🗓️ On This Day - April 1st
Many of us think of one thing when we think of April 1st - it's time to break out the pranks. But, as it happens, many very serious and exciting things also took place on this very date! Here are some of the most interesting things to have ever taken place on April 1st.
On this day
The President changed tobacco forever.
Believe it or not, cigarettes were not always deemed bad for us! In fact, they commonly received commercial advertising on the radio, in magazines, and even on television! That is, of course, until April 1st, 1970, when President Richard Nixon signed a bill limiting cigarette advertisements, changing how we would see them forever.
Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak started changing the world.
If you happen to be viewing this article on an iPad, Mac, iPhone, or any Apple product, then it’s worth knowing that they all have April 1st to thank for their invention! It is on this very date back in 1976 when visionaries Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs founded Apple Computer. What’s more, they did it in Steve Jobs’ parents’ garage!
Bob Newhart took his final bow.
April 1st was also a sad day for comedy lovers across the US! Back in 1978, it was the date that The Bob Newhart Show last aired on NBC-TV.
The Netherlands legalized euthanasia.
April 1st, 2022, was the date the Netherlands finally legalized euthanasia. They were the first country in the world to legalize it, with the topic remaining a delicate subject around the world.
Michael Phelps swam to victory!
April 1st, 2007, marks the date that superstar swimmer Michael Phelps defeated his own world record in the 400m individual medley, completing it in 4:06:22! This got him his record 7th gold medal - and Phelps achieved this incredible feat at the World Championships in Melbourne, Australia.
Bob Dylan won a Nobel Prize.
Although many of us know him primarily for his music, Bob Dylan is indeed a Nobel laureate! He received his Nobel Prize for literature on this very date back in 2017. However, the singer-songwriter initially turned down the honor, only to later accept (albeit missing the ceremony as he was busy).
Special Days Falling on April 1st
Of course, we all know of at least one special day that falls on April 1st, but beyond jokes and pranks, did you know there’s also a lot to celebrate on this very special date? Let’s take a look.
All Fools’ Day
April 1st is most commonly known as April Fool’s Day! A day for pranks, jokes, and a lot of laughter - whether it’s your family members, friends, co-workers, or even your teachers, be sure to prank them (gently) and have a good laugh today!
National sourdough bread day
For most of us, bread is an absolute staple in the home. It goes with everything! And nothing beats having fresh, homemade sourdough bread. Whether you enjoy it with a warm bowl of soup, turn it into a tasty sandwich, or have it toasted with some creamy butter, be sure to really enjoy some sourdough today!
National One Cent Day
Although we all tend to disregard our pennies every now and then, it’s important to remember that every penny counts! So, on National Cent Day, celebrate by researching the history of the penny, collecting yours and seeing how much you’ve saved, or by donating your spare change to charity - let those pennies make a difference for someone else!
Like our content? Like us on Facebook and never miss out!
This page was last modified on August 3, 2023. Suggest an edit
This month in history
The Great Gatsby was published! F. Scott Fitzgerald’s timeless classic has been an absolute favorite for generations. It has been adapted numerous times on screen, most famously in the 2013 Baz Luhrmann adaptation featuring Leonardo DiCaprio in the titular role. Did you know, however, that the book is now public domain and copyright-free? Someone has reportedly even written a “Muppets” version of the story that’s just waiting for pickup…
Famous Birthdays on April 1st
If you were born on April 1st…
…you’re an Aries! You’re no fool! Bold, fun, intelligent, and a very loyal friend. But you’re definitely not one to be tested! Want to find out more about this fire sign? Head over to our Aries facts page!
