27 fun facts for February, 19
Discover dozens of fun facts for this special day. Read the summary for a quick recap on what happened.
Summary
February 19th is a day rich with history and celebrations, including the founding of Capitol Records and the discovery of water ice on Mars. It also features birthdays of notable figures, such as Peter Benchley and Mila Kunis, and events like the Icelandic women's mass protest for gender equality in 1976.
27 Fun facts
- On February 19, 1600, the Peruvian stratovolcano Huaynaputina erupted, creating the most catastrophic volcanic explosion in South America's recorded history. The eruption caused significant climate anomalies and affected the Southern Hemisphere's weather patterns for years.
- In 1807, former United States Vice President Aaron Burr was arrested on February 19th, resulting from accusations of plotting to divide the western territories from the US. He was later acquitted, though his political career was effectively ruined.
- American inventor Thomas Edison received a patent for the phonograph on February 19, 1878. The phonograph marked a significant step forward in the recording and reproduction of sound, leading to the development of the music industry as we know it today.
- On February 19, 1913, the first prize was inserted into Cracker Jack popcorn. The treat's famous mascot, Sailor Jack, and his dog Bingo were introduced as part of the package design, forever solidifying the brand's legacy.
- February 19th, 1921, marks the first time an artificial rabbit was used in a dog race. This innovation took place at a race in Emeryville, California and led to the widespread use of artificial lures in greyhound racing.
- On February 19, 1940, a new talent agent named Johnny Mercer founded Capitol Records, which later became one of the world's largest music labels. The company has represented countless artists, including Frank Sinatra, the Beatles, and Katy Perry.
- The 201st Fighter Squadron, known as the "Aztec Eagles," was activated on February 19, 1945. This Mexican Air Force unit trained and fought alongside the United States during World War II, representing Mexico's first overseas military deployment.
- On February 19, 1953, Georgia approved the first literature censorship board in the United States. The board sparked controversy and was later abolished after being deemed unconstitutional.
- February 19th is International Tug-of-War Day, celebrated annually to showcase the sport's history and promote physical fitness. Tug-of-war competitions have been held for centuries, and the sport was once an Olympic event.
- National Chocolate Mint Day falls on February 19th. This day is dedicated to celebrating the combination of chocolate and mint, often enjoyed as an indulgent dessert or refreshing treat.
- On February 19, 1963, influential American author and illustrator Maurice Sendak published "Where the Wild Things Are." This beloved children's book has since become a timeless classic and was later adapted into a film.
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City opened its doors on February 19, 1872. Today, the museum remains one of the world's largest and most famous art institutions.
- On February 19, 1976, an Icelandic women's group called the "Red Stockings" organized the country's first mass protest for gender equality. This event led to significant advancements in women's rights in Iceland.
- In Taiwan, February 19th is celebrated as the Lantern Festival, marking the end of the Chinese New Year festivities. This event includes colorful parades, flying lanterns, and traditional performances.
- February 19th is Coastal Cleanup Day in the Philippines. This nationwide initiative encourages citizens to help clean and preserve the country's vast shoreline.
- Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe first observed the "Great Comet of 1577" on February 19, producing invaluable data on comets and strengthening the case for heliocentrism.
- On February 19, 1985, William J. Schroeder became the first artificial heart patient to leave the hospital. Schroeder was able to live for an additional 620 days with the assistance of this pioneering medical technology.
- The spacesuit used by astronauts during the historic Apollo moon landings was patented on February 19, 1974.
- Famous British actor Sir Cedric Hardwicke was born on February 19, 1893. He appeared in over 70 films and numerous stage productions in a career spanning five decades.
- On February 19, 1912, the first baseball stadium built of concrete and steel, Forbes Field, began construction in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The field hosted the Pittsburgh Pirates until 1970, when it was replaced by Three Rivers Stadium.
- Peter Benchley, the author of the bestselling novel "Jaws," was born on February 19, 1940, in New York City. The novel inspired the popular film series, sparking a worldwide fascination with sharks.
- On February 19, 2002, NASA's Mars Odyssey space probe discovered evidence of immense water ice deposits on Mars, marking a pivotal moment in the exploration of the Red Planet.
- February 19 is National Lash Day in the United States, a day that highlights the importance of eyelashes and encourages individuals to pamper themselves with lash-enhancing products.
- Azerbaijani Steamroller Day occurs on February 19th, celebrating the hard work and dedication of those in the construction industry.
- Born on February 19, 1954, Sócrates Brasileiro Sampaio de Souza Vieira de Oliveira was a Brazilian soccer player, physician, and later a political activist. He was known for his exceptional talents on the field and his activism off the field.
- Ukrainian actress Mila Kunis, known for her roles in "That '70s Show," "Black Swan," and other popular films, was born on February 19, 1983.
- On February 19, 2013, Armenia decided to join the Russia-led Customs' Union, signaling closer ties with Russia and economic integration within the post-Soviet space.