25 Facts About March 13: What Happened This Day
The historical tapestry of facts about March 13 is woven with moments of profound political change, most notably the 1881 assassination of Tsar Alexander II of Russia, an event that altered the course of Russian history and stalled critical reforms.
Beyond this pivotal assassination, March 13 has witnessed remarkable scientific breakthroughs, significant papal elections, and technological innovations that continue to shape our modern world in diverse ways. What memorable moments occurred on this day? Let’s discover.
March 13 Facts At-a-Glance
Historical Significance: Assassination of Tsar Alexander II (1881)
Famous Birthdays: L. Ron Hubbard, William H. Macy
Cultural Observances: Good Samaritan Day (USA), National Elephant Day (Thailand)
Notable Event: Pope Francis Elected (2013)
Scientific Achievement: Discovery of Uranus (1781)
Entertainment Milestone: Academy Awards Televised (1953)
Numerological Position: 72nd day of the year
Zodiac Sign: Pisces
Historical Events and Turning Points
March 13 has witnessed events that reshaped political landscapes and changed the course of history.
- On March 13, 1881, Tsar Alexander II of Russia was assassinated by revolutionaries in St. Petersburg, halting his progressive reforms.
- On March 13, 1957, FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover formally unveiled the bureau’s “Top Ten Most Wanted Fugitives” program to the American public, creating an iconic crime-fighting tool that would help law enforcement capture hundreds of dangerous criminals.
- On March 13, 1964, Kitty Genovese was murdered in New York City, a case that prompted research into the “bystander effect” in social psychology.
- On March 13, 1979, the European Monetary System was established, a precursor to the euro currency, as it introduced the European Currency Unit (ECU) that served as a foundation for the single European currency later on.
- On March 13, 1996, the Dunblane massacre occurred in Scotland, leading to significant changes in British gun laws.
- On March 13, 2013, Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected as Pope Francis, becoming the first Jesuit Pope and the first from the Americas.
Cultural Impact and Celebrations
The thirteenth day of March has witnessed significant cultural developments and artistic achievements.
- On March 13, 1877, twenty-year-old Maine native Chester Greenwood received U.S. Patent No. 188,292 for his “ear-mufflers” invention, a practical cold-weather innovation he had developed as a teenager.
- On March 13, 1925, the Tennessee General Assembly passed the Butler Act, prohibiting the teaching of evolution in public schools.
- On March 13, 1997, the Phoenix Lights were witnessed by thousands of people, becoming one of the most famous UFO sightings in American history.
- On March 13, 2012, Encyclopedia Britannica’s president Jorge Cauz announced the company would cease production of its iconic printed volumes after 244 years and 15 editions, marking the end of an era for the world’s oldest English-language encyclopedia.
- On March 13, 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic caused the unprecedented suspension of most major sports leagues in the United States.
Notable Births and Achievements
March 13 has marked the birth of influential figures who have shaped religion, entertainment, and literature.
- On March 13, 1911, L. Ron Hubbard was born in Tilden, Nebraska, later founding Scientology and becoming a prolific science fiction writer.
- On March 13, 1950, William H. Macy was born in Miami, Florida, later becoming an acclaimed actor known for films like “Fargo.”
- On March 13, 1733, Joseph Priestley was born in Yorkshire, England, later discovering oxygen and making significant contributions to chemistry.
- On March 13, 1913, William Casey was born in New York, later serving as Director of Central Intelligence during the Reagan administration.
Scientific and Technological Milestones
March 13 marks several groundbreaking achievements in science and astronomy.
- On March 13, 1930, Clyde Tombaugh announced the discovery of Pluto, considered the ninth planet until its reclassification in 2006.
- On March 13, 1781, astronomer William Herschel discovered Uranus, the first planet found that was not known in ancient times.
- On March 13, 1969, the Apollo 9 mission successfully splashed down in the Atlantic Ocean after completing its primary objective of testing the Lunar Module in Earth orbit.
- On March 13, 1986, Microsoft Corporation made its initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange, selling 2.5 million shares at $21 each and transforming the young software company into a publicly-traded business.
- On March 13, 1989, a powerful geomagnetic storm caused by a solar flare hit Earth, causing a nine-hour power outage in Quebec.
Modern Significance and Observances
This day continues to hold special significance through various observances and commemorations, revealing fascinating facts about March 13 that highlight its importance across different cultures and historical contexts.
- On March 13, communities across the United States observe National Good Samaritan Day, commemorating the biblical parable and encouraging citizens to perform random acts of kindness, assist strangers in need, and embody the selfless compassion.
- On March 13 each year, Thailand celebrates National Elephant Day (Chang Thai Day), a nationwide observance honoring the country’s official national animal with special ceremonies, religious rituals, and conservation activities.
- On March 13, National Jewel Day celebrates the beauty and significance of gemstones and jewelry in culture and fashion.
- On March 13, Catholics worldwide commemorate the anniversary of Pope Francis’s election with special masses and prayers.
- K-9 Veterans Day is celebrated on March 13 to honor the service of military and working dogs. The day was chosen because it’s the anniversary of the US Army K9 Corps’ formation in 1942.
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