On This Day - September 19th
Is today a special day for you? If so, congratulations! As it happens, September 19th is more than just another date on the calendar. We’re rapidly approaching fall now, and while the air might be getting cooler, history was just as heated – in this guide, we’ll take you through our favorite facts about today, and share a few famous birthdays you might be sharing.
On this day
The French were defeated by the English.
In 1356, the English forces under Edward the Black Prince ceremoniously defeated the French at the Battle of Poitiers during the Hundred Years' War. They captured the French King John II as a result.
New Zealand made history for women everywhere.
New Zealand became the first country ever to grant all women the right to vote back in 1893! To this day, not all countries around the world have given women the right to vote, a right that countless people have fought for for centuries. Millions commemorate NZ today for breaking that deadlock.
An earthquake hit Mexico City.
In 1985, Mexico City suffered an 8.1 magnitude earthquake, which killed around 10,000 people. About 250,000 more were left homeless – and the total property damage is said to have cost as much as $5 billion (in 1985 money).
The Taliban struck in Afghanistan.
In 2019, a Taliban suicide truck bombing occurred at a hospital in Zabul Province, southern Afghanistan. The bombing killed 22 people and injured 90 more.
The Cumbre Vieja erupted.
In 2021, the Cumbre Vieja volcano erupted on La Palma, the Spanish island. It was the volcano’s first eruption since 1971! That means this ridge in the Canary islands is now officially active again – caution is advised if you’re vacationing nearby!
Special Days Falling on September 19th
This September 19th, consider some of the amazing events and celebrations taking place around the world today. Here are some of the most important occasions and events people mark their calendars for as we head deeper into fall.
Aortic Dissection Awareness Day
Aortic dissection may not be a very well-known disorder, but it is life-threatening. That is why today is so important to bring awareness to people around the world about the disorder and what we need to do to be able to better handle it. It’s a condition where blood can leak between arteries – meaning anyone who suffers from it will need immediate medical support. Today is all about raising awareness of the people at risk.
Day of the Glories of the Army
Every September 19th is also the Day of the Glories of the Army in Chile. The occasion marks the end of the Independence Day celebrations. And, to celebrate, there is usually a parade with all of the country’s armed forces, including the navy, the air force, and the Carabineros de Chile. It is definitely an event to see!
Talk Like a Pirate Day
Believe it or not, September 19th is also the day the world celebrates Talk Like a Pirate Day! In fact, the day was created in 1995 by two friends as a joke – however, it has become a fully-fledged holiday, spread far and wide thanks to the advent of the internet. Why not tell some pirate jokes today and try on your best Long John Silver impressions?
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This page was last modified on September 8, 2023. Suggest an edit
This month in history
Pope John Paul I died. In September 1978, the Pope, who had only spent 33 days in office, passed away. He was succeeded by John Paul II, who would go on to serve until 2005, succeeded by Benedict XVI, and then Francis I.
Famous Birthdays on September 19th
If you were born on September 19th…
…you’re a Virgo! You’re a very attentive person, and you notice all the small things around you! However, noticing every detail does make you a bit critical sometimes – so take a load off today on your birthday and practice some self-care. Head over to our Virgo facts page to learn more about why your star sign is so special!
