January 09

Events - Society & Lifestyle

1787day.year

The nationally known image of the Black Nazarene in the Philippines was transferred from what is now Rizal Park to its present shrine in the minor basilica of Quiapo Church. This is annually commemorated through its Traslación (solemn transfer) in the streets of Manila and is attended by millions of devotees.

In 1787, the revered Black Nazarene image was transferred to Quiapo Church in Manila, beginning an annual Filipino devotion.
On January 9, 1787, Manila's religious authorities moved the Black Nazarene image from Rizal Park to its new shrine in Quiapo Church. The Bronzewood carving, believed to be miraculous, quickly became a focal point of popular Catholic devotion. Each year, millions of devotees reenact this transfer, known as the Traslación, through Manila's streets. Participants endure long hours, intense crowds, and torrential weather to touch the image's carriage. The annual procession is one of the largest religious gatherings in Asia, reflecting deep faith and cultural tradition.
1787 Black Nazarene Philippines Rizal Park minor basilica Quiapo Church Manila
1914day.year

The Phi Beta Sigma fraternity is founded by African-American students at Howard University in Washington D.C., United States.

In 1914, Phi Beta Sigma fraternity was founded at Howard University to promote brotherhood, scholarship, and service.
On January 9, 1914, three African-American students at Howard University—A. Langston Taylor, Leonard F. Morse, and Charles I. Brown—established Phi Beta Sigma. The fraternity was founded on principles of brotherhood, scholarship, and service, aiming to uplift African-American communities and foster academic excellence. Through social initiatives, community outreach, and cultural programs, Phi Beta Sigma has impacted generations of leaders and professionals. The organization played a significant role during the Civil Rights Movement and continues to promote social justice, education, and civic engagement. With chapters across the globe, it remains one of the prominent historically black Greek-letter organizations.
1914 Phi Beta Sigma Howard University
1964day.year

Martyrs' Day: Several Panamanian youths try to raise the Panamanian flag in the U.S.-controlled Panama Canal Zone, leading to fighting between U.S. military and Panamanian civilians.

On Martyrs' Day, 9 January 1964, Panamanian students' attempt to raise their national flag in the U.S.-controlled Canal Zone sparked rioting and military clashes.
Young Panamanians entered the Canal Zone to assert sovereignty by displaying their flag along the border. U.S. military police responded by attempting to seize and remove the flagpoles. The confrontation escalated into street fighting, resulting in civilian and military casualties. The incident ignited nationwide protests and heightened anti-American sentiment in Panama. Diplomatic relations between the two countries deteriorated sharply in its aftermath. Martyrs' Day became a symbol of Panamanian national pride and a catalyst for future canal sovereignty negotiations.
1964 Martyrs' Day Panamanian Panama Canal Zone