Believe it or not, October 5th is not just about pumpkin lattes and red scarves! In fact, a lot has taken place on this very important date over the years. Here are just some of the most important things to know about October 5th – which, if you’re already celebrating today for whatever reason, should give you a little more to mark the occasion with!
On this day
1Soldiers landed on Tsushima.
In 1274, about 1,000 soldiers in the Mongolian army landed on the island of Tsushima, Japan. It was the first official attack from Kublai Khan’s invasion of Japan.
2The women of Paris marched on Versailles.
On 5 October 1789, thousands of women from the markets of Paris, angry about the price and shortage of bread, marched 12 miles to the palace of Versailles. Joined by a crowd of men and the National Guard, they forced their way in, and the next day King Louis XVI and his family were taken back to Paris.
3Portugal became a republic.
In 1910, the monarchy was overthrown in Portugal. It was replaced by a republic. To this day, the country has a semi-presidential republic.
4The Hollywood Black Friday took place.
Sadly, it’s not the Black Friday you’re probably accustomed to. In 1945, Hollywood Black Friday took place when a six-month strike by Hollywood set decorators culminated in a bloody riot. The riot took place at the gates of Warner Brothers’ studios.
5Marc Garneau became the first Canadian in space.
On 5 October 1984, the Space Shuttle Challenger launched on mission STS-41-G, the 13th shuttle flight. On board was Marc Garneau, the first Canadian in space, and Kathryn Sullivan, who became the first American woman to walk in space.
Special Days Falling on October 5th
October 5th is all about celebrating where we come from, learning more about each other, and being grateful for those who guide us. Here are some of the most important events taking place around the world today.
World Teachers’ Day
This special day was originally launched by UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation), back in 1994. The idea behind the day is to honor all of the great teachers all over the world. We all learn from our teachers, and truly great teachers manage to teach us beyond the scope of their subjects! They guide us through our day-to-day lives and often leave us with lessons we keep with us for our entire lifetimes.
So, today, take the time to thank your favorite teachers for all that they do and everything they have given you!
Vanuatu Constitution Day
October 5th is also Vanuatu Constitution Day! This public holiday commemorates the signing of the Pacific Island Republic of Vanuatu’s Constitution back in 1979. The signing of the constitution marked the nation’s independence from France and the UK, which officially took effect in 1980.
Portugal Republic Day
We’ve already discussed Portuguese history briefly, meaning it should come as no surprise that it’s Portugal’s official Republic Day, also known as the Implantation of the Republic in Portugal! The day commemorates the end of the monarchy, the House of Braganca, in 1910. As a public holiday, schools, offices, and most businesses are closed, so join in the celebration!
This month in history
MPs voted to join the European Economic Community. On 28 October 1971, the House of Commons voted by 356 to 244 in favour of joining the EEC, and the UK became a member on 1 January 1973. After the 2016 referendum, the UK left the EU on 31 January 2020.
Famous Birthdays on October 5th
- Robert Parker Parrott, American inventor, born 1804
- John Erskine, American poet and writer, born 1879
- Ray Kroc, American businessman (McDonald’s), born 1902
- Mario Lemieux, Canadian ice hockey legend, born 1965
- Kate Winslet, English actor, born 1975
If you were born on October 5th
…you’re a Libra! You are very diplomatic but can also be very stubborn! Once your mind is made up, it can be difficult to change it – but people love you for your balanced attitude and your willingness to help family and friends through crises.
Learn more about Libras from our Libra fact file and see if you get some extra insight into what makes you tick. Even if you don’t read your horoscopes, it’s still interesting to learn more!
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