AP Today in History
May 13 is the 133rd day of the year (134th on a leap year) on the Gregorian calendar.http://www.infoplease.com/spot/gregorian1.html The Zodiac sign for individuals born on this day is Taurus. http://www.findyourfate.com/astrology/taurus.htm
In the United States, May 13 is celebrated as National Apple Pie Day. The day is meant to celebrate the dessert, which has been regarded as a classic American dish.http://www.mypunchbowl.com/holidays/national-apple-pie-day The origins of the dessert date back to 14th century Europe, with the first printed recipe being published by Geoffrey Chaucer. During National Apple Day, individuals are encouraged to bake a pie or purchase one from a bakery and share it with family and friends.http://www.mypunchbowl.com/holidays/national-apple-pie-day Apple pies are available around the country, with some regions offering their own versions of the dish, like cheddar cheese on a slice of apple pie.http://www.wchstv.com/gmarecipes/applecheddarcheesepie.shtml
The day is also celebrated as Leprechaun Day. The day is meant to celebrate the creatures of Irish legend and to partake in activities with Leprechaun themes.http://www.holidayinsights.com/stpat/leprechaunday.htm According to legend, Leprechauns have a hidden pot of gold, and if one is caught they are forced to surrender that gold to their captor.http://www.holidayinsights.com/stpat/leprechaunday.htm One activity participated in during Leprechaun Day is for groups to go out and attempt to catch a Leprechaun.
May 13, 1981
Pope John Paul II was shot and wounded in St. Peter's Square by Turkish assailant Mehmet Ali Agca.
The 1950s
- 1958: While visiting Venezuela, Richard Nixon motorcade is attacked by protesters upset with American foreign policy.
The 1800s
- 1846: President James K. Polk declared the United States was in a state of war against Mexico.
The 1600s
May 13 Moment of Zen
The Daily Show: Snake Swallow (1999)
The Daily Show: Handshake (2002)
The Daily Show: Homeland Security (2003)
The Daily Show: Gas Prices (2008)
The Daily Show: Dr. Phil on torture (2004)
Holidays and Observances
- Fiji - Rotuma Day
Famous Birthdays
- 1987: Hunter Parrish - Weeds
- 1964: Stephen Colbert - The Colbert Report
- 1950: Stevie Wonder - Musician
- 1939: Harvey Keitel - Taxi Driver
- 1914: Joe Louis - Boxer