07 September - National New Hampshire Day

 

National New Hampshire Day is observed each year on September 7 by residents of New Hampshire in the United States. The day recognizes New Hampshire becoming the ninth state to join the Union. New Hampshire, also known as the Granite State, is the epitome of New England in many ways. New Hampshire is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and hospitable people. The motto of the state is “Live Free or Die” coined by the revolutionary hero, John Stark. National New Hampshire Day is a celebration of the state’s wonderful culture, history, and people.

New Hampshire was one of the thirteen colonies that rebelled against British colonialism during the American Revolution. The economic and social life in New Hampshire had much to do with sawmills, shipyards, and merchants’ warehouses. Villages and town centers quickly sprung up in the region. Wealthy merchants invested their capital in trade and land speculation and there also developed a class of laborers, mariners, and slaves.

The only battle fought in New Hampshire was the raid on Fort William and Mary on December 14, 1774. The battle was fought with gunpowder, small arms, and cannon for two nights. According to legend, the gunpowder was later used at the Battle of Bunker Hill after several New Hampshire patriots stored the powder in their homes until it was transported elsewhere for use in revolutionary duties. During the raid, the British soldiers fired upon the revolutionaries with cannons and muskets. There were no casualties but these were among the first shots fired in the American Revolutionary period. New Hampshire ratified the Constitution on June 21, 1788. It was also on this day that New Hampshire became the ninth state to join the Union.

New Hampshire is a part of the six-state region of New England. It is bounded by Quebec and Canada to the north and northwest; Maine and the Gulf of Maine to the east; Massachusetts to the south; and Vermont to the west. New Hampshire boasts of dense woods, mighty mountains, and a shoreline. It is the fifth smallest state in America.

07 September - The International Day of Clean Air for blue skies

 

The International Day of Clean Air for blue skies is an official United Nations observance day that was established to raise awareness about the importance of clean air, promote sustainable practices to improve air quality, and address air pollution issues around the world. It is celebrated on September 7th each year.

This special day was officially designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2019 to emphasize the critical role that clean air plays in protecting human health, the environment, and climate. It also underscores the connection between clean air and achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The objectives of the International Day of Clean Air for blue skies include:

1. Raising Awareness: Educating people about the health and environmental consequences of air pollution and the benefits of clean air for both individuals and societies.

2. Advocating for Solutions: Encouraging governments, organizations, and individuals to take actions to reduce air pollution, adopt clean energy sources, and implement sustainable practices.

3. Supporting Policy Development: Promoting policies and regulations that address air quality, emissions reduction, and climate change mitigation.

4. Engaging Communities: Mobilizing communities and individuals to participate in efforts to improve air quality and reduce their carbon footprint.

5. International Cooperation: Fostering global cooperation and knowledge-sharing on air quality management and sustainable development.

On this day, various events, campaigns, and initiatives are organized by governments, environmental organizations, and communities to highlight the importance of clean air and advocate for measures to reduce air pollution. It serves as a reminder of the need for collective action to protect our planet and ensure clean air for future generations.

07 September - Brazil Independence Day

 

Brazil Independence Day, known as "Dia da Independência" in Portuguese, is celebrated annually on September 7th. It commemorates the declaration of Brazil's independence from Portuguese colonial rule, which took place on September 7, 1822.

Here are some key points about Brazil Independence Day:

1. Historical Background: Brazil had been a colony of Portugal for several centuries when calls for independence gained momentum in the early 19th century. Dom Pedro I, the son of the King of Portugal, was serving as the Prince Regent of Brazil at the time.

2. Declaration of Independence: On September 7, 1822, Dom Pedro I, standing on the banks of the Ipiranga River in São Paulo, declared Brazil's independence from Portugal. This event became known as the "Cry of Ipiranga" (O Grito do Ipiranga).

3. Portuguese Recognition: The formal recognition of Brazil's independence came shortly afterward when Portugal acknowledged Brazil as a separate nation on August 29, 1825, through the Treaty of Rio de Janeiro.

4. Celebration: Brazil Independence Day is celebrated with various events and activities throughout the country. The most prominent of these is a military parade in the capital, Brasília, attended by government officials, dignitaries, and the general public. The Brazilian flag is prominently displayed, and patriotic songs are sung during the celebrations.

5. Cultural Celebrations: In addition to the military parade, Independence Day celebrations often include cultural events, music, dance, and traditional Brazilian cuisine. Schools and communities also organize parades and festivals to mark the occasion.

6. Patriotic Spirit: Brazil Independence Day is a time when Brazilians express their national pride and celebrate their country's rich cultural diversity and heritage. It is an opportunity for people to come together and reflect on their nation's history and achievements.

7. Public Holiday: September 7th is a national holiday in Brazil, and many businesses and government offices are closed. It is a day for families to spend time together, enjoy festivities, and participate in various patriotic activities.

Brazil Independence Day is a significant national holiday that symbolizes Brazil's struggle for independence and its emergence as an independent nation. It is a day filled with patriotism and pride, as Brazilians celebrate their identity and history.

07 September - “Ginger Meggs” Stamp issued in 2021

 

This stamp issue marks the centenary of Ginger Meggs’ arrival on the comic scene in Australia. The star of Australia’s longest running and most widely syndicated comic strip, Ginger Meggs began life in November 1921 as a side character named Ginger Smith in a strip titled “Gladsome Gladys”, first published in Sydney’s Sunday Sun. By April 1922, the character had morphed into the leading man – known as Ginger Meggs – a mischievous, quick-witted, waistcoat-wearing, red-headed suburban kid.

Renamed first “Us Fellers” and then, in 1939, “Ginger Meggs”, the comic strip was originally created by James Charles “Jimmy” Bancks. By the time Bancks died unexpectedly of heart failure in July 1952, he had been committing to paper the life of Ginger Meggs for nearly three decades. Subsequent artists to create “Ginger Meggs” were Ron Vivian (1953–73), Lloyd Piper (1973–83) and James L Kemsley (1983–2007). Since 2007, “Ginger Meggs” has been illustrated by Perth-born, New York–based cartoonist and comedian Jason Chatfield. In his current incarnation, young Ginge, like many kids of the 21st century, has a smartphone and his buddies embody the increasingly diverse nature of modern Australia’s social landscape.

The stamps in this issue showcase the work of three of the five cartoonists who have illustrated this much-loved character. The shift in style, colour and typography across the stamps’ visual elements demonstrate something of the development of “Ginger Meggs” over the century.

Stamp issued on 07 September 2021