🗓️ On This Day - May 5th
It’s time for the revenge of the fifth! It’s also time for a whole century of smelling great, a celebration of the medical personnel who help bring us into the world, and some insightful social commentary from a particularly creative source. Let’s take a look at why May 5th is so notable!
On this day
Panic at the Stock Exchange!
The famous "Panic of 1893," which, started on May 5th of that very year, was a severe economic depression in the US ultimately caused by the collapse of several major railroads and banks, leading to a stock market crash on the NYSE. It lasted for several years, resulting in widespread business failures and social decline.
More than 100 years of Glamour!
On this day in 1921, the world started to smell a little better thanks to the release of Chanel No.5 perfume! Created by the iconic French fashion designer Coco Chanel, this iconic scent is known for its blend of floral and musky notes, and has remained a classic fragrance for well over a century. Why change it?
Science and religion came to blows.
On May 5th, 1925, then-high school teacher John T. Scopes was arrested for violating a Tennessee state law that prohibited teaching evolution in schools. The trial, which became known as the “Scopes Monkey Trial,” ignited a national debate between science and religion. It’s still a highly important historical footnote for the ongoing debate!
The ultimate celestial party took place!
On May 5th, 2000, a super-rare astronomical event took place where the Sun, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and the Moon all aligned in what's known as a conjunction! This alignment was a fascinating sight for astronomers and stargazers alike, as it won't happen again for several decades! Better keep your telescope handy just in case…
“This is America” turned heads.
In 2018 on May 5th, actor and musician Donald Glover (aka Childish Gambino) dropped his music video for "This Is America" - and it very quickly became a huge cultural phenomenon. The video's social commentary on gun violence and racism in America struck a chord with audiences and received widespread critical acclaim. It’ll likely be studied for years to come!
Special Days Falling on May 5th
In a galaxy far, far away, May 5th is the day the Sith get their revenge on all the Jedi and the Rebel Alliance. Back on Earth (for all non-Star Wars fanatics), there’s plenty of other things to celebrate, too!
Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo is probably the most famous holiday of all celebrated on May 5th. On this day we commemorate the Mexican Army's victory over French forces in the Battle of Puebla in 1862! It’s actually a pretty small occasion over in Mexico - but, over time, it has become widely celebrated in the US to help mark Mexican-American culture and heritage.
International Day of the Midwife
Today is the perfect day to mark the absolutely vital role that midwives play in maternal and newborn healthcare. Our midwives help women and babies through extremely stressful and physically distressing times - but which ultimately bring millions of people joy. Let’s take today to recognize how crucial our midwives are, and learn about why they require so much more support.
World Portuguese Language Day
Ever tried learning Portuguese? Today's an ideal day to start! The day also aims to highlight the importance of multilingualism and cultural diversity. It was established in 2009 by the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP), and is observed by millions of Portuguese speakers around the world - as well as those starting to learn!
This page was last modified on August 4, 2024. Suggest an edit
This month in history
Ladies, let's give a round of applause for Greece! Back in May 1952, the amazing women of Greece were finally granted the right to vote. It took a while, but they finally made it happen! Let's remember their bravery and keep fighting for equal rights for all.
Famous Birthdays on May 5th
Karl Marx, German philosopher, born 1818
Nellie Bly, American journalist, born 1865
Arthur Leonard Schawlow, American scientist, born 1921
Michael Palin, English comedian, born 1943
Adele, British singer-songwriter, born 1988
If you were born on May 5th…
Oh boy, you’re a total Taurus! That means you’re super passionate and stubborn, but also practical, reliable, and loyal.
You definitely have expensive taste and love living the good life, which is fair because you have a great work ethic.
Take a peek at our Taurus facts page to learn more!
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