On This Day – November 13th

November 13th isn’t just another day. In fact, if it falls on a Friday, you might well assume it’s a day to be extra careful around bad luck! However, we have plenty of other reasons why November 13th is worth marking in your diary, including a few fascinating historical events and some famous birthdays. Let’s get started.

On this day

1Britain's last bull run took place.

In 1839, the last Stamford Bull Run was held in Stamford, Lincolnshire, ending a custom said to date back to the 13th century, in which a bull was chased through the streets. It was stopped after a long campaign against its cruelty.

2James Braid observed animal magnetism.

In 1841, scientist and surgeon James Braid observed an example of animal magnetism for the first time. This led to him studying the subject he would eventually name hypnosis – he’s therefore known as the Father of Hypnosis to many who study and work in the field!

3Terrorists attacked Paris.

On 13 November 2015, gunmen and suicide bombers attacked a concert hall, a football stadium and cafés and restaurants in Paris, killing 130 people. It was the deadliest attack in France since the Second World War.

4The US Treasury Department was asked to recognize Almighty God.

In 1861, Reverend Mark R. Watkinson wrote to the US Treasury Department, asking them to “recognize Almighty God” on American coins. Eventually, the department decided to use the motto “In God We Trust” on their coins. It seems you can make big changes by writing letters!

5The Caister Lifeboat Disaster took place.

In 1901, the Caister Lifeboat Disaster unfolded, in which nine lifeboatmen died off the coast of Norfolk, England – today is a good day to remember those lives lost and to recognize the hard work of volunteer lifeboat patrols.

Special Days Falling on November 13th

November 13th is also full of festivities, commemorations, and special events taking place all over the world. Here are some of the biggest ones to consider today.

World Orphans Day

Millions of children around the world are sadly orphaned – whether at a young age, or when approaching adolescence. Children without parents or guardians need special support and care – and while we might not have the orphanages you’d expect to read about from Victorian times, there are still many children out there who deserve to be adopted by loving families.

World Kindness Day

Every November 13th is also World Kindness Day for people around the globe. The day began back in 1998 in an effort to encourage us all to reflect on ourselves and what we are doing for others. Even the smallest acts of kindness make a huge difference in people’s lives. And it’s important to remember that that kind of an act has a ripple effect – your kind act will lead to others in tow!

National Hug a Musician Day

The effort, talent, and hard work – not to mention the dedication – that it takes to become a musician is incredible. And, as cool and suave as these musical geniuses may seem, they, too, need their fair share of love! So, hug the musicians in your life today and show them how much you appreciate them and their music!

This month in history

Fire swept through Windsor Castle. On 20 November 1992, a fire broke out in Queen Elizabeth II’s private chapel at Windsor Castle and burned for 15 hours, damaging more than 100 rooms. The Queen later called 1992 her ‘annus horribilis’.

Famous Birthdays on November 13th

• Augustine of Hippo, North African Christian theologian and philosopher, born 354
• Robert Louis Stevenson, Scottish author, born 1850
• Whoopi Goldberg, American actor, born 1955
• Gerard Butler, Scottish actor, born 1969
• Lando Norris, English racing driver, born 1999

If you were born on November 13th…

…you’re a Scorpio! You’re clever, witty, and creative. You can also be pretty intense, but that’s just because you bring your passion to every aspect of your life!

Head over to our Scorpio facts page to learn more – and to find out why so many people value having you in their lives.