Caviar Day
Caviar Day, celebrated annually on July 18th, is a day dedicated to enjoying and appreciating caviar, one of the world’s most luxurious and esteemed delicacies. This special day invites people to learn more about caviar, its history, and how to enjoy it properly.
Insurance Nerd Day
Insurance Nerd Day is celebrated on July 18th each year. It’s a day dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the hard-working professionals in the insurance industry who are passionate about their work. This day celebrates their dedication, expertise, and the important role they play in protecting individuals, businesses, and communities.
July 18th has been marked by numerous significant events throughout history across various fields, including politics, science, culture, and sports.
Historical Events
Nelson Mandela’s Birth (1918):
Nelson Mandela, the renowned anti-apartheid revolutionary and former President of South Africa, was born on July 18, 1918. His birthday is now celebrated internationally as Nelson Mandela International Day, dedicated to promoting global peace and celebrating his legacy.
Seneca Falls Convention (1848):
The first women’s rights convention in the United States, the Seneca Falls Convention, began on July 18, 1848, in Seneca Falls, New York. This event marked a pivotal moment in the women’s suffrage movement, where activists like Elizabeth Cady Stanton presented the Declaration of Sentiments, calling for equal rights for women.
Great Fire of Rome (64 AD):
The Great Fire of Rome began on July 18, 64 AD. The fire burned for six days and destroyed a large part of the city. Emperor Nero was later accused of having started the fire to clear space for his new palace complex.
Imperial Japanese Army Invades Chinese Mainland (1937):
On July 18, 1937, during the Second Sino-Japanese War, the Imperial Japanese Army launched a full-scale invasion of mainland China, leading to significant conflict and atrocities, including the Nanking Massacre.
Harold Wilson Resigns as UK Prime Minister (1976):
Harold Wilson, the British Prime Minister, resigned on July 18, 1976. Wilson served as Prime Minister for two non-consecutive terms and was a prominent figure in the Labour Party.
Science and Technology
Discovery of the Rosetta Stone (1799):
The Rosetta Stone, a granodiorite stele inscribed with a decree issued in 196 BC, was discovered on July 18, 1799, by French soldiers in the Egyptian town of Rosetta (Rashid). The stone’s inscriptions in Greek, Demotic, and hieroglyphs were key to deciphering ancient Egyptian scripts.
Culture and Entertainment
Release of Disney’s “Bambi” (1942):
The classic animated film “Bambi” was released by Walt Disney on July 18, 1942. It became one of Disney’s most beloved movies, known for its beautiful animation and poignant story.
Release of “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” (2005):
The sixth book in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince,” was released on July 18, 2005. It continued the adventures of Harry Potter and was highly anticipated by fans worldwide.
Sports
Opening of the 1924 Summer Olympics:
The 1924 Summer Olympics, officially known as the Games of the VIII Olympiad, opened in Paris on July 18, 1924. These games were notable for the participation of many future stars, including swimmer Johnny Weissmuller and athlete Paavo Nurmi.
Miscellaneous
Formation of Intel Corporation (1968):
Intel Corporation, one of the world’s largest and highest-valued semiconductor chip makers, was founded on July 18, 1968, by Robert Noyce and Gordon Moore. The company played a pivotal role in the development of the modern computing industry.
Births
Jane Austen (1775-1817):
Although Jane Austen is commonly associated with December 16th, her most prominent biographer, James Edward Austen-Leigh, notes that she was born on December 16, 1775. She is best known for her novels such as “Pride and Prejudice,” “Sense and Sensibility,” and “Emma,” which critique the British landed gentry at the end of the 18th century.
Henri Nestlé (1814-1890):
Henri Nestlé was a German-Swiss confectioner and the founder of Nestlé, one of the world’s largest food and beverage companies. He is best known for developing a milk-based baby food that saved the lives of many infants.
Red Skelton (1913-1997):
Richard “Red” Skelton was an American entertainer known for his work as a comedian, actor, and author. Although primarily known for his entertainment career, he was also a keen painter, with many of his works depicting clowns, a subject he often portrayed in his comedy.
Nelson Mandela (1918-2013):
Nelson Mandela was a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, political leader, and philanthropist who served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. He is celebrated for his role in dismantling apartheid and establishing multiracial elections in South Africa.
Hunter S. Thompson (1937-2005):
Hunter S. Thompson was an American journalist and author, famous for his creation of Gonzo journalism, a style of journalism that blends fact and fiction. He is best known for his book “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.”
These individuals, born on July 18th, have made significant contributions to their respective fields, leaving lasting legacies in politics, arts, sciences, and beyond.
James Brolin (1940):
James Brolin is an American actor, producer, and director. He is known for his roles in television series such as “Marcus Welby, M.D.” and “Hotel,” as well as in films like “Westworld” and “Amityville Horror.”
Richard Branson (1950):
Richard Branson is a British business magnate, investor, and philanthropist. He is the founder of the Virgin Group, which controls more than 400 companies in various sectors, including Virgin Atlantic and Virgin Galactic.
Vin Diesel (1967):
Vin Diesel, born Mark Sinclair, is an American actor, producer, director, and screenwriter. He is best known for his role as Dominic Toretto in the “Fast & Furious” film series.
Kristen Bell (1980):
Kristen Bell is an American actress and singer. She is known for her roles in “Veronica Mars,” “The Good Place,” and as the voice of Anna in Disney’s “Frozen” franchise.
