February 16: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
In 1923, the world was forever changed when Howard Carter finally breached the burial chamber of Pharaoh Tutankhamun.
Quick Facts for February 16
- Zodiac sign: Aquarius
- Day of year: 47
About February 16
February 16 is a day marked by profound discoveries and hard-won sovereignty. In 1923, archeology reached a fever pitch when the sealed tomb of King Tutankhamun was finally opened, revealing an unparalleled treasure trove of ancient Egyptian history. This monumental moment in science and culture stands alongside the political courage seen in 1918, when the Council of Lithuania officially declared the nation's independence, a milestone now celebrated as the Restoration of Lithuania's Statehood Day.
Beyond these heavy historical shifts, the date offers a diverse tapestry of human achievement and cultural identity. From the environmental significance of the Kyoto Protocol coming into force in 2005 to the recognition of civil rights through Alaska's first anti-discrimination laws in 1945, the day reflects the ongoing global struggle for progress and the preservation of heritage.
Holidays & Observances on February 16
- Day of the Shining Star (Kim Jong Il's birthday) (North Korea)
- Restoration of Lithuania's Statehood Day, celebrate the independence of Lithuania from Russia and Germany in 1918 (Lithuania)
- Elizabeth Peratrovich Day (Alaska)
Fun & National Days on February 16
- Do a Grouch a Favor Day — Brighten someone's bad mood by performing a small, unexpected kindness.
- International Syrah Day — Uncork a bottle of fine Syrah and enjoy its unique character.
- National Almond Day — Add some crunchy, nutritious almonds to your favorite snacks today.
- National Innovation Day — Celebrate the spirit of creativity by thinking of a brand-new idea.
- Tim Tam Day — Enjoy these famous chocolate biscuits, perhaps with a hot cup of tea.
- Cream Bun Day (Iceland)
- Kyoto Protocol Day
- Presidents' Day
- Shrove Monday
On This Day in History
- 1249 — King Louis IX of France sent Andrew of Longjumeau as an official representative to meet with the Mongol Empire's Khagan.
- 1796 — The British forces successfully captured Colombo, marking a decisive step in their military takeover of Ceylon.
- 1804 — During the First Barbary War, Stephen Decatur led a daring mission to set fire to the captured American frigate USS Philadelphia.
- 1862 — Ulysses S. Grant secured a major victory during the American Civil War by seizing control of Fort Donelson in Tennessee.
- 1881 — The Canadian Pacific Railway was officially established through an Act of Parliament in the city of Ottawa.
- 1900 — Carsten Borchgrevink’s Southern Cross expedition reached a new southern milestone by landing at the Great Ice Barrier.
- 1918 — Lithuanian leaders reached a unanimous decision to adopt an act declaring their nation as an independent state.
- 1923 — The hidden burial chamber of the Egyptian Pharaoh Tutankhamun was first opened by the explorer Howard Carter.
- 1937 — A United States patent was granted to Wallace H. Carothers for the invention of the synthetic material nylon.
- 1960 — The USS Triton launched Operation Sandblast, becoming the first submarine to travel around the world while submerged.
- 1968 — The very first 9-1-1 emergency telephone system was officially activated in Haleyville, Alabama.
- 2005 — Following ratification by Russia, the international environmental agreement known as the Kyoto Protocol officially began implementation.
Famous Birthdays on February 16
- 1822 — Francis Galton, An influential English statistician and biologist who made significant contributions to science.
- 1834 — Ernst Haeckel, A prominent German biologist and philosopher known for his work in evolutionary theory.
- 1843 — Henry M. Leland, The American engineer who was responsible for founding the Cadillac and Lincoln automotive brands.
- 1906 — Vera Menchik, A trailblazing Russian-British chess player who dominated the international competitive scene.
- 1909 — Richard McDonald, The American businessman who played a central role in co-founding the McDonald's empire.
- 1957 — LeVar Burton, An iconic American actor and producer celebrated for his work in educational television.
- 1959 — John McEnroe, A legendary American tennis player known for his incredible skill and intense competitive spirit.
- 1989 — Elizabeth Olsen, A highly acclaimed American actress recognized for her major roles in blockbuster cinema.