On this day
Columbus learned a new skill.
In 1492, Christopher Columbus learned how to grow maize thanks to Cuba’s indigenous people. Maize was the term used for corn, though it’s still commonly used as an ingredient term to this day. Who knows where we would be in terms of food supply without the people of Cuba?
Tycho Brahe changed the world.
In 1572, Tycho Brahe, an astronomer hailing from Denmark, spotted a brand new star with his naked eye in what’s known as the Cassiopeia constellation. In so doing, he proved the existence of changing objects beyond the reach of the Moon! That star in question turned out to be a supernova – and it changed astronomy forever.
The Gunpowder Plot took place.
In 1605, Guy Fawkes, a Catholic conspirator, tried to murder then-King James I and blow up the British Parliament. However, the plan was foiled, and Guy Fawkes was eventually executed.
Parihaka’s Māori settlement was attacked.
In 1881, about 1,600 police officers and volunteers attacked the Māori settlement at Parihaka. The settlement had become a protest symbol against confiscating Māori land in New Zealand.
China sent a lunar satellite into orbit!
In 2007, China’s groundbreaking Chang’e 1 spacecraft, completely unmanned, first headed into lunar orbit on this day. Weeks later, on November 26th, it would send photos of the Moon back for the first time.
Special Days Falling on November 5th
As some of you may know, November 5th is a day filled with fireworks, celebrations, and tales of legendary rebels! Here are some of the most interesting events taking place around the world today.
Bonfire Night
For the people of the UK, November 5th is Bonfire Night, or Guy Fawkes Night. The night commemorates Fawkes’ failed attempt in the 17th Century to blow up the seat of Parliament and kill King James I. To commemorate these events, bonfires and fireworks go off all around the nation, and there are plenty of lessons in schools about the Gunpowder Plot and the dangers of fireworks!
Colón Day
In Panama, November 5th is Colón Day. The day is one of the many celebration days held in the country to honor the month of independence. This one specifically honors the Colombian forces and their support in Panama’s separation. To celebrate this day, concerts, parades, festivals, and fireworks are held all over the nation!
World Tsunami Awareness Day
For people all over the world, November 5th is World Tsunami Awareness Day. The day, which started in Japan, brings awareness to people everywhere about the very real possibilities and dangers of tsunamis and other natural disasters. The Indian Ocean tsunami of 2004 alone killed over 227,000 people – and hundreds of millions of people are frequently at risk as they live close to coastal spots.
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This page was last modified on November 4, 2023. Suggest an edit
This month in history
Richard Byrd and Bernt Balchen made it to the South Pole. In 1929, they became the first people to complete an airplane flight to the Pole, a feat that’s still hazardous to this day!
Famous Birthdays on November 5th
If you were born on November 5th…
…you’re a Scorpio! You are the definition of passionate, deep, and trustworthy. People are right to confide in you, and you tend to give lots of great advice! However, when it comes to your own personal life, you are secretive and mysterious – but it all adds to your charm.
If you’re new to the Western Zodiac and want to learn more about yourself, find out more from our Scorpio facts page!
