10 January - Sukumar Sen birth anniversary

 

Sukumar Sen was an Indian civil servant who served as the first Chief Election Commissioner of India. He played a crucial role in organizing the first general elections in independent India in 1952. Sukumar Sen was born on 10 January 1898, and he passed away on 19 February 1963.

10 January - National Save the Eagles Day USA

 

"National Save the Eagles Day" is a day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of protecting and preserving eagles, particularly endangered species. Eagles, known for their majestic presence and ecological significance, face various threats, including habitat loss, pollution, and illegal hunting.

The day serves as a reminder to promote conservation efforts, support initiatives that protect eagle habitats, and educate the public about the importance of these birds in maintaining a balanced ecosystem. Organizations and individuals often use this occasion to share information about the challenges faced by eagles and to encourage people to take actions that contribute to their conservation.

While "National Save the Eagles Day" is not a globally recognized holiday, various environmental organizations, bird conservation groups, and wildlife enthusiasts may organize events or activities to observe this day and promote eagle conservation. The date for such observances may vary, but the intention is consistent – to foster awareness and conservation efforts for these magnificent birds.

10 January - Job Charnock (founder of the city of Kolkata (Calcutta), India.) death anniversary

 

Job Charnock (c. 1630–1693) was an English merchant and the widely accepted founder of the city of Kolkata (Calcutta), India. Here are some key points about Job Charnock:

1. Early Life: Job Charnock's exact birthdate is not known, but he was likely born around 1630 in London, England.

2. East India Company: Charnock was associated with the English East India Company, a trading company that played a significant role in the East Indies trade during the 17th and 18th centuries.

3. Establishment of Calcutta: Charnock is credited with establishing a settlement in the Bengal region, which later grew into the city of Calcutta (now Kolkata). In the late 17th century, he selected the site for a trading post along the Hooghly River.

4. Trade and Diplomacy: Charnock was involved in trade and diplomacy with the local rulers. The English East India Company's presence in Bengal grew under his leadership.

5. Death and Burial: Job Charnock passed away on January 10, 1693. He was initially buried in the Job Charnock Mausoleum, but the exact location of his grave became uncertain over time.

6. Controversies: Charnock's role in the founding of Calcutta has been the subject of historical debates. While he is widely regarded as a key figure, some controversies exist regarding whether he was the sole founder or if others played significant roles.

Job Charnock's influence on the development of British trade and settlement in India, particularly in the Bengal region, is historically significant. Kolkata, one of India's major cities, has its roots in the trading post established by Charnock in the late 17th century.

 

10 January - Inaugural session of the United Nations General Assembly 1946

 

The inaugural session of the United Nations General Assembly took place on January 10, 1946, it occurred at the Central Hall in Westminster, London, United Kingdom. The venue was chosen due to the ongoing renovation of the UN headquarters in New York.

This historic event marked the beginning of a new era in international diplomacy, as representatives from various countries gathered to discuss and address global issues. The United Nations was officially established on October 24, 1945, with its headquarters in New York City, but the initial General Assembly meeting was held in London.

 

10 January - John Matthai birth anniversary

 

John Matthai (1886–1959) was an Indian economist, politician, and statesman. He was born on 10 January 1886, in Nagercoil, Madras Presidency, British India (now in Tamil Nadu, India). Matthai played a significant role in the economic development of India and held various important positions in the government.

Some key points about John Matthai include:

1. Education: He studied at Madras Christian College and later at Cambridge University.

2. Career: Matthai served as the Diwan of the erstwhile princely state of Travancore from 1936 to 1947. He was known for his administrative abilities and economic policies during this period.

3. Contribution to Economic Planning: Post-independence, Matthai played a crucial role in India's economic planning. He was associated with the Planning Commission and contributed to the planning process for the development of the Indian economy.

4. Political Career: Matthai was also involved in politics and held positions in the Indian government. He served as the Finance Minister of India from 1955 to 1957.

5. Legacy: John Matthai is remembered for his contributions to economic planning and his efforts to shape India's economic policies during a crucial period in its history.

 

09 January - India’s first scientific expedition to Antarctica in 1982

 

India’s first scientific expedition to Antarctica on 9 January 1982 was a landmark event, initiated under the leadership of Dr. S. Z. Qasim, then Secretary of the Department of Environment. This mission marked India’s formal entry into Antarctic exploration and scientific research, positioning the country on the global stage of polar studies. Here are more details:

Background:

• India had been preparing for Antarctic expeditions since the 1970s, driven by the need to explore the southern polar region's geophysical and environmental significance.
• The primary goals were to conduct geological, glaciological, and oceanographic studies and to assert India's presence in the Antarctic region.

The Expedition:

• Team Composition: The expedition included a team of 21 members comprising scientists, engineers, and support staff from multiple disciplines.
• Logistics: The expedition utilized the Norwegian ship M.S. Polar Circle, which transported the team and their equipment to Antarctica.
• Base Location: The team set up a temporary camp near the coast of Queen Maud Land.

Key Outcomes:

1. Dakshin Gangotri:

   • In 1983, as a follow-up to the first mission, Dakshin Gangotri, India's first permanent Antarctic research base, was established.
   • It served as a supply base and research station until it was buried under snow and decommissioned.

2. Scientific Research:

   • The expedition conducted pioneering research in geology, oceanography, and meteorology.
   • It provided critical data about Antarctica’s environment, which contributed to global studies on climate and sea-level changes.

3. Antarctic Treaty:

   • India became a signatory to the Antarctic Treaty System (ATS) in 1983, following the success of the expedition. This ensured India's role in the governance of the Antarctic region.

Legacy:

India’s Antarctic program has since expanded significantly, with two operational research stations:

• Maitri (established in 1989): Focuses on geological and environmental studies.
• Bharati (operational since 2012): Supports climate change, glaciological, and biological research.

The first expedition on 9 January 1982 was a critical step in India's journey toward becoming a key player in polar research and understanding global environmental systems.

09 January - Richard Nixon birth anniversary

 

Richard Milhous Nixon was the 37th President of the United States. Here is a brief overview of Richard Nixon's life and presidency:

1. Early Life:

   • Born on 09 January 1913, in Yorba Linda, California.
   • Graduated from Whittier College and later attended Duke University School of Law.

2. Military Service:

   • Served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

3. Political Career:

   • Elected as a U.S. Representative from California in 1946.
   • Served as a U.S. Senator from California from 1950 to 1953.
   • Elected as Vice President under Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1952 and served from 1953 to 1961.

4. 1960 Presidential Election:

   • Ran for President in 1960 but lost to John F. Kennedy in a closely contested election.

5. 1968 Presidential Election:

   • Elected President in 1968, defeating Hubert Humphrey.
   • Promised to restore law and order and to bring an end to the Vietnam War.

6. Vietnam War:

   • Implemented a policy of Vietnamization, gradually withdrawing U.S. troops and transferring responsibility to South Vietnamese forces.
   • Expanded the conflict into Cambodia, leading to protests and controversy.

7. Domestic Policies:

   • Introduced policies known as the "Nixon Doctrine," emphasizing self-reliance for U.S. allies.
   • Signed the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act into law, initiating environmental protections.

8. Opening Relations with China:

   • Made a historic visit to the People's Republic of China in 1972, leading to improved diplomatic relations.

9. Détente and Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT):

   • Pursued a policy of détente with the Soviet Union, easing Cold War tensions.
   • Signed the Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty (SALT I) with the Soviet Union in 1972.

10. Watergate Scandal:

    • The Watergate scandal unfolded during Nixon's second term.
    • The break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters in the Watergate building led to investigations and revelations of a cover-up.
    • Facing impeachment, Nixon became the first U.S. president to resign from office on August 8, 1974.

11. Post-Presidential Years:

    • Pardoned by his successor, Gerald Ford, for any crimes he may have committed while in office.
    • Wrote his memoirs and engaged in foreign policy discussions.

12. Death:

    • Richard Nixon passed away on 22 April 1994, in New York City.

Richard Nixon's legacy is complex, featuring both notable achievements in foreign policy and domestic initiatives, as well as the stain of the Watergate scandal and his resignation from the presidency.

 

09 January - Carrie Chapman Catt birth anniversary

 

Carrie Chapman Catt ( 09 January  1859 – 09 March 1947) was an American women's suffrage leader and political activist. She played a significant role in the women's suffrage movement in the United States and was a key figure in the fight for women's right to vote.

Catt served as the president of the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA) and later played a crucial role in the establishment of the League of Women Voters. She was a skilled organizer and speaker, and her strategic approach helped mobilize support for the suffrage cause.

Carrie Chapman Catt was instrumental in the final push for the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the United States Constitution, which granted women the right to vote. The amendment was ratified in 1920, and Catt continued her work in advocating for women's rights and international peace throughout her life.

 

09 January - Queen Elizabeth sank in 1972

 

Queen Elizabeth, any one of three ships belonging to the British Cunard Line that successfully crossed over from the age of the transatlantic ocean liner to the age of the global cruise ship.

RMS Queen Elizabeth, ocean liner of the Cunard–White Star line. It was launched in 1938 as the sister ship to the Queen Mary and served as a wartime troop transport, transatlantic ocean liner, and cruise ship until 1968. It burned during refitting in Hong Kong in 1972.

The first Queen Elizabeth, which was the sister ship of the Queen Mary, was one of the largest passenger liners ever built. Launched in 1938 and used as a troopship during World War II, it entered the regular transatlantic service of the Cunard Line in 1946. The ship was 1,031 feet (314 metres) long and 118.5 feet (36 metres) wide and had a draft of 38 feet (11.6 metres) and an original gross tonnage of 83,673. The Queen Elizabeth was retired in 1968 and sold for conversion to a seagoing university, but it burned and sank on 09 January 1972 during refitting at Hong Kong.

09 January - The first autogiro flight

 

The first autogiro flight took place on 09 January 1923, and it was conducted by the Spanish engineer and pilot Juan de la Cierva. An autogiro, or autogyro, is an aircraft that uses an unpowered rotor for lift, and an engine-powered propeller for thrust. It is a predecessor to the modern helicopter.

Juan de la Cierva's autogiro design was a significant breakthrough in aviation. The aircraft, named the "C.4" or "Autogiro," featured a rotor that was not powered but spun freely during flight. This rotor provided lift, and forward propulsion was achieved by an engine-driven propeller. The autogiro's ability to take off and land in short distances without the need for a runway was a notable advantage.

The successful first flight of the autogiro marked a milestone in aviation history, leading to further developments in rotorcraft technology and contributing to the eventual evolution of the modern helicopter.