17 May - Radhanath Sikdar death anniversary

 

Radhanath Sikdar was an Indian mathematician and surveyor who played a crucial role in the measurement and calculation of the height of Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world. He was born on October 31, 1813, in the village of Khandakerpara in present-day Bangladesh.

In the mid-19th century, the British authorities in India initiated a project to measure and map the Himalayan mountain range, including determining the exact height of Mount Everest. Radhanath Sikdar, employed as a mathematician and surveyor by the Great Trigonometric Survey of India, was assigned the task of calculating the height of the mountain.

Working under the supervision of Sir George Everest, the Surveyor General of India at the time, Sikdar used trigonometric principles and conducted extensive measurements and calculations to determine the height of Mount Everest. In 1852, he calculated the height to be 29,002 feet (8,840 meters), which was remarkably close to the modern-day measurement of 29,029 feet (8,848 meters).

Sikdar's accurate calculation of Mount Everest's height was a significant achievement in the field of geodesy and cartography. His work contributed to the mapping and understanding of the Himalayan region, and it established Mount Everest as the highest peak in the world.

Despite his remarkable contribution, Radhanath Sikdar's role in the measurement of Mount Everest's height was initially overshadowed by the fame and recognition given to Sir George Everest. However, in recent years, efforts have been made to acknowledge and honor Sikdar's contribution to the landmark measurement.

Radhanath Sikdar passed away on May 17, 1870, leaving behind a legacy of scientific achievement and accurate measurement. His work continues to be celebrated as a significant milestone in the understanding of Earth's geography and the exploration of the Himalayas.

 

17 May - The New York Stock Exchange is formed.

 

The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) was established on 17 May 1792. This event is historically significant as it marked the beginning of organized securities trading in the United States. The NYSE, located on Wall Street in New York City, has since become one of the world's largest and most influential stock exchanges, playing a central role in global finance.

The formation of the NYSE was preceded by the Buttonwood Agreement, which was signed on 17 May 1792, by 24 stockbrokers and merchants under a buttonwood tree located at 68 Wall Street. This agreement established rules for securities trading and laid the foundation for what would become the New York Stock Exchange.

Over the centuries, the NYSE has evolved and expanded, adapting to changes in technology, regulation, and market dynamics. Today, it facilitates the trading of a wide range of securities, including stocks, bonds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and other financial instruments, and it continues to be a symbol of the global financial system.

 

17 May - National Day Against Homophobia (Canada)

 

In Canada, May 17th is observed as the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOTB), rather than specifically as a "National Day Against Homophobia." However, Canada has been actively involved in promoting equality and combating discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.

On May 17th, various organizations, communities, and individuals in Canada participate in events and activities to raise awareness about the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and to promote acceptance, inclusion, and diversity. These initiatives often include educational workshops, panel discussions, art exhibitions, film screenings, marches, and rallies, among other activities.

Additionally, the Canadian government has implemented policies and legislation to protect the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and to address discrimination and inequality. Canada legalized same-sex marriage nationwide in 2005 and has continued to make progress in areas such as gender identity and expression protections, healthcare access, and anti-discrimination laws.

While May 17th serves as a focal point for raising awareness and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, the fight against homophobia, transphobia, and discrimination is ongoing throughout the year in Canada.

 

17 May - Navy Day Argentina

 

Navy Day in Argentina, known as "Día de la Armada Argentina," is observed on 17th May each year. This day commemorates the Battle of Montevideo, which took place on 17 May 1814, during the Argentine War of Independence. The battle was a significant naval engagement between the Argentine fleet, commanded by Admiral William Brown, and Spanish forces.

Navy Day is an occasion to honor the Argentine Navy and its contributions to the country's defense and maritime heritage. It is marked with various ceremonies, parades, and events held across Argentina, particularly in naval bases and ports. These celebrations often include naval displays, demonstrations, and exhibitions showcasing the capabilities and achievements of the Argentine Navy.

Additionally, Navy Day serves as an opportunity to recognize the bravery and sacrifice of naval personnel who have served their country throughout history. It's a day of pride for Argentina's maritime traditions and a time to reaffirm the importance of the navy in safeguarding the nation's interests and maritime resources.

 

17 May - Galician Literature Day

 

Galician Literature Day, or "Día das Letras Galegas" in Galician, is an annual celebration held in the Galicia region of Spain on May 17th. This day honors Galician literature and pays tribute to Galician writers and poets who have contributed significantly to the literary heritage of the region.

The celebration typically includes various cultural events, such as readings, literary gatherings, book fairs, exhibitions, and performances, all dedicated to promoting and celebrating Galician language and literature. It's a day for Galicians to reflect on their cultural identity and linguistic heritage, as well as to recognize the importance of literature in preserving and enriching their cultural legacy. Each year, a different Galician writer is chosen as the honoree, and their life and works are highlighted throughout the festivities.

 

17 May - Constitution Day (Nauru)

 

Constitution Day in Nauru is celebrated annually on May 17. Nauru is a small island country in Micronesia. The island became a German colony in the 19th century. After WWI, it became a League of Nation Mandate administered by the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Between 1942 and 1945, Nauru was occupied by Japan. After WWII, it became a UN trust territory.

Nauru was granted independence from Australia, New Zealand, and the UK on 31January 1968. The constitution of the newly independent state was adopted on the same day. However, on  17 May 1968, the Constitutional Convention of Nauru incorporated a number of alterations into the country's main law that is why this day is now celebrated as Constitution Day.
 

17 May - Norway Constitution Day

 

Norway's Constitution Day, known as "Syttende mai" (17th of May), is one of the most important national holidays in Norway. It commemorates the signing of the Norwegian Constitution on  17 May 1814, which declared Norway as an independent nation after centuries of Danish rule. Despite this declaration, Norway entered into a union with Sweden shortly after, which lasted until 1905 when Norway gained full independence.

On Constitution Day, Norwegians celebrate their independence and national identity with various festivities, parades, and cultural events. The day typically begins with children's parades, where schoolchildren, dressed in traditional Norwegian clothing (bunad), march through the streets waving flags and singing patriotic songs. These parades often feature marching bands, flag bearers, and other community groups.

In addition to the parades, there are speeches, concerts, and other public gatherings throughout the country. Many people decorate their homes and streets with flags and buntings, and traditional Norwegian food, such as hot dogs, ice cream, and cakes, are enjoyed by families and friends.

Constitution Day is a time for Norwegians to come together to celebrate their history, culture, and unity as a nation. It's a joyous and festive occasion that holds great significance for people of all ages across Norway.

17 May - Children's Day Norway

 

Children's Day, or "Barnas dag" in Norwegian, is celebrated in Norway on May 17th each year. This date coincides with Norway's Constitution Day, also known as "Syttende mai" (17th of May), which is a significant national holiday in Norway. On Children's Day, there are various events and activities organized specifically for children across the country. It's a day dedicated to celebrating childhood and highlighting the importance of children in society. Many schools, kindergartens, and communities organize parades, games, concerts, and other fun activities to make the day special for children. It's a time for families to come together and enjoy the festivities, often marked by traditional Norwegian food, music, and cultural performances.

 

17 May - Sanctuary of Christ the King inaugurated in 1959

 

On 17 May 1959, Sanctuary of Christ the King inaugurated, a 28 meter (92 ft) high monument and shrine overlooking Lisbon, Portugal by sculptor Francisco Franco de Sousa.

Inspired by Rio de Janeiro's Christ the Redeemer monumental statue in Brazil, the Sanctuary of the King was built by the Portuguese Episcopate between 1949 and 1959. It is situated in Almada, across the Tagus River from Portugal's capital, Lisbon.

It depicts Christ the King with his arms outstretched and was designed by the sculptor Francisco Franco de Sousa. The statue stands 28 meters (92 ft) high on top of an arched platform 82 meters (269 ft) high and expresses Portugal's gratitude for making it through WWII.