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On April 20

6

Important Days

45

Important Events

213

Births and Deaths

recorded.

Holidays and Occasions

Events

Births and Deaths

420 (cannabis culture)

Understanding 420: A Dive into Cannabis Culture

In recent years, the recognition of 420 has transcended its roots in cannabis culture, becoming a significant part of social movements advocating for legalization and acceptance. Understanding 420 is essential for enthusiasts and newcomers alike, as it encapsulates a unique social phenomenon that celebrates marijuana...

UN Chinese Language Day (United Nations)

UN Chinese Language Day: Embracing Cultural Diversity and Global Communication

The United Nations Chinese Language Day is celebrated annually on April 20th, a day established to promote the study and use of Chinese language and to appreciate its rich culture and heritage. Unveiled by the United Nations in 2010, this observance not only highlights the significance of Chinese among the six official languages of the UN but also fosters respect for multilingualism...

Agnes of Montepulciano
FEAST

Agnes of Montepulciano: The Life and Legacy of an Italian Saint

Agnes of Montepulciano (1268–1320), also known as Saint Agnes of Montepulciano, is a notable figure in the history of the Catholic Church. A mystic and a reformer, her life is a remarkable testament to faith, devotion, and the transformative power of spirituality...

Beuno
FEAST

Exploring the Wonders of Beuno: A Hidden Gem in Wales

Beuno, a picturesque village nestled in the stunning Welsh countryside, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Located near the charming town of Carnarfon, Beuno is often overlooked by tourists, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a quieter escape from the hustle and bustle of more popular spots...

Johannes Bugenhagen (Lutheran)
FEAST

Johannes Bugenhagen: The Unsung Hero of the Lutheran Reformation

Johannes Bugenhagen (1485-1558) was a pivotal figure in the Protestant Reformation, particularly within the Lutheran tradition. Often overshadowed by other reformers like Martin Luther, Bugenhagen played an essential role in shaping the theological framework and administrative structure of the Lutheran Church...

Theotimos
FEAST

Understanding Theotimos: A Key Concept in Theology

Theotimos is an evocative name that resonates through the annals of history, particularly within the realm of theology. This term, derived from the Greek words 'Theos' (God) and 'timē' (honor), embodies the concept of divine honor or reverence towards the divine...

  • In 2023, SpaceX achieved a historic milestone with the inaugural launch of Starship, the largest and most powerful rocket ever constructed. However, the mission faced challenges as the rocket exploded just 4 minutes into the flight. Stay updated on SpaceX's groundbreaking advancements in aerospace technology!

  • In 2021, the Fourth Judicial District Court of Minnesota found Derek Michael Chauvin guilty on all charges related to the murder of George Floyd. This landmark case marked a significant moment in the fight for justice and accountability in law enforcement.

  • In 2020, oil prices plunged below zero for the first time ever, driven by the intense Russia-Saudi Arabia oil price war. This historic event marked a significant turning point in the global oil market, highlighting the unprecedented impact of geopolitical tensions on commodity prices.

  • In 2015, a tragic bomb attack targeted a convoy delivering food supplies to a United Nations compound in Garowe, Puntland, Somalia, resulting in the deaths of ten individuals. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced in securing humanitarian efforts in conflict zones.

  • In 2013, a devastating 6.6-magnitude earthquake hit Lushan County, Ya'an, located in Sichuan province, China. This natural disaster tragically resulted in the loss of at least 193 lives and left thousands injured.

  • In 2012, a tragic plane crash in a residential area near Benazir Bhutto International Airport in Islamabad, Pakistan, claims the lives of 127 individuals. This devastating incident highlights the ongoing concerns regarding aviation safety and its impact on urban communities.

  • In 2010, the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig experienced a catastrophic explosion in the Gulf of Mexico, resulting in the tragic loss of eleven workers. This incident initiated one of the largest oil spills in history, which continued to wreak havoc on marine ecosystems for six months.

  • In 2008, Danica Patrick made history by winning the Indy Japan 300, becoming the first female driver to triumph in an IndyCar race. This groundbreaking achievement marked a significant milestone in motorsports, showcasing Patrick's exceptional talent and paving the way for future female drivers.

  • In 2007, a tragic shooting incident occurred at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. William Phillips armed himself with a handgun, taking a male hostage before ultimately committing suicide. This shocking event raised concerns about safety and security measures at federal facilities.

  • In 2004, a tragic incident occurred when the Nicoll Highway in Singapore collapsed, resulting in the loss of four workers' lives. This construction disaster highlights the importance of safety regulations in urban development.

  • In 1999, the tragic Columbine High School massacre took place when perpetrators Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold killed 13 individuals and injured 24 others before taking their own lives at Columbine High School in Colorado. This devastating event remains one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history.

  • On November 20, 1998, Air France Flight 422 tragically crashed shortly after departing from El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá, Colombia, resulting in the loss of all 53 lives on board.

  • Discover the historic moment of 1972 when Apollo 16, part of NASA's iconic Apollo program, successfully landed on the Moon. Commanded by astronaut John Young and piloted by Charles Duke, this lunar module marked a significant achievement in space exploration.

  • In 1968, South African Airways Flight 228 tragically crashed near Hosea Kutako International Airport in present-day Namibia, claiming the lives of 123 individuals. This devastating incident remains one of the most significant aviation tragedies in South West Africa's history.

  • In 1968, English politician Enoch Powell delivered his highly controversial "Rivers of Blood" speech, a pivotal moment in UK political history that sparked intense debate on immigration and race relations.

  • In 1961, during the height of the Cold War, the Bay of Pigs Invasion, a failed US-backed operation by Cuban exiles to overthrow Fidel Castro's regime in Cuba, marked a significant turning point in U.S.-Cuba relations.

  • In 1946, the League of Nations officially dissolved, transferring much of its authority to the newly formed United Nations, marking a significant shift in global governance.

  • In 1945, twenty Jewish children subjected to medical experiments at Neuengamme were tragically murdered in the basement of Bullenhuser Damm school. This somber event highlights the dark history of inhumane medical practices during the Holocaust.

  • 1945 – World War II: Führerbunker – On Adolf Hitler's 56th birthday, he makes his final appearance above ground to present Iron Crosses to young Hitler Youth soldiers. This moment marks a significant event during the closing days of the war.

  • In 1945 during World War II, U.S. troops captured Leipzig, Germany, before eventually ceding control of the city to the Soviet Union. This pivotal moment in history highlights the shifting power dynamics in post-war Europe.

  • In 1922, the Soviet government established the South Ossetian Autonomous Oblast as part of the Georgian SSR, marking a significant development in regional governance and ethnic identity in the Caucasus.

  • In 1918, the legendary fighter pilot Manfred von Richthofen, famously known as The Red Baron, achieved his final victories, shooting down his 79th and 80th enemy aircraft just one day before his untimely death. Discover the compelling story of this iconic aviator and his remarkable feats in aerial combat.

  • In 1914, the tragic Ludlow Massacre occurred during the Colorado Coalfield War, resulting in the deaths of nineteen men, women, and children amidst a fierce strike for workers' rights. This pivotal event highlights the struggles faced by coal miners and their families in pursuit of justice and fair labor practices.

  • "1908 marked the inaugural competition day for the New South Wales Rugby League, a significant milestone in Australian rugby history."

  • In 1902, pioneering scientists Pierre and Marie Curie successfully refined radium chloride, marking a significant advancement in the field of radioactivity and chemistry. Discover the impact of their groundbreaking research on modern science.

  • In 1898, U.S. President William McKinley signed a pivotal joint resolution to Congress, declaring war against Spain and marking the start of the historic Spanish-American War. Explore the significance of this key event in American history and its impact on international relations.

  • In 1884, Pope Leo XIII issued the encyclical "Humanum Genus," which condemned Freemasonry and addressed its influence on society. This pivotal document highlighted the Catholic Church's stance on secret societies and their perceived threats to moral integrity and religious authority.

  • In 1876, the April Uprising marks a significant moment in Bulgarian history as it sparks widespread European shock and outrage. The brutal suppression of this uprising ultimately positions Bulgarian independence as a crucial factor in the resolution of the Russo-Turkish War, influencing diplomatic landscapes and shaping regional dynamics.

  • In 1865, astronomer Angelo Secchi showcased the innovative Secchi disk, a key tool for measuring water clarity, aboard Pope Pius IX's yacht, L'Immaculata Concezion. This historical demonstration highlighted the importance of aquatic research and set the stage for advancements in marine science.

  • In 1862, groundbreaking scientists Louis Pasteur and Claude Bernard conducted an experiment that successfully debunked the long-held theory of spontaneous generation, revolutionizing our understanding of biology and microbiology.

  • In 1861, Thaddeus S. C. Lowe showcased the potential of balloon travel by completing a historic journey of 900 miles, flying from Cincinnati to South Carolina. This remarkable achievement highlighted the significance of balloons in transportation and exploration during the 19th century.

  • In 1861, during the American Civil War, Robert E. Lee made a pivotal decision to resign from his commission in the United States Army to lead the forces of Virginia. This marked a significant turning point in military leadership during the conflict.

  • In 1836, the U.S. Congress enacted legislation establishing the Wisconsin Territory, marking a significant expansion in American geography and governance. Explore the historical importance of this landmark decision that shaped the future of Wisconsin.

  • In 1828, René Caillié made history as the second non-Muslim to reach Timbuktu, succeeding Major Gordon Laing, and importantly, he became the first person to survive the journey back. Discover the remarkable story of Caillié's adventure and his significant contributions to exploration.

  • In 1809, Napoleon's First French Empire army achieved a decisive victory at the Battle of Abensberg, defeating two Austrian corps in Bavaria. This clash marked the second day of a pivotal four-day campaign that showcased Napoleon's military prowess.

  • Established in 1800, the Septinsular Republic marks a significant historical moment in the development of governance on the islands in the Ionian Sea.

  • In 1792, France formally declared war on the "King of Hungary and Bohemia," marking the start of the French Revolutionary Wars. This pivotal event played a significant role in shaping European history and initiated a series of conflicts that influenced the revolutionary movement across the continent.

  • In 1789, George Washington makes a historic stop at Grays Ferry in Philadelphia on his journey to Manhattan for his inaugural ceremony. Discover the significance of this pivotal moment in American history.

  • 1775 – American Revolutionary War: The Siege of Boston commences after the notable battles of Lexington and Concord, marking a pivotal moment in the quest for American independence.

  • In 1770, the Georgian King Erekle II, facing abandonment by his Russian ally Count Totleben, achieved a significant victory against Ottoman forces in the historic battle of Aspindza. This pivotal event underscored Georgia's resilience during a tumultuous time in its history.

  • 1752 marks the beginning of the Konbaung–Hanthawaddy War, a significant new phase in the Burmese Civil War (1740–1757). Explore the historical conflict that shaped Burma's legacy and its implications for the region.

  • In 1657, the Jews of New Amsterdam, now known as New York City, were granted freedom of religion, marking a significant milestone in the history of religious tolerance in America.

  • In 1657, English Admiral Robert Blake leads a decisive naval victory at the Battle of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, successfully annihilating a Spanish silver fleet while enduring intense artillery fire from the shore. This historic clash highlights the significant maritime conflicts of the era.

  • In 1653, Oliver Cromwell officially dissolved England's Rump Parliament, marking a pivotal moment in British political history. Explore the significance of this event and its impact on the governance of England during the Commonwealth period.

  • Founded by a papal bull from Pope Boniface VIII in 1303, Sapienza University of Rome stands as one of the world's oldest universities, renowned for its rich history and academic excellence. Discover the legacy of education at Sapienza, located in the heart of Italy's capital.

Births

  • Alexander Zverev

    1997 – Alexander Zverev, German tennis player

  • Luke Kuechly

    1991 – Luke Kuechly, American football player

  • Jason Behrendorff

    1990 – Jason Behrendorff, Australian cricketer

  • Vannesa Rosales

    1989 – Vannesa Rosales, Venezuelan activist and teacher

  • Brandon Belt

    1988 – Brandon Belt, American baseball player

  • Jorge Pinto

    1987 – Jorge Pinto, Portuguese politician

  • Miranda Kerr

    1983 – Miranda Kerr, Australian model

  • Emma Husar

    1980 – Emma Husar, Australian politician

  • Carl Greenidge

    1978 – Carl Greenidge, English cricketer

  • Killer Mike

    1975 – Killer Mike, American rapper

  • Julie Powell

    1973 – Julie Powell, American food writer and memoirist (d. 2022)

  • Stephen Marley

    1972 – Stephen Marley, Jamaican-American musician

  • Carmen Electra

    1972 – Carmen Electra, American model and actress

  • Allan Houston

    1971 – Allan Houston, American basketball player

  • Shemar Moore

    1970 – Shemar Moore, American actor

  • Will Hodgman

    1969 – Will Hodgman, Australian politician, 45th Premier of Tasmania

  • Felix Baumgartner

    1969 – Felix Baumgartner, Austrian daredevil

  • Julia Morris

    1968 – Julia Morris, Australian entertainer

  • Mike Portnoy

    1967 – Mike Portnoy, American drummer and songwriter

  • David Filo

    1966 – David Filo, American businessman, co-founded Yahoo!

Deaths

  • Lourdes Portillo

    2024 – Lourdes Portillo, Mexican film director, producer, and writer (b. 1943)

  • Roman Gabriel

    2024 – Roman Gabriel, Filipino-American NBA American footballer

  • Antonio Cantafora

    2024 – Antonio Cantafora, Italian film and television actor (b. 1944)

  • Gavin Millar

    2022 – Gavin Millar, Scottish film director (b. 1938)

  • Les McKeown

    2021 – Les McKeown, Scottish pop singer (b. 1955)

  • Monte Hellman

    2021 – Monte Hellman, American film director (b. 1929)

  • Idriss Déby

    2021 – Idriss Déby, Chadian politician and military officer (b. 1952)

  • Avicii

    2018 – Avicii, Swedish DJ and musician (b. 1989)

  • Victoria Wood

    2016 – Victoria Wood, British comedian, actress and writer (b. 1953)

  • Neville Wran

    2014 – Neville Wran, Australian politician, 35th Premier of New South Wales (b. 1926)

  • Bert Weedon

    2012 – Bert Weedon, English guitarist and songwriter (b. 1920)

  • Tim Hetherington

    2011 – Tim Hetherington, English photographer and journalist (b. 1970)

  • Dorothy Height

    2010 – Dorothy Height, American educator and activist (b. 1912)

  • Monica Lovinescu

    2008 – Monica Lovinescu, Romanian journalist and author (b. 1923)

  • Michael Fu Tieshan

    2007 – Michael Fu Tieshan, Chinese bishop (b. 1931)

  • Andrew Hill

    2007 – Andrew Hill, American pianist, composer, and bandleader (b. 1931)

  • Fumio Niwa

    2005 – Fumio Niwa, Japanese journalist and author (b. 1904)

  • Lizzy Mercier Descloux

    2004 – Lizzy Mercier Descloux, French musician, singer-songwriter, composer, actress, writer and painter (b. 1956)

  • Bernard Katz

    2003 – Bernard Katz, German-English biophysicist and academic, Nobel Prize laureate (b. 1911)

  • Alan Dale

    2002 – Alan Dale, American singer (b. 1925)

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