Harlem Globetrotter’s Day
The Harlem Globetrotters are a world-famous exhibition basketball team known for their combination of athleticism, comedy, and showmanship. Established in the 1920s, they have become a cultural phenomenon, showcasing their unique blend of basketball skills and entertainment across the globe. The Harlem Globetrotters remain a symbol of basketball artistry, cultural unity, and fun, inspiring fans of all ages around the world.
Bobblehead Day
National Bobblehead Day is celebrated annually on January 7th to honor the fun, quirky, and collectible world of bobbleheads. These unique figurines, with their oversized heads that “bobble” when moved, have become a beloved item for fans of sports, pop culture, and more. Bobbleheads are cherished for their unique ability to capture the essence of a person or character in a fun, exaggerated style. They’re not just collectibles—they’re conversation starters and nostalgic reminders of favorite teams, shows, or moments.
Distaff Day
Distaff Day, celebrated on January 7th, is a traditional day marking the return to work after the Christmas holidays, particularly for women engaged in spinning, weaving, and other domestic tasks. It takes its name from the distaff, a tool used in spinning to hold unspun fibers. Though the day’s traditional practices have mostly faded, Distaff Day is occasionally celebrated by historical reenactors, fiber artists, and those interested in traditional crafts. It serves as a nod to the contributions of women in sustaining households and communities throughout history.
Historical Events on January 7
1558: Calais, the last English possession in mainland France, is recaptured by French forces under Francis, Duke of Guise, ending England’s rule in France.
1610: Galileo Galilei discovers the first three of Jupiter’s moons: Io, Europa, and Callisto. A fourth moon, Ganymede, is identified shortly after, revolutionizing astronomy.
1610: Galileo Galilei publishes his observations of the moons of Jupiter, challenging geocentric models of the universe.
1782: The first U.S. commercial bank, the Bank of North America, opens in Philadelphia.
1785: Frenchman Jean-Pierre Blanchard and American John Jeffries complete the first successful balloon flight across the English Channel.
1894: W.K. Dickson receives a patent for motion picture film, laying groundwork for the modern film industry.
1927: The Harlem Globetrotters play their first game in Hinckley, Illinois.
1953: President Harry S. Truman announces the development of the hydrogen bomb by the United States.
1959: The United States recognizes the new government of Cuba, led by Fidel Castro.
1999: The Senate trial in the impeachment of President Bill Clinton begins.
2015: Two gunmen attack the offices of the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo in Paris, killing 12 people and sparking worldwide outrage.
Famous Birthdays
1502: Pope Gregory XIII, who introduced the Gregorian calendar.
1800: Millard Fillmore, the 13th President of the United States.
1844: Bernadette Soubirous, French saint who reported visions of the Virgin Mary at Lourdes.
1891: Zora Neale Hurston, American author and anthropologist (Their Eyes Were Watching God).
1912: Charles Addams, American cartoonist and creator of The Addams Family.
1964: Nicolas Cage, American actor (Leaving Las Vegas, National Treasure).
1985: Lewis Hamilton, British Formula 1 driver and multiple-time World Champion.
Notable Deaths
1536: Catherine of Aragon, first wife of King Henry VIII.
1943: Nikola Tesla, Serbian-American inventor and pioneer in electricity and magnetism.
1989: Hirohito, Emperor of Japan during World War II.
1998: Vladimir Prelog, Croatian-Swiss chemist and Nobel laureate.
2016: André Courrèges, French fashion designer known for modern, futuristic styles.
