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Post by pennmom on Dec 14, 2021 17:22:40 GMT
Monkey Day – December 14, 2021~U.S.
December 14 is Monkey Day! We may look just a bit different from our primate pals, but we shouldn’t forget that we share a common ancestor with them in chimpanzees! Warm up those vocal cords and get ready to unleash your wildest calls and cries in observance of this holiday, which celebrates not just monkeys, but everything simian.
HISTORY OF MONKEY DAY It’s a difficult task to pinpoint the exact moment that monkeys first emerged as a unique species within the animal kingdom, but it is believed that their appearance took place approximately 60 million years ago. This vast amount of time would pass, month by year by Millenia, both creeping and speeding along, without the existence of a National Monkey Day! At long last, though, thanks to two pioneering college students, this would change in the year 2000.
Casey Sorrow and Erik Millikin, both studying art at Michigan State University, are responsible for the creation of this simian-centric celebratory day. Sorrow (fittingly) would admit to the Detroit Metro Times that he experienced a form of malaise around the holiday season and felt compelled to find a way to combat these December blues. After jokingly jotting down “Monkey Day” in a friend’s calendar, Sorrow took the idea and ran with it: when December 14th rolled around, he and his art school friends dressed up as monkeys and ran amok, putting on their best monkey impressions.
They would go on to incorporate ideas related to their newly-formed holiday into their artwork and homemade comics. Publishing these pieces online allowed for the notion of a Monkey Day to spread, and now, decades on, the day is observed throughout the world in countries including Germany, India, and Thailand.
What started out as a bit of fun has evolved into a full-blown operation. Monkey Day serves as an important anniversary each year for raising awareness of modern threats to monkeys, with entities such as National Geographic, the Smithsonian Institution, and Greenpeace promoting the day. Sorrow and Millikin have also been instrumental in utilizing monkey-themed art as vehicles to serve this end, as well. Their work has brought an entirely new understanding to the term “monkey business!”
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Post by pennmom on Dec 14, 2021 17:24:54 GMT
Halcyon Days – December 14, 2021~U.S.
Halcyon Days technically fall in December around the time of the winter solstice each year. Their story goes back to Ancient Greece — of love, gods and goddesses, tragedy on the seas, and birds with magical powers. Halcyon Days are kind of unique as days go. They refer to a period of happiness and calm — especially in the past. Weather-wise, they are a time of calm during the winter, when storms do not occur. Although not a holiday per se, Halcyon Days are still wonderful because they define nostalgia and warmth. Just the premise behind it makes us love December even more. We’re already swimming in memories of those long summers or that eventful Thanksgiving. Remember incredible phases when everything seemed to click — love, work, and ? Through different seasons or reasons, Halcyon Days remind us of days when we were utterly content.
HISTORY OF HALCYON DAYS Think Halcyon Days, and it immediately transports us to happy spaces. Good times in college with friends. A period of success and calm at work. Everyone’s version of it may be different, but the general sentiment is universal.
Where did the term originate? Greek legend tells the story of a bird called the halcyon. These distinctive winged creatures were known to build floating nests in the middle of the Aegean Sea. But that’s not all. The ancient Greeks believed the halcyon could calm the sea’s waves when nesting. Fourteen days of nesting. Fourteen beautiful days of calm seas and weather. The halcyon’s nesting period usually coincided with the winter solstice, starting December 21 or 22. Skies would clear, and the weather, perfectly blissful during this time.
According to the Roman poet Ovid, halcyon was the goddess Alcyone (or Halcyone) who threw herself into the sea after her mortal husband (King Ceyx) drowned. On witnessing this, the gods transformed them into birds. Each year, Alycone’s father (Aeolus, the god of winds) would keep the winds calm a week before and after the solstice so the birds can lay their eggs peacefully.
As the myth traveled over centuries and across countries, it took on different interpretations. The English-speaking world first came to know of it around the 14th century through translated literary texts. By the 16th century, the word halcyon stopped referring to the nesting period of the halcyon and became a phrase. In “Henry VI,” Part I, Shakespeare used halcyon days to denote days of calm.
The figurative usage seems to have stuck since then. Currently, the phrase “halcyon days” means any period in the past characterized by extended joy. Despite the original Halcyon Days falling in the dead of winter, we now use the phrase to denote sunny, happy days.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 14, 2021 17:27:56 GMT
National Energy Conservation Day – December 14, 2021~India
Every year, India observes National Energy Conservation on December 14. The day is organized by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) – which operates under the Ministry of Power, aiming to present India’s stellar achievements in cost-efficient energy production and resource conservation. Further plans for the future are also discussed on this day, targeting holistic development as the main goal towards mitigation of climate change.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION DAY National Energy Conservation Day aims to generate awareness among the masses in India about the importance of saving energy. People are also kept in the loop on new courses of action and plans that are being formulated. Information is given on minimizing energy waste and how the public can do their part in conserving resources. Essentially, the main objective of the day is to reduce the use of energy and to encourage people to use it efficiently.
Formed under the Union Ministry of Power, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency – BEE, has been leading the celebrations of National Energy Conservation Day annually on December 14 since 1991. A constitutional body that falls under the Government of India, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency assists in the development and implementation of strategies and policies to reduce excessive consumption of energy. The committee also executed ‘The Energy Conservation Act’ in 2001.
As part of its awareness campaign, awards are distributed annually on this day in 56 sub-sectors of the country to recognize achievements in energy efficiency. The National Energy Conservation Awards Programme commends the efforts of the industry, institutions, and establishments ranging from power plants to hotels to shopping malls. Prizes are also awarded by the BEE to winners of the National Painting Competition centered on the theme of energy conservation.
India’s development sectors are flourishing, which leads to an increase in the demand for energy. It is expected that India’s resource requirements will double by the year 2030. The BEE strategizes and develops policies that will help decrease this demand by advocating the adoption of efficient measures for energy use.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 14, 2021 17:29:21 GMT
National Bouillabaisse Day – December 14, 2021~World
Happy National Bouillabaisse Day! Now say that three times fast. If you can’t, it’s okay — you can still have fun and enjoy this French stew on December 14. Bouillabaisse traces its roots all the way back to ancient Greece, and has made its way to the U.S. with many variations, including simpler versions. The main components are fish, including eel and shellfish, vegetables, and the broth. What makes this stew unique are the herbs and spices. Also, the broth and fish are served separately, accompanied by sliced bread with a rouille spread (think garlic mayonnaise). Bon appétit!
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Post by pennmom on Dec 14, 2021 17:33:42 GMT
National Alabama Day – December 14, 2021~U.S.
National Alabama Day is on December 14 each year. There’s so much to love about this day. It’s a homage to Alabama — a state steeped in fascinating history that significantly influenced the course of American history and politics. Alabama, with its beautiful people, landscapes, food, and culture, fought hard to join the Union. The state epitomizes Southern hospitality and warm nostalgia all around. A special day for an incredibly unique place — here’s to you, Alabama!
HISTORY OF NATIONAL ALABAMA DAY We know Alabama as the heart of America’s Deep South. Yet, this fascinating region comes with a long and rich history — both before and after it would become part of the United States. Before European settlers arrived here in the 16th century, Alabama was home to numerous indigenous peoples. The Spaniards were the first Europeans to explore the region, paving the way for other European countries to arrive.
The 250 years that followed saw numerous battles for control of the area among the French, British, and the Spanish. These events would culminate into the American War of Independence. What’s more, the foundations of the cotton economy began around this time — an institution that would go on to shape Alabama society, culture, and history.
Before joining the Union, Alabama was part of the Mississippi Territory. Up until then, Alabama was claimed by the colony of Georgia. As pressure to create two states mounted, Congress carved out a new Alabama territory from the east of the Mississippi Territory. William Wyatt Bibb was the region’s territorial governor.
Within two years, the Alabama territory grew in population and economy. Petitions for statehood soon became louder. Alabama’s shift to statehood began at a constitutional convention that took place in Huntsville. Six months later, Congress passed a resolution on December 14 granting statehood to Alabama — the only state added to the Union that year. Alabama joined the Union a few months before Maine and a year after Illinois. The town of Cahawba in Dallas County was the first capital, and William Wyatt Bibb became the state’s first governor.
Much later, the unassuming town of Montgomery in Alabama would set the stage for the Civil Rights Movement that swept the rest of the country and the world.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 14, 2021 17:36:39 GMT
Martyred Intellectuals Day – December 14, 2021~Bangladesh
In Bangladesh, Martyred Intellectuals Day is observed on 14 December. The day honors over 1,000 intellectuals killed by Pakistan forces during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. Just when victory was on the horizon, Pakistan abducted and brutally killed some of the best minds in Bangladesh (formerly East Pakistan). The aim was to annihilate the entire intellectual class of Bangladesh. Martyred Intellectuals Day ensures that the world never forgets the efforts and bravery of these exceptional individuals.
HISTORY OF MARTYRED INTELLECTUALS DAY The story behind one of the darkest days in Bangladesh’s history begins soon after India’s Independence from Britain in 1947. The British left behind a broken nation, both literally and figuratively. It was a time of great sorrow as the subcontinent split into two nations: India and Pakistan. The reasons for the division were purely religious. All Muslim-majority regions became Pakistan.
As India started building the foundations for a secular republic, Pakistan faced an impossible dilemma. Over 1,000 miles across lay East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh). Dominated by Bengalis, East Pakistan was culturally, socially, and linguistically distinct in every conceivable way. Being Muslim seemed their only common thread, albeit extremely thin.
Tensions rose between the two territories as West Pakistan sought absolute control. West Pakistan refused to accept “Bengali” as a state language. It was the beginning of sustained insults and slights towards Bengalis and their culture. The economic disparity between the two regions also became difficult to ignore.
Things came to a head in March 1971 during elections in East Pakistan. The Awami League Party based in East Pakistan won the elections. Yet, the Pakistan People’s Party (West Pakistan based) refused to hand over the reins. Violence ensued. The West Pakistan army went on the offensive. And thus, began the Bangladesh Liberation War, sparked by a rousing call for Bengali self-determination.
Sensing defeat, the West Pakistan forces dealt a final, crippling blow to East Pakistan. On December 14, 1971, the army abducted scores of East Pakistani intellectuals from their homes. They tortured and killed over 1000 people — namely, teachers, doctors, engineers, journalists, lawyers, and scientists. In a cruel twist, Pakistani forces surrendered just two days later, and an independent Bangladesh formed. Martyred Intellectuals Day honors the memory of these outstanding individuals who lost their lives for the idea of Bangladesh.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 15, 2021 16:29:36 GMT
Bill of Rights Day – December 15, 2021~U.S.
The Bill of Rights Day is observed on December 15 in the United States. It’s an important day to celebrate America’s Constitution and the framework of society that ascribes rights and freedoms to society. Bill of Rights Day commemorates the ratification of the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution, with the National Archives documenting its many celebrations of the day. The Bill was introduced by James Madison, who later became the fourth President of the United States. Now, The Bill of Rights is displayed in The Rotunda of the National Archives Building in Washington, D.C., as a reminder to all Americans of their constitutional freedoms.
HISTORY OF BILL OF RIGHTS DAY The first amendments to the Constitution were ratified on December 15, 1791. The 10 amendments protect the most basic rights of Americans, known as the Bill of Rights. It consists of notions like freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of the press, the right to protest, and equal protection under the law. Other amendments include the right to bear arms, protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, and so forth.
Former President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued a proclamation that dedicated December 15 as Bill of Rights Day. This was made in honor of the Constitution and to celebrate the document’s 150th anniversary. The first Bill of Rights Day took place just eight days after the Pearl Harbor attack and America’s entry into World War II.
In a historic radio address, President Roosevelt made an opening for the first Bill of Rights Day in 1941. He stated, “No date in the long history of freedom means more to liberty-loving men in all liberty-loving countries than the 15th day of December 1791.” Roosevelt also mentioned that there isn’t a country across the globe that hasn’t felt the effects of the Bill of Rights, directly or indirectly. Hitler and the Nazis in Germany were denounced during the famous speech, for taking away individual freedoms.
President Harry Truman issued another proclamation five years later in 1946 after Congress requested to observe Bill of Rights Day again. World War II had come to an end just a year before, in 1945. But it wasn’t until 1952 that President Truman proclaimed the Bill of Rights Day to be observed every year. The proclamation is usually coupled with a proclamation on Human Rights Day and Week.
In 2019, President Donald Trump proclaimed December 15 as Bill of Rights Day again. “During Human Rights Day, Bill of Rights Day, and Human Rights Week, we celebrate the Bill of Rights for safeguarding our God-given rights and protecting us from the abuse of government power,” Trump noted. “I call upon the people of the United States to mark these observances with appropriate ceremonies and activities.”
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Post by pennmom on Dec 15, 2021 16:32:09 GMT
International Tea Day – December 15, 2021~International
Step aside, coffee and Coca Cola, for International Tea Day on December 15, we drink the most popular beverage in the world. The day mainly seeks to raise awareness on the impact the tea trade has on farmers and workers but is also celebrated by tea lovers worldwide. Did you know that the origins of tea have been traced back to China? It was mostly used for medicinal purposes until the 17th century when tea made its way to the United Kingdom. The main types include black, green, white, herbal, oolong, and pu’erh. While this holiday has been observed since 2005, in 2019 the United Nations introduced a new International Tea Day on May 21. We, of course, celebrate both, who doesn’t want double tea?
HISTORY OF INTERNATIONAL TEA DAY There is no better way to start our day than with the pleasant taste and aroma of tea. Legend has it that tea was first discovered over 4000 years ago in China by Emperor Nun Shen. On one of his visits to a remote region, the leaves of a nearby tree blew into a pot of boiling water which his servants had placed over a fire. The refreshing aroma invited the Emperor to taste the beverage, and the first cup of tea was born.
In the 16th century, tea made its way across the globe to Europe by Dutch traders, where it became a widely traded commodity thanks to the establishment of the East India Company in England. The rest, as they say, is history.
Other than its taste and benefits, tea’s contributions to culture and socioeconomic development are just as relevant. Grown in over 35 countries, the cultivation of tea supports the livelihoods of over 13 million people.
Started by trade unions in 2005, International Tea Day celebrates the health benefits, economic importance, and cultural heritage of tea, all the while ensuring a more sustainable production from fields to our cups. Bringing together civil society organizations and small tea growers and businesses, this holiday aims to regulate uneven competition, safety regulations, land occupation, social security, living wages, and women’s rights for all tea workers.
Seminars, public campaigns, and presentations are traditionally held. The goal is to strengthen the regulations for tea growers’ associations. Other than recognizing tea as a big export crop for countries that produce it, tea culture is also celebrated by enthusiasts.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 15, 2021 16:33:56 GMT
Lemon Cupcake Day – December 15, 2021~U.S.
Lemon Cupcake Day is on December 15 each year. A day that’s all about bite-sized pieces of heaven filled with lemony goodness? Sign us up! Out of all the cupcakes in the world, the humble lemon cupcake remains our favorite. A little bit sweet, a little tart — the distinctive taste of lemon cupcakes is hard to beat. There’s something about them that immediately reminds us of summer afternoons at home. And we love how there’s a day dedicated to this unassuming cake in a cup.
HISTORY OF LEMON CUPCAKE DAY Who invented Lemon Cupcake Day? Nobody knows for sure, but we’re glad someone did. What we know is that cupcakes have been around a while. The United States can lay some claim to inventing cupcakes. One of the earliest mentions of a “cupcake” was in 1796 as a recipe notation. In her book “American Cookery,” Amelia Simmons mentions “a light cake to bake in small cups” in her notes.
Soon, baking tiny cakes in their own molds became an easy and popular method with cooks everywhere. Cupcakes were the perfect dessert. Quick to make, easy on waistlines. They were the quintessential snack cake everyone needed.
The 20th century elevated the cupcake with an addition that made all the difference — frosting! And there’s been no looking back since. From kitchens of talented home chefs to fine dining — the cupcake today is everywhere. Would a coffee run be complete without cupcakes? You must be joking, for sure. Is a kids’ birthday party even a party without cupcakes? The world thinks not.
The sheer variety of cupcakes today is dizzying. There are traditional flavors like vanilla and chocolate frosting. Some have toppings of coconut, cream cheese, peanut butter, or even laced with a wee bit of Guinness. The possibilities are endless.
But if it’s a classic you seek, nothing can beat the unadulterated flavor of the humble lemon cupcake. Typically made with standard cupcake ingredients but with lemon-flavored batter, it’s comfort food at its finest. And this is why we celebrate Lemon Cupcake Day each year on 15 December. Not only for how great they taste, but how happy they make us.
National Cupcake Day – December 15, 2021~U.S.
Swirled with frosting, covered in sprinkles, dipped in ganache, or drizzled with chocolate, cupcakes are a one-of-a-kind dessert that are whimsically versatile for any occasion. They have evolved far and wide from just chocolate and vanilla to fulfill almost all of our dessert dreams and fantasies. Luckily, today is National Cupcake Day, recognized annually on December 15 to commemorate these compact yet delectable sweets. Indulge all you want in your favorite cupcake treats today—you’ll probably want seconds. Actually, make that thirds.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 15, 2021 16:36:06 GMT
National Cat Herders Day – December 15, 2021~U.S.
December 15 is National Cat Herder’s Day! Although the only job remotely close to cat herding is working at your local animal shelter, this holiday is not dedicated to cats. This celebration is meant for those who can manage others and themselves no matter what chaos is thrown their way. The idiom, “like herding cats,” was popularized during a Super Bowl commercial in 2000 by “Hewlett Packard.” They compared their ability to serve others like cowboys herding cats – with ease. Since then, the phrase is mostly used to describe those who can lead and handle life even when it is uncontrollable. The term is also considered a skill workers use when leading a group towards one goal.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 15, 2021 16:39:12 GMT
National Wear Your Pearls Day – December 15, 2021~U.S.
National Wear Your Pearls Day, December 15, was originally conceived by bestselling author DeAnna Bookert, who found her calling to the ministry in the middle of her college career. Literal pearls are not necessary to celebrate the day. It’s about the adversity we all must go through in our lives which doesn’t defeat us but makes us more valuable and beautiful.
Just as a grain of sand inside an oyster causes the formation of a precious gem, the pearl, National Wear Your Pearls Day is the ideal time to assess yourself for what you are — a resilient, resourceful, and beautiful human being.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL WEAR YOUR PEARLS DAY It was 2015 the first time National Wear Your Pearls Day got its recognition. The founder of the holiday, DeAnna Bookert, had started her career in corporate offices and could have stayed there to continue her success, but then she found something that was more important to her: sharing her love of Jesus Christ and of her fellow man through inspirational speaking and writing. That was back in 2008.
As for the history of actually wearing pearls, it has an interesting past. Officially the world’s oldest gem, pearls have been revered since long before written history. For this reason, their discovery cannot be attributed to one person in particular, but it is believed that they were first discovered by people searching for food along the seashore.
We know that they have been worn as a form of adornment for millennia thanks to a fragment of pearl jewelry found in the sarcophagus of a Persian princess that dates back to 420 BC, which is now on display at the Louvre in Paris.
Pearls were presented as gifts to Chinese royalty as early as 2300 BC, while in ancient Rome, pearl jewelry was considered the ultimate status symbol. So precious were the spherical gems that in the 1st century BC, Julius Caesar passed a law limiting the wearing of pearls only to the ruling classes.
The abundance of natural oyster beds in the Persian Gulf meant that pearls also carried great importance in Arab cultures, where legend stated that pearls were formed from dewdrops that were swallowed by oysters when they fell into the sea. Before the advent of cultured pearls, the Persian Gulf was at the center of the pearl trade and it was a source of wealth in the region long before the discovery of oil.
Now, although the concept behind National Wear Your Pearls Day doesn’t require any religious affiliation or actual act of wearing pearls, the day only needs our own recognition of what we’ve been through in life to make as the individuals we are. But, if you have real pearls, by all means, show them off today!
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Post by pennmom on Dec 17, 2021 12:00:26 GMT
Vijay Diwas – December 16, 2021~India
Vijay Diwas on December 16 is when the Indian Armed Forces, including veterans, citizens, and students, pay tribute to and remember the sacrifices of their soldiers. Vijay Diwas celebrates India’s historic military victory against Pakistan in the 1971 war; which also liberated Bangladesh from Pakistan.
HISTORY OF VIJAY DIWAS Vijay Diwas commemorates and celebrates the victory of the Indian Armed Forces in ‘Operation: Vijay’ against the infiltrating Pakistani troops. Rich tributes are given to martyrs who put their lives on the line during the war.
Since India and Pakistan’s partition in the year 1947, there has always been animosity between the two countries for many reasons. One of these reasons was with regards to East Pakistan. The events leading to the 1971 war were what prompted the Indian troops to get involved; Non-muslims residing in West Pakistan were being targeted and required intervention. The war between Pakistan and India lasted for 13 days, ending on December 16, 1971, and resulting in the liberation of a new country by the name of Bangladesh. It was India’s front which made nearly 93 thousand Pakistani soldiers surrender and altered the contours of the map of the world.
A proud moment for the Indian army, this was their first conclusive win after the end of World War 2. It is also quite a big day for Bangladesh, as it earned status as an independent entity. The day is celebrated in Bangladesh as ‘Bijoy Dibos.’
Military holidays are always observed with great zeal in India. Government officials, the Armed Forces, and the citizens of India go all out to express their gratitude to their protectors.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 17, 2021 12:04:16 GMT
Kazakhstan Independence Day – December 16, 2021~Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan’s biggest national holiday since 1991 has naturally been its Independence Day, celebrated on December 16. What makes it even bigger is the fact that it is often celebrated across two days — December 16 and 17. Not just that, if December 16 falls on a weekend, the following Monday is considered a holiday. The Kazakhs set up yurts, indulge in delicacies, and dance the night away to folk music! They also dress up in traditional fashion for the ceremony at Ak Orda Presidential Palace. They sure know how to celebrate; would you want to join in the revelry too?
HISTORY OF KAZAKHSTAN INDEPENDENCE DAY Situated on the Eurasian Steppe, Kazakhstan is the biggest country in the region. As a result, it has been a melting pot of cultures, peoples, empires, and more. Neanderthals and their ancestors were also present in central Kazakhstan hundreds of thousands of years ago. After centuries of changes in weather, terrain, and rulers, Kazakhstan has turned out to be the beautiful country we know today. It’s a shame that it was only a couple of decades ago that the nation gained independence.
So, how did they gain independence after all? It all happened in the year 1991. Hoping to maintain unity within the Soviet Union, a referendum that March resulted in Kazakhstan voting 95% in favor of forming a new Union of Sovereign States. In August, communists of the Soviet Union made a failed attempt, the infamous August Coup, to take control of the country from Mikhail Gorbachev, the Soviet President at the time. Eventually, the Supreme Soviet – or ‘supreme council’ — of Kazakhstan then passed the Constitutional Independence Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan in December, finally declaring independence.
Kazakhstan was the last of the Soviet states to declare its independence, even though the Soviet Union collapsed rather swiftly. Soon after this, the Alma-Ata Protocol was put in place to form the Commonwealth of Independent States. This independence was marked by the era of President Nursultan Nazarbayev, who established not only a new capital but also a new two-house parliamentary system. He would rule the newly independent Kazakhstan for nearly three decades.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 17, 2021 12:06:27 GMT
Bangladesh Victory Day – December 16, 2021~Bangladesh
Also known as Bijoy Dibos, Bangladesh Victory Day is celebrated on December 16 every year. The occasion commemorates the victory of the Bangladesh and Indian forces over the Pakistani forces in the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, during which close to three million Bangladeshi were killed, while 10 million were made refugees. Bangladesh celebrates its Independence Day on March 26, but that is when the atrocities of this war began. It finally ended nearly nine months later, on December 16. This is an important day for a few Asian countries — Kazakhstan gained independence on this day too.
HISTORY OF BANGLADESH VICTORY DAY It all started with India’s independence, back in 1947, which created the dominion of Pakistan. This meant Pakistan now had two separate regions on either side of India — West Pakistan and East Pakistan — which led to friction between the two regions. On March 26, 1971, when Bangladesh gained independence, it kickstarted the Liberation War. This genocide began with the launch of Operation Searchlight, as West Pakistan (now Pakistan) cracked down on East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).
The people of Bangladesh then took it upon themselves to partake in a war to gain independence from Pakistan. This gain came at the cost of innumerable losses. Mukti Bahini, a guerrilla resistance movement comprising the Bangladeshi military and civilians, was created to fight this war. This guerrilla war lasted for a total of nine excruciating months. In November, India took part in the war, supporting Bangladesh. Shortly after, they defeated the Pakistan Army, finally ending the war on December 16, when Pakistan surrendered at Ramna Race Course in Dhaka.
One of the most historic moments was the famous Blood Telegram, written by Archer Blood, an American diplomat. The strongly worded letter protested against the atrocities committed during the war. Well, it’s worth reading for yourself, in Blood’s words: “Our government has failed to denounce the suppression of democracy. Our government has failed to denounce atrocities. Our government has failed to take forceful measures to protect its citizens while at the same time bending over backward to placate the West Pakistan-dominated government and to lessen any deservedly negative international public relations impact against them. Our government has evidenced what many will consider moral bankruptcy. But we have chosen not to intervene, even morally, on the grounds that the Awami conflict, in which unfortunately the overworked term genocide is applicable, is purely an internal matter of a sovereign state. Private Americans have expressed disgust. We, as professional civil servants, express our dissent with current policy and fervently hope that our true and lasting interests here can be defined and our policies redirected in order to salvage our nation’s position as a moral leader of the free world.”
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Post by pennmom on Dec 17, 2021 12:08:20 GMT
Bahrain National Day – December 16, 2021~Bahrain
Bahrain National Day is on 16 and 17 December. That’s two designated days to celebrate the gem that is this island kingdom. In 1971, Bahrain acquired independence after a long era of British rule. It would be the beginning of a prosperous and peaceful chapter for Bahrain — a success story scripted for and by Bahrainis. Naturally, it’s a day that’s very close to every Bahraini’s heart. It is a public holiday when schools and virtually all businesses are closed.
HISTORY OF BAHRAIN NATIONAL DAY The Kingdom of Bahrain is an island nation in the Persian Gulf. Bahrain comprises a beautiful archipelago of 50 natural islands and 33 artificial ones. Together with several other Arabian Gulf territories, the island was a British Protectorate in the 1960s. According to the Protectorate Treaty, the British would offer protection to Bahrain in the event of attacks by sea. The catch? Bahrain was forbidden to build international relations with any other nations without the consent of Britain. The agreement effectively allowed Britain indirect but near-absolute control over the island nation.
World War II brought sweeping changes to the global landscape, and Bahrain was no exception. Discontent over British rule had been simmering for a while but would soon tip over. Numerous protests took place. Conflict and riots became more commonplace. On August 15, 1971, the two countries finally signed an agreement that freed Bahrain from being a British Protectorate. Four months later, Britain left, and Bahrain became an independent country.
Isa Bin Salman Al Khalifa was Bahrain’s first emir and ascended the throne when the country gained independence. A king beloved by his people, he was responsible for introducing numerous reforms that transformed the economy and stability of the country. Bahrain rose to become the financial hub of the Arabian Gulf during the emir’s 38-year reign.
It’s no surprise why the people of Bahrain believe true independence came when the emir ascended the throne on December 16, 1971. Despite Britain officially handing over the reins much before in August, the emir’s rule meant Bahrain as a nation had symbolically come into its own. And the celebrations continue every December with fireworks, shows, and a range of cultural events.
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pennmom
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Post by pennmom on Dec 17, 2021 12:11:07 GMT
Las Posadas – December 16-24, 2021~Mexico
Las Posadas, celebrated yearly from December 16-24, is a religious festival traditionally held in Mexico and parts of Latin America. Translating to ‘The Inns’ in Spanish, Las Posadas is an important part of the Christmas festivities. Over the nine nights of celebrations, parties are held at different people’s homes. Before each gathering, all the guests form a procession to mark Mary and Joseph’s search for an inn on the night of Jesus’s birth. The march is usually led by an angel as a symbolic act of Mary and Joseph finding shelter in a stable when they were unable to find lodging in Bethlehem. The parties are joyous occasions, including prayers, food, music, fireworks, and piñatas!
HISTORY OF LAS POSADAS Now a widely-celebrated tradition throughout Latin America, there is evidence that Las Posadas originated in colonial Mexico. The Augustinian friars of San Agustin de Acolman, near Mexico City, are believed to have organized the first posadas. In 1586, Friar Diego de Soria, the Augustinian prior, obtained a papal bull from Pope Sixtus V to celebrate what was called ‘Misas de Aguinaldo’ or ‘Christmas bonus masses’ between December 16 and 24.
The tradition seems to be one of many examples of how the Catholic religion in Mexico was adapted to make it easier for the indigenous people to understand and blend with their earlier beliefs. The Aztecs had a tradition of honoring their god Huitzilopochtli at the same time of year, coinciding with the winter solstice.
The Posada celebrations were originally held in the church but the custom spread. Later it was celebrated in haciendas, and then in homes, gradually taking the form of the celebration as it is now practiced by the time of the 19th century. Now, neighborhood committees often organize the posadas and a different will offer to host the celebration each night. The other people in the neighborhood bring food, candy, and piñatas so that the costs of the party don’t fall only on the host .
Adults, including musicians, follow the procession, which visits selected homes and asks for lodging for Joseph and Mary. Traditionally, the procession is always refused lodging, though the hosts often provide refreshments. At each stop, passages of scripture are read and Christmas carols are sung.
Mass is held each day after the procession and, after the service, children break open piñatas filled with candy, toys, and occasionally money. The piñatas are usually crafted in the form of a star, which is said to have guided the three wise men of Biblical tradition to the newborn Jesus.
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pennmom
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Post by pennmom on Dec 17, 2021 12:13:17 GMT
Day of Reconciliation – December 16, 2021~South Africa
South Africa annually observes the Day of Reconciliation on December 16. The apartheid was a racial segregation system that existed throughout South Africa as part of legislation forwarded by the National Party. In 1994, to heal and bridge the gap between the people living in South Africa, this dedicated day was introduced. The Day of Reconciliation has helped bring harmony to a region still after decades of injustice.
HISTORY OF DAY OF RECONCILIATION Following the long history of a nation still carrying the marks of colonialism to this day, and the accompanying racism which existed due to this practice, the Day of Reconciliation is a breath of fresh air.
Racial exclusion had been a harsh reality in South Africa ever since the rule of the Dutch Empire in 1652. There was no change in the way things were practiced by the time the British took over the country in 1795. Matters worsened in 1950 when the political representation of non-white people was abolished. While this further entrenched the racial segregation policies, a series of violent rebellions was sparked and an embargo on trade against the country took place.
December 16 was chosen for the Day of Reconciliation due to its importance to both the African and Afrikaner people. It was a significant day for Africans as one of the most important protests against racial discrimination had taken place in the year 1910. For the people of Afrikaner, the date also marks the Day of the Covenant – a religious holiday observing the Voortrekker’s victory against the Zulus in the ‘Battle of Blood’ in 1838. The ‘Spear of the Nation,’ or Umkhonto we Sizwe, as it is known in South Africa, was established.
As democracy was established in South Africa, the Day of Reconciliation was first celebrated in 1995. Each year, a different theme is given for this date, and we highly recommend looking into some of them. Over the years, some of the themes in place include ‘Bridging The Divide Towards A Non-Racist Society,’ ‘The Year of Nelson Mandela and Albertina Sisulu: Liberators for Reconciliation,’ and ‘Bridging the Divide: Building a common South African nationhood towards a national development state.’
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pennmom
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Post by pennmom on Dec 17, 2021 12:15:16 GMT
National Chocolate Covered Anything Day – December 16, 2021~U.S.
What do BBQ potato chips, strawberries, and ants have in common? On any ordinary day, not much. But on December 16, all three of these things —and thousands of others —could all be considered key ingredients in a creative culinary confection. Because on December 16, we’ll all be celebrating National Chocolate Covered Anything Day. This is the day you’ve been waiting for. All those times when you wondered, “What would this taste like dipped in chocolate?” can now officially be answered. Maybe you’re into the basics, like chocolate covered fruit or cookies, but you rarely take the time to dip these ingredients. Or, perhaps you’re a bit more adventurous and are looking to try out a new chocolate-encased dish. (French fries? Fish sticks?) Either way, December 16 is the perfect time to satisfy your craving for chocolate covered anything while getting into the holiday spirit.
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pennmom
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Post by pennmom on Dec 17, 2021 12:19:49 GMT
Barbie And Barney Backlash Day – December 16, 2021~U.S.
Many of us might not have loved certain popular icons in our childhood, so Barbie and Barney Backlash Day was created on December 16 every year to deny their very existence! Perhaps, it’s also a time for parents to take a break from picking up their children’s Barbie dolls or turn off Barney’s famous sing-along songs that have charmed children for many decades. Not only this, Barbies are no longer limited to dolls, there’s a wide array of movies, too. This day, offering us an interesting and somewhat hilarious take on these household names, allows some of us to just forget about Barbie and Barney for a while.
HISTORY OF BARBIE AND BARNEY BACKLASH DAY While Barbie and Barney are not the only characters to have graced our screens and lives, especially over the holiday season, these two can hit a nerve sometimes. On this day, we can switch off our television screens from their annoying singalongs, and put away the toys scattered around the home. Perhaps it’s time to read a storybook or try a different activity with children that don’t involve Barney or Barbie!
Barney, the famous purple dinosaur, was already in the making in 1987 when Sheryl Leach created “Barney and Friends”. The show first aired in 1992, taking over our screens as well as the hearts of children. The friendly tyrannosaurus rex sang and danced many of his educational messages. Who can possibly forget “I Love You”, the Barney song that made us happy when we were sad?
Parodies of that famous song at the end of “Barney and Friends” became big hits in the ’90s. Some were quite violent and definitely not child-friendly, so we will not repeat all the variations. Many of these songs went from playground to playground, at practically the speed of light, and might just have outlived Barney’s popularity!
Meanwhile, Barbie is the iconic blonde fashion doll that took the world by storm and has somewhat experienced a cultural revolution in recent years. Ruth Handler and her husband Elliot founded the toy company Mattel, Inc in 1945. Fourteen years later, Ruth introduced Barbie Millicent Roberts, better known as ‘Barbie’ to the world. She was the first doll to mimic 1950s celebrity glamor, such as Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe.
Over a billion Barbie dolls have been sold around the world, with dozens of Barbie holiday cartoons created for children since “Barbie in the Nutcracker” was released in 2001. Because Barbie has often been criticized for representing an unattainable beauty ideal for girls and women, the doll has evolved both in style and shape over the years. In a historic moment, the Barbie brand began honoring pioneering women across the world, making dolls of athletes, women of color, and plus-sized women.
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pennmom
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Post by pennmom on Dec 17, 2021 12:22:22 GMT
National Device Appreciation Day – December 17, 2021~U.S.
December 17 is National Device Appreciation Day, an opportunity to appreciate the devices that help us lead our lives, and take steps to protect those that are most important to you. The best, most effective way to protect all of the items that contribute joy in your life is to properly insure them, ensuring that they can continue to positively impact your life for years to come, no matter what unexpected problems may arise.
This year, National Device Appreciation Day is sponsored by the Traverse, a fully mobile insurance platform for Texans that provides customizable coverage in under a minute for your new or old mobile phones, laptops, bicycles, etc., quickly, easily, and inexpensively, with coverage from as little as $1 per month. Traverse has sponsored National Device Appreciation Day in order to get the word out about properly insuring your most important belongings in a way that makes the most sense for your lifestyle. Traverse is backed by Travelers, a trusted insurance company that has been in the business for over 165 years.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL DEVICE APPRECIATION DAY Insurance is often the last thing you think about until you absolutely need it. But it can make the difference between weathering a turn of bad luck and not. Homeowners and renters insurance are important protections against various hazards like fire and theft, but the expense and administrative effort of insuring an entire home’s worth of items isn’t always the most convenient for everyone, which is what Traverse solves.
But where does our modern concept of insurance come from?
It turns out, insurance has been around in various forms for millennia. Merchants in the ancient city of Rhodes could pay what was known as “the general average” which covered them against shipping losses when goods were shipped collectively. The ancient Greeks and Romans had “maritime loans” which insured against similar issues and it was commonplace (though sometimes controversial) to provide similar types of coverage during the medieval period.
However, we can trace modern forms of insurance, including property insurance, to the European Enlightenment period of the 17th century. The earliest known types of insurance available to the public guarded against fire damage (no surprise there) in the city of Hamburg, Germany in 1676. But property insurance as we know it today has its roots in one of history’s most iconic events, the Great Fire of London. In the aftermath of that great fire which destroyed some 13,000 residences, London economists created the “Insurance Office for Houses” which protected residents from damage caused by fires.
Today, there are many different types of insurance that protect persons and property from a whole host of inclement events such as fire, weather, sickness, death, etc. While it isn’t always the most exciting aspect of modern life, it remains more critical than ever as belongings become more and more essential to our lives and often, more expensive.
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