July 22: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
On this day in 1951, history reached for the stars when Dezik and Tsygan became the first dogs to successfully complete a sub-orbital spaceflight and return safely to Earth.
Quick Facts for July 22
- Zodiac sign: Cancer
- Day of year: 203
About July 22
While the cosmos was being explored by pioneering animals, the literary world was being shaped by the pen of William Shakespeare. In 1598, the Stationers' Register officially recorded 'The Merchant of Venice,' a move that occurred under the strict licensing decrees of Queen Elizabeth I to maintain royal control over published works.
The day also holds significant weight for Southeast Asian history. In 1963, the territory of Sarawak transitioned into a period of self-governance as a Crown Colony, marking a vital step in its political evolution. Whether looking at the stars or the shifting borders of nations, July 22 is a day defined by profound transitions.
Holidays & Observances on July 22
- Sarawak Independence Day (Sarawak, Malaysia)
Fun & National Days on July 22
- Hammock Day — Find a shady spot and swing gently into total relaxation.
- National Mango Day — Celebrate this tropical fruit by enjoying a juicy, fresh slice.
- National BLT Sandwich Day — Treat yourself to the classic combination of bacon, lettuce, and tomato.
- Pi Approximation Day — Celebrate math by using 3.14 to approximate the value of pi.
- Lion's Share Day
- National Penuche Fudge Day
- National Ratcatcher's Day
- Spoonerism Day
- Summer Leisure Day
On This Day in History
- 1099 — Godfrey of Bouillon was chosen as the initial Defender of the Holy Sepulchre following the establishment of the Kingdom of Jerusalem.
- 1298 — During the Wars of Scottish Independence, King Edward I utilized his longbowmen to defeat William Wallace at the Battle of Falkirk.
- 1456 — John Hunyadi successfully defended the Kingdom of Hungary by defeating the Ottoman forces during the Siege of Belgrade.
- 1598 — The play 'The Merchant of Venice' was officially entered into the Stationers' Register under royal licensing oversight.
- 1706 — Commissioners from Scotland and England reached an agreement on the Acts of Union, paving the way for Great Britain's creation.
- 1793 — Alexander Mackenzie achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first person to complete a recorded transcontinental crossing of North America.
- 1833 — The British House of Commons approved the Slavery Abolition Act, beginning the process of ending slavery throughout most of the Empire.
- 1894 — The world's inaugural motor race took place in France, traveling between Paris and Rouen with Albert Lemaître taking the official win.
- 1933 — Aviator Wiley Post completed a historic feat by finishing the first solo flight around the globe in under eight days.
- 1951 — In a major milestone for space exploration, Dezik and Tsygan became the first dogs to fly into space and return alive.
- 1977 — China saw a major political shift when the influential leader Deng Xiaoping was restored to his position of power.
- 2019 — India launched the Chandrayaan-2 mission, featuring a lunar orbiter, lander, and rover to explore the moon's surface.
Famous Birthdays on July 22
- 1849 — Emma Lazarus, The celebrated American poet and educator known for her profound literary contributions.
- 1882 — Edward Hopper, A highly influential American painter known for his evocative and realistic style.
- 1940 — Alex Trebek, The iconic Canadian-American television personality who hosted the legendary game show Jeopardy!.
- 1955 — Willem Dafoe, The acclaimed American actor celebrated for his versatile and intense performances.
- 1992 — Selena Gomez, The globally recognized American singer and actress with massive pop culture influence.
- 2013 — Prince George of Wales, A prominent member of the British Royal Family and heir to the throne.