On This Day - September 15th
We’re midway through September already, and fall is well on its way. But there's still life left in September yet – and as the 15th shows, there are plenty of fascinating facts and figures to dog into. Congratulations if you’re celebrating today – and here are all the best stats we can dig up on 9/15.
On this day
The first free public school opened in Europe.
In 1616, the first non-aristocratic, free public school in Europe opened. Located in Frascati, Italy, it was the brainchild of José de Calasanz, a priest who was passionate about providing education. It was, in fact, his life's work to help educate younger people – and he helped to open education up to people of all financial backgrounds.
Central America became independent.
In 1821, the Act of Independence of Central America passed. The act consisted of countries such as El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Guatemala declaring their independence from the Spanish Empire. As you’ll see further down in our guide, September 15th really is a big day for national pride and celebration across this area of the globe!
Charles Darwin landed at Galapagos!
In 1835, the HMS Beagle arrived at the Galapagos Islands, with Charles Darwin onboard. It was from the Galapagos Islands that Darwin developed his theories on evolution – in part thanks to the incredible turtles living here, as they can endure centuries of old age! People still visit Galapagos to this day – it’s little wonder why the islands proved so popular with Darwin, and so integral to his research.
Penicillin was first discovered.
In 1928, Alexander Fleming, a Scottish bacteriologist, discovered penicillin while studying influenza. To this day, penicillin is still vital in treating all kinds of infections – it is quite literally a life-saver in millions of cases all over the planet. However, some people are allergic to it – and thankfully, there are now other options readily available!
Japan was rocked by a major typhoon.
In 1947, Typhoon Kathleen hit Tone River, Saitama, and the general Tokyo Area. It killed at least 1,930 people in its path and injured around 1,750 more.
Special Days Falling on September 15th
September 15th might not sound like the most memorable date on the calendar for a lot of people, but there are plenty of reasons to mark the occasion. Here are just a few reasons why!
Costa Rica Independence Day
Every year, September 15th marks Costa Rica's Independence Day! It celebrates the nation's independence from Spain in 1821. Once indolence was declared, the country's first constitution came into force, and the rest was history!
El Salvador Independence Day
September 15th also happens to be El Salvador Independence Day! It celebrates for the same reason as Costa Rica; the nation’s independence from Spain in 1821! In fact, you’ll find that it is not the only Central American country to celebrate this day!
Guatemala Independence Day
That’s right, Guatemala celebrates its independence from Spain every September 15th, too! It is also Guatemala’s National Day. The day is usually marked by concerts, civic campaigns, parades, and parties all over the country!
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This page was last modified on September 6, 2023. Suggest an edit
This month in history
Eleven people in Israel's Olympic Team were killed. Amid an attack on the Olympic Village in Munich led by members of the Palestinian Liberation Army's Black September faction, innocent athletes lost their lives in a horrific onslaught. The Palestinian positions held in Lebanon and Syria faced bombings by Israeli jets a few days later in retaliation.
Famous Birthdays on September 15th
If you were born on September 15th…
…you’re a Virgo! You are a very independent person, and you can be quite shy. However, when people get to know you, they see just how attentive, loyal, and sensitive you are. What’s more, people love to be around Virgos for their incredible insight, knowledge, and friendship. There’s a lot more to you than meets the eye, so make sure to learn more about Virgos (and yourself) from our Virgo facts page!
