🗓️ On This Day - February 13th
One day out from Valentine’s Day - but what does February 13th on its own have to celebrate? Plenty, as it turns out - and right here, we will take you through some of the biggest events and most famous birthdays to fall on Valentine’s eve. Happy birthday if you’re celebrating today - and let’s take a look at February 13th back in history…
On this day
Henry VIII sets his eyes on a sixth wife.
Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived… this time around, it’s the fifth in that sequence. King Henry VIII had his fifth wife, Catherine Howard, beheaded - he’d suspected her of being unfaithful. The unfortunate event took place on February 13th 1542.
Galileo went on trial.
Galileo Galilei, famed astronomer, went on trial on February 13th 1633 to insist that the Earth revolves around the Sun. Of course, as we all know now - he was right! However, he had to testify to these beliefs in front of the Inquisition.
Charlie Brown bows out.
On February 13th 2000, newspapers published the last original Peanuts comic - featuring iconic characters Charlie Brown, Linus Van Pelt and Snoopy - as illustrator Charles M Schulz had sadly passed away the same day.
The Scottish Parliament protected wild animals for the better.
February 13th marks a very important day for animal lovers everywhere - and for many animals themselves! It was on this day back in 2002 that the Scottish Parliament finally agreed to ban wild mammals hunting with dogs. This new ruling led to the criminalization of fox hunting.
Special Days Falling on February 13th
Not got much to celebrate today? No worries - here are a few interesting “special” days that are particularly noteworthy for February 13th!
International Condom Day
Celebrated worldwide, February 13th offers a perfect occasion for people to speak openly about birth control - whether in an effort to prevent unwanted pregnancy, or to help stop the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. You may find free condoms available from participating centers taking part in this event today.
National Cheddar Day
There’s nothing quite as appealing as cheese - is there? Today’s a great chance to start sharing your love for cheddar, that strong or mild creamy treat that works brilliantly in sandwiches, on pizzas, and more.
Galentine’s Day
Originally created in the popular TV show Parks and Recreation, Galentine’s Day has since become a hugely popular event celebrated between female friends. It’s a great way to get together with the girls regardless of whether or not you celebrate Valentine’s the day after!
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This month in history
After 27 years behind bars, activist Nelson Mandela was finally released from prison in February 1990. Coping with squalid, inhumane conditions for almost three decades, the anti-Apartheid figure would later go on to become the first President elected democratically in South Africa. Up until his death in 2013, Mandela continued to fight on behalf of equality causes, and raise awareness of poverty and the AIDS crisis impacting people all over the world.
Famous Birthdays on February 13th
Chuck Yeager, American test pilot, born 1923
Peter Gabriel, English musician, born 1950
Kelly Hu, American actress, born 1968
Robbie Williams, English musician, born 1974
Randy Moss, American footballer, born 1977
If you were born on February 13th…
That would certainly make you an Aquarius! Aquarians are famously thoughtful and deeply empathetic. However, you also like your own space, and you’re not afraid to stand up for what you believe in. Aquarians are said to be progressive thinkers, and are relied upon by many to come up with creative solutions to everyday problems.
Aquarius is an air sign, despite the fact that it’s symbolized by the water-carrier! If you find that confusing, don’t worry – take a look over at our fact file on Aquarius for the complete lowdown on what your star sign means in the Western Zodiac. Who knows – you might just find out something new about yourself while you’re there!
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