On this day: March 17
St. Patrick’s Day
One of the most well-known events that happened on March 17 is St. Patrick’s Day. This holiday is celebrated in honor of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. St. Patrick’s Day is traditionally observed by wearing green clothing, parades, and consuming traditional Irish food and drink such as corned beef and cabbage and Guinness beer.
1762 – First St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The first recorded St. Patrick’s Day parade took place in New York City on March 17, 1762. The parade was organized by Irish soldiers serving in the British army and has since become a beloved tradition in many cities around the world.
1845 – The Rubber Band is Patented
On March 17, 1845, Stephen Perry of London patented the rubber band. The simple yet versatile invention has become a staple in offices, homes, and schools around the world.
1901 – First Nobel Prizes Awarded
On March 17, 1901, the first Nobel Prizes were awarded in Stockholm, Sweden. The prizes were established by the will of Alfred Nobel, the inventor of dynamite, and are awarded annually in various categories including physics, chemistry, literature, peace, and economics.
1959 – Tenzin Gyatso Named Dalai Lama
On March 17, 1959, Tenzin Gyatso was named the 14th Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet. The Dalai Lama is considered to be the reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, and plays a significant role in Tibetan Buddhism.
1969 – Golda Meir Becomes Prime Minister of Israel
On March 17, 1969, Golda Meir became the first female Prime Minister of Israel. She served as Prime Minister until 1974 and was known for her strong leadership during the Yom Kippur War in 1973.
1992 – White South Africans Approve Reforms
On March 17, 1992, white South Africans voted in a referendum to approve reforms that would end apartheid and allow for the creation of a multi-racial democracy in South Africa. The reforms paved the way for Nelson Mandela to become the country’s first black President in 1994.
2011 – Syrian Civil War Begins
On March 17, 2011, the Syrian Civil War began with protests against the government of President Bashar al-Assad. The conflict has since escalated into a devastating civil war that has resulted in hundreds of thousands of deaths and millions of refugees.
