21 fun facts for May, 4

Discover dozens of fun facts for this special day. Read the summary for a quick recap on what happened.
<< May, 3
May, 5 >>
Summary
May 4th is filled with celebrations and memorable events, including Star Wars Day, International Firefighters' Day, and the completion of New York's earliest land sale. From the foundation of the Oscars to Margaret Thatcher's election as the first female Prime Minister, May 4th serves as an important date in history and culture around the world.
21 Fun facts
  1. May 4th is known as Star Wars Day, a fan-led celebration of the popular movie franchise. Fans around the world participate in various Star Wars-themed activities, share their love for the series, and use the catchphrase "May the Fourth be with you," a play on the iconic line, "May the Force be with you."
  2. International Firefighters' Day is observed on May 4th to honor the dedication and bravery of firefighters across the globe. The day was chosen to commemorate five firefighters who lost their lives in a wildfire in Australia in 1999. People take the opportunity to express their gratitude towards these heroes.
  3. On May 4, 1904, the United States formally took control of the Panama Canal Zone, a 10-mile-wide strip of land across the Isthmus of Panama. The construction of the Panama Canal began that same year, creating a shortcut between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
  4. In 1626, Dutch settler Peter Minuit bought the island of Manhattan in New York from the Native Americans for allegedly worth $24 in traded goods on May 4th. This purchase facilitated the establishment of New Amsterdam, which eventually became New York City.
  5. On May 4, 1927, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was founded in Hollywood. The organization is responsible for the industry's most prestigious awards, known as the Oscars, creating a legacy in the world of cinema.
  6. The first Grammy Awards ceremony took place on May 4, 1959. The event aimed at honoring outstanding achievements in the music industry and has since become one of the most recognizable and sought-after awards for musicians.
  7. Montenegro ratified a constitution and declared its independence from Serbia on May 4, 2006. This marked Montenegro's reestablishment as a sovereign state after 88 years of being part of the union with Serbia and the former Yugoslavia.
  8. May 4th is National Bike to School Day in the United States. This national event encourages students, parents, and teachers to participate in biking to school to promote health, safety, and environmental benefits of active transportation.
  9. On May 4, 1891, the first organized track and field meet took place in the U.S., dubbed as Mott Haven. This event became the precursor for the modern Penn Relays, the largest and longest-running track and field competition in the U.S.
  10. Al Capone, the infamous American gangster, started serving his 11-year sentence for tax evasion on May 4, 1932. The case against him was part of an ongoing effort to dismantle the organized crime structure in Chicago.
  11. The Rolling Stones released their hit single "Jumpin' Jack Flash" on May 4, 1968. The song went on to become a classic and one of the most iconic songs in rock music history.
  12. World Give Day was launched on May 4, 2010. This global campaign encourages people to donate and give back to their favorite charities, nonprofits, and individuals in need. It serves as a unique and united day of giving.
  13. On May 4, 1979, Margaret Thatcher made history by becoming the United Kingdom's first female Prime Minister. Her election broke barriers and shaped British politics for years to come.
  14. May 4th is Orange Juice Day, celebrating the refreshing drink made from oranges. The day encourages people to consume orange juice, which is packed with vitamin C and other essential nutrients, for a healthy and energizing beverage.
  15. The National Day of Prayer takes place on the first Thursday of May in the United States, often landing on May 4th. Americans come together in prayer and reflection for their families, communities, and the country.
  16. In China, May 4th marks Youth Day, commemorating the beginning of the May Fourth Movement in 1919. This political and cultural movement marked the beginning of China's modernization and spurred the nation towards change and reform.
  17. On May 4, 1953, Ernest Hemingway was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for his novel "The Old Man and the Sea." This masterpiece enhanced his reputation as one of America's most notable and skilled writers.
  18. Rhode Island Independence Day is celebrated on May 4th in honor of the state's decision to declare independence from the British Crown in 1776 - two months before the U.S. Declaration of Independence. Rhode Islanders commemorate their state's rich history on this day.
  19. May 4th marks Remembrance of the Dead, a national day of commemoration in the Netherlands to honor those who lost their lives in World War II and subsequent conflicts. The Dutch citizens observe two minutes of silence at 8 PM to reflect and pay their respects.
  20. On May 4, 1886, the Haymarket Riot erupted in Chicago during a workers' protest for an eight-hour workday. This event became an essential moment in labor history and helped shape the modern workers' rights movement.
  21. Greenery Day is celebrated on May 4th in Japan to appreciate and respect nature. The day originates from the nation's love for gardening, natural beauty, and the environment, and encourages the public to be more conscious of environmental conservation.

Browse all the fun facts per month