On This Day - October 18th
What is it about October 18th that makes today so remarkable? If you’re not already celebrating a birthday or an anniversary, it might seem like just another date on the calendar – but you’d be surprised at just how important this date actually is! In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the most important and fascinating events to have taken place on October 18th.
On this day
The Battle of Dyrrhachium took place.
In 1081, the Battle of Dyrrhachium took place. During the battle, the Byzantine army under Alexios I Komnenos was defeated by the Southern Italian Normans under Robert Guiscard.
Chernigov surrendered.
In 1240, the Ukrainian city of Chernigov surrendered. However, even after surrendering, the city was still sacked and pillaged by the Mongolian army of Batu Khan. Batu Khan was one of (many) grandchildren of Genghis Khan, and would continue to conquest up until his death in 1255.
Basel was destroyed.
In 1356, a devastating earthquake struck Basel in Switzerland. It was the biggest recorded seismological event north of the Alps! To this day, it’s still widely regarded as perhaps the most significant seismic event to have taken place in central Europe – to this date.
Phillis Wheatley was freed.
In 1775, African-American poet Phillis Wheatley was freed from slavery. She went on to become the first ever African American author of published poetry in book form – and is therefore revered as a trailblazer in her own right. Some of her most popular poems include An Hymn To The Morning, A Farewell To America, and His Excellency General Washington.
Special Days Falling on October 18th
October 18th is just as much about the celebrations as it is about the history. Here are some of the biggest celebrations taking place around the world today.
Flora Duffy Day
For the people of Bermuda, every October 18th is Flora Duffy Day. The national holiday is dedicated to Dame Flora Duffy D.B.E., a Bermudian triathlete. She won the first-ever gold medal for Bermuda at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. In doing so, she made Bermuda the smallest country to win a gold medal at the Olympics yet!
Health Care Aide Day
For the people of Canada, October 18th is Health Care Aide Day. The government of Manitoba created the day to honor the healthcare aides of the country who work tirelessly to help those who need them. Give thanks to the healthcare professionals in your life today if you can!
World Menopause Day
World Menopause Day is designed to spread awareness about the transition women everywhere have to go through. For some, it can be easier to go through than others, but whatever your experience, it’s a huge biological change. For many women, menopause can be a frightening time – which is why it’s important to reach out for resources and help today if you’re experiencing it.
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This page was last modified on October 16, 2023. Suggest an edit
This month in history
Hungary became a republic. Having spent 33 years under Soviet Russian troops, Hungary finally declared itself a republic in 1989 – and it has remained so ever since!
Famous Birthdays on October 18th
If you were born on October 18th…
…you’re a Libra! You are an intelligent, down-to-earth, loyal person. But, if one thing matters above all else to you, it is justice! Justice in the world, in your community, in your home. You’re a lover of balance and will always do what you feel is right to make sure everyone gets their fair cut of the deal. You’re a great person to have around in the event of a dispute!
Be sure to look over at our Libra facts page, too, if you’re just getting into your horoscopes.
