September 18: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
On this day in 1837, Charles Lewis Tiffany and Teddy Young opened a stationery emporium in New York that would eventually become the world-renowned luxury jeweler Tiffany & Co.
Quick Facts for September 18
- Zodiac sign: Virgo
- Day of year: 261
About September 18
September 18 serves as a powerful symbol of national identity, particularly in Chile. The nation commemorates its first government junta, formed in 1810, which acted as the primary catalyst for the country's eventual push for independence from Spanish rule. While the junta was initially intended to govern only during the Peninsular War, it fundamentally shifted the course of Chilean history.
Beyond politics, the day offers various cultural ways to celebrate. In Azerbaijan, the Day of National Music invites citizens to honor their melodic heritage, while in Okinawa, Japan, Island Language Day preserves local linguistic traditions. Whether through the rhythm of music or the preservation of dialect, the date highlights the diverse ways humanity protects its unique cultural footprints.
Holidays & Observances on September 18
- Day of National Music (Azerbaijan)
- Island Language Day (Okinawa Prefecture, Japan)
- National Day or Dieciocho (Chile)
- National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day (United States)
- Navy Day (Croatia)
- World Water Monitoring Day
Fun & National Days on September 18
- National Cheeseburger Day — Celebrate this delicious occasion by treating yourself to your favorite juicy cheeseburger.
- International Read an eBook Day — Grab your favorite digital device and get lost in a wonderful electronic story.
- International Grenache Day — Uncork a bottle of Grenache and enjoy the fine notes of this classic grape.
- First Love Day — Take a moment to reminisce about the sweet nostalgia of your very first romance.
- Chiropractic Founder's Day
- Hug a Greeting Card Writer Day
- International Equal Pay Day
- National Concussion Awareness Day
- National POW/MIA Recognition Day
On This Day in History
- 96 — Emperor Domitian was killed during a conspiracy involving his wife Domitia and two members of the Praetorian Guard, leading to Nerva's succession.
- 324 — Constantine the Great achieved total control over the Roman Empire by defeating Licinius at the Battle of Chrysopolis.
- 1066 — King Harald Hardrada arrived at the Humber River with Tostig Godwinson, launching an ambitious invasion of the English territory.
- 1793 — George Washington participated in the ceremonial laying of the first cornerstone for the United States Capitol building.
- 1812 — The massive conflagration that consumed most of Moscow finally began to subside, leaving Napoleon to navigate the ruins.
- 1837 — The legendary Tiffany & Co. was established in New York City by Charles Lewis Tiffany and Teddy Young.
- 1851 — The inaugural edition of The New-York Daily Times was released, marking the birth of what is now The New York Times.
- 1906 — A devastating typhoon struck Hong Kong, resulting in the tragic loss of approximately 10,000 lives.
- 1919 — The Netherlands achieved a major milestone when Queen Wilhelmina granted royal assent to women's full voting rights.
- 1958 — Bank of America launched its first credit card, the BankAmericard, during a testing phase in California.
- 1981 — The French Assemblée Nationale passed a historic vote to end the use of capital punishment within the country.
- 2014 — In a significant referendum, Scottish citizens voted to remain part of the United Kingdom rather than gaining independence.
Famous Birthdays on September 18
- 53 — Trajan, The influential Roman emperor who expanded the empire's borders to their greatest extent.
- 1709 — Samuel Johnson, The celebrated English poet and lexicographer who authored a definitive English dictionary.
- 1819 — Léon Foucault, A pioneering French physicist known for his groundbreaking work on pendulum motion.
- 1905 — Greta Garbo, The legendary Swedish-American film icon known for her mysterious and captivating screen presence.
- 1961 — James Gandolfini, The acclaimed American actor best known for his powerful portrayal of Tony Soprano.
- 1976 — Ronaldo, The world-famous Brazilian football superstar who became a global icon of the sport.