25 March - Struggle For Human Rights Day

 

"Struggle for Human Rights Day" typically refers to a day dedicated to raising awareness about human rights issues, advocating for the protection of human rights, and commemorating the struggles and sacrifices made by individuals and groups in the fight for human rights worldwide.

The specific date for such a day may vary depending on the context and the organization or community observing it. However, it's important to note that the struggle for human rights is ongoing and is recognized and commemorated throughout the year by various organizations, governments, and individuals.

This day serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding fundamental human rights principles, such as equality, dignity, freedom, and justice, and encourages action to address violations and injustices wherever they occur. It provides an opportunity for people to come together, raise awareness, advocate for change, and support those whose rights are being threatened or violated.

 

25 March - Norman Borlaug birth annivesary

 

Norman Borlaug was born on March 25, 1914, and he passed away on September 12, 2009. He was an American agronomist and humanitarian who is often referred to as the "Father of the Green Revolution." Borlaug's work in developing high-yielding varieties of wheat and other crops helped increase agricultural productivity, alleviate hunger, and prevent famine in various parts of the world. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970 for his contributions to world peace through increasing food supply.

25 March - Space Shuttle orbiter Columbia was delivered to the John F. Kennedy Space Center

 

On March 25, 1979, the first fully functional Space Shuttle orbiter, Columbia, was indeed delivered to the John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC) in Florida, United States. This was a significant milestone in the development of NASA's Space Shuttle program, which aimed to create a reusable spacecraft capable of carrying astronauts and cargo into space.

Columbia, named after the historic exploration ship Columbia Rediviva, was the first Space Shuttle orbiter to be completed. It underwent extensive testing and preparations before being transported to KSC for its first launch. The delivery of Columbia marked a major step forward in NASA's efforts to establish regular space missions with the Space Shuttle fleet.

Columbia's maiden flight, STS-1, took place on April 12, 1981, with astronauts John Young and Robert Crippen aboard. This historic mission demonstrated the viability of the Space Shuttle system and paved the way for subsequent missions, including satellite deployments, scientific research, and space station construction.

Throughout its operational life, Columbia played a crucial role in advancing space exploration, participating in numerous missions before tragically being lost during re-entry on February 1, 2003, leading to the loss of all seven crew members aboard during the STS-107 mission.

 

25 March - , Swami Vivekananda initiated Margaret Noble (Sister Nivedita) into vow of Brahmacharya

 

On 25 March 1898, Swami Vivekananda initiated Margaret Noble, who later became known as Sister Nivedita, into the vow of Brahmacharya. This event marked an important moment in the history of Indian spirituality and the acceptance of Western women into the Indian monastic order.

Sister Nivedita was an Irish social worker, author, and disciple of Swami Vivekananda. She dedicated her life to serving India and played a significant role in the Indian independence movement and the promotion of education for girls. Swami Vivekananda recognized her dedication and spiritual inclination, and thus initiated her into the Brahmacharya vow, signifying her commitment to a life of celibacy and spiritual pursuit.

Sister Nivedita's contributions to India, particularly in the field of education and social reform, are widely celebrated. She remains a revered figure in both India and Ireland for her tireless efforts in serving humanity and bridging cultures.

 

25 March - Freedom Day (Belarus)

 

March 25th holds significant historical importance for Belarus, particularly regarding aspirations for freedom and democracy. This date is celebrated as Belarusian Independence Day, marking the establishment of the Belarusian People's Republic on March 25, 1918.

The Belarusian People's Republic was a short-lived independent state formed after the collapse of the Russian Empire during World War I. It lasted only until 1919 when it was absorbed by the Soviet Union. Despite its brief existence, the Belarusian People's Republic symbolizes the desire of the Belarusian people for self-determination and independence.

In recent years, March 25th has been a focal point for demonstrations and protests in Belarus, often against the government of Alexander Lukashenko. These protests advocate for democracy, human rights, and political reforms.

While the government may not officially recognize March 25th as "Freedom Day," it remains a significant date for Belarusians who seek greater freedoms and democratic principles in their country.

 

25 March -Slavery is abolished in Great Britain and Ireland in 1807

 

The date you provided, March 25, 1807, marks an important moment in history: the abolition of the slave trade in the British Empire. On that day, the British Parliament passed the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act, which prohibited the trading of slaves within the British Empire.

It's worth noting that this act did not immediately abolish slavery itself in the British Empire; rather, it targeted the transatlantic slave trade. The Act made it illegal to engage in the buying, selling, or transporting of enslaved people across the Atlantic Ocean. However, slavery itself persisted in British colonies until the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833, which abolished slavery throughout most of the British Empire.

The abolition of the slave trade in 1807 was a significant milestone in the movement to end slavery. It was the result of decades of activism and campaigning by abolitionists, both within Britain and in the colonies. While the fight for full emancipation continued for several more decades, the abolition of the slave trade marked a major step forward in the eventual eradication of slavery in the British Empire.

 

25 March - Robert Bruce was made the new King of Scotland in 1306

 

On March 25, 1306, Robert the Bruce, also known as Robert I, was crowned King of Scotland. This event marked a significant moment in Scottish history, as it signaled the beginning of Robert the Bruce's reign and his efforts to secure Scotland's independence from English rule during the First War of Scottish Independence.

Robert the Bruce's reign was characterized by his determination to unify Scotland and resist English domination. His leadership and military prowess played a crucial role in the Scottish fight for independence, culminating in the decisive Scottish victory at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314.

The coronation of Robert the Bruce as King of Scotland is a pivotal event in Scottish history and is commemorated as a symbol of Scottish national identity and resilience.

 

24 March - The festival of Purim

 

Purim is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the saving of the Jewish people from Haman, who was planning to kill all the Jews in ancient Persia, as recounted in the Book of Esther, which is part of the Hebrew Bible. The holiday is celebrated annually on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Adar (usually in March in the Gregorian calendar).

The central figures in the Purim story are Queen Esther, who concealed her Jewish identity but eventually revealed it to save her people, and Mordecai, her cousin and guardian. The story involves palace intrigue, political maneuvering, and the triumph of good over evil.

Purim is marked by several customs and traditions, including the reading of the Book of Esther (Megillah) in synagogues, festive meals (Se'udat Purim), exchanging gifts of food and drink (Mishloach Manot), giving charity to the poor (Matanot Laevyonim), and dressing up in costumes.

Costumes are a significant aspect of Purim celebrations, and people often dress up as characters from the Purim story or in various other creative costumes. This tradition is thought to symbolize the hidden nature of the miracles in the Purim story, as well as the idea that things are not always what they seem.

Another hallmark of Purim is the noise-making and revelry during the reading of the Megillah. When Haman's name is mentioned, it is traditional to drown out the sound with boos, hisses, or the noise of graggers (noisemakers). This custom adds a lively and joyous atmosphere to the holiday.

Overall, Purim is a joyous celebration of Jewish survival and resilience, emphasizing themes of courage, faith, and the triumph of good over evil. It is a time for communal rejoicing, feasting, and sharing with others, as well as reflection on the deeper meanings of the holiday's story and customs.

 

24 March - First long distance telegram message was opened between Agra and Calcutta in 1853

 

On March 24, 1853, the first long-distance telegraph line in India was inaugurated, connecting Agra with Calcutta (now Kolkata). This event marked a significant milestone in the history of telecommunications in India. The telegraph line enabled rapid communication between these two major cities, which were significant centers of administration, commerce, and culture during the British colonial period.

The telegraph line allowed messages to be transmitted over long distances much faster than traditional methods of communication such as letters or messengers. This facilitated quicker decision-making, improved coordination of activities, and enhanced connectivity between different regions of India.

The introduction of the telegraph had far-reaching implications for various sectors including government, business, and journalism. It played a crucial role in the administration of British India, facilitating the transmission of official communications and enabling the British colonial authorities to exert greater control over the vast territory.

Overall, the establishment of the Agra-Calcutta telegraph line was a pioneering step in the development of telecommunications infrastructure in India, laying the groundwork for future advancements in communication technology in the country.

 

23 March - The first commercial elevator was installed in 1857

 

The first commercial elevator was installed on 23 March 1857 at the E.V. Haughwout Building in New York City. It was designed by Elisha Otis, who had invented a safety mechanism that prevented the elevator from falling if the hoisting cable broke. This invention made elevators safe for public use and revolutionized building design, allowing for the construction of taller structures. The installation of the elevator at the Haughwout Building marked the beginning of the widespread adoption of elevators in commercial buildings, transforming the urban landscape and shaping modern architecture.