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Facts & Events That Happened Today In History

The word "today" was generally written as two words until the 16th Century, then as "to-day" until the early 20th Century.

Fact Checked Human Written Updated Daily
Facts & Events That Happened Today In History

Today is Thursday, May 14, 2026. It’s the 134th day of the year, and we’re on week 20.

Every day is special for some reason, and today is no different! Here you’ll find some interesting facts & events that happened today in history, as well as The Fact Site’s Fact of the Day!

Learn what special holiday falls on this day and how to celebrate it. You’ll also find out what famous people celebrate their birthdays today!

We update this page daily, so if you have a few minutes spare, check out these events & facts that all help to make today a special day!

Historical Events

The world is full of things happening – all day, every day. But here are some notable events that happened today in history.

Loreen claimed victory for Sweden at the 67th Eurovision Song Contest with her song “Tattoo.”

Israel declared independence from the British administration.

The US Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) was formed.

After the Senate approved the bill, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the bill into law. He set a recruitment goal of 25,000 the first year, which WAAC topped by November.

Edward Jenner, an English country doctor, gave the first vaccination against smallpox.

These are just our highlighted events, but if you'd like to learn more about what happened on this day, you can check out the link below!

Famous Birthdays

Are you celebrating your birthday today? If so, you're not the only one! Here are a few famous people that were also born on this day.

Today's Quote

Throughout history, people have said some emotional, inspirational, and thought-provoking things, sometimes silly things too! But here's what's been said on this day in history.

1925

It might be possible that the world itself is without meaning.

Virginia Woolf

English Writer

Today's Holidays

Every day has special holidays that are celebrated throughout the world, and today is no different! Here's two of today's special holidays you can participate in.

United States

National Buttermilk Biscuit Day

Breakfast is noted as the most important meal of the day, and it often sets the tone for the entire day. It can literally make or break it! Today is National Buttermilk Biscuit Day, so be sure to add biscuits to your morning meal.

United States

National Dance Like A Chicken Day

The Chicken Dance is one of life’s greatest dance moves, but unfortunately, it simply doesn’t get enough airtime. Dance Like A Chicken Day is here to shake things up, so when you strut your stuff today, dance like a chicken instead!

Shower Thoughts

Don't you just love it when you're taking your morning shower, and that little voice in your head asks, "how many balloons would it take to float a human?"

We all have these strange thoughts at random times - and here are our shower thoughts of the day.

Fact Of The Day

Check out our daily facts page for fresh, random facts updated every day!

Fast Facts About Today

  • Day of Week

    Thursday

  • Day of Year

    Day 134

  • Week Number

    Week 20

  • Decade

    2020s

  • Moon Phase

    Waning Crescent

  • Leap Year

    2026 is not a leap year

  • Zodiac Sign

    Taurus

  • Birthstone

    Emerald

  • Birth Flower

    Lily of the Valley

Final Thoughts

Every date has its own story. From headline-making moments in history to notable birthdays, seasonal traditions, and small daily curiosities, this page is a quick reminder that there’s always something worth learning.

Check back anytime you want a fresh snapshot of what makes today truly unique.

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About The Author

Luke Ward
Owner

Luke Ward is the owner of The Fact Site. He has over 14 years of experience in researching, informative writing, fact-checking, SEO & web design. In his spare time, he loves to explore the world, drink coffee & attend trivia nights.

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