On This Day - August 20th
August 20th takes us deeper into the end of the summer for those of us in the upper hemisphere – but beyond that, it’s actually a fairly notable day. Check out some of our facts about August 20th regarding historical moments, famous birthdays, and even a few occasions you may want to mark on your calendar.
On this day
The first record of African-American slavery began in the US.
Regrettably, in 1619, the first known recorded African-American slaves landed at Port Comfort, in Virginia. They were then sold or traded further into servitude. It wouldn’t be until December 1865 that the US Congress would ratify the 13th Amendment and effectively abolish the trade.
We spotted Alaska!
As strange as it might sound, in 1741, Alaska was seen and recorded for the first time by a Russian expedition! The expedition was led by Danish explorer, Vitus Bering. It would later become a US state, of course – the 49th, meaning it was adopted fairly late, in 1959!
The first chapter of T’ung Meng Hui emerged.
In 1905, the first chapter of T'ung Meng Hui was formed by Chinese revolutionary, Sun Yat-sen. It showed a union of all the secret societies planning to bring down the Qing dynasty. It's not so much of a secret anymore… you're reading about it!
Czechoslovakia was invaded.
During the night on this very date back in 1968, 250,000 Soviet and Warsaw Pact troops invaded Czechoslovakia. They did so in response to the Prague Spring, which was a mass protest that started back in January. This invasion effectively brought an end to the Spring movement.
Special Days Falling on August 20th
Just because August 20th doesn’t seem like an important or notable date, doesn’t mean there are no celebrations taking place elsewhere in the world. Here are some of the most important holidays that take place on August 20th!
Anniversary of the Revolution of the King and the People
In the nation of Morocco, every August 20th is the date to celebrate the Revolution of the King and the People! The day commemorates the country's struggle to come out from under colonial rule. It also symbolizes the King's love for his people – and, that bond served them well when they finally pushed French overseers away!
Hungary National Day
If you happen to take a trip to Hungary on August 20th, you may be surprised to find the streets completely empty! This is because August 20th is Hungary National Day! The day celebrates multiple people and events from Hungary's history that helped make the country what it is today. And, to honor that, businesses and schools shut down, allowing everyone to partake in the ceremonies, fireworks, and flag displaying all around the nation!
World Mosquito Day
We can probably all agree that mosquitos are no one's favorite animal! These stinging, blood-sucking little creatures tend to be a real pain, especially during the summer. They are also primarily responsible for spreading malaria. So, every year, the world is made aware of the dangers of mosquitoes and what we can all do to help prevent the spreading of malaria around the world.
This page was last modified on August 4, 2024. Suggest an edit
This month in history
The March on Washington took place. In August 1963, over a quarter of a million people attended a Washington DC rally in the name of civil rights. It was here that Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. made his iconic "I Have a Dream "speech – inarguably one of the most important stepping stones towards racial equality in the US (which is still some distance away).
Famous Birthdays on August 20th
If you were born on August 20th…
…you’re a Leo! You are fun, compassionate, and very caring. But, there’s so much more to you! Learn more from our Leo facts page for the complete lowdown.
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