February 6: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
On this day in 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, a foundational moment that established New Zealand as a British colony.
Quick Facts for February 6
- Zodiac sign: Aquarius
- Day of year: 37
About February 6
February 6 carries profound weight for nations and individuals alike. In 1952, while staying at the Treetops Hotel in Kenya, Elizabeth II ascended to the throne following the passing of her father, George VI. This moment transformed her from a princess into the Queen of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, altering the course of modern monarchy.
Beyond the halls of power, the day is marked by cultural and humanitarian observances. It is the Sami National Day, a celebration of indigenous heritage across Northern Europe, and the United Nations' International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation, which seeks to raise global awareness for women's rights. From the birth of legendary American athletes to the signing of historical peace treaties, the date weaves together a tapestry of leadership and social change.
Holidays & Observances on February 6
- International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation (United Nations)
- Ronald Reagan Day (California, United States)
- Sami National Day (Russia, Finland, Norway and Sweden)
- Waitangi Day, celebrates the founding of New Zealand in 1840.
Fun & National Days on February 6
- Bubble Gum Day — Celebrate by unwrapping your favorite pink, stretchy candy treat.
- National Frozen Yogurt Day — Treat yourself to a cold, creamy swirl of your favorite frozen yogurt.
- National Chopsticks Day — Perfect your picking skills with a delicious meal using only chopsticks.
- Pay-a-Compliment Day — Spread kindness today by offering a sincere, heartfelt compliment to someone.
- Give Kids a Smile Day
- Lame Duck Day
- National Wear Red Day
On This Day in History
- 1685 — Following the death of Charles II, James II was officially recognized as the King of Scotland and England.
- 1778 — The United States and France signed the Treaty of Alliance and the Treaty of Amity and Commerce in Paris.
- 1819 — Modern Singapore traces its beginnings to the signing of the Treaty of Singapore by several key regional leaders.
- 1840 — The signing of the Treaty of Waitangi formally established New Zealand's status as a colony of the British Empire.
- 1862 — During the American Civil War, Union forces successfully captured Fort Henry, Tennessee, under the command of Ulysses S. Grant.
- 1918 — The British Parliament passed the Representation of the People Act, granting the vote to women over thirty with property.
- 1922 — Global naval powers, including the U.S. and Britain, signed the Washington Naval Treaty to restrict military armaments.
- 1952 — While residing in a Kenyan tree house, Elizabeth II succeeded her father to become the Queen of the United Kingdom.
- 1959 — Jack Kilby of Texas Instruments revolutionized technology by filing the very first patent for an integrated circuit.
- 1989 — The start of the Round Table Talks in Poland signaled the beginning of the end for communism in Eastern Europe.
- 2018 — SpaceX reached a new milestone with the successful maiden flight of its super heavy launch vehicle, Falcon Heavy.
Famous Birthdays on February 6
- 1665 — Anne, Queen of Great Britain, The historical monarch who reigned over England, Scotland, and Ireland.
- 1748 — Adam Weishaupt, The German academic and philosopher who founded the influential Illuminati.
- 1756 — Aaron Burr, The American politician who served as the third Vice President of the United States.
- 1895 — Babe Ruth, An iconic American baseball legend and celebrated player and coach.
- 1911 — Ronald Reagan, The famous American actor who later became the 40th President of the United States.