the United States. This day promotes the idea of appreciating and taking a moment to cherish the unique bond humans share with their pets, be it a cat, dog, or any other animal companion.
  2. In 1931, Congress declared the Star-Spangled Banner to be the official National Anthem of the United States on this day. It was written by Francis Scott Key during the War of 1812.
  3. On February 20, 1962, astronaut John Glenn became the first American to orbit the Earth onboard the Mercury-Atlas 6. His successful mission lasted almost five hours and orbited the planet three times.
  4. February 20th is World Day of Social Justice, declared by the United Nations. The day aims to promote stable employment, social equality, and human rights, encouraging people to fight against social injustice and inequality.
  5. On February 20, 1872, the hydraulic brake was patented by George Westinghouse, which revolutionized transportation and enhanced the reliability and safety of trains and other forms of transportation.
  6. Icelandic pop singer Björk was born on this day in 1965. She would go on to become an innovative and influential artist in the music industry, known for her distinctive voice and eclectic style that blends electronic, experimental, and classical music.
  7. Basketball superstar Charles Barkley was born on February 20, 1963. During his career, Barkley was named an NBA All-Star 11 times and earned an Olympic gold medal in 1992 as part of the famous American "Dream Team."
  8. On February 20, 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt was inaugurated for his first term in office. He would go on to serve an unprecedented four terms as president until his death on April 12, 1945.
  9. February 20th is National Cherry Pie Day in the United States, celebrating the classic and popular dessert enjoyed by many Americans. It is a day to bake, share, and indulge in this delicious treat.
  10. American artist and filmmaker Andy Warhol died on February 20, 1987. He was an influential figure in the pop art movement and created iconic works such as the Campbell's Soup Cans and portraits of Marilyn Monroe.
  11. On February 20, 1839, Congress passed the Act to Prohibit the Importation of Slaves, making it illegal for citizens of the United States to import slaves from foreign countries.
  12. In 1998, American figure skater Tara Lipinski became the youngest gold medalist at the Winter Olympics. This accomplishment happened during the individual ladies' figure skating event in Nagano, Japan, when Lipinski was only 15 years old.
  13. February 20, 1958, marked the beginning of Cyprus' fight for independence from British rule. Cyprus would eventually become an independent state on August 16, 1960.
  14. American musician Kurt Cobain, best known as the lead singer and guitarist for the grunge band Nirvana, was born on February 20, 1967.
  15. On February 20, 2006, the United Arab Emirates held its first-ever elections for the Federal National Council, as an effort to increase government transparency and legitimacy.
  16. February 20, 1902, marked the birth of renowned American photographer Ansel Adams. He became famous for his black-and-white images depicting the natural beauty of the American West.
  17. On February 20, 1935, Caroline Mikkelsen became the first woman to set foot on Antarctica during a Norwegian expedition.
  18. The first Cracker Jack prize was included in a box on February 20, 1912. This American brand consists of caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts with a small collectible prize in every box.
  19. On February 20, 1943, a volcano named Parícutin erupted suddenly in Mexico. The eruption lasted for nine years and created a volcanic cone that stands over 1,000 feet today.
  20. American singer and actress Rihanna was born on February 20, 1988. She has become one of the best-selling musical artists in the world and has received numerous awards and accolades for her work.
  21. On February 20, 1986, the USSR launched the Mir space station, which would go on to become the world's first modular space station and remain in orbit until March 2001.
  22. In 1809, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled in the landmark decision of United States v. Peters that a state legislature could not annul a judgment made by a federal court.
  23. Sidney Poitier became the first Black actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor on February 20, 1964, for his role in "Lilies of the Field."
  24. On February 20, 1947, the United States Atomic Energy Commission was established. Its function was to regulate the use of nuclear energy and the development of atomic weapons.
  25. The first color television license was issued on February 20, 1951, in the United States.
  26. French film director and photographer Robert Doisneau was born on February 20, 1912. He is best known for his street photography and capturing the essence of Parisian life in the mid-20th century.
  27. On February 20, 1844, the historic "Long Island Railroad" began rail operations in New York City. Today, it is still one of the busiest commuter railroads in the United States.
  28. The Australian city of Sydney experienced a record-breaking heatwave on February 20, 1858. The temperature reached a staggering 47.2ºC (117ºF), which was not beaten for over 150 years.
  29. On February 20, 1824, the first organized indoor swimming pool, the "Baths of Apollo," was opened in London.
  30. Former professional wrestler and current actor and television host, Steve Austin (aka Stone Cold), was born on February 20, 1964.
  31. On February 20, 1792, the United States Postal Service Act was signed into law by President George Washington, creating the U.S. Postal Service as we know it today.
  32. February 20 is the Feast Day of St. Wulfric of Haselbury, an English hermit and miracle worker who lived during the 12th century.
  33. In 2005, on February 20, the Kyoto Protocol went into effect, a landmark international treaty aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.
  34. February 20, 1960, saw the release of the popular American animated television series, "The Flintstones."

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