20 Interesting Facts About February 9 in History
February 9 has witnessed various defining moments in history, from the founding of Japan to iconic cultural shifts, marking it as a day full of intriguing milestones.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 6 min read
This list explores some of the most remarkable events on February 9 throughout history. From the launch of iconic inventions to cultural milestones and political shifts, this day has been the backdrop for many unforgettable moments. Whether celebrating an influential author’s birthday or witnessing groundbreaking achievements, February 9 has left its mark on the world.
1. 1872 - The U.S. Weather Bureau is Established
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The U.S. Weather Bureau was created today to improve weather predictions and help with natural disasters. It was the start of a more organized system for weather forecasting. Today, it is known as the National Weather Service. The agency continues to play a key role in protecting lives and property.
2. 1942 - Daylight Saving Time Starts Year-Round
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The U.S. government decided to keep Daylight Saving Time all year long during World War II to save electricity. This helped to conserve resources for the war effort. The change lasted until 1945, after the war ended. It showed how emergencies can lead to long-term changes in daily life.
3. 1964 - The Beatles Appear on TV in the U.S.
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The Beatles performed on The Ed Sullivan Show on February 9, 1964, and about 73 million Americans watched. It was their first live TV performance in the U.S., marking the start of the “British Invasion” in music. Their appearance changed the music scene forever. This moment helped launch the Beatles into superstardom.
4. 1945 - Gypsy Rose Lee Retires from Striptease
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Gypsy Rose Lee, a famous striptease performer, retired on February 9, 1945. She had changed the face of burlesque entertainment. After leaving the stage, she became a writer and actress. Her retirement was an essential moment in the history of American entertainment.
5. 1825 - John Quincy Adams Becomes President
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On February 9, 1825, John Quincy Adams was elected the sixth President of the United States. The House of Representatives decided on his election. Adams’ presidency focused on building infrastructure and expanding American influence. However, his election was also controversial due to the “corrupt bargain” accusations.
6. 1889 - Thomas Edison Patents the Kinetoscope
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On February 9, 1889, Thomas Edison patented the kinetoscope, an early version of the movie camera. This invention played a big part in the development of the film industry, allowing people to watch moving images for the first time. Edison’s work laid the foundation for modern cinema.
7. 1950 - McCarthy Claims Communists Are in the U.S. Government
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Senator Joseph McCarthy announced on February 9, 1950, that communists were working inside the U.S. government. This set off the Red Scare, a time of fear and suspicion about communism. Many people lost their jobs because of McCarthy’s accusations. His claims led to a massive political crisis in the U.S.
8. 1959 - Barbie Doll is Launched
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On February 9, 1959, the Barbie doll was introduced to the world. She became a huge hit and changed the toy industry. But Barbie was more than just a doll—she became an icon of fashion and imagination. Over the years, Barbie has inspired countless generations of children.
9. 1960 - Joanne Woodward Gets a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
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Joanne Woodward was the first star to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on February 9, 1960. Woodward was known for her acting talent and role in breaking barriers for women in Hollywood. Her star began the Walk of Fame’s tradition of honoring film legends. She continues to be remembered as an icon in cinema.
10. 1967 - ASEAN is Created
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The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was founded on February 9, 1967. Its goal was to promote peace, stability, and economic growth in Southeast Asia. Since then, ASEAN has grown to be a key organization in the region. Today, it plays a significant role in global politics and trade.
11. 1849 - James Whitcomb Riley is Born
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James Whitcomb Riley, a famous poet, was born on February 9, 1849. Known for writing poems in dialect, he captured the voice of the American Midwest. His work often celebrated rural life and traditions. Riley’s poems are still enjoyed today for their warmth and charm.
12. 1971 - Derek Clayton Breaks Marathon Record
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On February 9, 1971, Derek Clayton of Australia broke the world marathon record at 2:08:34. His run occurred at the Fukuoka Marathon in Japan. This achievement pushed the limits of human endurance in long-distance running. Clayton’s record stood for years, inspiring many athletes to chase his time.
13. 1957 - Carole Bouquet is Born
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A French actress, Carole Bouquet, was born on February 9, 1957. She became famous for her role in the James Bond film For Your Eyes Only. Bouquet went on to have a successful career in French and international cinema. She remains an important figure in European film.
14. 1898 - Battle of Sobraon
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The British defeated the Sikhs in northwestern India in 1898. This battle was the most decisive in the First Sikh War. It marked a turning point in British control over India. Despite fierce resistance, the Sikhs were ultimately overpowered.
15. 1939 - Premiere of Stagecoach
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The American Western Stagecoach premiered in 1939. It is considered the first “adult” Western film. The movie starred John Wayne in a breakthrough role. It became a classic and influenced the future of Western films.
16. 1990 - Galileo’s Flight Past Venus
NASA on Wikimedia Commons
In 1990, the spacecraft Galileo flew past Venus to study Jupiter. Scientists used the flyby to increase the spacecraft’s speed, and the mission provided valuable data about both planets.
17. 1996 - Element 112 was Created
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German physicist Peter Armbruster and his team created element 112, later named copernicium. Copernicium is a heavy transuranium element that scientists synthesized in a lab. It was named after astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. Copernicium is a highly radioactive element, and its properties are still being studied.
18. 1943 - The Battle of Guadalcanal Ended
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The Battle of Guadalcanal, a brutal and pivotal campaign in the Pacific Theater of World War II, raged six months before its conclusion in February 1943. This hard-fought victory for the Allies against Japan marked a crucial turning point in the war, halting Japanese expansion and shifting the strategic initiative to the Allied forces.
19. 1796 - Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty Stepped Down
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Qianlong’s son, Jiaqing, became the new emperor, inheriting a vast and prosperous empire. This marked a new chapter for China, which would eventually face new challenges and changes. Qianlong’s reign was one of the most extended and prosperous in Chinese history, a golden age that saw China reach its zenith of power and influence.
20. 1757 - Robert Clive Signed the Treaty of Alinagar
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The Treaty of Alinagar, signed by Robert Clive, restored Calcutta to British control after Siraj al-Dawlah seized it. This agreement solidified the East India Company’s growing influence in Bengal and paved the way for further British expansion.