Historical events for
Saturday, 19 September 2026

Cândido de Figueiredo, Portuguese philologist and lexicographer, known for his works on the Portuguese language.

Ludwig von Bertalanffy, Austrian biologist, founder of General Systems Theory.

Emil Zátopek, Czech athlete, known as one of the greatest long-distance runners of all time.

Jeremy Irons, British actor, known for films such as "The Lion King" and "Reversal of Fortune".

Rosemary Casals, American tennis player, known for being a pioneer in the fight for women's rights in sport.

Twiggy (b. 1949) is an iconic British model, actress, and singer. With her androgynous look, short hair, and bold eyelashes, she subverted traditional beauty standards and became the absolute muse and unmistakable face of the 1960s cultural revolution.

Helena Isabel, Portuguese actress, known for her work in theater and television.

On September 19, 1571, the Captaincy of N’gola was created, on the Atlantic coast of Africa. This event marked the beginning of the Portuguese presence in the region, culminating in the founding of the city of São Paulo de Luanda in 1576.

On September 19, 1761, the Marquis of Pombal prohibited the slave trade to Portugal, an important measure in the fight against slavery.

On September 19, 1893, New Zealand became the first country in the world to grant women the right to vote, a milestone in the fight for women's rights.

On September 19, 1916, during the First World War, the Portuguese expeditionary force invaded German East Africa, crossing the Rovuma River, marking Portugal's participation in the conflict in Africa.

On September 19, 1956, the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC) was founded, led by Amílcar Cabral. The party played a crucial role in the fight for the independence of Portugal's colonies in West Africa.

Saint Kitts and Nevis Independence Day Celebration, commemorating independence from the United Kingdom on 19 September 1983. Celebrations include parades, official ceremonies and cultural events.

On September 19, 1983, Saint Kitts and Nevis became independent from the United Kingdom, celebrating this day as its National Day.

On September 19, 1995, Diogo Freitas do Amaral was invested as President of the General Assembly of the United Nations, being the first Portuguese to occupy that position.

Saint Januarius, bishop and martyr from the 3rd century, is venerated on September 19th.

Saint Emília de Rodat, founder of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Family, is celebrated on September 19 for her work with the poor and sick.

Porto goalkeeper

On September 19, 2000, Nuno Delgado won the bronze medal in the -81kg judo category at the Sydney Olympic Games, being Portugal's first Olympic medal in this sport.