Social Media Day
Social Media Day, celebrated annually on June 30th, is a global event recognizing the impact of social media on communication and connection in the digital age. Launched by Mashable in 2010, this day highlights the ways social media has revolutionized how we interact, share information, and build communities. It’s a time for users, influencers, and brands to reflect on the power of social platforms in shaping modern society, fostering engagement, and driving cultural change. Join the celebration by sharing your favorite social media moments, connecting with friends and followers, and using the hashtag #SocialMediaDay to participate in the global conversation.
Corvette Day and Drive Your Corvette to Work Day
Corvette Day, celebrated on June 30th, marks the anniversary of the first Chevrolet Corvette’s production in 1953. Known as America’s sports car, the Corvette has become an iconic symbol of American automotive innovation and performance. Enthusiasts and car lovers use this day to honor the legacy of the Corvette, showcasing classic and modern models, sharing stories, and participating in car shows and events. It’s a day to appreciate the Corvette’s rich history, its impact on the automotive industry, and the passion it ignites in fans worldwide.
June 30 has seen a variety of significant events throughout history.
Historical Events
1908 – Tunguska Event: A massive explosion occurred near the Tunguska River in Siberia, Russia. The explosion, believed to have been caused by the airburst of a small asteroid or comet, flattened an estimated 80 million trees over an area of 2,150 square kilometers. It is the largest impact event on Earth in recorded history.
1934 – Night of the Long Knives: Adolf Hitler ordered a purge of the SA (Sturmabteilung) leadership and other political adversaries in Nazi Germany. The event, also known as the Röhm Purge, solidified Hitler’s power by eliminating potential threats within his own party and securing the loyalty of the German military.
1966 – Formation of the National Organization for Women (NOW): NOW, an American feminist organization, was founded by 28 women at a conference in Washington, D.C. The organization aimed to promote equal rights for women and has since played a key role in advocating for women’s rights and gender equality in the United States.
1971 – Crew of Soyuz 11 Dies in Space: The Soviet Soyuz 11 mission ended in tragedy when the crew capsule depressurized during re-entry, killing all three cosmonauts. They were the first and only humans to have died in space (as opposed to during launch or re-entry).
1997 – United Kingdom Handover of Hong Kong: The United Kingdom handed over sovereignty of Hong Kong to China at midnight on June 30, marking the end of over 150 years of British colonial rule. The event took place at a ceremony attended by British and Chinese officials, symbolizing a significant geopolitical shift.
Births
1893 – Walter Ulbricht: A German communist politician, Ulbricht was a leading figure in East Germany, serving as the General Secretary of the Socialist Unity Party and the head of state.
1917 – Lena Horne: An American singer, dancer, actress, and civil rights activist, Horne gained fame for her work in music and film and became a prominent advocate for racial equality.
1985 – Michael Phelps: An American swimmer, Phelps is the most decorated Olympian of all time, with a total of 28 medals, including 23 gold medals.
Deaths
1961 – Lee De Forest: An American inventor, De Forest is often called the “Father of Radio” and is credited with the invention of the Audion, the first triode vacuum tube, which made modern electronics possible.
2003 – Buddy Hackett: An American comedian and actor, Hackett was known for his roles in films like “The Music Man” and “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World,” as well as his work in stand-up comedy.
