On This Day - July 29th
Still basking in that wonderful summer warmth? We really don’t blame you – there are plenty of great reasons why July 29th is so memorable, and the sunshine is one of them! Here, however, are stacks more reasons why you’ll want to keep this date in your calendar.
On this day
The University of Franeker was founded.
On this day in 1585, the University of Franeker, later known as the University of Friesland, was opened to the public. This esteemed institution became a hub of intellectual pursuits, shaping the minds of generations to come!
An artistic revolution!
On this day in 1884, Paris played host to the start of a revolutionary artistic alliance. The Society of Independent Artists, founded by visionaries such as Odilon Redon, Paul Signac, Georges Seurat, and Albert Dubois-Pillet, aimed to challenge societal expectations, champion artistic freedom, and propel the avant-garde movement forward. Many say they succeeded!
A step closer toward peace.
On July 29th, 1957, the International Atomic Energy Agency was first set up. Also known as the IAEA, the organization was initially floated by representatives from around the world in October 1956. The organization aims to help boost the use of atomic energy in pursuit of world peace, rather than the development of arms.
Albania gained international recognition.
July 29th, 1913 marked the date that Albania was officially proclaimed (and recognized as) an independent principality via European assent. This move came after the issue of the Vlorë proclamation, which effectively separated Albania from the Ottoman Empire as of November 28th, 1912. As a result, Albania doesn’t officially celebrate its independence until November each year!
The tenth planet?!
In what would become a bit of a letdown after the event, scientists leaped for joy as they believed they’d found our solar system’s fabled tenth planet. The planet in question, Eris, was thought to be the successor to Pluto – but it was downgraded to “dwarf” status after discovery on July 29th, 2005. Pluto succumbed to the same fate!
Special Days Falling on July 29th
Not sure what to make of today? Here are a few interesting days people are celebrating all over on July 29th.
World Decora Day
Ready to splash some style about? World Decora Day takes place on July 29th – and it’s a real celebration of vibrant self-expression and individuality in fashion! With bold colors, creative hairstyles, and eye-catching accessories, Decora fans express themselves in wild and wonderful ways! Now’s the time to break out your own colors and styles!
International Tiger Day
Tiger, tiger, burning bright! Today’s a special day to pay tribute to the majestic and endangered big cats that roam the wild. It's a global effort, too, in raising awareness about tiger conservation and the urgent need to protect not only these beautiful creatures from poaching, but also to prevent further loss of their habitats.
Wallis and Futuna Territory Day
If you’ve ever explored the South Pacific before, there’s a good chance you have already heard of Wallis and Futuna. It’s a collective territory that’s technically part of France! In fact, the twin state was declared a French Overseas Territory on this date back in 1961, which is why today is seen as a unification day for many people. Both Wallis and Futuna and France are still closely linked, with the latter helping to provide support during natural disasters, as well as guidance for expatriates. It’s like a reverse independence day, but a positive one!
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This page was last modified on July 26, 2023. Suggest an edit
This month in history
The US paid off its national debt! While this may seem improbable as of today (it’s said to top more than $32 trillion at the time of writing), July 1795 actually saw the then-total debt of $2,024,899 paid off in full. That’d be worth $48.8 million in today’s money, still a drop in the ocean compared to the current debt!
Famous Birthdays on July 29th
If you were born on July 29th…
… you’re a wonderful Leo! With charisma and confidence in spades, Leos are the ultimate stars of the Zodiac!
As natural-born leaders, they bask in the spotlight, radiating their charm. You’re ambitious, passionate, and oh-so-creative – as with other Leos, you yearn for admiration and revel in being the life of the party.
For more facts about the lions of the stars, take a look at our Leo fact file.
