What Happened on April 23?
April 23 is World Book Day — and the traditional birthday of William Shakespeare, who also died on this date in 1616. It is also when Peterborough, New Hampshire, opened America's first tax-supported public library in 1833.
-
1564 — William Shakespeare is born in Stratford-upon-Avon
On April 23, 1564 — by tradition — England's greatest playwright was born in a market town on the River Avon, beginning a life that would reshape world literature. Read the full story →
-
1616 — William Shakespeare dies on his 52nd birthday
The Bard of Avon died on April 23, 1616 — traditionally the same calendar date as his birth — leaving behind 37 plays and 154 sonnets that still fill stages worldwide. Read the full story →
-
1833 — Peterborough, New Hampshire, opens America's first tax-supported public library
On April 23, 1833, voters in Peterborough approved a tax to fund a free library open to all residents — a model that spread across the United States. Read the full story →
-
1968 — Columbia University students occupy campus buildings in protest
On April 23, 1968, Columbia students seized five campus buildings to protest the Vietnam War and a gym planned in a public park — a flashpoint of 1960s student activism. Read the full story →
-
1985 — Coca-Cola announces a new formula — and fans revolt
On April 23, 1985, Coca-Cola replaced its century-old recipe with 'New Coke,' triggering one of the loudest consumer backlashes in marketing history. Read the full story →
Famous birthdays
William Shakespeare (1564–1616) · Max Planck (1858–1947) · Shirley Temple (1928–2014) · John Oliver (1977)
Days & observances
World Book and Copyright Day · St. George's Day · National Lost Dog Awareness Day · National Picnic Day