Alien Abduction Day
Alien Abduction Day, also known as Extraterrestrial Abduction Day, is observed annually on March 20. This day playfully celebrates humanity’s fascination with UFOs, alien encounters, and the mysteries of the cosmos. While the exact inception of Alien Abduction Day remains unclear, it gained prominence in 2008 when a festival in Toronto, organized by the custom toy company Happy Worker, brought attention to the observance . The event catered to sci-fi enthusiasts and those intrigued by extraterrestrial lore, contributing to the day’s popularity. The concept of alien abductions entered mainstream consciousness in the 1960s, notably with the case of Betty and Barney Hill in 1961. Their account of being taken aboard a spacecraft in New Hampshire became one of the first widely publicized abduction stories, influencing subsequent reports and pop culture representations.
Ravioli Day
National Ravioli Day is celebrated annually on March 20, honoring one of Italy’s most beloved and versatile pasta dishes. Ravioli, consisting of filled pasta pockets, have been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. Ravioli first appeared in the 14th century, with one of the earliest mentions found in the personal letters of Francesco di Marco Datini, a merchant from Prato, Italy. The dish was also noted in a 14th-century British cookbook, referred to as “rauioles,” indicating its early spread across Europe. Traditionally, ravioli are made by sealing fillings such as cheese, meat, or vegetables between two layers of thin pasta dough. They can be served in broth, with various sauces, or even fried, as seen in the popular St. Louis-style toasted ravioli.
Historical Events
1931 – Nevada Legalizes Gambling
Governor Fred B. Balzar signed a bill making Nevada the first U.S. state to legalize casino gambling, shaping its future as a hub for entertainment and tourism.
1945 – Attack on USS Franklin
A Japanese dive bomber struck the USS Franklin during WWII, resulting in over 800 casualties. It was one of the most heavily damaged U.S. carriers to survive the war.
1953 – First Televised Academy Awards
The 25th Academy Awards became the first to be broadcast on television. The Greatest Show on Earth won Best Picture.
1966 – Historic NCAA Basketball Win
Texas Western College (now UTEP) started five Black players in the NCAA championship and defeated Kentucky. It was a landmark moment in sports integration.
1995 – Michael Jordan Returns to the NBA
After retiring in 1993, Jordan announced his return with two words: “I’m back.” He rejoined the Chicago Bulls and wore number 45.
2003 – Iraq War Begins
President George W. Bush announced the start of U.S.-led military operations in Iraq, marking the beginning of the Iraq War.
Notable Birthdays
Bruce Willis (1955)
Actor known for his work in Die Hard, Pulp Fiction, and many action films.
Glenn Close (1947)
Award-winning actress known for roles in Fatal Attraction, Dangerous Liaisons, and The Wife.
Ursula Andress (1936)
Swiss actress and the original Bond girl in Dr. No.
Andy Reid (1958)
Head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, widely respected in the NFL.
Clayton Kershaw (1988)
MLB pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, recognized as one of the best of his generation.
Notable Deaths
Severus Alexander (d. 235): Roman Emperor whose reign ended with his assassination, marking the beginning of the Crisis of the Third Century.
Ibn Khaldun (d. 1406): Renowned Arab historian and philosopher, often considered a forerunner of modern sociology and historiography.
Arthur Balfour (d. 1930): British Prime Minister (1902–1905) and author of the Balfour Declaration, which expressed British support for a Jewish homeland in Palestine.
Edgar Rice Burroughs (d. 1950): American author best known for creating the iconic character Tarzan.
Arthur C. Clarke (d. 2008): British science fiction writer and futurist, co-author of the screenplay for 2001: A Space Odyssey.
Randy Rhoads (d. 1982): Influential American guitarist, known for his work with Ozzy Osbourne and Quiet Riot.
John DeLorean (d. 2005): American engineer and founder of the DeLorean Motor Company, famous for the DMC DeLorean sports car featured in the Back to the Future films.
Andrew Wood (d. 1990): Lead singer of the Seattle-based rock band Mother Love Bone, whose death is often cited as a catalyst for the grunge movement.
Eddie Adcock (1939–2025): American bluegrass banjo player, known for his innovative techniques and contributions to the genre.
George Bell (1957–2025): American basketball player and entertainer, recognized as one of the tallest men in the United States.
Pedro Cuatrecasas (1936–2025): American biochemist who played a pivotal role in the development of modern drug discovery methods.
Sam Keen (1931–2025): American author and philosopher, noted for his writings on spirituality and masculinity.
