April 19: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
On April 19, 2021, humanity reached a new frontier when the Ingenuity helicopter achieved the first powered flight on another planet.
Quick Facts for April 19
- Zodiac sign: Aries
- Day of year: 109
About April 19
April 19 serves as a dramatic pivot point in human history, often marking the spark of revolution and the dawn of new eras. In 1775, the world changed forever during the Battles of Lexington and Concord, where American colonial militias faced off against British forces in what became known as the 'shot heard round the world.' This day of conflict has repeated through the centuries, from the Siege of Boston to the early civil unrest in Baltimore.
While history has seen its share of turmoil, this date also celebrates profound scientific and political shifts. It marks the moment in 1839 when Belgium was established as a neutral kingdom via the Treaty of London, and much later, the 1971 launch of Salyut 1, the very first space station. Whether through the struggle for independence or the exploration of the cosmos, April 19 remains a day of monumental movement.
Fun & National Days on April 19
- Bicycle Day — Pedal your way outside and enjoy a scenic ride on two wheels!
- Go Fly a Kite Day — Head to a windy park and let your colorful kite soar high.
- National Chicken Parmesan Day — Treat yourself to a cheesy, delicious plate of breaded chicken today.
- National Garlic Day — Add some extra pungent flavor to your favorite cooking today.
- National Amaretto Day — Sip on some sweet almond-flavored liqueur to celebrate this tasty day.
- Rice Ball Day — Enjoy some tasty, handcrafted rice balls for a perfect snack.
- National Hanging Out Day — Relax and do absolutely nothing with your favorite people.
- Humorous Day
- John Parker Day
- Oklahoma City Bombing Commemoration Day
On This Day in History
- 65 — A conspiracy to assassinate Emperor Nero failed after a freedman named Milichus alerted authorities, leading to numerous arrests.
- 1529 — Protestant leaders and cities issued a formal protest against the Second Diet of Speyer's decision to ban Lutheranism.
- 1770 — The future of Australia was glimpsed when Lieutenant James Cook spotted the continent's eastern coastline.
- 1770 — In a proxy ceremony, Marie Antoinette and King Louis XVI were wed to secure their royal union.
- 1775 — The American Revolutionary War ignited during the skirmishes at Lexington and Concord between colonial militias and British troops.
- 1782 — American diplomat John Adams successfully gained Dutch recognition for the United States, establishing the nation's first embassy in The Hague.
- 1839 — The Treaty of London was signed, officially creating the Kingdom of Belgium and guaranteeing its permanent neutrality.
- 1943 — During World War II, the courageous Warsaw Ghetto Uprising began as German forces attempted to clear the Jewish district.
- 1956 — Hollywood icon Grace Kelly entered royalty by marrying Prince Rainier of Monaco.
- 1971 — The era of orbital habitation began with the historic launch of Salyut 1, the world's first space station.
- 1975 — India reached a milestone in space exploration with the successful launch of its first satellite, Aryabhata.
- 2021 — Humanity achieved an interplanetary milestone as the Ingenuity helicopter completed its first flight on Mars.
Famous Birthdays on April 19
- 1897 — Jiroemon Kimura, The Japanese man recognized as the oldest verified person to have ever lived.
- 1903 — Eliot Ness, The legendary American law enforcement officer famous for his work against organized crime.
- 1912 — Glenn T. Seaborg, A Nobel Prize-winning chemist who made massive contributions to nuclear science.
- 1932 — Fernando Botero, A world-renowned Colombian artist famous for his distinctively voluminous sculptures and paintings.
- 1946 — Tim Curry, The versatile and iconic English actor known for his unforgettable character roles.
- 1979 — Kate Hudson, The popular American actress known for her many successful film roles.
- 1981 — Hayden Christensen, The Canadian actor recognized globally for his portrayal of Anakin Skywalker.
- 1987 — Maria Sharapova, The celebrated Russian professional tennis player and former world number one.