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27 fun facts for May, 14

Discover dozens of fun facts for this special day. Read the summary for a quick recap on what happened.
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Summary
May 14 has witnessed many significant events and celebrations worldwide, from Edward Jenner administering the first smallpox vaccine in 1796 to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s birth in 1984. Various countries also celebrate unique traditions and festivals, such as Thailand's National Children's Day and America's National Dance Like a Chicken Day, on this day.
27 Fun facts
  1. On May 14, 1796, British physician Edward Jenner administered the world's first smallpox vaccine to an 8-year-old child, James Phipps. This pioneering moment marked the beginning of the modern era of immunization.
  2. Invented by George C. Blickensderfer, the Blickensderfer typewriter was patented on May 14, 1892. It featured the first truly portable and lightweight design of typewriters, making it a revolution in the field of personal and professional writing.
  3. On May 14, 1955, the Soviet Union and seven Eastern European communist countries signed the Warsaw Pact, establishing a treaty for mutual defense and military assistance. Despite avoiding war related topics, it is important to recognize the Warsaw Pact's influence on world political structure.
  4. May 14 is National Dance Like a Chicken Day, an annual celebration that encourages everyone to dance like a chicken, flapping their arms, clapping, and making chicken noises to the tune of the Chicken Dance song. This day is enjoyed by children and adults, often at parties and festivities.
  5. The first Antarctic research station, Maudheim, was established by Norway on May 14, 1949. Maudheim was the first of many research stations built by various countries studying Antarctica's climate, geology, and biology.
  6. American businessman Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder and CEO of Facebook, was born on May 14, 1984. As one of the youngest billionaires in the world, Zuckerberg has had a major impact on the tech industry and social media.
  7. On May 14, 1939, Lina Medina became the youngest known mother in medical history at only five years old. The Peruvian child gave birth to a healthy baby boy by cesarean section in a case that puzzled medical professionals worldwide.
  8. May 14 is celebrated as National Buttermilk Biscuit Day in the United States. Buttermilk biscuits are a traditional Southern U.S. food, and this day celebrates their delicious taste and versatility as a side dish or breakfast item.
  9. May 14 is known as National Children's Day in Thailand, which honors the future leaders of the country. This day consists of various activities, parades, and celebrations that strengthen the bonds between children and adults.
  10. Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, was born on May 14, 1820. Known as "The Lady with the Lamp," she revolutionized the nursing profession by introducing strict sanitary practices and advocating for improved hospital conditions.
  11. On May 14, 1845, Henry David Thoreau began a two-year stay at Walden Pond, chronicled in his book "Walden." Thoreau sought a simple life close to nature, inspiring generations to live mindfully and with minimal material possessions.
  12. May 14 is National Underground America Day, acknowledging the many underground homes and buildings across the United States. This celebration promotes awareness and appreciation for sustainable, eco-friendly, and innovative architectural designs.
  13. The first international game of rugby league was played between England and Wales on May 14, 1908. The match took place in Aberdare and is considered a significant moment in the sport's history.
  14. May 14 marks the anniversary of Skype's launch in 2003. The popular communication tool has helped connect people worldwide through voice and video calls and revolutionized the way we communicate.
  15. American film director George Lucas, best known as the creator of "Star Wars" and "Indiana Jones," was born on May 14, 1944. Lucas changed the movie industry with his innovative visual effects and storytelling techniques.
  16. On May 14, 1973, the United States launched Skylab, its first space station, into orbit. Skylab served as a hub for scientific research in space, and its success prompted the development of other space stations.
  17. May 14 is "Di ohtake-sai," a Japanese traditional festival celebrated in Nagasaki City. This colorful horseback archery event is held at the Suwa Shrine and dates back more than 370 years.
  18. Lewis and Clark began their famous expedition across North America on May 14, 1804, which led to the mapping and exploration of the western half of the continent.
  19. On May 14, 1787, the United States Constitutional Convention began in Philadelphia. The Convention saw the drafting of the U.S. Constitution, which established America's system of government and remains the foundation of its law.
  20. Every May 14, Nepal observes World Migratory Bird Day to raise awareness about preserving bird species and their habitats. Nepali birdwatchers, educational institutions, and conservation groups come together to celebrate these fascinating creatures and their amazing journeys.
  21. On May 14, 1912, Danish chemist Carl Jacobsen created the first synthetic ammonia, laying the groundwork for the modern fertilizer industry. This innovation has since played a significant role in feeding the world's growing population.
  22. May 14 is National Family Day, a day organized by the Australian Child and Adolescent Mental Health Association. Families are encouraged to spend quality time together, fostering bonds and promoting mental health among children and adolescents.
  23. The League of Nations, the world's first global intergovernmental organization dedicated to maintaining peace, held its first assembly on May 14, 1920. The League was a precursor to the United Nations, which succeeded it in promoting international cooperation.
  24. The earliest known version of the melody for "Happy Birthday to You" was first published under the title "Good Morning to All" on May 14, 1893. The song, written by the Hill sisters, is now one of the most universally recognized tunes in the English language.
  25. May 14 is National Public Gardens Day in the U.S., held annually to promote awareness and appreciation for public gardens, arboreta, and historic landscapes. This day encourages the public to understand the vital role these spaces play in environmental conservation and cultural preservation.
  26. On May 14, 1610, French King Henry IV was assassinated by Catholic extremist François Ravaillac, ending his 21-year reign. Henry IV was known as "Good King Henry" for his efforts to alleviate the suffering of his subjects during his rule.
  27. The first human-powered flight across the English Channel was achieved on May 14, 1979, by American cyclist and pilot Bryan Allen in the Gossamer Albatross. The Albatross was a lightweight aircraft powered by Allen's cycling, taking 2 hours and 49 minutes to complete the journey.

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