What Happened on February 20 in History?
February 20 has been a day of major "firsts" in space exploration, significant political milestones, and tragic events. Most notably, it marks the day the United States joined the Soviet Union in orbiting the Earth.
Major Historical Events
First American in Orbit (1962): Astronaut John Glenn became the first American to orbit the Earth, circling the globe three times aboard the Friendship 7 spacecraft.
Establishment of the U.S. Post Office (1792): President George Washington signed the Postal Service Act, creating the United States Post Office Department as a cabinet-level position.
Launch of the Mir Space Station (1986): The Soviet Union launched the core module of Mir, the world's first modular space station, which remained in operation for 15 years.
Metropolitan Museum of Art Opens (1872): The world-renowned "Met" officially opened its doors to the public in New York City.
Battle of Olustee (1864): The largest Civil War battle in Florida took place, resulting in a decisive Confederate victory that kept the state's interior under their control.
Constitutional Ratifications & Acts:
Georgia unanimously ratified the 19th Amendment (women's right to vote) in 1970, nearly 50 years after it had already become federal law.
The U.S. Congress formally accepted the deeds for American Samoa in 1929.
The Station Nightclub Fire (2003): A tragic fire sparked by pyrotechnics during a Great White concert in West Warwick, Rhode Island, killed 100 people and injured over 200 others.
Notable Births
Ansel Adams (1902): Iconic American landscape photographer and environmentalist.
Sidney Poitier (1927): The first Black actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor (Lilies of the Field).
Cindy Crawford (1966): American supermodel and business owner.
Kurt Cobain (1967): Lead singer and guitarist of the influential grunge band Nirvana.
Rihanna (1988): Barbadian singer, fashion designer, and founder of Fenty Beauty.
Olivia Rodrigo (2003): American singer-songwriter and actress.
Notable Deaths
Frederick Douglass (1895): Famed abolitionist, writer, and orator who escaped slavery to become a leading voice for civil rights.
Robert Peary (1920): American explorer who famously claimed to be the first person to reach the North Pole.
Hunter S. Thompson (2005): Renowned author and creator of "gonzo journalism".
Holidays & Observances
World Day of Social Justice: An international day recognized by the UN to promote efforts to tackle issues such as poverty and exclusion.
Hoodie Hoo Day: A whimsical holiday where people go outside at noon and yell "Hoodie Hoo!" to chase away winter.
