What holiday is celebrated on August 20: everything about this day

Each day of the calendar contains memories of important historical events and holidays. They unite people both in Ukraine and in different parts of the world.

August 20 is one of such dates. About its meaning and significance tells OBOZ.UA.

This day is special for several reasons. On the one hand, it gives a reason for fun and relaxation, celebrating such extraordinary holidays as World French Fry Day and World Laziness Day. On the other hand, August 20 has become an important date for many countries because of the history-changing events that took place on that day in different years.

World French Fries Day

This holiday is a nice opportunity for many to enjoy one of the most favorite fast foods. The French fry, which has long been a symbol of fast food, has an interesting history going back to Belgium. It is a dish that brings people together with its simplicity and great taste, becoming part of not only culinary traditions but also food culture.

World Lazy Day

This holiday reminds us of the importance of rest and relaxation. In today's world, where everyone is always in a hurry to get somewhere and strive to have more time, sometimes you just need to allow yourself to be a little lazy. Sometimes it pays to stop for a moment, put things aside and enjoy a moment of serenity. Laziness, at its best, can be beneficial, allowing us to rejuvenate and see new possibilities.

Other holidays on August 20, 2024

• St. Istvan's Day (King of Hungary);
• Indian Renewable Energy Day;
• World French Fries Day;
• World Day of Laziness;
• World Mosquito Day;
• Sanofi SA Day;
• Restoration of Independence Day in Estonia;
• Bernardo O'Higgins Independence Hero's Day in Chile;
• Foundation Day, Constitution Day or New Bread Day in Hungary;
• Love Day in Taiwan;
• Firefighters' Day in Venezuela;
• King and People's Revolution Day in Morocco;
• Chocolate Pecan Pie Day and National Bacon Lovers' Day in the United States;
• National Day of the Principality of Seborga;
• National Radio Day in the United States;

Famous Events on August 20

In 1996, then US President Bill Clinton made a decision that was an important step in the development of the country's economy - the minimum wage was set at $5.15 per hour. This move had far-reaching consequences, as the minimum wage subsequently continued to rise, reaching $15 by 2018. This decision not only affected the living standards of millions of Americans, but also served as an example for other countries seeking to raise social standards.

In 1991, August 20 was a milestone for Estonia, which declared its independence. This event marked the beginning of a new era for the country, which managed to preserve its identity and become a full member of the European community.

In 1980, the Ministry of Communications of the Ukrainian SSR ordered the jamming of foreign radio stations such as Voice of America, BBC and Deutsche Welle. This decision was intended to limit the population's access to alternative information during a period of political instability.

1968 was distinguished by the invasion of Czechoslovakia by Soviet troops and Warsaw Pact countries to suppress the Prague Spring, an attempt by Czechoslovak reformers to create "socialism with a human face."

In 1964, INTELSAT, the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization, was established and played a key role in the development of global communication and connectivity between nations.

In 1939, the Soviet-Mongolian offensive at Khalkhin-Gol under the command of Georgy Zhukov began.

In 1925 Kanevsky Museum-Reserve "T.H. Shevchenko's grave" was founded. Today the museum is part of the Shevchenko National Reserve in Kanev, which is an important cultural center dedicated to the outstanding Ukrainian poet.

In 1896, the Cathedral of St. Volodymyr was consecrated in Kiev. On the same day in the USA a dial telephone was patented, which was an important step in the development of modern communication technologies.

August 20, 1868 in the USA was officially proclaimed the end of the Civil War between the North and the South. This event was an important moment in the formation of the modern United States, which went through significant social and economic changes.

In 1741, Alaska was discovered by the first Russian navigator, Captain-Commander Vitus Bering. This discovery was the beginning of a new era in the exploration and colonization of North America.

In 1627, the first dictionary of the Ukrainian language was published under the title "Lexikon' Slavenno-Russian and nam t'lkovanie", created by Pamva Berinda.

In 1619 a Dutch ship brought to America the first 20 Africans who were sold into slavery to the inhabitants of the Jamestown colony. This event was the beginning of a tragic page in human history that led to centuries of struggle for rights and freedoms.

Born on August 20

On August 20, 1833, Benjamin Harrison, who became one of the presidents of the United States, was born. His reign left a great impact on the country's history, especially in international politics and economics.

Died on August 20

On this day in 1823, Friedrich Arnold Brockhaus, German publisher and founder of the Brockhaus publishing firm, died. His contribution to the publishing industry left an indelible mark in the development of European and world culture.

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