Spirit of ’45 Day
Spirit of ’45 Day is observed on the second Sunday of August each year. This day commemorates the anniversary of the end of World War II, celebrating the legacy of the men and women who lived through that era, particularly those who served in the military and on the home front.
Creamsicle Day
National Creamsicle Day is celebrated annually on August 14. This day honors the beloved frozen treat known as the creamsicle, which typically consists of a vanilla ice cream center coated with a layer of flavored ice, most commonly orange.
August 14th has seen a number of significant events throughout history across various fields.
Historical Events:
Independence Day in Pakistan
August 14 is celebrated as Independence Day in Pakistan, marking the day in 1947 when Pakistan gained independence from British rule. This event is a cornerstone of national pride and is celebrated annually with various festivities.
Major Power Outage (2003)
On this day in 2003, a massive power outage occurred across the Eastern United States and parts of Canada, affecting over 50 million people. This blackout was one of the largest in North American history and highlighted vulnerabilities in the electrical grid.
Social Security Act Signed (1935)
In 1935, U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act, which established a permanent national old-age pension system funded through employer and employee contributions. This act laid the foundation for the modern social safety net in the United States.
The Opening of the 1920 Summer Olympics
The 1920 Summer Olympics officially opened in Antwerp, Belgium, on August 14, marking the first time the Olympic flag was raised and the Olympic oath was taken during the ceremony.
Shannon Faulkner at The Citadel (1995)
In 1995, Shannon Faulkner became the first female cadet in the history of The Citadel, South Carolina’s state military college, breaking gender barriers in military education.
Births:
Babe Ruth (1895)
One of the most legendary baseball players in history, Babe Ruth was born on August 14, 1895. Known for his incredible hitting ability, he became a cultural icon and is often regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
Louis Armstrong (1901)
The influential jazz musician Louis Armstrong was born on August 14, 1901. His innovative approach to music and unique voice helped shape the genre and left a lasting legacy in the world of music.
Steve Martin (1945)
Comedian, actor, and writer Steve Martin was born on August 14, 1945. He is known for his work in film and television, as well as his successful career in stand-up comedy.
Halle Berry (1966)
Academy Award-winning actress Halle Berry was born on August 14, 1966. She is celebrated for her roles in films such as “Monster’s Ball” and “X-Men,” and is recognized as one of Hollywood’s leading actresses.
Mila Kunis (1983)
Actress Mila Kunis, known for her roles in “That ’70s Show” and “Black Swan,” was born on August 14, 1983. She has gained acclaim for her performances in both television and film.
Deaths:
Alfred Lord Tennyson (1892)
The renowned British poet Alfred Lord Tennyson, known for works such as “The Charge of the Light Brigade” and “In Memoriam,” passed away on August 14, 1892. His poetry has had a lasting impact on English literature.
Robert H. Goddard (1945)
Robert H. Goddard, an American engineer and inventor who is often credited as the father of modern rocketry, died on August 14, 1945. His pioneering work laid the groundwork for space exploration.
Louis Armstrong (1971)
The legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong died on August 14, 1971. His contributions to music, particularly jazz, have made him an enduring figure in American culture.
Julia Child (2004)
Famous chef and television personality Julia Child passed away on August 14, 2004. She is celebrated for bringing French cuisine to the American public and for her influential cooking shows and cookbooks.
Ron Barge (2024)
Canadian children’s television presenter Ron Barge died on August 14, 2024, at the age of 87. He was known for his contributions to children’s programming in Canada.
