January 13

January 13: This Day in History

• 1128— The Pope gave formal recognition to the Knights Templar at the Council of Troyes.
• 1898— Émile Zola published his open letter J'Accuse, accusing the French government of antisemitism in the Dreyfus Affair.
• 1968— Johnny Cash performed his legendary live album concert at Folsom State Prison in California.
• 1990— Douglas Wilder of Virginia was inaugurated as the first elected Black governor in U.S. history.

Famous Birthdays on January 13

• Orlando Bloom (1977) — British actor known for Lord of the Rings and Pirates of the Caribbean
• Liam Hemsworth (1990) — Australian actor known for The Hunger Games
• Julia Louis-Dreyfus (1961) — Emmy-winning actress known for Seinfeld and Veep
• Patrick Dempsey (1966) — actor known as Dr. McDreamy on Grey's Anatomy
• Trace Adkins (1962) — country music singer and actor

What Happens on January 13?

Did You Know? January 13 Fun Facts

• Émile Zola's J'Accuse letter, published January 13, 1898, is considered one of the most powerful pieces of public journalism ever written.
• Friday the 13th is considered unlucky in many Western cultures, but in Italy the number 13 is actually considered lucky.
• January 13 is the feast day of St. Hilary, and the period around this date is known as the 'Hilary Term' in English law courts and universities.

Count Down to Events on January 13

• How many days until Australian Open?
• How many days until Lohri?