05 March - King Henry II birth anniversary

 

King Henry II (1133–1189) was one of England's most significant monarchs, reigning from 1154 until his death. He was the first king of the Plantagenet dynasty, known for his energetic governance and for laying the foundations of the modern English legal system. Here are some key highlights about him:

Early Life and Accession

• Born: March 5, 1133, at Le Mans, France.
• Parents: Geoffrey of Anjou and Empress Matilda, daughter of King Henry I of England.
• Claim to the Throne: His mother, Matilda, was designated heir to King Henry I, but a civil war, known as The Anarchy, ensued between her and her cousin Stephen of Blois. Henry's accession in 1154 ended this conflict.

Reign Highlights

1. Legal Reforms:

   • Introduced the concept of common law and established royal courts that allowed people to bypass feudal lords' courts.
   • Created the jury system, which evolved into a cornerstone of the modern legal system.

2. Territorial Control:

   • Ruled over the Angevin Empire, which included England, parts of Ireland, and extensive lands in France (Anjou, Normandy, Maine, Brittany, and Aquitaine through his marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine).

3. Marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine:

   • In 1152, Henry married Eleanor, one of the wealthiest and most powerful women in Europe, two months after her annulment from King Louis VII of France. The marriage brought vast territories under Henry’s control.

4. Conflict with the Church:

   • His reign was marked by a fierce dispute with Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury, over the limits of royal authority over the church. This conflict culminated in Becket's murder in Canterbury Cathedral in 1170, allegedly at the king's indirect instigation.

5. Family Struggles:

   • Henry faced numerous rebellions from his sons—Henry the Young King, Richard the Lionheart, Geoffrey, and John—often incited by Eleanor. These conflicts weakened his rule.

Death

• Henry II died on July 6, 1189, at Chinon Castle, France, after being defeated in a rebellion led by his sons Richard and John, supported by King Philip II of France.
• He was succeeded by his son Richard I (Richard the Lionheart).

05 March - Gustav Heinemann elected President of West Germany in 1969

 

On March 5, 1969, Gustav Heinemann was elected President of West Germany (officially known as the Federal Republic of Germany). He won the presidential election and assumed office shortly thereafter. Heinemann's presidency marked a significant period in West German politics, characterized by his commitment to social justice, human rights, and reconciliation. He served as President until 1974, leaving a lasting legacy as a principled leader dedicated to democratic values and the welfare of the German people.

05 March - The Kyrgyzstan National Hat Day

 

The Kyrgyzstan National Hat Day has been observed in Kyrgyzstan since March 5, 2011, thanks to filmmaker Yrysbek Jabirov’s initiative. The ak-kalpak is a Kyrgyzstan cap that distinguishes the Kyrgyz from other local ethnic groups while also advocating inclusivity. The headwear has been regarded as a ‘de facto’ national symbol since 2011. Unlike other traditional Kyrgyz clothing, it is still worn by men of all ages in both the city and the mountains. Since 2017, March 5 has been recognized as National Ak-kalpak Day.

04 March - Martin Van Buren was sworn in as the eighth president of the United States.

 

Martin Van Buren was sworn in as the eighth President of the United States on March 4, 1837. He served as President from 1837 to 1841. Van Buren was a Democrat and the successor to Andrew Jackson, who had served two terms as President. Van Buren faced economic challenges during his presidency, including the Panic of 1837, which was a severe financial crisis. His presidency also saw debates over issues such as slavery and the annexation of Texas. Van Buren was not successful in his bid for re-election in 1840, and he served only one term as President.

04 March - Andrew Jackson was sworn in as the seventh President of the United States

 

Andrew Jackson was sworn in as the seventh President of the United States on March 4, 1829. He served two terms in office, from 1829 to 1837. Jackson, a Democrat, was a prominent military leader before entering politics. His presidency is often associated with the expansion of suffrage and the populist movement, as he championed the interests of the common people.

During his time in office, Jackson faced significant issues, including the Nullification Crisis and the removal of Native American tribes from their ancestral lands, known as the Trail of Tears. Despite controversy surrounding some of his policies, Jackson remains a significant figure in American history.

 

04 March - William Henry Harrison was sworn in as the ninth President of the United States.

 

William Henry Harrison was sworn in as the ninth President of the United States on March 4, 1841. However, his presidency was tragically short-lived. Harrison, a Whig, delivered the longest inaugural address in U.S. history on a cold and wet day. Unfortunately, he subsequently developed pneumonia and died on April 4, 1841, just 32 days into his presidency. William Henry Harrison holds the record for having the shortest tenure of any U.S. president

04 March - James A. Garfield was sworn in as the 20th President of the United States.

 

James A. Garfield was sworn in as the 20th President of the United States on March 4, 1881. Unfortunately, his presidency was short-lived, as he was shot by an assassin on July 2, 1881, and succumbed to his injuries on September 19, 1881. Garfield, a Republican, served as President for only a few months before his untimely death. His presidency is notable for being cut short, and he is often remembered for his intellect and efforts to reform civil service during his brief time in office.

04 March - National Sons Day USA

 Molding our sons into responsible men can either be seen as a perilous journey or an opportunity to grow as a human being. On National Sons Day, every March 4 and September 28, we think about our boys and the legacy we leave behind as parents.  More than that, we take the time to listen to our boys — to hear their dreams or fears and thoughts on changing the world. We all have a role to play. Men and women. Educators. Professionals at all levels.

04 March - Brain Injury Awareness Day USA

 

Brain Injury Awareness Day is observed in the United States on March 4th each year. It is part of Brain Injury Awareness Month, which is recognized throughout March. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), emphasizing prevention, and supporting individuals and families affected by brain injuries.

Organizations, advocates, and healthcare professionals often use this day to organize events, educational programs, and activities to promote understanding and empathy for those dealing with the consequences of brain injuries. It serves as a platform to discuss the impact of TBIs on individuals' lives and the importance of early intervention, support systems, and ongoing research.

 

04 March - World Obesity Day

 

World Obesity Day is observed annually on March 4th. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the global issue of obesity, promoting healthier lifestyles, and advocating for policies to address and prevent obesity.

Obesity is a significant public health concern worldwide, with increasing rates in many countries. World Obesity Day provides an opportunity for organizations, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and communities to collaborate in efforts to combat obesity, encourage physical activity, and promote balanced diets.

 

04 March - Henry the Navigator birth anniversary

 

Henry the Navigator, whose full name was Infante Dom Henrique, was a Portuguese prince born on 04 March 1394. He was an important figure in the Age of Discovery, a period during the 15th and 16th centuries when European powers explored and navigated new routes to Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

Henry was the third son of King John I of Portugal, and he played a crucial role in promoting and financing maritime exploration. Although he himself did not embark on many voyages, he founded a school of navigation in Sagres, Portugal, where cartographers, navigators, and explorers gathered to share knowledge and develop new techniques.

Under Henry's patronage, Portuguese explorers began to sail south along the African coast, seeking new trade routes. This initiative laid the groundwork for later explorations, including Vasco da Gama's successful voyage to India in 1498.

Henry the Navigator is remembered as a key figure in the Age of Discovery, contributing to Portugal's maritime expansion and the establishment of trade routes that connected Europe to other parts of the world.

 

04 March - Chicago was officially incorporated as a city in 1837.

 

Chicago was officially incorporated as a city on March 4, 1837. The city's history, however, dates back to the late 18th century when it was originally settled by Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, a Haitian of African and French descent, in the 1780s. Chicago's strategic location at the southwestern tip of Lake Michigan contributed to its growth as a transportation hub.

In the 19th century, Chicago saw significant development and became a major center for trade and commerce, especially after the completion of the Illinois and Michigan Canal in 1848 and the arrival of the railroad in the 1850s. The city's rapid industrialization and its role in transportation contributed to its emergence as a major economic and cultural center in the Midwest.

 

04 March - Vermont became the 14th state of the United States.

 

Vermont became the 14th state of the United States on 04 March 1791. Prior to its admission to the Union, Vermont was an independent republic for 14 years, known as the Vermont Republic, from 1777 to 1791. The state played a significant role in the early history of the United States, particularly during the Revolutionary War.

Vermont's entry into the Union was a result of the Vermont Republic's decision to seek admission as a state. The process was completed when President George Washington signed the act for Vermont's admission into the United States on February 18, 1791. Consequently, Vermont officially joined the Union on 04 March 1791, as the 14th state.

04 March - Grover Cleveland was sworn in as the 22nd President of the United States.

 

Grover Cleveland was sworn in as the 22nd President of the United States on March 4, 1885. He served two non-consecutive terms, making him both the 22nd and 24th President. After his first term from 1885 to 1889, he was succeeded by Benjamin Harrison. However, Cleveland ran for president again in 1892 and won, returning to the office and serving his second term from 1893 to 1897. This makes him the only U.S. president to serve two non-consecutive terms.

04 March - World Tennis Day

 

World Tennis Day is an annual celebration of tennis that typically takes place on the first Monday of March. The event aims to promote and celebrate the sport of tennis globally. It involves various activities and initiatives, including exhibition matches, tournaments, and community events, to engage tennis enthusiasts and encourage new participants to take up the sport.

World Tennis Day was first introduced in 2013, and it has since become a platform to showcase the sport's excitement and accessibility. Tennis organizations, clubs, and players around the world participate in events and activities to celebrate the love of tennis and its positive impact on individuals and communities. The day is not only about professional tennis but also emphasizes the sport's recreational and social aspects.

04 March - Charlie Chaplin was knighted in 1975

 

Charlie Chaplin was actually knighted on March 4, 1975, at Buckingham Palace by Queen Elizabeth II. This was a significant honor for the legendary comedian and filmmaker. Sir Charles Spencer Chaplin, known for his iconic character "The Tramp" and his contributions to the film industry, received the knighthood in recognition of his outstanding achievements in the field of entertainment.He was 85 at the time and had to be pushed in a wheelchair to meet the Queen who performed the ceremony.

03 March - King Hassan II ascended to the throne of Morocco 1961

 

King Hassan II ascended to the throne of Morocco following the death of his father, King Mohammed V. King Hassan II ruled Morocco for several decades until his death in 1999. During his reign, he faced various challenges, including political unrest, economic difficulties, and territorial disputes. His rule also saw significant modernization efforts in Morocco, but it was also marked by periods of authoritarianism and human rights abuses. Overall, King Hassan II's reign had a profound impact on Moroccan history and politics.

 

03 March - World Dosa Day

 

March 3rd is being observed as World Dosa (Dosèy) Day.Dosa is a popular and versatile South Indian dish that has gained popularity worldwide. It is a type of thin, crepe-like pancake made from a fermented batter primarily consisting of rice and urad dal (black gram). The batter is soaked, ground, and fermented, resulting in a light and fluffy texture when cooked.

The traditional dosa batter typically includes rice and urad dal in a ratio that may vary, and it undergoes fermentation to enhance the flavor and texture. After fermentation, the batter is spread thinly on a hot griddle or flat pan and cooked until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Dosas can vary in size, thickness, and ingredients added to the batter.

Dosas are often served with a variety of accompaniments, such as coconut chutney, sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew), and various types of sauces. There are also different types of dosas, including masala dosa (filled with a spiced potato mixture), rava dosa (made with semolina), and more.

Due to its popularity, dosa has become a widely enjoyed dish not only in South India but also in many other parts of the world. It is appreciated for its taste, texture, and the flexibility it offers in terms of fillings and accompaniments.

 

02 March - Daniel Craig birthday

 

Daniel Craig, born on 02 March 1968, in Chester, England, is a British actor best known for his portrayal of James Bond in five films from Casino Royale (2006) to No Time to Die (2021). His take on the iconic spy reinvented the character with a grittier, more realistic edge, earning widespread acclaim for bringing depth and vulnerability to 007. Before landing the role, Craig had already built a strong reputation in British cinema and television, starring in films such as Layer Cake (2004), which helped establish him as a leading man.

Craig’s acting career began after training at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, from which he graduated in 1991. He gained early recognition through stage performances and British television series, including Our Friends in the North (1996). His transition to Hollywood was marked by notable roles in films like Road to Perdition (2002), where he starred alongside Tom Hanks and Paul Newman, and Steven Spielberg’s Munich (2005), in which he played a Mossad agent.

Although he was initially met with skepticism when cast as Bond—partly due to his blond hair and unconventional ruggedness—Craig silenced critics with Casino Royale, which became a massive critical and commercial success. His subsequent Bond films, Quantum of Solace (2008), Skyfall (2012), Spectre (2015), and No Time to Die (2021), further solidified his status as one of the best Bonds in history. Skyfall, in particular, became the highest-grossing Bond film and received several awards, including two Academy Awards.

Beyond Bond, Craig has showcased his versatility in a range of roles. He played journalist Mikael Blomkvist in David Fincher’s The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011), a Southern criminal in Logan Lucky (2017), and most notably, the eccentric detective Benoit Blanc in Knives Out (2019) and its sequel Glass Onion (2022). His portrayal of Blanc, with a distinctive Southern accent and sharp wit, has led to a successful new franchise.

Off-screen, Craig is known for his private nature and aversion to celebrity culture. He married actress Rachel Weisz in 2011, and they have a daughter together. He also has an older daughter from his previous marriage to Fiona Loudon. In addition to acting, Craig is involved in humanitarian efforts and has supported various charitable causes, including UN initiatives.

With a career that has spanned theater, television, independent films, and blockbusters, Craig has proven himself as one of the most dynamic actors of his generation. His ability to blend action-hero toughness with emotional complexity has left a lasting mark on cinema, particularly in redefining the role of James Bond for modern audiences.

01 March - Pareshchandra Bhattacharya birth anniversary

 

Pareshchandra Bhattacharya, born on 1 March 1903, former Governer of Indian Reserve Bank. He opposed the nationalising of private banks in India and reduced the size of the currency notes for economic reasons. Industrial Development Bank of India & Unit Trust of India were established during his tenure.

01 March - United States issued its first postage stamps depicting scenes rather than portraits

 

On 01 March 1869, the United States issued its first postage stamps depicting scenes rather than portraits of famous individuals. These stamps are collectively known as the "Pictorial Issue" and were a departure from the previous practice of featuring the likenesses of political figures on postage stamps.

Ten types of stamp in denominations between one cent and ninety cents were initially offered in the series, with eight of these introduced on March 19 and 20, 1869 and the two greatest values being distributed somewhat later.

01 March - Purandhar Treaty was singed between Nana Phadnavis and British Army in 1776

 

It was an agreement signed between the Maratha Empire and the British East India Company. The treaty was signed on 1 March 1776, at Purandhar fort in Maharashtra, India.

Nana Phadnavis, also known as Balaji Janardan Bhanu, was a prominent minister and statesman in the Maratha Empire during that period. The treaty was a result of the First Anglo-Maratha War (1775–1782), and it marked the end of hostilities between the Marathas and the British.

The key provisions of the Purandhar Treaty included the recognition of the British acquisition of certain territories, as well as agreements on mutual military assistance. The treaty aimed to establish a more stable relationship between the Marathas and the British, but tensions and conflicts persisted, leading to subsequent Anglo-Maratha wars in the years to come.

01 March - National Pig Day (United States)

 

National Pig Day is indeed celebrated on March 1st in the United States. This light-hearted observance is dedicated to appreciating pigs and promoting their welfare. It was established in 1972 by two sisters, Ellen Stanley and Mary Lynne Rave, who were teachers and wanted to encourage awareness and understanding of these intelligent animals.

On National Pig Day, people may engage in activities that celebrate pigs, including learning about their behavior, sharing pig-related stories, cooking pork dishes, or even supporting animal welfare organizations.

It's worth noting that while National Pig Day is a fun observance, it also highlights the importance of treating animals with kindness and respect.

 

01 March - Mărțișor (Romania and Moldova)

 

Mărțișor is a traditional celebration in Romania and Moldova, observed on March 1st. The name "Mărțișor" is a diminutive of "martie," the Romanian word for March. The celebration has ancient roots and is associated with the arrival of spring.

Key elements of the Mărțișor tradition include:

1. Red and White Threads: People wear or exchange small tokens called "mărțișoare," which are usually red and white threads tied together. The red and white colors symbolize the transition from winter to spring and are believed to bring good luck and health.

2. Brooches and Pendants: Mărțișoare often take the form of small brooches or pendants made of intertwined red and white threads, sometimes adorned with small charms, flowers, or other decorative elements.

3. Worn for a Limited Time: It is customary to wear the Mărțișor throughout March. Some traditions suggest that when individuals see the first signs of spring, such as a blooming tree or a swallow, they should tie the Mărțișor to a branch and make a wish.

4. Symbolism: Beyond its association with spring, the red and white threads of the Mărțișor can carry various symbolic meanings, such as the balance between opposing forces, life, and purity.

Mărțișor is a widely cherished tradition in Romania and Moldova, and the exchange of these tokens is a gesture of friendship, goodwill, and celebration of the changing seasons.

 

01 March - The Goa Carnival

 

The Goa Carnival is an annual festival held in the state of Goa, India. It is one of the most vibrant and colorful celebrations in the region, marking the onset of Lent and the Catholic tradition of feasting before the 40-day period of fasting and abstinence.

Here are some key features and aspects of the Goa Carnival:

1. Timing: The Goa Carnival typically takes place in February, just before the Christian season of Lent. The exact dates vary each year as they are determined by the lunar calendar.

2. Duration: The festival spans several days of lively celebrations, with parades, music, dancing, and various cultural events taking place throughout the duration.

3. Cultural Events: The Goa Carnival is known for its vibrant and diverse cultural events. Traditional and modern dance forms, music performances, and street plays are common during the festivities.

4. Float Parade: One of the highlights of the Goa Carnival is the float parade, where colorful and artistic floats move through the streets. The floats often depict various themes, and participants in colorful costumes dance and perform on the streets.

5. Music and Dance: Music and dance play a central role in the Goa Carnival. Live bands, traditional Goan music, and performances by dance troupes contribute to the lively atmosphere of the festival.

6. Street Performances: Street plays, folk dances, and other forms of entertainment take place on the streets, involving both locals and tourists in the festivities.

7. Culmination with the Black and Red Dance: The Goa Carnival concludes with the Red and Black Dance, a lively event where people dressed in red and black clothing come together for a night of music, dance, and revelry.

8. Tourist Attraction: The Goa Carnival is not only a significant cultural and religious event for the locals but also a major attraction for tourists. The festivities draw visitors from different parts of India and around the world.

9. Traditional Fare: As part of the celebration, traditional Goan cuisine is showcased, allowing people to indulge in local delicacies and specialties.

The Goa Carnival is a unique blend of cultural, religious, and festive elements, reflecting the rich heritage of the region. It provides a platform for locals and visitors to come together, celebrate, and enjoy the vibrant traditions of Goa.

Goan Carnaval Dates
2023 date	Afternoon, February 18 – midday, February 21
2024 date	Afternoon, February 10 – midday, February 13
2025 date	Afternoon, March 1 – midday, March 4