American Eagle Day
American Eagle Day is celebrated annually on June 20th to honor the national bird and symbol of the United States, the Bald Eagle. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of protecting the Bald Eagle and its natural habitats.
Ice Cream Soda Day
Ice Cream Soda Day is celebrated annually on June 20th to honor the delightful and refreshing treat known as the ice cream soda. This day provides an opportunity to enjoy this classic beverage, experiment with different flavors, and appreciate its rich history.
June 20th is a date with significant historical events across various fields including politics, science, and culture.
Historical Events
1214 – University of Oxford Receives Charter
The University of Oxford, one of the oldest universities in the world, received its charter, establishing it as a formal institution of learning.
1782 – U.S. Congress Adopts the Great Seal
The Great Seal of the United States was adopted by Congress. It features the Bald Eagle, which later became the national bird and symbol of the United States.
1840 – Samuel Morse Patents the Telegraph
Samuel Morse, an American inventor, patented the telegraph, a revolutionary means of long-distance communication.
1863 – West Virginia Becomes a State
West Virginia was admitted to the Union as the 35th state. It separated from Virginia during the Civil War due to differences in political and social issues.
1893 – Lizzie Borden Acquitted
Lizzie Borden was acquitted of the axe murders of her father and stepmother in Fall River, Massachusetts. The case remains one of the most famous unsolved mysteries in American history.
1963 – “Hotline” Established
A direct communication link, known as the “Hotline,” was established between Washington, D.C., and Moscow to reduce the risk of an accidental war between the United States and the Soviet Union.
1967 – Muhammad Ali Convicted
Muhammad Ali was convicted of draft evasion for refusing to be drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. His conviction was later overturned by the Supreme Court.
1991 – German Reunification
The German parliament moved from Bonn to Berlin, symbolizing the reunification of East and West Germany after the fall of the Berlin Wall.
Births
1909 – Errol Flynn
Errol Flynn, an Australian-American actor known for his swashbuckling roles in films like “The Adventures of Robin Hood,” was born on this day.
1924 – Chet Atkins
Chet Atkins, an influential American guitarist and record producer, often referred to as “Mr. Guitar,” was born.
1949 – Lionel Richie
Lionel Richie, an American singer, songwriter, and producer known for hits like “Hello” and “All Night Long,” was born.
Deaths
1837 – William IV
William IV, King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, and King of Hanover, died. His death marked the end of the Georgian era and the beginning of the Victorian era with the accession of Queen Victoria.
1996 – Rob Collins
Rob Collins, the keyboardist for the British band The Charlatans, died in a car crash.
Cultural Events
1948 – “Toast of the Town” Debuts
“Toast of the Town,” later known as “The Ed Sullivan Show,” premiered on CBS. The variety show became an iconic part of American television history.
1975 – Jaws Released
The movie “Jaws,” directed by Steven Spielberg, was released. It became a blockbuster hit and is often credited with creating the summer blockbuster genre.
