Flags, Firsts, and Outer Space on Sep 13!
Get ready to blast off into history! September 13th is packed with surprises, from the moment an American poet turned a battle into a song, to a very unfortunate first for the new automobile! We're traveling from ancient Roman victories to the Space Race. Let's see what incredible things went down on this day!
Did you know September 13th is *also* International Chocolate Day? So, while you read about massive historical moments, you can snack on your favorite treat! It’s a day where a poem turned into a national anthem, an old Roman king celebrated a huge win, and the race to space hit a new gear!
What Happened on This Day
Battle of the Plains of Abraham (French & Indian War)
Imagine a super short, super important battle! On this day, the British army defeated the French near Quebec City in the Battle of the Plains of Abraham. It was over fast—only about 15 minutes! This victory meant the British took control of much of what is now Canada. It was a huge shift in power between the two European giants in North America!
Francis Scott Key Writes the Star-Spangled Banner
After watching the British army bomb Fort McHenry in Baltimore all night, Francis Scott Key peered through the smoke at dawn. He saw the HUGE American flag still waving! He was so inspired by that sight that he scribbled down a poem. That poem was later set to music and became the words to 'The Star-Spangled Banner,' the U.S. National Anthem! Awesome inspiration!
The First Recorded US Auto Fatality
The age of the automobile had a seriously sad first on this day! Henry H. Bliss was walking across a street in New York City when he was hit by a taxi cab. Sadly, he passed away the next day. This marked the first recorded traffic death in the United States. Remember to always look both ways—cars were new and drivers were still learning the ropes!
Velcro Gets Patented: The Amazing Hook-and-Loop Fastener
Swiss engineer George de Mestral took his dog for a walk and noticed tiny burrs sticking to his clothes and the dog’s fur. Instead of just brushing them off, he looked closely and realized they were covered in tiny hooks! This observation led him to invent Velcro—the amazing hook-and-loop fastener that helps keep your shoes, jackets, and bags closed without fiddly buttons or laces! What an idea!
Soviet Luna 2 Hits the Moon!
The Space Race was ON! On September 12th, the Soviet Union launched the Luna 2 probe, and it officially slammed into the Moon on September 13th. That’s right—it was the very first man-made object ever to touch another celestial body! While it didn't land gently (it crashed!), it was a giant leap in our exploration of space and a huge win for the USSR.
Learn moreFun Facts About September 13
- September 13th is celebrated as International Chocolate Day—yum!
- The US Congress officially chose New York City as the temporary capital in 1788.
- The world's highest recorded shade temperature (136.4°F) was set in Libya in 1922.
- Tennis legend Billie Jean King was born on this day in 1943.
A Look Back in Time
September often marks the transition from summer fun to the serious business of school and the changing seasons. In the 18th and 19th centuries, this date saw crucial moments in the founding of the United States, like setting the capital and writing national symbols, showing how new countries find their footing. Meanwhile, in the 20th century, this day became a battleground for the Cold War's Space Race and also saw the invention of everyday tech like Velcro. It’s a reminder that history is a mix of massive wars and small, brilliant ideas!
Born on This Day
Roald Dahl
This brilliant author gave us wild stories like *Charlie and the Chocolate Factory* and *Matilda*! He was also a fighter pilot in WWII. His books are full of amazing, sometimes gross, but always wonderful characters. His birthday is celebrated as Roald Dahl Day!
Clara Schumann
Clara was an amazing pianist and composer during the Romantic era. Imagine being as famous for your music as rockstars are today! She was a musical superstar, even writing her own beautiful pieces, which was rare for women back then. She also toured all over Europe!
John J. Pershing
A famous American Army General known as 'Black Jack.' He led the American Expeditionary Forces in Europe during World War I. He was super respected and was the highest-ranking officer in the US Army for a long time. His leadership helped bring US forces into the fight!
Stella McCartney
Stella is a super famous fashion designer! She’s known for creating super stylish clothes and accessories, but with a huge difference: she never uses real leather or fur. She proves you can be high-fashion while also being kind to animals and the planet!