29 March - Edwin Lutyens born in 1869

 

 

Edwin Lutyens, born on 29 March 1869, was an English architect known for imaginatively adapting traditional architectural styles to the requirements of his era. He designed many English country houses, war memorials and public buildings.

Lutyens played an instrumental role in designing and building New Delhi, which would later on serve as the seat of the Government of India. In recognition of his contribution, New Delhi is also known as "Lutyens' Delhi". In collaboration with Sir Herbert Baker, he was also the main architect of several monuments in New Delhi such as the India Gate, he also designed Viceroy's House, which is now known as the *Rashtrapati Bhavan. * Many of his works were inspired by Indian architecture. He was elected Master of the Art Workers' Guild in 1933.

 

 

29 March - The Battle of Cape Matapan ended in 1941

 

The Battle of Cape Matapan  was a naval battle during the Second World War between the Allies, represented by the navies of the United Kingdom and Australia, and the Royal Italian navy, from 27 to 29 March 1941. Cape Matapan is on the south-western coast of the Peloponnesian Peninsula of Greece.

After the interception and decryption of Italian signals by the Government Code and Cypher School (GC&CS) at Bletchley Park (the decrypted intelligence codenamed Ultra),[1] ships of the Royal Navy and Royal Australian Navy, under the command of Royal Navy Admiral Sir Andrew Cunningham, intercepted and sank or severely damaged several ships of the Italian Regia Marina under Squadron-Vice-Admiral Angelo Iachino. The opening actions of the battle are also known in Italy as the Battle of Gaudo.

29 March - World Marbles Day

 

World Marbles Day is observed every year on Good Friday and this year (2024) it will be held on 29 March

29th March has been designated as World Marbles Day, it sounds like a delightful occasion to celebrate the joy and nostalgia associated with the game of marbles. Marbles have been enjoyed by people of all ages for generations, and dedicating a day to celebrate this timeless game is a wonderful idea.

On World Marbles Day, people can come together to participate in marble games, organize tournaments, share stories and memories about playing marbles, and perhaps introduce the game to new generations. It's a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the simple pleasures of childhood and the enduring appeal of a game that has brought joy to so many people around the world.

Whether it's through friendly competitions, community events, or simply spending time playing marbles with friends and family, World Marbles Day offers a chance to reconnect with this classic game and appreciate its timeless charm.

 

29 March - Good Friday

 

Good Friday is a Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. It is observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday, which varies each year depending on the lunar calendar. Good Friday is part of the Holy Week, which includes other significant events in Christianity such as Maundy Thursday (the Last Supper) and Easter Sunday (the resurrection of Jesus).

For Christians, Good Friday is a solemn and reflective day, marked by fasting, prayer, and attending church services. It is a time to remember and contemplate the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who, according to Christian belief, died on the cross to atone for the sins of humanity and to offer salvation to all who believe in him.

Traditionally, Good Friday services may include readings from the Bible recounting the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion, prayers of repentance and gratitude, hymns, and the veneration of the cross. Many churches also hold processions or reenactments of the Stations of the Cross, which depict Jesus' journey to the cross.

In addition to its religious significance, Good Friday is observed in various cultural and secular ways around the world. In some places, it is a public holiday with businesses and schools closed. Others may observe it with acts of charity, community service, or participating in cultural traditions and rituals associated with the day.

29 March - Royal Albert Hall opened by Queen Victoria in London 1871

 

On 29 March 1871, Royal Albert Hall opened by Queen Victoria in London.

The Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall on the northern edge of South Kensington, London. One of the UK's most treasured and distinctive buildings, it is held in trust for the nation and managed by a registered charity which receives no government funding.It has a seating capacity of 5,272 people.

29 March - Boganda Day (Central African Republic)

 

Boganda Day is a national holiday observed in the Central African Republic to honor the legacy of Barthélemy Boganda, a prominent political figure in the country's history. Barthélemy Boganda played a crucial role in advocating for the independence and development of the Central African Republic.

Barthélemy Boganda was a Catholic priest, politician, and leader of the anti-colonial movement in the Central African Republic during the mid-20th century. He was instrumental in mobilizing support for independence from French colonial rule and advocating for social and economic reforms to improve the lives of the Central African people.

Boganda founded the Movement for the Social Evolution of Black Africa (Mouvement pour l'Évolution Sociale de l'Afrique Noire, or MESAN), which became the leading political party in the Central African Republic. He also served as the country's first Prime Minister after it gained autonomy from France in 1958.

Tragically, Barthélemy Boganda died in a plane crash in 1959 under mysterious circumstances. Despite his untimely death, Boganda's legacy continues to inspire generations of Central Africans, and he is revered as a national hero.

Boganda Day, celebrated on March 29th each year, is a time for the people of the Central African Republic to honor Barthélemy Boganda's contributions to the country's independence struggle and to reflect on his vision for a united, prosperous, and independent nation. On this day, various events and activities are organized across the country, including memorial services, cultural performances, and educational programs, to commemorate his life and legacy.

29 March - Commemoration of the 1947 Rebellion (Madagascar)

 

March 29th holds significant importance in Madagascar as it marks the commemoration of the 1947 Rebellion, also known as the Malagasy Uprising or the Malagasy Revolt. This rebellion was a pivotal event in Madagascar's history, representing a widespread resistance against French colonial rule.

The 1947 Rebellion was sparked by various grievances, including social injustices, economic disparities, and the oppressive policies of the French colonial administration. It began in eastern Madagascar and quickly spread across the island, with thousands of Malagasy people participating in the uprising.

The French authorities responded with brutal repression, deploying military forces to suppress the rebellion. The conflict resulted in widespread violence, loss of life, and significant suffering among the Malagasy population.

The commemoration of the 1947 Rebellion on March 29th serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for independence and freedom. It is a day of reflection, remembrance, and tribute to the resilience and courage of the Malagasy people who rose up against colonial oppression.

During this commemoration, various events and activities take place across Madagascar, including memorial services, cultural performances, exhibitions, and educational programs. It provides an opportunity for the nation to honor the memory of those who lost their lives during the rebellion and to reflect on the enduring significance of this historic struggle in shaping Madagascar's identity and path toward independence.

29 March - National Vietnam War Veterans Day in United States

 

National Vietnam War Veterans Day is observed annually on March 29th in the United States. This day honors the men and women who served and sacrificed during the Vietnam War, which lasted from 1955 to 1975.

The Vietnam War was a significant conflict in American history, and it deeply affected the nation and its citizens. Many veterans faced challenges during and after the war, including physical injuries, mental health issues, and difficulties reintegrating into civilian life.

National Vietnam War Veterans Day provides an opportunity to recognize and thank Vietnam veterans for their service and bravery. It is also a time to remember those who were killed or missing in action during the war.

Various events and activities are organized across the country on this day to honor Vietnam veterans, including ceremonies, parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, and educational programs. Additionally, people may show their appreciation by visiting memorials, volunteering at veterans' organizations, or simply expressing gratitude to veterans they know.

In 2017, the U.S. Senate passed a resolution designating March 29th as National Vietnam War Veterans Day, and since then, it has been observed annually with the aim of ensuring that the sacrifices and contributions of Vietnam veterans are never forgotten.

 

29 March - Discovered Terracotta Army near Xi'an

 

On 29 March 1974, Chinese farmers discovered the Terracotta Army near Xi'an, 8,000 clay warrior statues buried to guard the tomb of China's 1st emperor, Qin Shi Huang

29 March - John Tyler birth anniversary

 

John Tyler, born on 29 March 1790, in Charles City County, Virginia, was an American politician and the tenth President of the United States. He served as president from 1841 to 1845, succeeding William Henry Harrison. Tyler's presidency was marked by his unexpected accession to the presidency following Harrison's death, making him the first vice president to assume the presidency due to the death of the incumbent.

John Tyler faced challenges during his term, including tensions with Congress and his own political party. Notably, he annexed Texas during his presidency. Tyler's adherence to his interpretation of constitutional principles led to conflicts with both Whigs and Democrats.

After leaving the presidency, Tyler retired to his plantation, Sherwood Forest, in Virginia. He remained active in state politics and supported Southern causes. John Tyler passed away on 18 January 1862, in Richmond, Virginia. His presidency and post-presidential activities are often viewed through the lens of the turbulent political and sectional conflicts leading up to the Civil War.

 

29 March - Youth Day in Taiwan

 

Youth Day in Taiwan (officially the Republic of China) has been celebrated on March 29 since 1954. It commemorates the Huanghuagang Uprising of 1911, during which 72 young revolutionaries sacrificed their lives to overthrow the Qing Dynasty. The Uprising took place on April 27 (the 29th day of the 3rd month in Chinese Calendar), 1911 and is subsequently known as 3.29 Guangzhou Uprising. This event also marked the last unsuccessful attempt to overthrow the Qing before the Wuchang Uprising overturned millennia of dynastic rule in China to establish the Republic of China. 

29 March - King Edward IV became king in 1461

 

On 29 March 1461, Battle of Towton: Edward of York defeated Queen Margaret to became King Edward IV of England, brought a temporary stop to the Wars of the Roses.

29 March - The Assam Rifles stamp released by DOP in 1985

 

 

Department of post released a commemorative stamp on occasion of 150 anniversary of the Assam Rifles on 29 March 1985

The Assam Rifles (AR) is a central paramilitary force responsible for border security, counter-insurgency, and maintaining law and order in Northeast India. It guards the Indo-Myanmar border. The AR is one among the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and comes under the administration of the Ministry of Home Affairs, while its operational control is maintained by the Indian Army. Being a police force, its recruitment, perks, promotions, and retirement policies are governed by CAPF rules.Around 80 percent of its officers are deputed from the Indian Army and remaining from AR cadre.The AR is commanded by the Director General of the Assam Rifles (DG AR) who is appointed by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The AR is also dubbed as "Sentinels of the North East" and "Friends of the Hill People". It is the oldest paramilitary force in India, originally raised in 1835 as Cachar Levy, a militia to protect tea gardens and fertile plains of Assam against unruly tribes. Its scope increased with the expansion of British Raj in Northeast India, and were used against insurgency in the region. The force was redesigned as Assam Frontier Police in 1883, Assam Military Police in 1891, and East Bengal and Assam Military Police in 1913. It got its present name in 1917.After independence, the AR functioned under the Ministry of External Affairs. Its operational control was transferred to the Indian Army post Sino-Indian War of 1962.It came under the administration of Ministry of Home Affairs in 1965, with Army retaining operational control.