On This Day - October 10th
Did you know that October 10th is one of the most important dates of the year for many people around the world? It might not feel like a day that really leaps off the calendar unless you’re celebrating it in some way, but there are plenty of great reasons to take time and mark in your diary. Here are some of the most interesting things to know about October 10th!
On this day
The Great Chicago Fire came to an end.
In 1871, the Great Chicago Fire was finally extinguished after three days of burning the city down. Approximately 300 people died, 100,000 were left homeless, and more were injured.
Fiji was claimed by the British.
In 1874, Fiji officially became a British possession. It remained under British rule for 96 years – they really waited a long time to break free and gain independence.
Barnard was founded.
In 1889, the famous Barnard College was founded in New York City on this very day. Interestingly, it was founded after Columbia University refused to accept women into the establishment – a major step forward for women’s rights around the turn of the century!
The bicycle frame was patented.
In 1899, the bicycle frame was patented by African-American inventor Isaac R. Johnson. Without Johnson, we wouldn’t have been able to enjoy all those long bike rides as kids – and it’d be a lot tougher for people to get to and from work, too!
Emmeline Pankhurst created an important union.
In 1903, Emmeline Pankhurst created the Women’s Social and Political Union. The union was created to fight for women’s rights in Britain. Seems October 10th is a very important date in gender equality history!
Special Days Falling on October 10th
For countries around the world, October 10th is one of the most important days of the year. It seems to be a pretty important day for independence, and here’s why!
Cuba Independence Day
October 10th is indeed Cuba’s Independence Day! This national holiday commemorates the country’s strive for independence, which was long and difficult. The country officially gained its independence in 1902 and has remained a free state ever since. So, you can see why today is such an important date for the people of the nation – why not look back on some of its history?
Curaçao Day
October 10th is also Curaçao Day! The day honors the anniversary of the island becoming a nation within the Dutch Kingdom. The island, which is located in the Southern Caribbean Sea, deals with its own affairs as an autonomous nation, with the Kingdom having rule only over specific things (such as defense, for example). And, today is the perfect day to celebrate that autonomy!
Fiji Day
Another day to celebrate autonomy – October 10th happens to also be a very important day for the island of Fiji! The Republic of Fiji is located in the South Pacific Ocean and is known for its stunning archipelago full of white sandy beaches and a wonderful tropical climate. Today, the nation celebrates its unique culture, history, and customs. There are festivities all over the islands, and Australia and New Zealand tend to participate, too!
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This page was last modified on October 7, 2023. Suggest an edit
This month in history
Harvard University was founded. In 1636, the oldest higher learning institution in America first opened its doors in Cambridge, Massachusetts. To this day, it remains the top Ivy League school in the United States of America and is considered to be one of the most prestigious schools in the world.
Famous Birthdays on October 10th
If you were born on October 10th…
…you’re a Libra! You’re smart, loyal, and kind. You’re a great friend and partner to have. You’re also perfect at restoring peace as you have a great sense of justice – pretty fitting, then, considering you’re represented by the scales in the Western Zodiac!
If you’re just getting into your horoscopes and are fascinated to know more about what being a LIbra is all about, take a look over at our facts page.
