22 fun facts for January, 20

Discover dozens of fun facts for this special day. Read the summary for a quick recap on what happened.
Summary
January 20th is a day full of fun and interesting facts. From iconic births, like Buzz Aldrin and David Lynch, to cultural milestones, such as the start of the Beatles' British Invasion and the establishment of the National Negro Network, the day holds many noteworthy surprises. Whether it's recognizing endangered species on Penguin Awareness Day or celebrating India's National Martyrs' Day, January 20th offers something to pique everyone's interest.
22 Fun facts
  1. On January 20, 1265, the first English Parliament was held at Westminster Hall. This significant event marked the beginning of parliamentary representation in the English government system.
  2. In 1801, John Marshall was sworn in as the fourth Chief Justice of the United States. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in American law and played a crucial role in shaping the U.S. Constitution.
  3. January 20, 1930, marked the inauguration of the now-classic Mickey Mouse cartoon character's first comic strip by Walt Disney.
  4. Buzz Aldrin, the second astronaut to walk on the moon, was born on January 20, 1930. He played an important role in the historic Apollo 11 mission in 1969.
  5. American filmmaker and screenwriter David Lynch, known for his films such as Mulholland Drive and television series Twin Peaks, was born on January 20, 1946.
  6. In India, January 20 is observed as National Martyrs' Day in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh to honor those who have sacrificed their lives for the country's freedom and independence.
  7. On January 20, 1953, Dwight D. Eisenhower was inaugurated as the 34th President of the United States, marking the first time a U.S. president was inaugurated on this date.
  8. British guitarist and songwriter Paul Stanley, best known as the co-founder of the rock band KISS, was born on January 20, 1952.
  9. On January 20, 1954, the National Negro Network was established in the United States. This was the first-ever Black radio network, which aimed to provide unified broadcasting for African American communities across the country.
  10. American journalist and television personality Bill Maher, known for his long-running talk show "Real Time with Bill Maher," was born on January 20, 1956.
  11. On January 20, 1964, the Beatles' song "I Want to Hold Your Hand" reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This milestone marked the beginning of the British Invasion of the American music scene.
  12. UNESCO designated the city of Sheffield, England, as the World's First City of Sanctuary on January 20, 2007. This honor recognized the city's commitment to providing safety and support for refugees and asylum seekers.
  13. American actress Evan Rachel Wood, known for her roles in films such as Thirteen and Across the Universe, was born on January 20, 1987.
  14. On January 20, 1977, Deborah Ann Greer, an American fashion model, became the first African American woman to win the Miss World USA title. Also known as Deborah Shelton, she went on to have an acting career.
  15. Chester W. Nimitz, a US Fleet Admiral during World War II, was born on January 20, 1885. He played an essential role in the Pacific campaign of WWII, contributing to the Allied victory.
  16. In 1981, Ronald Reagan was inaugurated as the 40th President of the United States. At the age of 69, he became the oldest person to assume office for the first time.
  17. January 20, also known as World Snow Leopard Day, celebrates and raises awareness of the endangered snow leopard, a species native to Central and South Asia.
  18. On January 20, 1936, King George V of the United Kingdom passed away, resulting in the ascent of his eldest son, Edward VIII, to the throne.
  19. Australian singer and actor Luke Hemsworth, best known for his role in the Australian television series Neighbours, was born on January 20, 1990.
  20. On January 20, 1929, American film director and screenwriter David L. Wolper was born. He is known for producing numerous documentaries and feature films, including the classic miniseries "Roots."
  21. January 20 marks Penguin Awareness Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the threats faced by these adorable birds due to climate change, pollution, and habitat loss.
  22. On January 20, 1949, Harry S. Truman began his second term as President of the United States. He went on to implement the Marshall Plan and establish NATO, among other achievements.