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October 14, 2024 Holiday:

Columbus Day

Columbus Day is a federal holiday that commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492. The holiday is celebrated to honor the explorer's bravery and the impact of his voyage on the course of history. Traditionally, Columbus Day is marked with parades, cultural events, and educational activities that highlight the contributions of Italian-Americans, as well as the rich diversity of the Americas before Columbus' arrival. Many cities and towns also use this occasion to reflect on the complex legacy of Columbus and the indigenous peoples he encountered.

Learn more about Columbus Day
Holidays on October 14, 2024:

Thanksgiving (Canada)

Thanksgiving (Canada) - October 14, 2024. Join Canadian families in honoring the harvest season with a bountiful feast and reflections on the past year's blessings. more >>

Indigenous People's Day

Indigenous People's Day, October 14, 2024: Honoring Native American cultures, histories, and resilience, while acknowledging past struggles and working towards a more inclusive future. more >>

National Dessert Day

Indulge in sweet treats on National Dessert Day, October 14, 2024, and discover the art of dessert-making with new recipes and flavors. more >>

Native American Day

Native American Day, October 14, 2024: Honoring the rich cultural heritage and contributions of Native American communities, sharing stories, traditions, and achievements. more >>

National I Love You Day

National I Love You Day, 10/14/2024: Express love and gratitude with sweet messages, surprise gifts, and romantic getaways. more >>

Yorktown Victory Day

Yorktown Victory Day, October 14, 2024: Commemorating the pivotal American and French victory over the British, marking a turning point in the American Revolutionary War. more >>

American Indian Heritage Day

American Indian Heritage Day, October 14, 2024: Learn about the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of Native American communities, and discover their significant impact on US history and modern society. more >>

Fraternal Day

Discover the truth about Fraternal Day on October 14th, 2024 - is it a real holiday or just a myth? more >>

World Standards Day

World Standards Day, October 14, 2024: Learn how standardization makes our lives safer, more efficient, and sustainable. more >>
Birthdays on October 14:

Usher

46 Years Old

R&B superstar known for smooth vocals, catchy pop-infused beats, and iconic dance moves, with a career spanning over two decades and numerous chart-topping hits.

Roger Moore

Died in 2017, aged 89

A debonair actor who played the iconic role of James Bond in seven films, bringing charm and wit to the character, and also starred in the popular TV series "The Saint".

Ralph Lauren

85 Years Old

Founded the iconic luxury lifestyle brand synonymous with classic, preppy American style, renowned for its polo player logo and high-quality clothing and home goods.

Dwight D. Eisenhower

Died in 1969, aged 78

Led the Allied forces to victory in World War II and later served as President, maintaining peace and prosperity during the Cold War era. He's known for his strategic leadership an...

George Floyd

Died in 2020, aged 46

An African American man whose fatal encounter with a Minneapolis police officer sparked widespread protests and calls for racial justice and police reform. He has become a symbol o...

Stephen A. Smith

57 Years Old

Outspoken sports commentator and analyst, known for his passionate debates and opinions on ESPN's First Take.

Steve Coogan

59 Years Old

A renowned comedic actor, writer, and producer, best known for his iconic character Alan Partridge and numerous film and TV roles.

Natalie Maines

50 Years Old

Lead vocalist of the Dixie Chicks, known for her powerful country-pop voice and outspoken lyrics that often tackle social and political issues.

John Wooden

Died in 2010, aged 99

Legendary basketball coach who led UCLA to 10 NCAA championships and is renowned for his "Pyramid of Success" philosophy. He is a symbol of excellence and integrity in sports.

Jay Pharoah

37 Years Old

An American actor and comedian known for his impressive celebrity impressions and six-season stint as a cast member on Saturday Night Live. He's also a talented stand-up comedian a...

W. Edwards Deming

Died in 1993, aged 93

A pioneer in quality control and management, he developed the 14 Points for Management and the Seven Deadly Diseases, revolutionizing industrial production and business practices.

Cliff Richard

84 Years Old

A legendary British pop icon, known for his enduring music career spanning over 60 years, with hits like "Summer Holiday" and "Living Doll", and a charismatic stage presence.

Events from History on October 14:
62 years ago
Soviet missiles discovered in Cuba, sparking crisis (Cuba) 1962
It was a regular dawn patrol for the American U-2 reconnaissance aircraft, soaring high above the Cuban landscape, but what the cameras captured would shatter the morning calm. grainy black-and-white images revealed the unmistakable silhouettes of Soviet ballistic missiles being installed on the island, merely 90 miles from the United States. This was no drill – the world had just stumbled into the Cuban Missile Crisis. Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev's clandestine operation had been exposed, putting the superpowers on a catastrophic collision course.
958 years ago
King Harold falls to William, Duke of Normandy (Battle Abbey, Battle, East Sussex, England, TN33 0SL, UK) 1066
The fate of England hangs in the balance as the mighty armies of King Harold of England and William, Duke of Normandy, clash in a bloody battle on Senlac Hill. The English lines, weary from their recent victory over the Norwegians, are no match for the Norman cavalry and archers. As the day wears on, King Harold falls, and with him, the English resistance crumbles. William, soon to be crowned the Conqueror, claims the throne, ushering in a new era of French-speaking rulers and a cultural upheaval that will forever redefine the course of English history.
218 years ago
Napoleon defeats Prussia at Battle of Jena-Auerstedt (Jena, Germany) 1806
Napoleon's military genius was on full display as his French army clashed with Prussia's forces in a dual battle that would go down in history. While Napoleon's troops battled Prussian forces under King Frederick William III at Jena, Marshal Louis-Nicolas Davout's corps simultaneously engaged the Prussian army at Auerstedt. Despite being outnumbered, Napoleon's tactical brilliance and clever use of reserves led to a crushing defeat for the Prussians, shattering their army and paving the way for French occupation of Prussia.
60 years ago
Martin Luther King Jr. wins Nobel Peace Prize (Oslo, Norway) 1964
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s tireless crusade against racial inequality through nonviolent means has earned him the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize! On October 14, 1964, the Norwegian Nobel Committee recognized King's courageous leadership in the civil rights movement, acknowledging the significant impact of his philosophy of nonviolent resistance. As a beacon of hope, King's message of love, justice, and equality continues to inspire generations worldwide.
85 years ago
German U-boat sinks British battleship in harbor (Scapa Flow, Orkney Islands, Scotland, UK) 1939
In the early morning darkness, Kapitänleutnant Günther Prien, commander of the German submarine U-47, navigated through the treacherous waters of Scapa Flow, Scotland, on a mission to infiltrate the British naval base. His target was the HMS Royal Oak, a 29,000-ton battleship anchored in the harbor. Prien expertly maneuvered his submarine to within firing range and launched three torpedoes, striking the Royal Oak with devastating effect. The battleship sank in mere minutes, claiming the lives of 833 British sailors and marking a stunning victory for the German Kriegsmarine.
30 years ago
Yasser Arafat, Rabin, Peres receive Nobel Peace Prize (Oslo, Norway) 1994
In a bold step towards Middle East peace, Israeli leaders Yitzhak Rabin and Shimon Peres, along with Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat, were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their groundbreaking Oslo Accords, paving the way for Palestinian self-government. This historic recognition cemented their commitment to ending decades of conflict, acknowledging their courageous efforts to establish a framework for peace and mutual recognition.
Notable Deaths on October 14:
2022Robbie Coltrane Versatile actor who brought characters to life
1977Bing Crosby American singer-songwriter and actor who captivated audiences with his smooth vocals
1990Leonard Bernstein American composer and conductor who composed famous musical works
1997Harold Robbins American author who wrote bestselling romance novels
2010Benoit Mandelbrot Groundbreaking mathematician and economist who founded a new field of fractal geometry
2009Lou Albano Legendary wrestler, entertaining crowds with charisma and athleticism.
1959Errol Flynn Australian-American actor, singer, and producer who captured the hearts of audiences through his charm and charisma.
2014Elizabeth Peña Entertaining actress who stole the spotlight
2019Sulli Rise to fame as a K-pop sensation who mesmerized audiences
1998Cleveland Amory Noted author and social critic, advocating for animal welfare and speaking out against cruelty.
1998Frankie Yankovic Renowned accordionist, bringing traditional Slovenian music to the world stage.
2006Gerry Studds Long-serving politician and educator, advocating for social justice and education.
1976Edith Evans English actress renowned for her versatility and impressive stage presence
2012Arlen Specter American politician and lawyer who served with dedication and distinction
1944Erwin Rommel German field marshal who earned fame and respect for his military strategies.
1986Keenan Wynn American actor who appeared in a wide range of films and television shows
1999Julius Nyerere Tanzanian statesman and educator, instrumental in establishing his country's independence and governance.
2006Freddy Fender Mexican-American musician, blending rock, country, and blues, with a soulful voice.
2012John Clive Versatile English actor and author, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment world
2009Collin Wilcox American actress, bringing characters to life on stage and screen.