History often remembers dates not for a single moment, but for the range of changes they represent. February 19 is one such day. Across centuries, it has witnessed breakthroughs in science, defining political decisions, and books that sparked social change. Here is a look at five significant events associated with this date.
Birth of Nicolaus Copernicus (1473)
Astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus was born on February 19, 1473, in Toruń, in present-day Poland. He later proposed the heliocentric theory, placing the Sun at the centre of the solar system instead of the Earth. His work, published in 1543, challenged long-held beliefs and helped lay the foundation for modern astronomy.
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Thomas Edison Patents the Phonograph (1978)
On this day in 1878, American inventor Thomas Edison received a patent for the phonograph. The machine could record and replay sound, something never done before in a practical way. The invention opened the door to the recorded music industry and permanently changed how people experienced sound.
Executive Order 9066 Signed (1942)
US President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066 on February 19, 1942, during World War II. The order led to the forced relocation and internment of Japanese Americans, primarily from the West Coast. The policy remains one of the most debated civil liberties issues in American history.
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‘The Feminine Mystique’ Published (1963)
American writer Betty Friedan saw her book The Feminine Mystique published on this day in 1963. The book examined the limited roles available to women in mid-20th century America and is widely seen as a key text that helped ignite second-wave feminism.
Fidel Castro Steps Down (2008)
On February 19, 2008, Cuban leader Fidel Castro formally resigned as President of Cuba after nearly five decades in power. His resignation marked a major political shift for the country and formally transferred leadership to his brother Raúl Castro.
