August 19: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
From the digital revolution sparked by Google's IPO to the historic liberation of Paris, August 19 serves as a cornerstone for global change.
Quick Facts for August 19
- Zodiac sign: Leo
- Day of year: 231
About August 19
On this day in 2004, the digital landscape shifted forever when Google Inc. launched its initial public offering on the Nasdaq, changing how the world accesses information. This modern milestone sits alongside profound historical turning points, such as the 1944 liberation of Paris, where French citizens rose against German occupation to reclaim their capital with Allied assistance.
The date also carries deep political weight across the globe. For Afghanistan, it marks the anniversary of the 1919 Treaty of Rawalpindi, which secured their independence from British rule. In Vietnam, the August Revolution is commemorated, honoring the moment Ho Chi Minh and the Viet Minh seized power in Hanoi in 1945.
Holidays & Observances on August 19
- Afghan Independence Day, commemorates the Treaty of Rawalpindi in 1919, granting independence from Britain (Afghanistan)
- August Revolution Commemoration Day (Vietnam)
- Birthday of Crown Princess Mette-Marit (Norway)
- Manuel Luis Quezón Day (Quezon City and other places in the Philippines named after Manuel L. Quezon)
- National Aviation Day (United States)
- World Humanitarian Day
Fun & National Days on August 19
- National Soft Ice Cream Day — Treat yourself to a swirling cone of your favorite creamy flavor!
- International Orangutan Day — Celebrate these incredible primates and learn about their vital role in the ecosystem.
- National Hot and Spicy Food Day — Turn up the heat and try a dish with an extra kick today.
- National Potato Day — Whether mashed, fried, or baked, enjoy this versatile staple in every form.
- 'Black Cow' Root Beer Float Day — Mix up some soda and ice cream for a classic, bubbly treat.
- International Bow Day
- International Talk Like Jar Jar Binks Day
- National Medical Dosimetrist's Day
- National Sandcastle and Sculpture Day
On This Day in History
- -295 — During the Third Samnite War, Quintus Fabius Maximus Gurges consecrated the very first temple dedicated to the Roman goddess Venus.
- -43 — Following the assassination of Julius Caesar, his heir Octavian utilized military pressure to secure his election as Consul by the Roman Senate.
- 1561 — At the age of 18, Mary, Queen of Scots, finally returned to her native Scotland after thirteen years living in France.
- 1782 — The Battle of Blue Licks occurred during the American Revolutionary War, serving as the conflict's final significant major engagement.
- 1812 — The USS Constitution earned its famous 'Old Ironsides' nickname after defeating the British frigate HMS Guerriere during the War of 1812.
- 1839 — The French government announced that Louis Daguerre's revolutionary photographic technique would be a free gift to the entire world.
- 1848 — The New York Herald broadcasted news of the California Gold Rush to the American East Coast, igniting massive interest in the discovery.
- 1944 — Paris was liberated from German occupation as French resistance fighters and Allied troops successfully reclaimed the historic city.
- 1960 — The Soviet Union successfully launched the Korabl-Sputnik 2 satellite, carrying several animals including the dogs Belka and Strelka into space.
- 1964 — The launch of the Syncom 3 satellite marked the arrival of the first geostationary communication satellite in orbit.
- 1989 — As part of the movement that eventually brought down the Berlin Wall, hundreds of East Germans crossed into Austria during the Pan-European Picnic.
- 1991 — The August Coup began as Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev was placed under house arrest in Ukraine during a period of political upheaval.
Famous Birthdays on August 19
- 1871 — Orville Wright, The pioneering American engineer and pilot who co-founded the renowned Wright Company.
- 1883 — Coco Chanel, The legendary French designer who revolutionized the fashion industry by founding her namesake company.
- 1946 — Bill Clinton, The American politician who served as the 42nd President of the United States.
- 1963 — John Stamos, The recognizable American actor who has been a fixture on television for decades.
- 1967 — Satya Nadella, The prominent Indian-American business leader currently serving as the CEO of Microsoft.
- 1969 — Matthew Perry, The beloved American actor and producer known for his iconic role in television history.