26 January - Bharat Ratna, India's highest award, was given to Ustad Bismillah Khan

 

Ustad Bismillah Khan was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, on January 26, 2001. The Bharat Ratna is typically announced on Republic Day, which is celebrated on January 26th each year. Ustad Bismillah Khan's contributions to Indian classical music, particularly his mastery of the shehnai, were recognized with this honor in 2001.

26 January - Purna Swaraj (Complete Independence) Day

 

The declaration of 26 January 1930, as Purna Swaraj (Complete Independence) Day is associated with the Indian independence movement. On this day, the Indian National Congress, under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, issued a declaration known as the "Purna Swaraj Declaration" or the "Declaration of Independence."

The declaration marked a significant moment in India's struggle for independence from British rule. The Indian National Congress, along with other leaders of the independence movement, asserted the nation's right to self-determination and complete sovereignty. It called for the rejection of British colonial rule and the establishment of a sovereign republic in India.

26 January 1930, was chosen as the date for the declaration because it was the anniversary of the 1915 declaration by the Indian National Congress to demand dominion status for India. The day was later adopted as India's Republic Day, which commemorates the enactment of the Constitution of India and the country's transition to a republic on 26 January 1950.

 

26 January - National Spouse Day

 

National Spouse Day is finally here! Other than Valentine’s Day, this is the only worldwide holiday that gives couples a chance to spoil each other, to take time out of their busy schedules, and to tend to their love. It’s a chance to celebrate your spouse and show your better half that they are indeed appreciated. Let’s admit, sometimes married couples need reminders to leave the hamster wheel that is everyday life. January 26 however is the remedy to all couples’ woes. Though the day is named National Spouses Day and seemingly refers to married couples only, nowadays, this day can also be linked to many people who are not married. What’s better than feeling appreciated by your soulmate? So, let’s celebrate happiness on this love filled day.

26 January - International Environmental Education Day

 

International Environmental Education Day, which falls on January 26, is observed all over the world in the hopes of improving the relationship between our fellow humans and nature itself. It seeks to identify and find solutions to certain environmental issues, both globally and locally. With this, a collective and effective process is made available to reach more like-minded people who want to make a difference for our world itself. Aside from just assessing these issues, the main goal for this day is to bring about awareness for the motivation to continue on this endeavor. Once this has been achieved, motivation to act with the right forward-thinking and knowledge can bring about a sustainable change for today and future generations as well.  You can find a list of science scholarships to enhance the effect of this journey through education from the leading schools and institutes in the country, for the betterment of the environment and our future.

26 January - Rum Rebellion

 

The Rum Rebellion was a significant event in Australian history, taking place in New South Wales, which was then a penal colony of the British Empire. The rebellion occurred in 1808 and was the only successful armed takeover of government in Australian history.

Key points about the Rum Rebellion:

1. Background: New South Wales was initially established as a penal colony, and Governor William Bligh was appointed to the position in 1806. Bligh, however, faced various challenges, including conflicts with the military and settlers over issues such as trade, land grants, and the distribution of supplies.

2. Rum Trade: One of the major sources of conflict was the control of the rum trade. Rum was used as a form of currency in the colony, and Bligh attempted to regulate and restrict its use. This decision angered influential figures involved in the trade.

3. Arrest of Bligh: On January 26, 1808, John Macarthur, a prominent figure in the New South Wales Corps (a military unit stationed in the colony), led a rebellion against Governor Bligh. Bligh was placed under house arrest, and Macarthur assumed control of the colony.

4. Rule of the New South Wales Corps: The rebellion resulted in the establishment of a provisional government under the leadership of Major George Johnston, the commander of the New South Wales Corps. This marked the only time in Australian history when a government was overthrown by a military coup.

5. Aftermath: The British government in London was slow to respond, and it took several months before a replacement for Bligh, Major-General Lachlan Macquarie, arrived to restore order. Macquarie arrived in New South Wales in 1810, and under his leadership, the colony saw significant social and economic reforms.

The Rum Rebellion had lasting implications for the governance of New South Wales, and it highlighted the challenges and power struggles in the early years of European settlement in Australia. The event is a notable chapter in Australia's colonial history.

26 January - NRM Liberation Day Uganda

 

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Liberation Day is a significant celebration in Uganda, commemorating the day when the National Resistance Army (NRA), led by Yoweri Museveni, captured Kampala, the capital of Uganda, on January 26, 1986. This event marked the end of years of conflict and brought about the establishment of the current government.

Yoweri Museveni, who is the current President of Uganda, led the NRM in a rebellion against the government of Milton Obote and later against the regime of Tito Okello. The capture of Kampala by the NRA on January 26, 1986, is often referred to as the culmination of the "Liberation War," and it led to the installation of Museveni as the President of Uganda.

NRM Liberation Day is celebrated annually on January 26th in Uganda. The day is marked by various events, including parades, ceremonies, and speeches, to commemorate the achievements of the NRM and the establishment of a new government in Uganda. It is considered a public holiday, and the celebrations often include reflections on the country's progress since the end of the conflict.

 

26 January - Rocky Mountain National Park was established

 

Rocky Mountain National Park, located in the U.S. state of Colorado, was established on January 26, 1915. President Woodrow Wilson signed the legislation into law, officially creating the park. Spanning over 415 square miles (1,075 square kilometers), the park is renowned for its stunning mountainous landscapes, alpine lakes, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife.

Rocky Mountain National Park attracts millions of visitors each year who come to explore its scenic trails, witness its wildlife, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The park is particularly known for its impressive mountain peaks, including Longs Peak, which stands at an elevation of 14,259 feet (4,346 meters), making it the highest point in the park.

The establishment of Rocky Mountain National Park was a significant step in the conservation and preservation of natural landscapes in the United States, contributing to the protection of the unique and diverse ecosystems found in the Rocky Mountains.