Historical events for
Thursday, 20 August 2026

Manuel Bernardes, Portuguese writer and sacred speaker, author of works such as "Luz e Calor" and "Nova Floresta", a notable figure in Portuguese baroque literature.

José Wilker, Brazilian actor, known for iconic roles in soap operas such as "Roque Santeiro" and films such as "Dona Flor e Seu Dois Maridos".

The Portuguese "GOAT". Born in Madeira, he became the greatest scorer in the history of football and Real Madrid (451 goals). Captained Portugal in the historic victory of Euro 2016. Winner of 5 Ballon d'Ors and 5 Champions Leagues. His iron discipline and longevity defy the laws of sport.

In 1641, the English sign a peace treaty with Scotland, putting an end to a prolonged conflict.

Portuguese-British forces defeat French troops in the Battle of Vimeiro, an important milestone in the French Invasions in Portugal.

Portugal and the United Kingdom sign the Treaty of London, defining the territorial limits of Angola and Mozambique.

Publication of the statutes of the National Union, the only authorized political force in Portugal during the Estado Novo dictatorship.

Former Russian revolutionary Leon Trotsky is murdered in Mexico, where he had taken refuge, on August 20, 1940.

In 1975, the Civil War began in Timor-Leste, marking a period of great turmoil and conflict in the region.

NASA launches the Voyager II probe, part of the Voyager mission, which was designed to study the outer planets of the Solar System.

Celebration of the restoration of Estonia's independence from the Soviet Union on August 20, 1991, after a period of Soviet occupation that began in 1944. On this day, the Supreme Council of Estonia officially declared the restoration of the country's independence.

Hugo Pratt, Italian designer and writer, creator of the series "Desert Scorpions" and the hero Corto Maltese, dies at the age of 68.

Supreme Court of Guinea-Bissau approves the electoral results that give victory to João Bernardo Nino Vieira.

Pope Francis publishes a letter addressed to all Catholics in the world, condemning crimes of sexual abuse by priests and demanding accountability.

Day dedicated to Saint Felisberto, a saint venerated as a bishop and confessor.

Commemoration of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, abbot and Doctor of the Church, known for his influence on the Cistercians and for having preached the Second Crusade.

Religious celebration dedicated to Our Lady of Agonia, patron saint of fishermen, especially venerated in Viana do Castelo.

Celebration of the rich cultural and historical heritage of Goa, a former Portuguese territory in India, known for its unique mix of Portuguese-Indian cultures.

Day dedicated to raising awareness about diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, such as malaria, dengue, and Zika, and the importance of prevention.

The Moon enters the First Quarter phase at 03:31 (Legal Time).

Nelson Évora (b. 1984) is a legendary Portuguese athlete, specializing in the triple jump. Olympic Champion in Beijing 2008 and World Champion in Osaka 2007, he combined exquisite technique with enormous competitive resilience, establishing himself as an emblematic and inescapable figure in national sports.