Historical Events
Aktion T4
Adolf Hitler orders extermination of mentally ill through the "Aktion T4 Euthanasia Program," arguing that wartime "was the best time for the elimination of the incurably ill"
- General George Marshall sworn in as the United States Army Chief of Staff
Scoop of the Century
In the "scoop of the century," Telegraph journalist Clare Hollingworth becomes the first to report the outbreak of World War II
- Last day of 1st-class cricket in England before the declaration of war against Germany; great slow left-armer Hedley Verity finishes with amazing figures of 7 for 9 v Sussex to give Yorkshire the County Championship
- Scientific journal "Physical Review" publishes 1st paper to deal with "black holes"
- Switzerland mobilizes its forces and the Swiss Parliament elects Henri Guisan to head the Swiss Army (an event that can happen only during war or mobilization)
- Switzerland proclaims neutrality at the outbreak of WWII
- The Wound Badge for Wehrmacht, SS, Kriegsmarine, and Luftwaffe soldiers is instituted. The final version of the Iron Cross was also instituted on this date
Start of World War II
World War II starts when Germany invades Poland by attacking the Free City of Danzig
Famous Birthdays
- Heinrich Messner, Austrian downhill skier (winner first ever World Cup slalom; Olympic bronze 1968, 72), born in Obernberg am Brenner, Austria
- Lily Tomlin, American Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Award-winning comedienne, actress, and writer (Laugh-In; 9 to 5; The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe; All Of Me), born in Detroit, Michigan
About September 1, 1939
Day of the Week: Friday
How Long Ago? 84 years, 7 months and 28 days
Leap Year: No
Generation: Silent Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Rabbit
Star Sign: Virgo
