01 August - The Bull's Eye postage stamp issued by Brazil in 1843

 

The Bull's Eye, postage stamps were the first stamps issued by Brazil, on 1 August 1843, having face values of 30, 60, and 90 réis. Brazil was the second country in the world, after the United Kingdom, to issue postage stamps valid within the entire country (as opposed to a local issue). Like the United Kingdoms's first stamps, the design does not include the country name.

The unusual name derives from the ornamental value figures inside the oval settings, and the arrangement of the stamps in the sheet, which permitted se-tenant pairs that looked like a pair of bull's eyes. The unusual naming of Brazilian stamps continued with the later issue of smaller, but rectangular designs, which were nicknamed snake's eyes, and the issue of similar designs to the Bull's Eyes, but smaller, of which the blue were called goat's eyes, and the black, cat's eyes.

01 August - Syed Muhammedali Shihab Thangal death anniversary

 

Mohammedali Shihab Thangal (4 May 1936 – 1 August 2009), known with the honorific prefix Sayed, was an Indian community leader, Islamic scholar and politician from Kerala.He is sometimes regarded as "the most important Mappila leader" of modern Kerala.

Born in the Yemeni-origin sayyid (thangal) Pukkoya family of Panakkad,Shihab Thangal also functioned as the president of the Kerala state committee of the Indian Union Muslim League (1975 - 2009).

According to historian Roland Miller, "'wisely and sensitively, he led Muslims through the landmines of state politics for over three decades. He also led the way into cordial relationships with members of other religious communities".

 

 

01 August - Kandathil Mammen Mathew

 

K. M. Mathew, also known as Kandathil Mammen Mathew, was a prominent Indian journalist, newspaper editor, and media entrepreneur. He was a highly respected figure in the field of journalism and played a significant role in shaping the media landscape in Kerala, India.

Here are some key highlights from his life and career:

1. Early Life: K. M. Mathew was born on 02 January 1917, in Kottayam, Kerala, India.

2. Career in Journalism: He started his career as a journalist and joined the Malayala Manorama newspaper, founded by his father-in-law Kandathil Varghese Mappillai, in 1947. He worked diligently to expand the newspaper's reach and influence.

3. Leadership of Malayala Manorama: K. M. Mathew served as the Chief Editor of Malayala Manorama, one of the largest circulated newspapers in India, from 1973 to 2010. Under his leadership, the newspaper grew into a widely respected and influential media organization.

4. Contribution to Media: He was known for his editorial leadership and commitment to journalistic ethics. He played a crucial role in maintaining the newspaper's impartiality and credibility.

5. Social Contributions: K. M. Mathew was also actively involved in various social and cultural organizations, contributing to the welfare and development of society.

6. Awards and Recognitions: In recognition of his significant contributions to journalism, he received several awards and honors during his lifetime.

7. Death: K. M. Mathew passed away on 01 August , 2010, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of Indian journalism.

K. M. Mathew's dedication to the field of journalism and his commitment to upholding journalistic standards made him a respected figure in the media industry in India. His work at Malayala Manorama played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and disseminating information to the masses.

01 August - World Scout Scarf Day

 

World Scout Scarf Day is an annual observance celebrated by Scouts and former Scouts around the world. It takes place on August 1st each year. On this day, Scouts and Scout alumni are encouraged to wear their Scout scarves, also known as neckerchiefs, as a symbol of their global unity and shared values.

The Scout scarf is a distinctive piece of clothing worn by Scouts and is usually worn around the neck, representing the international brotherhood and sisterhood of Scouting. Each Scouting organization in different countries often has its unique design and colors for their scarves, making them a recognizable symbol of their affiliation.

World Scout Scarf Day was initiated to promote friendship, peace, and understanding among Scouts worldwide. By wearing their Scout scarves on this day, Scouts and former Scouts show their pride in being part of the global Scouting movement and emphasize the importance of Scouting principles, which include fostering cooperation, respect for others, and promoting a sense of citizenship and responsibility.

The observance of World Scout Scarf Day is a simple yet powerful way for Scouts across the globe to connect and celebrate their shared values and experiences as members of the worldwide Scouting family. It serves as a reminder of the positive impact of Scouting in shaping young people into responsible and active citizens who contribute positively to society.

01 August - William Clark birth anniversary

William Clark (1770–1838) was an American explorer and soldier best known for his role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which explored the western portion of the United States in the early 19th century.

Early Life and Career:

• Birth: William Clark was born on August 1, 1770, in Caroline County, Virginia.
• Education and Early Career: He had limited formal education but was well-versed in the skills necessary for frontier life, including surveying and mapmaking. He served in the Virginia militia during the Revolutionary War.

Lewis and Clark Expedition:

• Partnership with Meriwether Lewis: Clark is most famous for his role as the co-leader of the Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804–1806), officially known as the Corps of Discovery. The expedition was commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson to explore the Louisiana Territory and find a route to the Pacific Ocean.
• Role in the Expedition: As co-leader, Clark was responsible for much of the expedition's mapping and surveying, as well as overseeing the exploration's logistics and day-to-day operations. He was instrumental in establishing relationships with Native American tribes and documenting the geography, flora, and fauna of the newly acquired territories.
• Significance: The expedition provided valuable information about the western territories, paving the way for westward expansion and settlement. It also helped establish American presence in the region.

Later Life:

• Governorship: After the expedition, Clark was appointed as the governor of the Missouri Territory, a position he held from 1813 to 1820. He played a key role in the administration and development of the territory.
• Other Roles: He also served as a military officer and was involved in various land deals and territorial matters.

Legacy:

• Exploration and Mapping: Clark's contributions to exploration and mapping were crucial in expanding the United States' knowledge of the western territories. His detailed journals and maps provided valuable insights into the geography and indigenous cultures of the region.
• Recognition: William Clark is remembered as a significant figure in American history for his role in one of the most important explorations of the 19th century. His efforts, along with those of Meriwether Lewis, greatly influenced the westward expansion of the United States.

William Clark's achievements in exploration and his contributions to the early development of the American West remain a significant part of American history.

01 August - Armed Forces Day (China)

 

Armed Forces Day in China, also known as "Army Day" (建军节, Jiànjūn Jié), is celebrated on 01st August each year. This day commemorates the founding of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) in 1927.

Historical Background:

• Founding Event: The date marks the anniversary of the Nanchang Uprising on 01 August 1927. This event was a significant moment in Chinese history, as it marked the establishment of the first unit of what would eventually become the People's Liberation Army (PLA).
• Historical Context: The Nanchang Uprising was led by communist forces against the Kuomintang (KMT) government. It was a crucial step in the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) efforts to establish a revolutionary army.

Significance:

• National Celebration: Armed Forces Day is a major event in China, honoring the contributions and sacrifices of the PLA in defending the country and promoting national unity.
• Recognition of Service: The day serves to recognize and appreciate the service and dedication of military personnel. It highlights the PLA's role in maintaining China's sovereignty, security, and development.

Celebrations and Activities:

• Military Parades and Ceremonies: Various military units across China conduct parades, ceremonies, and other events to showcase their capabilities and honor their history.
• Awards and Commendations: Outstanding military personnel may be awarded commendations and honors for their service.
• Public Activities: Schools, communities, and government organizations often hold events to educate the public about the PLA's history and achievements.
• Media Coverage: Chinese media extensively cover the day's events, with documentaries, news reports, and special programs dedicated to the armed forces.

Modern Role of the PLA:

• Defense and Security: The PLA is responsible for protecting China's territorial integrity and national sovereignty.
• Disaster Relief: The PLA also plays a vital role in domestic disaster relief and humanitarian efforts.
• International Presence: In recent years, the PLA has expanded its international presence, participating in peacekeeping missions, anti-piracy operations, and joint military exercises with other nations.

01 August - Christopher Columbus becomes the first European to visit Venezuela

 

Christopher Columbus became the first European to visit Venezuela on 01 August 1498, during his third voyage to the New World. This event marked a significant moment in the history of European exploration and the eventual colonization of the Americas.

Historical Context:

• Third Voyage: Columbus's third voyage was aimed at finding new territories and establishing Spanish claims in the New World. He departed from Spain in May 1498 with six ships.
• Previous Voyages: Columbus had already completed two voyages, discovering parts of the Caribbean, including the islands of the Bahamas, Cuba, and Hispaniola.

Discovery of Venezuela:

• Landfall: On 01 August 1498, Columbus and his crew sighted the coast of present-day Venezuela. He explored the Gulf of Paria, an inlet of the Caribbean Sea off the northeastern coast of South America.
• Impressions: Columbus was struck by the beauty of the land and the abundance of fresh water and named the region "Tierra de Gracia" (Land of Grace). He believed he had found a new part of Asia, not realizing he had encountered a new continent.

Significance:

• First European Contact: Columbus's visit marked the first known European contact with the South American mainland. This event opened the way for further exploration and eventual Spanish colonization of the region.
• Geographical Understanding: Columbus’s exploration helped improve European understanding of the geography of the New World, even though it took many years for the true nature of the Americas to be fully recognized.

Legacy:

• Colonial Impact: The discovery led to increased interest and competition among European powers to explore, claim, and colonize parts of the Americas. This had profound and often devastating effects on the indigenous populations and cultures.
• Exploration Milestone: Columbus’s voyages are often seen as a pivotal moment in world history, marking the beginning of extensive transatlantic exploration and the eventual integration of the Americas into the global trade network.

01 August - The element oxygen is discovered

 

On 01 August 1774, the element oxygen was discovered by English chemist Joseph Priestley. This discovery marked a significant milestone in the field of chemistry and had profound implications for our understanding of the natural world.

Historical Context:

• Joseph Priestley: Born in 1733, Priestley was a prominent figure in the 18th-century scientific community. He was a theologian, philosopher, and chemist known for his work in gases and electricity.
• Experiments with Gases: Prior to his discovery of oxygen, Priestley conducted extensive experiments with gases, leading to the identification of several new gases, including ammonia and carbon monoxide.

The Discovery:

• Experimental Setup: On 01 August 1774, Priestley used a magnifying glass to focus sunlight onto a sample of mercuric oxide (HgO) contained in a glass tube. He observed that heating the mercuric oxide produced a gas.
• Observation: Priestley noticed that a candle burned more brightly in the presence of this gas, and a mouse placed in a container with the gas was more active, indicating that it supported respiration.
• Publication: Priestley published his findings in 1775, describing the gas as "dephlogisticated air," in line with the prevailing phlogiston theory of combustion and respiration.

Antoine Lavoisier's Contribution:

• Naming and Understanding Oxygen: While Priestley discovered oxygen, it was French chemist Antoine Lavoisier who later named the gas "oxygen" (from Greek words meaning "acid former") and debunked the phlogiston theory. Lavoisier demonstrated that oxygen was a key component in combustion and respiration and was involved in forming acids.

Significance:

• Chemical Revolution: The discovery of oxygen played a crucial role in the Chemical Revolution, a period marked by rapid advancements in chemical knowledge and the development of modern chemistry.
• Impact on Science: Understanding oxygen's role in combustion, respiration, and chemical reactions laid the foundation for future scientific discoveries and technological advancements.

Legacy:

• Priestley's Contributions: Despite Lavoisier's later refinement of the theory, Joseph Priestley is credited with the initial discovery of oxygen, an achievement that solidified his place in the history of science.
• Modern Chemistry: The identification and understanding of oxygen have had enduring impacts on various fields, including medicine, environmental science, and industrial chemistry.

The discovery of oxygen on 01 August 1774, by Joseph Priestley, remains a landmark event in scientific history, highlighting the importance of careful experimentation and observation in advancing human knowledge.

01 August - Statehood Day in Colorado

Statehood Day in Colorado is celebrated annually on August 1st, commemorating the anniversary of the state's admission to the Union as the 38th state in 1876. This date marks a significant milestone in Colorado's history, as it was admitted to the United States exactly 100 years after the Declaration of Independence was signed, earning it the nickname "Centennial State." The path to statehood began with the establishment of the Colorado Territory in 1861 and gained momentum with population growth spurred by events like the Pike's Peak Gold Rush. Statehood Day is a time for Coloradans to celebrate their heritage and reflect on the state's journey from a frontier territory to a state. Festivities include parades, festivals, historical reenactments, and educational programs that highlight the state's rich history and achievements. The day fosters a sense of pride and unity among residents, who come together to honor Colorado's unique identity and its contributions to the nation

01 August - Slavery abolished in British Empire

 

Slavery was abolished in the British Empire on 01 August 1834, with the enactment of the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833. This landmark legislation marked a significant step in the global movement towards ending the brutal practice of slavery and is commemorated annually as Emancipation Day in various parts of the former British Empire, especially in the Caribbean.

Historical Context:

• British Involvement in the Slave Trade: The British Empire was heavily involved in the transatlantic slave trade from the 16th to the 19th centuries. Enslaved Africans were transported to British colonies in the Americas and the Caribbean to work on plantations, particularly in the production of sugar, tobacco, and cotton.
• Abolition Movement: The movement to abolish slavery in Britain gained momentum in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Key figures such as William Wilberforce, Thomas Clarkson, and Olaudah Equiano, along with organizations like the Anti-Slavery Society, campaigned tirelessly against the inhumanity of slavery.

Slavery Abolition Act of 1833:

• Legislation: The Slavery Abolition Act was passed by the British Parliament in 1833 and took effect on 01 August 1834. This act legally abolished slavery throughout most of the British Empire.
• Apprenticeship System: The act included a provision for an "apprenticeship" system, where former slaves were required to continue working for their former masters for a transitional period. This period was intended to last for six years but was cut short in 1838 due to widespread resistance and dissatisfaction among the freed individuals.

Emancipation Day Celebrations:

• Caribbean and Other Regions: Emancipation Day is celebrated in many parts of the former British Empire, particularly in the Caribbean, where slavery had a profound impact. Countries like Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and others observe this day with various cultural and historical events.
• Cultural Significance: The day is marked by parades, reenactments, music, dance, and religious services, celebrating the freedom and resilience of the descendants of enslaved people.
• Reflection and Education: Emancipation Day also serves as a time for reflection on the history of slavery, its abolition, and its lasting impact on societies. Educational programs and discussions about the legacy of slavery and ongoing issues of racial inequality are common.

Legacy:

• Historical Importance: The abolition of slavery in the British Empire was a pivotal moment in the global fight against slavery and set a precedent for other nations to follow.
• Continuing Struggle for Equality: While the abolition of slavery was a significant achievement, it also highlighted the ongoing struggle for civil rights and social justice. The legacy of slavery continues to influence contemporary discussions on race, inequality, and human rights.

The abolition of slavery in the British Empire on 01 August 1834, remains a significant historical milestone, symbolizing the triumph of human rights and the enduring fight for freedom and justice.