On This Day - October 4th
For many of us, October is the month of skeletons, witches, and Jack O’Lanterns. But, this October 4th, we think we should all also focus on the important things that take place on this date and have changed societal history for good! Here are some of the most important things to know about October 4th, and if you’re already celebrating, congratulations!
On this day
The Battle of Lake Poyang ended.
In 1363, the Battle of Lake Poyang ended as the Chinese rebel forces under Zhu Yuanzhang defeated those of Chen Youliang. It was one of the biggest naval battles in history, with over 850,000 taking part in the battle!
It was the last Julian day in Spain.
In 1582, October 4th was the last Julian calendar day in Spain, Portugal, and its pontifical states. In order to meet the emerging Gregorian calendar, 10 days had to be skipped, and the next day would be October 15th.
The Orient Express left the station for the first time.
In 1883, the Orient Express left on its first official journey from Paris to Istanbul. It remains one of the most famous train journeys in the world – whether or not you know it from certain tales of Agatha Christie, or have traveled yourself this way in the past!
WikiLeaks was launched.
In 2006, WikiLeaks was launched by Julian Assange. The website remains a publisher of classified documents and media and has therefore gained immense controversy over the years. At the time of writing, there are still legal tussles over Assange and his actions.
Yunnan suffered a tragedy.
In 2012, a huge landslide hit Yunnan in China. 19 people were killed in the natural catastrophe.
Special Days Falling on October 4th
October 4th is a time for commemoration, celebration, and thought. Here are some of the most important events taking place today!
World Animal Day
Today is a great day to consider all of the incredible animals we're privileged to share this planet with and our role in protecting them and their homes. Humans are the single biggest threat to all animals, from poaching to the destruction of their natural habitats. Not to mention the sheer disregard for animals we even adopt! So, today, take the time to look into what you can do to help the animals in your area by volunteering at shelters or even adopting an animal friend yourself!
Lesotho Independence Day
Every October 4th is also a very important date for the people of Lesotho and their diaspora all over the world. The nation became a sovereign state away from the UK back in 1966 and has kept its independence ever since. It’s a date for national celebration and a great excuse to get together with friends and family.
The Feast of St. Francis of Assisi
Every October 4th, Assisi celebrates the Feast of St. Francis. Saint Francis of Assisi was a well-known Catholic saint whose journey to God is celebrated every year in his home town in Italy. The people of the town honor him by lighting oil lamps for two days and holding religious services, and children are even encouraged to bring their pets to be blessed on this day! It is also World Animal Day, which seems like the perfect celebration of both.
This page was last modified on August 4, 2024. Suggest an edit
This month in history
The rail tunnel under the English Channel was completed. In 1990, the tunnel finally connected the UK to the European continent. To this day, the tunnel is a popular means for workers and tourists to travel between France and the UK – it’s known as the Channel Tunnel to many.
Famous Birthdays on October 4th
Francisco Guerrero, Spanish composer, born 1528
Sidney Paget, British illustrator, born 1860
Buster Keaton, legendary American comic actor, born 1895
Susan Sarandon, American actor, born 1946
Christoph Waltz, Austrian actor, born 1956
If you were born on October 4th…
…you’re a Libra! You are known as the peacekeeper in your circle. You cannot stand unfair things, but are also very diplomatic and good at maintaining or finding peace! Just look at your star sign – it’s the scales (pretty apt if you ask us).
Head over to our Libra facts page to learn more!
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