On This Day – November 10th

It’s ten days into November, and already so much has happened! It’s hard to believe we’re nearly at the end of the year – but, as always, there are plenty of different things to learn about the days left on the calendar. We’ve rounded up some fantastic reasons why November 10th is so important.

On this day

1Stephen Whitney was shipwrecked.

In 1847, the Stephen Whitney, a passenger ship, was wrecked due to thick fog off the southern coast of Ireland. 92 of the 110 people onboard died in the shipwreck. The disaster led to the construction of the Fastnet Rock lighthouse.

2The world gained its first motorcycle!

In 1885, a German engineer Gottlieb Daimler unveiled his new invention. It was the world’s first ever motorbike – and the roads haven’t been the same since. In a good way, of course! Just make sure to strap on your helmet and take care if you’re riding today to celebrate the invention’s birthday.

3The Wilmington coup.

On 10 November 1898, a mob of white supremacists in Wilmington, North Carolina, overthrew the city’s elected multiracial government. Black residents were killed, many more fled, and it is now recognised as the only successful coup on American soil.

4Dion O’Banion was killed.

In 1924, Dion O’Banion, the leader of Chicago’s North Side Gang was assassinated in his flower shop. He was killed by members of Johnny Torrio’s gang, leading to a bloody gang war that unfolded across the city.

5Walt Disney began working for the FBI.

In 1940, Walt Disney began working as an FBI informer for the Los Angeles office! His duty was to report back information to the office on Hollywood subversives. He wasn’t just an asset to cinemagoers everywhere, then!

Special Days Falling on November 10th

Every year, November 10th is a special day for many around the world. Here are some of the reasons why.

Day of the “Primer Grito de Independencia”

For the people of Panama, today is also known as the First Call for Independence of the Villa of Los Santos, the Uprising of Los Santos, or simply the First Call for Independence. Panama, which used to be a Spanish colony, fought for independence, starting with Los Santos. During the uprising, the people of Azuero successfully declared independence from Spanish rule – and yes, the rest is history!

World Immunization Day

For people all over the world, November 10th is World Immunization Day. The day is dedicated to spreading awareness about the importance and benefits of being vaccinated and how it can help us to prevent various diseases from breaking out and taking countless victims. In an era of misinformation and conspiracy theories, it’s always worthwhile reading into genuine science, and today’s a good day to do just that.

World Keratoconus Day

Every November 10th is also World Keratoconus Day. Keratoconus, or K.C., is an eye disorder that damages the cornea. It can lead to blindness, so it is important to raise awareness about the disease and encourage help and support for those who suffer from it. That is why the National Keratoconus Foundation started this day, and it will be observed every year, hopefully for years to come!

This month in history

Tony Blair addressed the Irish parliament. On 26 November 1998, Tony Blair became the first British prime minister to address the Oireachtas, the Irish parliament, months after the Good Friday Agreement.

Famous Birthdays on November 10th

• Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, born 1433
• Martin Luther, German theologian and father of the Lutheran movement, born 1483
• Ennio Morricone, Legendary Italian composer, born 1928
• Tim Rice, English lyricist, born 1944
• Taron Egerton, English actor, born 1989

If you were born on November 10th…

…you’re a Scorpio! You are secretive, very private, and pretty much a mystery to all of us! Well, almost. When you do show your true colors, you’re not afraid to stand up for the people you love and the things you believe in. Head over to our Scorpio Facts page to learn more!