May 31: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
On this day in 2008, the world stood still as sprinter Usain Bolt shattered the 100m world record with a blistering 9.72-second run.
Quick Facts for May 31
- Zodiac sign: Gemini
- Day of year: 151
About May 31
May 31 serves as a tapestry of human achievement and profound transformation. In the realm of engineering and industry, we remember the 1911 launch of the RMS Titanic in Belfast, a moment that would forever change maritime history. Decades later, the world saw the dawn of a new era in transportation when Air France retired the iconic Concorde supersonic fleet in 2003, marking the end of a golden age of high-speed flight.
The day is also deeply connected to social and health awareness. Internationally, World No Tobacco Day encourages global health improvements, while in Malaysia, the Kaamatan harvest festival brings communities together in Sabah and Labuan to celebrate their cultural heritage. Whether it is through the lens of athletic excellence or the preservation of tradition, May 31 offers a unique window into the diverse rhythms of our global society.
Holidays & Observances on May 31
- Anniversary of Royal Brunei Malay Regiment (Brunei)
- Kaamatan, harvest festival in the state of Sabah and the federal territory of Labuan (Malaysia)
- World No Tobacco Day (International)
- Borobi Day (Australia)
Fun & National Days on May 31
- National Macaroon Day — Treat yourself to one of these sweet, coconut-filled delights today!
- National Smile Day — Spread some joy by sharing a bright smile with everyone you meet.
- National Meditation Day — Find a quiet moment to breathe and center your mind.
- National Autonomous Vehicle Day — Celebrate the future of transportation and self-driving technology.
- Infidelity Hurts Awareness Day
- Necrotizing Fasciitis Awareness Day
- Save Your Hearing Day
- Speak in Complete Sentences Day
- Trinity Sunday
- What You Think Upon Grows Day
On This Day in History
- 1215 — The Mongol forces commanded by Genghis Khan successfully captured Zhongdu, which is known today as Beijing.
- 1578 — King Henry III initiated the construction of the Pont Neuf, Paris's oldest surviving bridge, by laying its first stone.
- 1790 — The United States government established its inaugural copyright laws through the passing of the Copyright Act of 1790.
- 1813 — Explorers William Lawson, Gregory Blaxland, and William Wentworth successfully navigated a path across the Blue Mountains in Australia.
- 1859 — The famous Great Clock, currently housed in the Elizabeth Tower at the Houses of Parliament, began its service.
- 1879 — William Henry Vanderbilt transformed Gilmore's Garden into the legendary Madison Square Garden at 26th Street and Madison Avenue.
- 1889 — A catastrophic dam failure in Pennsylvania released a massive wall of water, resulting in the tragic Johnstown Flood.
- 1911 — The legendary ocean liner RMS Titanic was launched in the city of Belfast, Northern Ireland.
- 1916 — The Battle of Jutland took place during World War I, featuring a massive but indecisive naval clash.
- 1977 — Construction was finalized on the massive Trans-Alaska Pipeline System, a major milestone for energy infrastructure.
Famous Birthdays on May 31
- 1577 — Nur Jahan, A powerful Empress consort who wielded significant influence within the Mughal Empire.
- 1819 — Walt Whitman, The influential American poet and journalist who reshaped modern literature.
- 1912 — Chien-Shiung Wu, A pioneering Chinese-American experimental physicist who made massive contributions to science.
- 1930 — Clint Eastwood, The legendary American actor and director known for his iconic cinematic presence.
- 1948 — John Bonham, The iconic English drummer and songwriter whose talent defined rock music.
- 2001 — Iga Świątek, A world-class Polish professional tennis player dominating the modern era.