19 September - Yuvraj Singh made history by hitting six sixes in a single over against England in T20 World Cup match

 

On 19 September 2007, during the ICC T20 World Cup, Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh made history by hitting six sixes in a single over against England's bowler Stuart Broad. This incredible feat occurred in the 19th over of India's innings, and Yuvraj reached his half-century in just 12 balls, setting the record for the fastest fifty in T20 internationals. This moment remains one of the most iconic achievements in cricket, contributing to India's eventual win and their successful campaign to lift the T20 World Cup that year.

19 September - New Zealand became first country to grant women the right to vote 1893

On 19 September 1893, New Zealand became the first self-governing country in the world to grant women the right to vote in parliamentary elections. This historic achievement was largely due to the efforts of women's suffrage activists like Kate Sheppard, whose tireless campaigning helped bring about this groundbreaking change in voting rights.

Here are more details about the events leading up to and following the landmark decision:

Background and Campaign

• Early Advocacy: The campaign for women's suffrage began in the 1870s but gained significant momentum in the 1880s. Advocates like Kate Sheppard believed that granting women the right to vote would improve society by allowing women to influence laws, particularly regarding social reforms like temperance.

• Petitions: A series of petitions were organized throughout the 1890s, with the largest one submitted in 1893, bearing over 32,000 signatures. This massive petition was a key moment that pressured New Zealand's Parliament to take the matter seriously. It was known as the largest petition in New Zealand at the time.

• Political Struggle: Despite significant opposition, including concerns that women's involvement in politics would disrupt the family structure, a suffrage bill was introduced several times in the 1890s. Each time it was narrowly defeated. However, by 1893, public support had reached a tipping point.

• Passage of the Electoral Act 1893: On September 19, 1893, the Governor, Lord Glasgow, signed the Electoral Act into law, officially granting women the right to vote. This act made New Zealand the first self-governing nation to allow women to participate in national elections.

First Women's Election

• The law took effect just in time for the 1893 general election. A huge number of women, approximately 85% of those eligible, registered to vote, and on 28 November 1893, women cast their ballots for the first time in New Zealand’s history.

Impact and Legacy

• International Influence: New Zealand's action had a ripple effect worldwide, encouraging women's suffrage movements in other countries like the United Kingdom and the United States. Australia followed by granting women the right to vote in 1902, though other countries took decades to follow suit.

• Kate Sheppard's Legacy: Kate Sheppard became a symbol of the suffrage movement, both in New Zealand and globally. Her portrait is featured on the New Zealand $10 note, and she remains an enduring figure in feminist history.

• Continued Progress: While women were granted the right to vote, it wasn't until 1919 that they were allowed to stand for election to Parliament. New Zealand elected its first female MP, Elizabeth McCombs, in 1933.

New Zealand’s achievement is remembered as a defining moment in the global struggle for gender equality, setting an important precedent for women’s rights around the world.

19 September - Karnam Malleswari becomes the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal in 2000

 

On 19 September 2000, Karnam Malleswari made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal. She achieved this feat at the Sydney 2000 Summer Olympics, where she won a bronze medal in weightlifting, competing in the women's 69 kg category.

Malleswari lifted a total of 240 kg, securing her place on the podium and marking a significant milestone for Indian women in sports. Her achievement was particularly groundbreaking, as it showcased Indian women's potential on the global sports stage and inspired many future athletes.

Her victory remains a celebrated moment in Indian Olympic history, and she is regarded as a trailblazer for women athletes in the country.

Early Life and Career:

• Born on 01 June 1975, in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, Malleswari began weightlifting at the age of 12. Coming from a humble background, she had to overcome several obstacles, including financial constraints and limited resources.
• She trained rigorously under the guidance of prominent coaches and quickly rose to prominence in the national and international weightlifting scene.

Achievements Prior to Sydney Olympics:

• Before her Olympic glory, Malleswari had already established herself as one of the top weightlifters in the world.
• She won the World Weightlifting Championship in 1994 and 1995, becoming the first Indian woman to achieve this feat.
• At the 1998 Asian Games, she earned a bronze medal, further solidifying her place among elite weightlifters.

Sydney 2000 Olympics:

• At the Sydney Olympics, Malleswari competed in the 69 kg weightlifting category.
• She successfully lifted 110 kg in the snatch and 130 kg in the clean and jerk, for a total of 240 kg, which earned her the bronze medal.
• Malleswari had the potential to win gold but missed a 137.5 kg lift in her final attempt in the clean and jerk, which would have propelled her to the top spot.
• Despite this, her achievement of winning India’s first-ever women’s Olympic medal was a historic and proud moment for the country.

Significance of the Win:

• Malleswari’s bronze medal was India's first Olympic medal in 4 years, after Leander Paes's bronze in tennis at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
• More importantly, it was India's first-ever Olympic medal by a woman, breaking gender barriers and inspiring future generations of female athletes in a nation where sports, particularly for women, did not receive as much attention or investment.
• Her win also boosted the visibility of weightlifting in India and encouraged more young women to take up the sport.

Legacy:

• Karnam Malleswari's triumph paved the way for future women Olympic medalists like Mary Kom, Saina Nehwal, PV Sindhu, and Sakshi Malik.
• For her contributions to Indian sports, she was honored with prestigious awards, including the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (India’s highest sporting honor) and the Padma Shri (India’s fourth-highest civilian award).
• After her retirement from competitive sports, she continues to contribute to weightlifting in India as a coach and mentor, and in 2021, she was appointed as the first vice-chancellor of Delhi Sports University.

Malleswari's Olympic success remains a symbol of perseverance and determination, and she is celebrated as a trailblazer who shattered societal norms and achieved greatness on the world stage.

19 September - International Talk Like a Pirate Day

 

International Talk Like a Pirate Day is celebrated annually on September 19th. It began in 1995 as a fun and lighthearted holiday created by two friends, John Baur ("Ol' Chumbucket") and Mark Summers ("Cap'n Slappy"). The idea behind the day is to encourage people to speak in pirate lingo for fun, using expressions like "Arrr!" and "Ahoy, matey!"

While it started as a joke between friends, the holiday gained popularity when humor columnist Dave Barry mentioned it in a syndicated article in 2002. Since then, it has become an international phenomenon, with events, parties, and social media posts celebrating the pirate-speak.

The day is known for its playful spirit, with people dressing up in pirate costumes, organizing pirate-themed events, and even using it as a fundraiser for various charities.

18 September - Samuel Johnson birth anniversary

 

Samuel Johnson (born 18 September 1709 – died 13 December 1784) was a towering figure in English literature, best known for his contributions as a writer, poet, essayist, and lexicographer. He is most famous for compiling "A Dictionary of the English Language" in 1755, which became one of the most influential dictionaries in the history of the English language. Johnson's works also include literary criticism, political pamphlets, and a biography of his friend, the poet Richard Savage.

Born in Lichfield, Staffordshire, Johnson faced early struggles, including poverty and illness, yet his remarkable intellect and wit helped him rise to prominence. His literary club, known as The Club, included distinguished members like Edmund Burke and James Boswell, the latter of whom would go on to write Johnson's celebrated biography, "The Life of Samuel Johnson".

In addition to his lexicographical work, Johnson's essays, particularly those written for The Rambler and The Idler, showcased his moral philosophy and insight into human nature. Despite enduring bouts of depression and illness, he became a revered moral authority and a central figure in London’s literary scene. Johnson's legacy continues to influence English literature and lexicography to this day.

18 September - Operation Polo officially concluded

 

On 18 September 1948, Operation Polo officially concluded when the Indian Army accepted the surrender of the Nizam of Hyderabad's army, effectively ending the Nizam's rule and integrating Hyderabad into the Indian Union.

Key Points about Operation Polo:

1. Background: After India gained independence in 1947, most princely states acceded to either India or Pakistan. However, the Nizam of Hyderabad, the ruler of one of the largest and wealthiest princely states in India, wanted to remain independent and refused to join India. This led to escalating tensions between the Indian government and Hyderabad.

2. Operation Polo: In response to the growing unrest, including the actions of the Nizam's paramilitary force, the Razakars, and to prevent the risk of Hyderabad becoming a center for instability, India launched a military action on 13 September 1948. The operation was led by Major General J.N. Chaudhuri. Within five days, the Indian Army swiftly defeated the Nizam's forces.

3. Surrender: On 18 September 1948, the Nizam's forces officially surrendered to the Indian Army, marking the end of the operation and the annexation of Hyderabad into India.

4. Aftermath: The Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan, was retained as a ceremonial head for some time, and Hyderabad was integrated into the Indian Union. The successful conclusion of Operation Polo helped further solidify India's territorial integrity in the post-independence era.

Operation Polo is a significant event in Indian history, marking the resolution of the Hyderabad issue and the end of princely autonomy in the region.

18 September - Harvey Washington Wiley birth anniversary

 

Harvey Washington Wiley (18 September 1844 – 30 June 1930) was an American chemist who played a significant role in the early 20th century in advocating for food safety and the regulation of the food and drug industry. Here are key points about Harvey W. Wiley:

1. Pure Food and Drug Act: Wiley is best known for his work in advocating for the passage of the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906. This landmark legislation aimed to ensure the safety and purity of food and drugs sold to consumers.

2. Chief Chemist: Wiley served as the Chief Chemist of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) from 1883 to 1912. During his tenure, he conducted experiments known as the "Poison Squad" studies to investigate the effects of certain food additives and preservatives on human health.

3. Poison Squad Studies: Wiley's Poison Squad experiments involved volunteers who consumed food containing various chemical additives to study their effects. These studies helped raise awareness about the need for food safety regulations.

4. Resignation: Wiley's advocacy for food safety often put him at odds with certain industries. He resigned from his position at the USDA in 1912 due to conflicts over policy and disputes with his superiors.

5. Later Career: After leaving the USDA, Wiley continued to be involved in public health issues. He served as the President of Good Housekeeping magazine and remained an influential figure in the field of consumer protection.

6. Legacy: Harvey W. Wiley is remembered as a pioneer in the field of food safety and consumer protection. His efforts, along with the Pure Food and Drug Act, laid the groundwork for the establishment of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1930.

7. Wiley's Farm: In retirement, Wiley and his wife established a farm near Washington, D.C., known as "Wiley's Farm," where they promoted organic farming practices and hosted gatherings focused on health and nutrition.

Harvey W. Wiley's work significantly contributed to the establishment of regulations that protect consumers from harmful substances in food and drugs. His legacy continues to influence food and drug safety policies to this day.

 

17 September - Hank Williams birth annivesary

 

Hank Williams, born Hiram King Williams on 17 September 1923, in Mount Olive, Alabama, was a legendary American country music singer and songwriter. Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in country music history, Williams' career spanned a relatively short time due to his untimely death at 29, but his impact on the genre was immense.

Williams was known for his poignant, emotionally charged lyrics and his distinctive voice, which expressed both sorrow and joy. Some of his most famous songs include classics like "Your Cheatin' Heart," "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry," "Hey Good Lookin'," and "Cold, Cold Heart." His songs often dealt with themes of heartbreak, loneliness, and personal struggles, resonating deeply with listeners.

Despite his success, Williams struggled with health issues and alcoholism, which ultimately contributed to his death on 01 January 1953. His legacy endures, and he remains a towering figure in country music, inspiring generations of musicians.

17 September - The Battle of Antietam

 

The Battle of Antietam, also known as the Battle of Sharpsburg, was a significant engagement fought during the American Civil War. It took place on 17 September 1862, near Sharpsburg, Maryland. The battle is notable for being the single bloodiest day in American military history, with approximately 23,000 casualties on both sides.

Key points about the Battle of Antietam include:

1. Background: In the summer of 1862, the Confederate Army, led by General Robert E. Lee, crossed the Potomac River and entered Maryland. Lee hoped that a successful campaign in the North would strengthen the Confederacy diplomatically and discourage Union support for the war.

2. Union and Confederate Forces: The Union Army of the Potomac, commanded by Major General George McClellan, intercepted Lee's army near the town of Sharpsburg. The two armies faced off along Antietam Creek.

3. Battle: The battle unfolded in three main phases—morning, midday, and afternoon. The fighting was intense and took place at locations such as the Cornfield, Bloody Lane, and Burnside's Bridge. Despite heavy casualties on both sides, neither army gained a decisive advantage.

4. Outcome: The battle ended in a tactical draw, but it was a strategic opportunity lost for the Union. Lee's forces, though bloodied, were able to retreat back into Virginia. The Union had a numerical advantage, but McClellan's cautious approach and failure to exploit opportunities prevented a more significant victory.

5. Significance: The Battle of Antietam had important consequences. It gave President Abraham Lincoln the opportunity to issue the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that all slaves in Confederate-held territory were to be set free. Additionally, the battle had a psychological impact, as it demonstrated that the Union army could stand up to and fight the Confederate forces.

6. Casualties: The casualties from Antietam were staggering, with around 12,410 Union soldiers and 10,700 Confederate soldiers killed, wounded, or missing. The total number of casualties exceeded 23,000.

The Battle of Antietam is considered a pivotal moment in the Civil War and is often seen as a precursor to later Union victories. The site is now preserved as Antietam National Battlefield, a part of the National Park Service.

 

17 September - Uncle Pai (Anant Pai) birth anniversary

 

 

Uncle Pai (Anant Pai), born on September 17, 1929, and passing away on February 24, 2011, was a beloved Indian writer, educator, and the creator of the iconic comic book series "Amar Chitra Katha" and "Tinkle." He was widely recognized for his immense contributions to children's literature and education in India.

Anant Pai's passion for storytelling and his dedication to preserving and sharing India's rich cultural and mythological heritage were the driving forces behind his work. He believed in making learning enjoyable and accessible for young readers. Through "Amar Chitra Katha" (which translates to "Immortal Picture Stories"), he introduced generations of Indian children to the country's history, mythology, and folk tales, using the medium of comics.

His other significant creation, "Tinkle" magazine, catered to a wide range of interests for young readers, featuring comic strips, stories, puzzles, and educational content. Uncle Pai's commitment to providing engaging, informative, and culturally relevant content for children left an indelible mark on Indian literature and education.

Uncle Pai's legacy lives on through the continued popularity of "Amar Chitra Katha" and "Tinkle," which remain cherished reading material for children and adults alike in India. His innovative approach to education and storytelling has left an enduring impact, fostering a love for India's culture and history among countless young minds.