World Introvert Day – A day to recognize and celebrate the quieter, more reserved individuals in society, raising awareness about introversion and its strengths.
National Science Fiction Day – This day is celebrated by science fiction fans around the world in honor of the birthday of science fiction author Isaac Asimov, who was born on January 2, 1920.
Run It Up the Flagpole and See If Anyone Salutes Day – This unusual holiday encourages people to test out new ideas or strategies to see if they will be successful.
Happy Mew Year for Cats Day – This day is dedicated to celebrating the joy and companionship that cats bring to our lives.
National Personal Trainer Awareness Day – This day recognizes the important role that personal trainers play in helping people achieve their health and fitness goals.
National Buffet Day – This day celebrates the delicious variety of foods that can be found at buffets, and encourages people to indulge in their favorite dishes.
1492 – The last Muslim stronghold in Spain, Granada, falls to the forces of Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile, ending the centuries-long Reconquista.
1788 – Georgia becomes the fourth state to ratify the United States Constitution.
1860 – The discovery of the planet Vulcan, thought to be a ninth planet, is announced by French astronomer Urbain Le Verrier, although it was later found to be a false prediction.
1920 – The second Palmer Raid takes place in the United States, with over 4,000 suspected radicals and anarchists arrested and detained without trial.
1942 – The Japanese occupy Manila, the capital of the Philippines, during World War II.
1959 – The Soviet Union launches Luna 1, the first spacecraft to reach the Moon and the first human-made object to leave Earth’s orbit.
1974 – President Richard Nixon signs the Emergency Highway Energy Conservation Act, establishing a national speed limit of 55 miles per hour in order to conserve fuel during the energy crisis.
2004 – NASA’s Mars rover Spirit lands on the surface of Mars.