March 17: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
While much of the world celebrates St. Patrick's Day with parades and green attire, March 17 also marks the birth of Bangladesh's founding father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
About March 17
March 17 is a kaleidoscope of cultural and political identity. In the English-speaking world, St. Patrick's Day serves as a massive celebration of Irish heritage, drawing crowds from Ireland to Newfoundland. Meanwhile, in Bangladesh, the day is deeply solemn and patriotic, honoring the birth of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and celebrating Children's Day, recognizing the nation's future generation.
From the political stage to the depths of the ocean, this date has witnessed profound shifts. It has seen the rise of emperors in Rome, the signing of treaties that redefined colonial territories in the Malay archipelago, and even the discovery of lost weaponry on the sea floor. Whether through the lens of spiritual tradition or geopolitical change, March 17 remains a pivotal moment in the human timeline.
Holidays & Observances on March 17
- Birthday of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman (Bangladesh)
- Children's Day (Bangladesh)
- Evacuation Day (Suffolk County, Massachusetts)
- Saint Patrick's Day, a public holiday in Ireland, Montserrat and the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador, widely celebrated in the English-speaking world and to a lesser degree in other parts of the world.
Fun & National Days on March 17
- Corned Beef and Cabbage Day — Celebrate by serving up a hearty, traditional plate of delicious salted meat and greens.
- Submarine Day — Dive into the deep blue and honor the incredible technology of underwater vessels.
- Camp Fire Girls Day — Enjoy the great outdoors and embrace the spirit of adventure and sisterhood.
- Doctor-Patient Trust Day
- St. Patrick's Day
- World Social Work Day
On This Day in History
- -45 — Julius Caesar secured a decisive victory against the forces of Pompey the Younger and Titus Labienus during the Battle of Munda.
- 180 — Following the passing of Marcus Aurelius, eighteen-year-old Commodus assumed total control as the sole ruler of the Roman Empire.
- 1337 — The title of Duke of Cornwall was bestowed upon Edward the Black Prince, marking the creation of England's first duchy.
- 1776 — The Siege of Boston concluded as British troops evacuated the city after George Washington positioned artillery to overlook their movements.
- 1824 — London saw the signing of the Anglo-Dutch Treaty, which partitioned the Malay archipelago between British and Dutch influences.
- 1861 — A new era began for the Italian peninsula with the official proclamation of the Kingdom of Italy.
- 1948 — The Treaty of Brussels was signed by several European nations, serving as a foundational step toward the eventual creation of NATO.
- 1950 — Scientists at UC Berkeley announced the discovery of element 98, which they designated as californium.
- 1958 — The United States successfully launched the first satellite capable of achieving a long-term orbit using solar power.
- 1969 — Golda Meir made history by becoming the first woman to serve as the Prime Minister of Israel.
- 1992 — In a landmark moment for equality, South African citizens voted overwhelmingly in a referendum to end the apartheid system.
Famous Birthdays on March 17
- 763 — Harun al-Rashid, The influential Abbasid caliph who led during a golden age of Islamic culture.
- 1537 — Toyotomi Hideyoshi, A powerful Japanese daimyō who played a central role in unifying the country.
- 1834 — Gottlieb Daimler, The visionary German engineer who helped pioneer the development of the modern automobile.
- 1902 — Bobby Jones, An legendary American golfer who achieved unparalleled success on the course.
- 1919 — Nat King Cole, An iconic American singer and pianist whose smooth voice defined an era of music.
- 1920 — Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, The statesman recognized as the founding father and first president of Bangladesh.
- 1969 — Alexander McQueen, The groundbreaking English fashion designer known for his avant-garde and theatrical style.
- 1990 — Hozier, The acclaimed Irish musician known for his soulful voice and poetic songwriting.