On this day: February 20
February 20, 1792 – The Postal Service Act is signed into law
On this day in 1792, President George Washington signed the Postal Service Act, establishing the United States Postal Service. This act created the framework for the country’s postal system, which would play a crucial role in connecting people and businesses across the nation.
February 20, 1962 – John Glenn becomes the first American to orbit the Earth
On February 20, 1962, astronaut John Glenn made history by becoming the first American to orbit the Earth. Glenn’s Mercury spacecraft, Friendship 7, completed three orbits around the planet before safely landing in the Atlantic Ocean. This milestone marked a significant achievement in the United States’ space exploration efforts during the Cold War era.
February 20, 1986 – The Soviet Union launches the Mir space station
On this day in 1986, the Soviet Union launched the Mir space station into orbit. Mir would become the first modular space station, serving as a precursor to the International Space Station. The station remained operational for over 15 years, hosting numerous crew members and conducting various scientific experiments.
February 20, 2005 – Spain legalizes same-sex marriage
On February 20, 2005, Spain made history by becoming the third country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. The legislation marked a significant step forward in LGBTQ rights in the country, allowing same-sex couples to legally marry and enjoy the same rights and benefits as heterosexual couples.
February 20, 2013 – A meteor explodes over Chelyabinsk, Russia
On this day in 2013, a meteor exploded in the skies over Chelyabinsk, Russia, causing widespread damage and injuring over 1,000 people. The blast was the largest recorded meteor impact in over a century and served as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by objects from space.
February 20, 2020 – The COVID-19 pandemic begins to spread globally
On February 20, 2020, the World Health Organization reported an increase in COVID-19 cases outside of China, marking the beginning of the global spread of the coronavirus pandemic. The virus would go on to impact millions of people worldwide, leading to widespread lockdowns, economic disruptions, and changes in daily life.
