May 15: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
On this day in 1536, the course of English history shifted forever when Queen Anne Boleyn faced a trial that would lead to her execution.
Quick Facts for May 15
- Zodiac sign: Taurus
- Day of year: 135
About May 15
May 15 serves as a focal point for national identity and historical turning points. In South America, Paraguay celebrates its hard-won independence from Spanish rule, a milestone marked by Flag Day festivities. Meanwhile, in Japan, the ancient traditions of the Aoi Matsuri festival in Kyoto bring centuries of history to life through vibrant, ritualistic processions.
The day also carries heavy historical weight, from the dramatic courtroom proceedings of the Tudor era to the massive shifts in 20th-century geopolitics. Whether it is the solemnity of International Conscientious Objectors Day or the high-stakes excitement of NASCAR Day, May 15 offers a unique tapestry of human experience, blending deep-rooted traditions with modern milestones.
Holidays & Observances on May 15
- Aoi Matsuri (Kyoto)
- Army Day (Slovenia)
- Constituent Assembly Day (Lithuania)
- Independence Day (Paraguay), celebrates the independence of Paraguay from Spain in 1811. Celebrations for the anniversary of the independence begin on Flag Day, May 14.
- International Conscientious Objectors Day
- International Day of Families (International)
- La Corsa dei Ceri begins on the eve of the feast day of Saint Ubaldo. (Gubbio)
- Mother's Day (Paraguay)
Fun & National Days on May 15
- Bring Flowers to Someone Day — Brighten a loved one's afternoon by surprising them with a beautiful bouquet.
- Endangered Species Day — Take a moment to learn about and support the protection of our planet's wildlife.
- National Bike to Work Day — Swap your car for a bicycle and enjoy a healthy, eco-friendly commute.
- HG Awareness Day
- International MPS Awareness Day
- International Virtual Assistants Day
- Jerusalem Day
- NASCAR Day
On This Day in History
- 221 — The Chinese warlord Liu Bei established himself as the emperor of the Shu Han dynasty.
- 756 — Abd al-Rahman I rose to power as the emir of Cordova, founding a long-lasting Arab dynasty.
- 1536 — A jury in London condemned Queen Anne Boleyn to death following a trial for treason.
- 1567 — Mary, Queen of Scots, wed the Earl of Bothwell, the man involved in her previous husband's death.
- 1648 — The Peace of Münster was officially ratified, granting the Dutch nation their recognized sovereignty.
- 1851 — A massive gold rush was officially declared in Australia, following recent major discoveries.
- 1911 — The U.S. Supreme Court ordered the dissolution of the Standard Oil monopoly for being unreasonable.
- 1940 — The legendary McDonald's restaurant chain began its journey with its very first location opening.
- 1963 — Astronaut Gordon Cooper completed the final Mercury mission, spending more than a full day in space.
- 1972 — The Ryukyu Islands transitioned from United States military governance back to Japanese control.
- 2004 — Arsenal F.C. achieved legendary status by completing an entire Premier League season without a single defeat.
- 2010 — Jessica Watson made history as the youngest person to sail solo around the globe unassisted.
Famous Birthdays on May 15
- 1397 — Sejong the Great, The legendary Korean king of the Joseon dynasty who revolutionized literacy.
- 1567 — Claudio Monteverdi, A foundational Italian composer and priest who shaped early Baroque music.
- 1856 — L. Frank Baum, The celebrated American novelist who authored the beloved Oz book series.
- 1859 — Pierre Curie, The Nobel Prize-winning French physicist known for his pioneering work in radioactivity.
- 1937 — Madeleine Albright, The trailblazing Czech-American diplomat who served as U.S. Secretary of State.
- 1948 — Brian Eno, The influential English musician and producer known for his innovative electronic soundscapes.
- 1967 — Madhuri Dixit, An iconic and highly celebrated Indian film actress.