18 November - Remembrance Day of the Sacrifice of Vukovar in 1991 (Croatia)

 

The Remembrance Day of the Sacrifice of Vukovar in 1991 is observed annually in Croatia on 18 November This solemn day commemorates the suffering and heroism of the city of Vukovar and its defenders during the Homeland War (Croatian War of Independence).

Historical Context:

• Siege of Vukovar:
  The siege lasted from August 25 to November 18, 1991, during which the Yugoslav People's Army (JNA) and Serbian paramilitary forces heavily bombarded the city. Vukovar was left in ruins, and thousands of civilians and soldiers were killed or displaced.

• Fall of Vukovar:
  On November 18, 1991, Vukovar fell to the JNA after months of relentless fighting. The city's fall symbolized immense suffering and resistance and became a turning point in the war.

• Tragedies and War Crimes:
  After the occupation, atrocities were committed, including the massacre at the Ovčara farm, where over 200 Croatian prisoners were executed.

Significance of the Day:

1. Honoring Victims and Defenders:
   The day honors the courage of the city's defenders and the memory of those who lost their lives.

2. Symbol of National Unity and Resistance:
   Vukovar is a symbol of Croatia's fight for independence and the resilience of its people.

3. Reflection on Peace:
   It is also a time for reflection on the importance of peace, reconciliation, and the prevention of future conflicts.

Observances:

• Commemorative March:
  A "Procession of Remembrance" is held in Vukovar, where thousands walk from the Vukovar Hospital to the city's Memorial Cemetery.

• Lighting of Candles:
  Croatians across the country light candles in windows and public spaces as a sign of remembrance.

• Memorial Services:
  Religious services and ceremonies are conducted to honor the victims and pray for peace.

The Remembrance Day of the Sacrifice of Vukovar in 1991 is a deeply emotional and important event in Croatia, serving as a reminder of the cost of war and the enduring spirit of the Croatian people.

18 November - Major Shaitan Singh Bhati death anniversary

 

Major Shaitan Singh Bhati was an Indian Army officer who was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military decoration for valor, for his actions during the Sino-Indian War of 1962. Major Shaitan Singh was born on 01 December 1924 in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.

During the war, Major Shaitan Singh was in command of a company of the 13th Kumaon Regiment. His company was assigned the task of defending the strategic Rezang La pass in Ladakh. Despite being heavily outnumbered, Major Shaitan Singh and his men fought valiantly against the Chinese forces. He displayed exemplary leadership and courage, inspiring his troops to resist the enemy advance.

Major Shaitan Singh Bhati fought to the last, refusing to leave his position even when wounded. He succumbed to his injuries on November 18, 1962. His bravery and sacrifice in the face of overwhelming odds are remembered with deep respect, and he was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his extraordinary courage and leadership during the battle.

 

18 November - Nainital was discovered by P. Barron in 1839

 

Nainital was discovered by P. Barron, an European sugar merchant and an enthusiastic hunter from Rosa, near Shahjahanpur. He had no sooner caught a glimpse of the lake in its sylvan setting than he realized its potential as a hill resort and went full steam a colonizing it. Moved by the beauty of the sparkling lake he wrote: "It is by far the best site I have witnessed in the course of a 1,500 miles trek in the Himalayas".

Nainital history figures in ancient India too. In the Manas Khand of the Skand Puranas, Nainital Lake is called Tri-Rishi-Sarovar, hinting at the story of three sages (or rishis), Atri, Pulastya and Pulaha, who, upon finding no water in Nainital, dug a large hole at the location of the present day lake (sarovar = lake) and filled it with water from the holy lake Manasarovar in Tibet. According to lore, a dip in Naini Lake, “the lesser Manasarovar,” earns merit equal to a dip in the great lake.

It is also believed that The Naini Lake is one of the 64 Shakti Peeths, Sati’s eyes (or Nain) fell, came to be called Nain-tal or lake of the eye. The goddess Shakti is worshipped at the Naina Devi Temple on the north shore of the present day lake

18 November - The first push-button telephone came into service in 1963

 

The first push-button telephone system was introduced to the public on November 18, 1963. This system, known as the Bell System's Touch-Tone system, was first installed in Carnegie and Greensburg, Pennsylvania, by the American Telephone and Telegraph Company (AT&T).

The push-button telephone replaced the traditional rotary dial with a set of buttons, each representing a different number. The Touch-Tone system allowed for quicker and more convenient dialing, and it eventually became the standard for telephone systems worldwide. This innovation was a significant step forward in telecommunications technology and contributed to the modernization of telephone systems.

 

18 November - Mickey Mouse's birthday

Mickey Mouse's official birthday is recognized as November 18, 1928. This is the date when Mickey Mouse made his first appearance in the cartoon short film "Steamboat Willie," which premiered at the Colony Theatre in New York City. Created by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks, Mickey Mouse quickly became an iconic and beloved character, eventually becoming the mascot of The Walt Disney Company. Each year, fans around the world celebrate November 18 as Mickey Mouse's birthday, commemorating the debut of this cultural icon.

18 November - National Princess Day USA

 

National Princess Day comes around annually on November 18, so clear your schedule and prepare for a magical day of pampering and fabulousness. Everyone has a favorite princess (real or fake) and dreams of being treated like one (at least for a day). A dream is a wish your heart makes, and it’s time to make that wish come true. National Princess Day is all about celebrating just how fabulous we all are and pampering ourselves. We all deserve to be treated like princesses, even if it is just for a day! Princesses often tend to be associated with beautiful fairytales as well, so why not use this day to make your dreams come true? If there is something you have wanted to do for quite some time, make your heart’s desire a reality.

18 November - Walt Disney's "Steamboat Willie" released, first Mickey Mouse sound cartoon in 1928

 

Walt Disney's "Steamboat Willie," the first Mickey Mouse sound cartoon, was released on November 18, 1928. This cartoon is particularly notable because it marked the debut of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse and is considered a significant milestone in the history of animation. The characters were created by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks, and the success of "Steamboat Willie" played a pivotal role in establishing Mickey Mouse as a cultural icon.

17 November - World Prematurity Day

 

World Prematurity Day is observed annually on November 17 to raise awareness of preterm birth and the challenges faced by premature babies and their families. It is a globally recognized day to highlight the importance of providing support and care to these babies, who are born before 37 weeks of gestation, and to advocate for advancements in neonatal healthcare.

Key Facts:

1. Established:
   World Prematurity Day was first celebrated in 2011 as an initiative of the European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants (EFCNI) and other organizations working in neonatal care.

2. Significance:

   • Premature birth is a leading cause of death for children under five years of age.
   • The day emphasizes the need for resources, education, and research to prevent preterm births and improve care for preterm infants.

3. Theme:
   Each year, World Prematurity Day adopts a specific theme to focus on particular aspects of neonatal health and care. Themes often revolve around equity, family support, and innovation in medical care.

4. Color Symbol:
   The color purple is used to symbolize sensitivity and compassion for premature babies and their families.

Goals:

• Awareness: Increase understanding of the causes, consequences, and preventative measures related to preterm birth.
• Advocacy: Encourage governments and health organizations to invest in neonatal care and support.
• Support: Build a global community that provides emotional and practical assistance to affected families.

This day serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration in ensuring better outcomes for premature babies worldwide.

17 November - National Baklava Day United States

 

National Baklava Day is celebrated annually in the United States on November 17. This day honors the rich and flavorful pastry known as baklava, a dessert made with layers of flaky phyllo dough, nuts (such as pistachios or walnuts), and sweetened with syrup or honey. It is a treat loved for its unique combination of textures and tastes.

History of Baklava:

• Origins:
  Baklava's exact origins are debated, but it is widely believed to have originated in the Middle East or the Ottoman Empire. It has become a cherished dessert in countries across the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and Central Asia.

• Cultural Significance:
  Each region has its unique variation of baklava, reflecting local ingredients and traditions.

How to Celebrate:

1. Enjoy Baklava:
   Treat yourself to a slice of this delicious dessert from a local bakery or try making it at home. Many recipes are available to suit different tastes.

2. Share with Friends and Family:
   Baklava is often associated with gatherings and celebrations, making it perfect for sharing.

3. Explore Variations:
   Try different regional versions, such as Greek baklava with cinnamon or Turkish baklava made with pistachios and kaymak (clotted cream).

4. Learn About Its History:
   Use the day to explore the cultural heritage of baklava and its connection to various cuisines around the world.

National Baklava Day is a delightful occasion to indulge in this sweet, layered pastry and appreciate the culinary artistry that goes into making it.

17 November - Hubert Lyautey birth anniversary

 

Hubert Lyautey, full name Louis Hubert Gonzalve Lyautey, was born on 17 November 1854, in Nancy, France, and he passed away on  21 July 1934, in Thorey, France. Marshal Lyautey was a French Army general and colonial administrator, and he played a significant role in the development of Casablanca and other parts of the French colonial empire. His tenure as the Resident-General of the French Protectorate in Morocco from 1912 to 1925 involved extensive efforts to modernize and develop various aspects of Moroccan infrastructure, including the city of Casablanca.