March 20: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign

Quick Facts for March 20

• Zodiac sign: Pisces
• Day of year: 79

About March 20

March 20 serves as a profound intersection of human intellectual achievement and the pursuit of collective joy. While Albert Einstein was redefining the laws of physics, the world also celebrates the United Nations' International Day of Happiness, a global reminder of the importance of well-being. This date also carries deep political significance, marking the anniversary of Tunisia's successful struggle for independence from French rule in 1956.

The day offers a diverse tapestry of experiences, from the linguistic unity celebrated during International Francophonie Day to the environmental awareness found in World Sparrow Day. Whether it is the scientific monumentalism of the early 20th century or the modern efforts to foster global peace and contentment, March 20 remains a cornerstone of historical and social significance.

Holidays & Observances on March 20

• Great American MeatOut (United States)
• Independence Day, celebrates the independence of Tunisia from France in 1956.
• International Day of Happiness (United Nations)
• International Francophonie Day (Organisation internationale de la Francophonie), and its related observances: UN French Language Day (United Nations)
• National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (United States)
• World Sparrow Day

Fun & National Days on March 20

• Alien Abduction Day — Look to the stars and imagine what mysterious visitors might be watching us tonight.
• Bibliomania Day — Celebrate your love for books by getting lost in a wonderful new story.
• Hufflepuff Pride Day — Show off your loyalty and kindness to all your fellow Hufflepuff friends.
• International Astrology Day — Check your horoscope to see what the celestial bodies have in store for you.
• Atheist Pride Day
• Crawfish Cravers Awareness Day
• Eid al-Fitr

On This Day in History

• 1602 — The Dutch East India Company was officially established, creating a powerful global commercial force.
• 1616 — After serving thirteen years in the Tower of London, the famed Sir Walter Raleigh was finally released.
• 1815 — Napoleon Bonaparte returned to Paris with massive military forces, initiating his final period of rule.
• 1852 — Harriet Beecher Stowe's influential novel, Uncle Tom's Cabin, was first released to the public.
• 1854 — Political organizers in Ripon, Wisconsin, formally established the Republican Party of the United States.
• 1896 — The Qing dynasty inaugurated China's first official postal service with the opening of its post office.
• 1916 — Albert Einstein submitted his groundbreaking work on the general theory of relativity to a major journal.
• 1922 — The USS Langley was commissioned, serving as the very first aircraft carrier for the United States Navy.
• 1923 — Pablo Picasso's first American exhibition opened in Chicago, introducing his modern art to a new audience.
• 1956 — Tunisia achieved its independence from France, marking a major milestone in its national history.
• 1985 — Libby Riddles made history by becoming the first woman to win the grueling Iditarod sled dog race.
• 2010 — The eruption of Iceland's Eyjafjallajökull volcano caused massive disruptions to European air travel for months.

Famous Birthdays on March 20

• -43 — Ovid, The renowned Roman poet who lived during the classical era of antiquity.
• 1828 — Henrik Ibsen, An influential Norwegian playwright who revolutionized modern theater and drama.
• 1904 — B. F. Skinner, A highly influential American psychologist known for his work on behaviorism.
• 1915 — Sister Rosetta Tharpe, A pioneering American singer and guitarist who helped shape rock and roll.
• 1957 — Spike Lee, The acclaimed American filmmaker known for his unique cinematic style and social commentary.
• 1984 — Fernando Torres, A celebrated Spanish professional footballer known for his prolific scoring career.