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October 26, 2026 Holiday:

National Day of the Deployed

National Day of the Deployed is a special holiday that honors the brave men and women who are currently serving our country away from their families and loved ones. This day is dedicated to recognizing the sacrifices they make to protect our freedom and keep us safe. It's a time for Americans to come together and show their appreciation for the deployed troops, often through gestures such as sending care packages, writing letters, and offering words of encouragement. Many organizations and communities also host events and fundraisers to support the troops and their families. By celebrating National Day of the Deployed, we can express our gratitude for the selfless service of these heroes and remind them that they are not forgotten.

Learn more about National Day of the Deployed
Holidays on October 26, 2026:

National Pumpkin Day

National Pumpkin Day, October 26, 2026: Embrace the spirit of fall with pumpkin decorations, treats, and activities! more >>

National Chicken Fried Steak Day

National Chicken Fried Steak Day, October 26, 2026: Indulge in tender, crispy comfort food and share secret recipes with loved ones. more >>

Intersex Awareness Day

Intersex Awareness Day, October 26, 2026: Learn about the experiences and challenges of intersex individuals, and how you can promote understanding and acceptance. more >>

Horseless Carriage Day

Discover the truth about Horseless Carriage Day on October 26, 2026. Is it a real holiday or just a myth? Find out with our expert's investigation. more >>

National Mincemeat Day

National Mincemeat Day, 10/26/2026: Discover the sweet and tangy world of traditional mincemeat desserts, recipes, and modern twists. more >>

Howl At The Moon Day

Howl At The Moon Day: Let loose and connect with nature on October 26, 2026, as you unleash your wild side and howl at the moon! more >>

National Mule Day

National Mule Day, October 26, 2026, discover the fascinating world of mules, their intelligence, hard work, and special bond with humans. more >>

National Financial Crime Fighter Day

National Financial Crime Fighter Day, October 26, 2026: Honoring heroes who prevent and combat financial crimes, promoting financial security and awareness. more >>

Texas Chicken Fried Steak Day

Texas Chicken Fried Steak Day, 10/26/2026. Savor the flavors of the Lone Star State's signature dish on this mouthwatering holiday. more >>

Birthdays on October 26:

Hillary Clinton

78 Years Old

A highly influential American politician and diplomat who served as Secretary of State and First Lady, known for her advocacy on women's rights and international diplomacy.

Seth MacFarlane

52 Years Old

Creator of iconic animated TV shows and films, including Family Guy and Ted, known for his witty humor and satire.

Pat Sajak

79 Years Old

Long-time host of the popular game show Wheel of Fortune, known for his witty humor and charismatic on-screen presence.

CM Punk

47 Years Old

A professional wrestler turned mixed martial artist and actor, known for his outspoken personality and rebellious attitude, which resonated with fans worldwide. He's a crossover st...

Keith Urban

58 Years Old

A country music superstar and hit songwriter, known for blending rock and pop elements into his guitar-driven sound, with a slew of chart-topping albums and singles.

Bob Hoskins

Died in 2014, aged 71

A talented actor, singer, and director who brought beloved characters to life in films like "Who Framed Roger Rabbit" and "Hook". He's iconic for his versatility and memorable perf...

Cary Elwes

63 Years Old

A charming and versatile actor, known for his iconic roles in cult classics like The Princess Bride and Robin Hood: Men in Tights.

Jaclyn Smith

80 Years Old

Star of the iconic 1970s-80s TV series "Charlie's Angels," known for her glamorous on-screen presence and enduring popularity as a cultural icon.

Sasha Cohen

41 Years Old

Three-time World Championship medalist and 2006 Olympic silver medalist in ladies' singles figure skating, known for her artistic expression and technical skill.

Jon Heder

48 Years Old

Star of the 2004 comedy film Napoleon Dynamite, known for his quirky, offbeat humor and memorable characters.

Dylan McDermott

64 Years Old

Star of TV's "The Practice" and films like "Steel Magnolias," he's a versatile actor with a knack for playing complex characters.

James Pickens Jr.

71 Years Old

Star of TV's Grey's Anatomy, playing Dr. Richard Webber, a seasoned surgeon and mentor, bringing warmth and gravitas to the role.

Events from History on October 26:
82 years ago
The Japanese navy, led by Admiral Kurita, launched a bold surprise attack on the Allied forces, but American Admiral Halsey's Task Force 38 swooped in to save the day, sinking multiple Japanese ships, including four aircraft carriers. The Battle of Leyte Gulf marked a crucial turning point in the war, crippling Japan's naval power and paving the way for the Allied forces' victory in the Philippines.
166 years ago
Garibaldi's conquests unify Italy under King Victor Emmanuel. (Palazzo Reale, Naples, Campania, 80132, Italy) 1860
Giuseppe Garibaldi, the charismatic Italian revolutionary, marched into the royal court of King Victor Emmanuel of Sardinia, proudly presenting his conquests to the monarch. This historic moment marked the culmination of the Expedition of the Thousand, a daring campaign that saw Garibaldi lead a Volunteer Army of a thousand men into the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. With his triumphant return, Garibaldi effectively unified Italy under one rule, paving the way for a new era in Italian history. The king, impressed by Garibaldi's bravery and charisma, welcomed the rebel leader and his men, acknowledging the unification of Italy. This pivotal meeting forever changed the course of Italian history, as the nation took its first steps towards becoming the country we know today.
79 years ago
In the treacherous landscape of post-British India, Maharaja Hari Singh of Kashmir and Jammu found himself caught between the rival claims of India and Pakistan. With his kingdom's strategic location and rich resources, the Maharaja's decision would have far-reaching consequences. Under intense pressure, he signed the Instrument of Accession with India, effectively joining the newly formed nation and sparking a chain reaction of events that would fuel the first Indo-Pakistani War. Pakistan, feeling betrayed, responded with force, and the Kashmir conflict was born. This fateful decision would simmer beneath the surface, periodically boiling over into violence, shaping the region's turbulent future.
25 years ago
In a whirlwind 45-day legislative sprint, the United States government responded to the devastating 9/11 attacks by drafting and passing the USA PATRIOT Act, a sweeping anti-terrorism law that dramatically expanded surveillance powers of law enforcement agencies. The bipartisan bill, crafted by Senators Tom Daschle and Patrick Leahy, granted the FBI and other agencies unprecedented authority to gather intelligence, intercept communications, and share information. While proponents hailed the law as a vital tool in the War on Terror, civil libertarians warned of a slippery slope towards government overreach and erosion of individual freedoms.
49 years ago
In the scorching desert of Somalia, a young man named Ali Maow Maalin unwittingly became a hero in the fight against infectious diseases. His bout of smallpox, which developed into a rash, would be the last naturally occurring case of the dreaded disease. This milestone marked the culmination of a global effort led by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), proving that concerted vaccination efforts could vanquish even the most resilient of foes.
32 years ago
Israel and Jordan sign historic peace treaty (Wadi Araba, Jordan/Israel border) 1994
In a groundbreaking moment of diplomacy, King Hussein of Jordan and Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin put aside decades of enmity to ink a peace treaty, marking a major milestone in Middle Eastern relations. After years of secretive talks, the two leaders gathered in the Arava Desert, surrounded by dignitaries and media, to formally end the 46-year state of war between their nations. The treaty paved the way for normalized relations, the establishment of diplomatic missions, and cooperation on issues like trade, tourism, and water management. This momentous occasion raised hopes for a broader regional peace and cemented Rabin's reputation as a champion of reconciliation.
Notable Deaths on October 26:
1999Hoyt Axton Talented American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and actor celebrated for his versatile music career
2008Tony Hillerman Award-winning author and storyteller, weaving tales of intrigue and suspense
1944Princess Beatrice of the United Kingdom Royal family connection
2021Roh Tae-woo Iconic statesman and respected military leader
1965Sylvia Likens American murder victim whose tragic story highlighted child abuse
1932Margaret Brown Philanthropist and activist who worked tirelessly to support various social and humanitarian causes
2014Mo Collins South African soccer goalkeeper
2013Al Johnson Eritrean Orthodox priest
1957Nikos Kazantzakis Illuminated philosophical minds
2015Leo Kadanoff Groundbreaking academic and theoretical genius in the field of physics
1962Louise Beavers Legendary American actress known for her Golden Age of Hollywood work
2004Bobby Ávila Mexican baseball player and politician celebrated for his multifaceted career and public service
1890Carlo Collodi Spanish singer and songwriter
1952Hattie McDaniel Shone on the silver screen
1989Charles J. Pedersen Chemist and Nobel laureate who synthesized complex molecules
2014Oscar Taveras Dominican diamond pioneer and budding baseball phenomenon
1979Park Chung Hee South Korean general and politician who led the country's rapid development
1957Gerty Cori Unlocking secrets of life
1984Gus Mancuso American baseball legend with a storied coaching career
1931Charles Comiskey American baseball player and manager who led teams to multiple championships