February 16 » Celebrate and Learn

Lithuania Celebrates Independence Day of 1918

Events

Feb 162024

Flag of Lithuania

Lithuania celebrates Independence Day of 1918. It became free of Russian and German rule. People celebrate this day even though Lithuania was annexed into the Soviet Union in 1940. In 1991 Lithuania became the first nation to break away from the Soviet Union. According to the CIA World Factbook, Lithuania is slightly larger than West Virginia and hosts a population of about 2.7 million people. It borders the Baltic Sea, and Vilnius is the capital. A member of the European Union, Lithuania depends on agricultural products, including grains, potatoes, and flax. Children could learn more at: Lithuania.

First Fruit Tree Patent Was Granted in 1932

Events

Feb 162024

Peaches but not the Markham patent

First fruit tree patent was granted in 1932 to James Markham of Stark Brothers Nurseries and Orchards in Mississippi. The patent concerned a peach that ripened later than other varieties.

Nylon Was Patented in the United States in 1937

Events

Feb 162024

Nylon Toothbrushes

Nylon was patented in the United States in 1937. Wallace H. Carothers, an employee of DuPont, patented the amazing synthetic polymer. One of the first applications was to replace hog-bristle toothbrushes with nylon-bristle toothbrushes. Children could view the patent at: Nylon Patent.

South Pole Telescope Saw First Light in 2007

Events

Feb 162024

South Pole Telescope saw first light in 2007. Scientists using the ten-foot diameter radio telescope are seeking data regarding the history of the universe, dark energy, and galaxy clusters. The radio telescope is located on a South Pole plateau two miles above sea level. The air there is so dry that the area is desert-like. Older children can learn more at an excellent site: South Pole Telescope.

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