People and Events on February 1, 2005

No famous people were born on this date, but there may be notable events you would find interesting below.

A Day of Power Grabs and Celestial Wonders: February 1st, 2005

February 1st, 2005, is etched in history as a day of significant political upheaval and remarkable celestial events. On this day, King Gyanendra of Nepal seized power in a bloodless coup, while the world witnessed a rare astronomical phenomenon.

Political Turmoil in Nepal

In the early hours of February 1st, 2005, King Gyanendra of Nepal dismissed the government and assumed absolute power, citing the need to quell a growing Maoist insurgency. This unexpected move came as a shock to the international community, and marked a significant shift in Nepal's political landscape.

Celestial Delight: Moon's Close Encounter with Earth

A few hours after the Nepalese coup, the Moon made its closest approach to Earth in nearly 20 years. This rare lunar event, known as a "supermoon," saw the Moon come within just 221,500 miles (356,400 kilometers) of our planet. The celestial spectacle was visible from around the world, captivating astronomers and enthusiasts alike.

Birthday Celebrations

February 1st, 2005, was also a special day for several notable individuals. Born on this day were:

Technology Milestone

On this day, the popular online encyclopedia, Wikipedia, celebrated its fourth anniversary. Founded on January 15, 2001, by Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger, Wikipedia had already become an invaluable resource for millions of users worldwide.

A Note on the Date

February 1st, 2005, was also the 32nd day of the year and marked the beginning of Black History Month in the United States and Canada. The day is also recognized as National Freedom Day in the United States, commemorating the signing of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, which abolished slavery.

In conclusion, February 1st, 2005, was a day of significant events, marked by power struggles, celestial wonders, and notable birthdays. As we look back on this day, we are reminded of the complexities of human politics and the awe-inspiring beauty of the universe.

Noteworthy Events on this Day:
19 years ago
In the Himalayan kingdom of Nepal, King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev was not about to let democracy get in the way of his royal ambitions. In a shocking move, he dismissed the government, assumed the role of Chairman of the Council of Ministers, and declared a state of emergency, suspending civil liberties and restricting press freedom. The once-peaceful streets of Kathmandu reverberated with the sounds of sirens and army boots as the monarch's loyal forces seized control, virtually unchecked.