February 29, known as Leap Day, appears only once every four years to keep the calendar aligned with Earth’s orbit around the Sun. Introduced by Julius Caesar in 45 BCE and refined by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582, it carries a unique place in history. Notable events on this rare date include Christopher Columbus predicting a lunar eclipse in 1504 and Hattie McDaniel becoming the first African American to win an Oscar in 1940. Famous leap-day births include composer Gioachino Rossini, motivational speaker Tony Robbins, and rapper Ja Rule. Those born on this day, called “leaplings,” usually celebrate on February 28 or March 1 in non-leap years.
Famous people born on February 29
Famous Events on February 29
Notable People Who Died on February 29
February 29, often called Leap Day, is one of the most fascinating quirks of our calendar. Appearing only once every four years, it helps to synchronize our timekeeping with the Earth's orbit around the Sun. Without it, our calendar would slowly drift out of alignment, eventually causing the seasons to shift over time. This extra day reminds us of the delicate balance between human-made systems and the natural rhythms of our planet.
The leap year itself, occurring in years divisible by four except for those divisible by 100 unless also divisible by 400, was introduced by Julius Caesar in 45 BCE with the Julian calendar and later refined by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582 with the Gregorian calendar, which most of the world still uses today. This correction ensures that the average calendar year remains close to the astronomical year of 365.2422 days, maintaining accuracy over centuries.
Leap Day has also inspired unique traditions and superstitions around the world. In Ireland and parts of Britain, it was once customary for women to propose marriage on February 29, a playful reversal of social norms. For those born on this rare day, known as leaplings, birthdays come only once every four years, making them part of a truly special club. February 29 stands as a reminder that time, while measured with precision, still holds space for mystery, rarity, and celebration.