What Happened on October 23?
October 23 is Mole Day — chemistry class's celebration of Avogadro's number — on the same date Apple unveiled the iPod in 2001, Hungarians rose in 1956, and Allies opened El Alamein in 1942.
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1707 — The first Parliament of Great Britain meets
On October 23, 1707, the first Parliament of Great Britain assembled in London after the Acts of Union joined England and Scotland. Read the full story →
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1915 — Tens of thousands march in New York for women's suffrage
On October 23, 1915, a massive women's suffrage parade filled New York City streets — one of the largest marches for the vote yet seen. Read the full story →
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1942 — The Second Battle of El Alamein begins in Egypt
On October 23, 1942, Allied forces under Bernard Montgomery opened the Second Battle of El Alamein — a turning point in the North African campaign of World War II. Read the full story →
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1956 — The Hungarian Revolution of 1956 begins in Budapest
On October 23, 1956, student protests in Budapest erupted into the Hungarian Revolution — a brave uprising against Soviet-backed rule. Read the full story →
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1989 — Hungary proclaims itself a republic, ending Communist rule's formal state title
On October 23, 1989 — the anniversary of the 1956 uprising — Hungary proclaimed the Republic of Hungary, marking a peaceful exit from Communist one-party rule. Read the full story →
Famous birthdays
Pelé (1940–2022) · Johnny Carson (1925–2005) · Michael Crichton (1942–2008) · Ang Lee (1954)
Days & observances
Mole Day · National Boston Cream Pie Day · National TV Talk Show Host Day · Republic Day (Hungary)