Today in the past: Interesting things that happened on May 20

May 20th is a day marked by significant events and milestones that have shaped the world we live in. From groundbreaking inventions to important moments in exploration, this date has witnessed a multitude of fascinating occurrences. Let’s explore some of the most compelling facts about May 20th.

On May 20, 1498, the landscape of global trade was forever altered when Vasco da Gama, a Portuguese explorer, set foot in Kozhikode on the Malabar Coast of India.This historic landing was the culmination of a quest to find a sea route to India, bypassing the overland and perilous Silk Road. Da Gama’s arrival heralded the beginning of an era that would see the rise of European colonialism in the Indian subcontinent.

The Boeing X-37B spaceplane, embarked on a classified mission on May 20, 2015, under the command of the US Air Force Space Command. This unmanned orbital test vehicle, shrouded in secrecy, represents a leap in reusable spacecraft technology, capable of conducting long-duration missions in low Earth orbit. Its launch made strides in aerospace innovation, allowing for the potential execution of a variety of missions from reconnaissance to technology testing, thereby expanding the frontiers of space exploration and utilization.

On this day in 1918, Piru Singh Shekhawat was born into a world on the brink of change. His life would become a symbol of valor and sacrifice as he played a pivotal role in the Indo-Pak war of 1947. For his extraordinary bravery, he was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honor. His legacy is a reminder of the courage and spirit of the soldiers who defend their country’s sovereignty against overwhelming odds.

On May 20, 1932, Amelia Earhart soared into the pages of history with her solo transatlantic flight, becoming the first woman to achieve such a feat. Departing from Newfoundland, she braved the unpredictable weather and mechanical challenges to land in Northern Ireland approximately 15 hours later. This remarkable journey shattered societal expectations and cemented Earhart’s place as an aviation pioneer and a symbol of the relentless pursuit of dreams, regardless of the barriers.

Anjum Chopra, a trailblazer in Indian women’s cricket, celebrates her birthday on May 20. Born in 1977, Chopra’s cricketing prowess and leadership have significantly contributed to the sport’s development in India. As a former captain, her strategic acumen and batting finesse have inspired a generation of young cricketers. Her legacy extends beyond the pitch, as she continues to be a role model and advocate for women’s sports.

On May 20, 1990, the Hubble Space Telescope captured its inaugural images, marking a monumental moment in space exploration. These photographs, taken to assist in focusing the telescope, showcased a clarity and resolution far surpassing that of ground-based observatories. The subject, the binary star HD96755 in the open cluster NGC 3532, was rendered with unprecedented detail, heralding a new era of cosmic discovery that would reshape our understanding of the universe.

Prem Lata Agarwal’s ascent of Mount Everest on May 20, 2011, remains as a beacon of inspiration. At the age of 48, she became the oldest Indian woman to conquer the world’s highest peak, serving as a clarion call to all, proving that age is but a number and that human potential knows no bounds.

The patent granted to Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis on May 20, 1873, for blue jeans with copper rivets, was a revolutionary moment in fashion history. This innovation transformed the fabric of society, quite literally, as blue jeans became a symbol of durability, comfort, and eventually, an iconic element of American culture.


East Timor’s Independence Day on May 20th commemorates the nation’s arduous journey to sovereignty. After centuries of Portuguese colonial rule followed by a tumultuous period of Indonesian occupation, the Timorese people’s resilience culminated in the restoration of independence in 2002. This day is a celebration of national identity, freedom, and the lasting spirit of a people who fought valiantly for their right to self-determination.

World Bee Day, observed on May 20th, is a global initiative to highlight the critical role bees play in our ecosystem. It is a day to raise awareness about the importance of pollinators, the threats they face, and their contribution to sustainable development. The observance calls for action to protect these vital insects, which are essential for the pollination of many crops and, by extension, the sustenance of human life on Earth.