March 20 has been a day of revolutions, discoveries, and cultural shifts. Let’s dive into today’s slice of history!
🔥 Major Events That Shaped the Day
🔹 1602 – The Dutch East India Company is Founded
The Dutch East India Company (VOC) was established, becoming the world’s first multinational corporation and the first company to issue stocks. At its peak, it was one of the most powerful trading companies in history.
🔹 1852 – Uncle Tom’s Cabin is Published
Harriet Beecher Stowe’s novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin was published, bringing global attention to the horrors of slavery in America. The book played a crucial role in fueling anti-slavery movements.
🔹 1969 – John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s “Bed-In for Peace” Begins
Just days after their wedding, John Lennon and Yoko Ono staged a week-long "Bed-In for Peace" in Amsterdam, protesting against war.
🔹 2003 – The Invasion of Iraq Continues
Following the launch of the Iraq War on March 19, U.S. and coalition forces began a full-scale invasion, targeting Saddam Hussein’s regime.
🔹 2015 – A Solar Eclipse and a Supermoon on the Same Day
March 20, 2015, was a rare astronomical event where a total solar eclipse coincided with a supermoon, creating an unforgettable sky show. 🌑✨
🎉 Famous Birthdays
🎂 Henrik Ibsen (1828 – 1906): Norwegian playwright, known for classics like A Doll’s House and Hedda Gabler.
🎂 Carl Reiner (1922 – 2020): Legendary comedian, actor, and director behind The Dick Van Dyke Show.
🎂 Spike Lee (born 1957): Iconic filmmaker behind Do the Right Thing, Malcolm X, and BlacKkKlansman.
🎂 Fernando Torres (born 1984): Spanish footballer, known for his time with Liverpool, Chelsea, and the Spanish national team.
🌞 Fun Fact of the Day – The Spring Equinox!
March 20 often marks the Spring Equinox, when day and night are nearly equal across the globe. Many cultures celebrate it as the start of a new year, including in Persia (Nowruz) and Japan (Shunbun no Hi).
💠Final Thought
From groundbreaking books to rare celestial events, March 20 has been a day of impact. Check back tomorrow for another Sauce of the Past, where we keep history fresh and flavorful!