Uncommon Instrument Awareness Day
Uncommon Instrument Awareness Day, celebrated annually on July 31st, is a unique holiday that encourages music lovers to explore and appreciate musical instruments that are rarely seen or heard in mainstream music. It’s a day to step beyond the familiar sounds of guitars, pianos, and drums, and discover the rich diversity of global musical expression—from ancient creations to modern innovations. The day doesn’t have a clearly documented origin or founder, but its purpose is clear: to broaden musical horizons and celebrate the creativity behind lesser-known instruments. It’s a tribute to the inventiveness of musicians throughout history who have crafted new ways to make sound—from the haunting tones of the theremin to the shimmering resonance of the glass harmonica.
Harry Potter’s Birthday – J. K. Rowling’s Birthday
July 31st is a significant date for fans of the Harry Potter series, as it marks the birthdays of both Harry Potter, the beloved fictional character, and J.K. Rowling, the author of the series. July 31st is a day to celebrate the magical world of Harry Potter and honor the creativity and impact of J.K. Rowling. Whether you’re diving back into the books, watching the movies, or participating in fan activities, it’s a wonderful occasion to celebrate the enduring legacy of this beloved series.
July 31st has been marked by various significant events throughout history, across different fields including politics, science, culture, and more.
Historical Events
1498 – Christopher Columbus’s Third Voyage:
During his third voyage to the New World, Christopher Columbus discovered the island of Trinidad. This journey helped to further European exploration and colonization of the Americas.
1790 – First U.S. Patent Issued:
The first U.S. patent was granted to Samuel Hopkins for a process of making potash, an ingredient used in fertilizer. This marked the beginning of the U.S. patent system.
1932 – Nazi Party Wins German Elections:
The Nazi Party, led by Adolf Hitler, won 37.4% of the vote in German parliamentary elections, becoming the largest party in the Reichstag. This victory was a significant step in Hitler’s rise to power.
1964 – Ranger 7 Sends Back Images of the Moon:
NASA’s Ranger 7 spacecraft transmitted the first close-up photographs of the Moon’s surface back to Earth. These images were crucial for planning future lunar missions, including the Apollo program.
1971 – Apollo 15 Lunar Rover Used:
During the Apollo 15 mission, astronauts David Scott and James Irwin became the first to drive a vehicle on the Moon, the Lunar Roving Vehicle. This allowed them to explore more of the lunar surface than previous missions.
1991 – START I Treaty Signed:
The Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START I) was signed by U.S. President George H.W. Bush and Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev. This agreement aimed to reduce and limit strategic offensive arms, marking a significant step in nuclear disarmament.
2006 – Fidel Castro Hands Over Power:
Cuban leader Fidel Castro temporarily transferred power to his brother Raúl Castro due to health issues. This marked the beginning of the end of Fidel Castro’s long rule over Cuba.
Births
1912 – Milton Friedman:
American economist and Nobel Prize winner, known for his contributions to economic theory and policy, particularly in the areas of monetary policy, consumption analysis, and economic stabilization.
1919 – Primo Levi:
Italian Jewish chemist, writer, and Holocaust survivor, known for his poignant memoirs and reflections on his experiences in Auschwitz, including the acclaimed book “If This Is a Man.”
1965 – J.K. Rowling:
British author best known for writing the Harry Potter series, which has become one of the best-selling book series in history and inspired a global media franchise.
1989 – Victoria Azarenka:
Belarusian professional tennis player and former world No. 1 in singles, known for winning multiple Grand Slam titles.
Deaths
1784 – Denis Diderot:
French philosopher, art critic, and writer, best known for serving as co-founder and chief editor of the Encyclopédie, a critical work in the development of the Enlightenment.
1944 – Antoine de Saint-Exupéry:
French writer and aviator, author of “The Little Prince,” who disappeared during a reconnaissance mission over the Mediterranean during World War II.
1980 – Mohammad Reza Pahlavi:
The last Shah of Iran, who was overthrown during the Iranian Revolution in 1979. He died in exile in Egypt.
