15 May - Britain's first jet-propelled aircraft, the Gloster-Whittle E.28/39, flew for the first time in 1941

 

On 15 May 1941, Britain's first jet-propelled aircraft, the Gloster-Whittle E.28/39, made its maiden flight. The historic flight took off from RAF Cranwell in Lincolnshire, England.

The Gloster-Whittle E.28/39 was designed by Sir Frank Whittle, an English inventor and engineer, who is often credited with inventing the turbojet engine. The aircraft was powered by Whittle's revolutionary jet engine, which provided a significant advancement in aviation technology.

The successful flight of the Gloster-Whittle E.28/39 marked a major milestone in the development of jet propulsion and paved the way for the future of jet-powered aviation. It demonstrated the feasibility and potential of jet engines for powering aircraft, leading to the rapid development and adoption of jet aircraft in the years that followed.

 

14 May - National "Bond with Your Dog" USA

 

National "Bond with Your Dog" Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the special connection between humans and their canine companions. It's a day dedicated to spending quality time with your dog, strengthening your bond, and appreciating the love and joy they bring to your life.

There are many ways to celebrate this day:

1. Spend quality time together: Take your dog for a long walk, play fetch in the park, or simply cuddle up on the couch together.

2. Try a new activity: Whether it's agility training, obedience classes, or even trying out a new sport like canine freestyle, exploring new activities together can deepen your bond and provide mental stimulation for your dog.

3. Pamper your pup: Treat your dog to a spa day with a grooming session, massage, or a special homemade treat.

4. Learn something new: Spend some time teaching your dog a new trick or command. Training sessions are not only fun but also help strengthen your communication and bond with your dog.

5. Capture the moment: Take plenty of photos or even create a special keepsake, like a paw print painting, to commemorate the day and cherish the memories for years to come.

6. Give back: Consider volunteering at a local animal shelter or donating to a rescue organization in honor of "Bond with Your Dog" Day. Helping other dogs in need is a meaningful way to celebrate the bond you share with your own furry friend.

Remember, the most important thing is to simply enjoy each other's company and appreciate the unconditional love and companionship that dogs bring into our lives every day.

 

14 May - Muhammad Ayub Khan birth anniversary

 

Muhammad Ayub Khan was born on May 14, 1907, and he passed away on April 19, 1974.

Muhammad Ayub Khan was a significant figure in Pakistani history, serving as the second President of Pakistan from 1958 to 1969. He rose to power through a military coup d'état in 1958, overthrowing the democratic government of President Iskander Mirza. Ayub Khan's regime marked a significant departure from Pakistan's early years under Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan and President Mirza.

During his presidency, Ayub Khan implemented wide-ranging economic and social reforms under his "Basic Democracies" program, which aimed to decentralize power and promote local governance. He also pursued a policy of industrialization and land reforms, seeking to modernize Pakistan's economy. However, his economic policies favored the urban elite and exacerbated disparities between the rich and poor, leading to widespread discontent among the rural population.

Ayub Khan's foreign policy was characterized by alignment with the United States during the Cold War era. Pakistan became a close ally of the US, particularly during the Eisenhower and Kennedy administrations. However, his alignment with the US also led to strained relations with neighboring India, particularly over the Kashmir issue.

In 1965, Pakistan and India engaged in a brief but intense war over the disputed region of Kashmir. The conflict ended inconclusively with a ceasefire brokered by the Soviet Union and the United Nations. The war did not resolve the Kashmir issue and further strained Pakistan's economy.

Domestically, Ayub Khan faced growing opposition from various political factions, including the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), led by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, and the charismatic leader of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Widespread discontent culminated in mass protests and eventually led to Ayub Khan's resignation in 1969, paving the way for the return of civilian rule in Pakistan.

Ayub Khan's legacy is complex. While he is credited with modernization efforts and infrastructure development in Pakistan, his authoritarian rule and failure to address the grievances of marginalized communities ultimately led to his downfall. His era is often remembered as a period of economic growth overshadowed by political repression and social inequality.

13 May - Feast of Our Lady of Fatima

 

May 13th is indeed a significant day in the Catholic Church, as it commemorates the first apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary to three shepherd children—Lucia Santos and her cousins, Francisco and Jacinta Marto—in Fatima, Portugal, in 1917.

According to the children's accounts, Mary appeared to them six times between May 13th and October 13th, 1917, delivering messages of peace, repentance, prayer, and devotion to her Immaculate Heart. The most famous of these apparitions occurred on October 13th, when the Miracle of the Sun was witnessed by thousands of people gathered at the site.

The messages of Fatima are deeply significant to Catholics, emphasizing the importance of prayer, penance, and devotion to Mary as a means of obtaining peace for the world. The Catholic Church officially recognizes the events at Fatima and has designated May 13th as the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima, a day to honor Mary's role in bringing these messages to humanity and to reflect on their continued relevance.

On this day, Catholics often participate in special Masses, processions, and prayers dedicated to Our Lady of Fatima, seeking her intercession for peace and for the fulfillment of her requests made at Fatima. These include praying the Rosary daily, making sacrifices for sinners, and practicing devotion to Mary's Immaculate Heart.

 

13 May - National Frog Jumping Day

 

National Frog Jumping Day is a delightful celebration held annually on May 13th. It's a whimsical holiday inspired by Mark Twain's famous short story "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County," which recounts a humorous competition of frog jumping. People commemorate this day by organizing frog jumping contests, sharing frog-themed stories and jokes, or simply appreciating the fascinating world of amphibians. It's a fun way to embrace a bit of quirky charm and indulge in the joy of springtime.

 

12 May - George Carlin American comedian, writer, and social critic

 

George Carlin was an iconic American comedian, writer, and social critic known for his sharp wit, provocative humor, and fearless exploration of taboo topics. Born on 12 May 1937, in New York City, Carlin's early career saw him performing more conventional, clean-cut routines on shows like The Tonight Show in the 1960s. However, by the 1970s, he embraced the counter-culture movement, completely transforming his style to focus on political and social commentary. His most famous routine, "Seven Words You Can Never Say on Television," became a landmark in discussions about censorship and free speech, eventually leading to a U.S. Supreme Court case, FCC v. Pacifica Foundation, in 1978. Known for his dark humor, biting critiques of organized religion, government, and consumer culture, Carlin's work reflected a deep cynicism about society's institutions.

Throughout his career, he released 14 stand-up comedy specials, including Jammin' in New York (1992) and It's Bad for Ya (2008), the latter being his final special before his death. Carlin also found success in acting, with notable roles in films like Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure (1989) and as the voice of the narrator in Thomas & Friends. His books, such as Brain Droppings (1997), offered further insight into his observations on language and society. Despite his controversial material, Carlin won four Grammy Awards for his comedy albums and was posthumously awarded the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2008. He passed away on  22 June 2008, at the age of 71 due to heart failure, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential and groundbreaking comedians of all time. His fearless approach to stand-up and his sharp critique of societal norms continue to inspire future generations of comedians.

12 May - Kurma Jayanti

 

Kurma Jayanti is a significant Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Kurma, the second avatar of Lord Vishnu. This event falls on the Purnima (full moon) day in the month of Vaishakha according to the Hindu lunar calendar, which typically corresponds to April or May in the Gregorian calendar.

Significance

Kurma Jayanti commemorates the incarnation of Lord Vishnu as a giant tortoise (Kurma) during the churning of the ocean of milk, an event known as Samudra Manthan. According to Hindu mythology, the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) churned the ocean to obtain the nectar of immortality (Amrita). Lord Vishnu took the form of Kurma to support Mount Mandara, which was used as the churning rod, on his back to prevent it from sinking during the process. This avatar symbolizes support and stability in times of turmoil and crisis.

Rituals and Observances

Devotees observe Kurma Jayanti with various rituals and traditions:

• Fasting: Many devotees observe a fast from sunrise to sunset, breaking it only after performing the evening rituals.
• Puja: Special prayers and pujas are conducted in temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Devotees offer flowers, fruits, sweets, and other traditional offerings.
• Mantras and Bhajans: Chanting of Vishnu Sahasranama (a collection of a thousand names of Lord Vishnu) and singing devotional songs (bhajans) in praise of Lord Vishnu are common practices.
• Charity: Acts of charity and donations are encouraged, reflecting the virtues of generosity and compassion that Lord Vishnu embodies.
• Reading Scriptures: Devotees read and listen to stories from the Puranas, particularly those related to the Kurma avatar and Samudra Manthan.

Cultural Impact

Kurma Jayanti is celebrated with great devotion in many parts of India, especially in regions where Vishnu worship is predominant. Temples organize special events and ceremonies, attracting large gatherings of devotees who come to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu. The festival not only reinforces the importance of faith and devotion but also highlights the eternal cosmic principles represented by the avatars of Vishnu.

In essence, Kurma Jayanti is a day of spiritual reflection, devotion, and celebration, honoring the divine intervention of Lord Vishnu in preserving cosmic order and supporting the forces of good in the universe.

 

12 May - S Vijaya Laxmi Pandit, first woman foreign ambassador, was received in US

 

Sarojini Vijaya Laxmi Pandit, an Indian diplomat and politician, was indeed the first woman to hold the position of ambassador from India. She was received as India's Ambassador to the United States on May 12, 1949.

Vijaya Laxmi Pandit had a remarkable career in diplomacy and public service. Prior to her appointment as Ambassador to the United States, she had served as India's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom from 1947 to 1949. Her tenure as Ambassador to the United States marked a significant milestone not only in her own career but also in the history of Indian diplomacy, as she broke barriers as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field.

During her time as Ambassador to the United States, Vijaya Laxmi Pandit played a crucial role in fostering Indo-U.S. relations and advocating for India's interests on the global stage. Her diplomatic skills, intellect, and dedication to public service earned her widespread respect both at home and abroad.

Vijaya Laxmi Pandit's appointment as India's Ambassador to the United States on May 12, 1949, remains a landmark moment in the history of women in diplomacy and serves as an inspiration to women in India and around the world who aspire to leadership roles in international affairs.

12 May - George VI is crowned in 1937

 

George VI was crowned on 12 May 1937. He became King of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions, as well as Emperor of India, following the abdication of his brother, King Edward VIII, in December 1936.

The coronation of George VI took place at Westminster Abbey in London. It was a significant event in British history, occurring during a time of political and social change, both domestically and internationally. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, heads of state, and members of the royal family, and it was broadcast on radio to millions of listeners around the world.

George VI's reign was marked by various challenges, including World War II, the decolonization of the British Empire, and the transformation of Britain into a modern welfare state. Despite these challenges, George VI was a popular and respected monarch, known for his steadfast leadership and sense of duty.

His coronation symbolized continuity and stability during a period of uncertainty, and it affirmed the monarchy's enduring role in British society. George VI reigned until his death in 1952 when he was succeeded by his daughter, Queen Elizabeth II.

12 May - Rash Behari Bose, revolutionary leader, left India by boarding a Japanese steamer ''Sanuki Maru''.

 

Rash Behari Bose, a prominent revolutionary leader in the Indian independence movement, left India by boarding a Japanese steamer named "Sanuki Maru" under the assumed name of P. N. Tagore to evade the British authorities. This event took place in 12 May 1915.

Rash Behari Bose was a key figure in the movement against British colonial rule in India. He was associated with various revolutionary organizations, including the Ghadar Party, which aimed to overthrow British rule through armed struggle.

Faced with the British crackdown on revolutionary activities in India, Bose decided to leave the country to seek support for the independence movement abroad. He traveled to Japan, where he eventually settled and continued his anti-British activities from exile.

In Japan, Bose played a significant role in fostering Indo-Japanese relations and organizing Indian expatriates to support the cause of Indian independence. He established the Indian Independence League and later collaborated with the Japanese during World War II to form the Indian National Army (INA), led by Subhas Chandra Bose.