7 Google Celebrations You Never Knew Existed

Google has been celebrating various events, holidays, and cultural milestones through its iconic doodles since 1998. While many are familiar with the company’s most popular doodles, such as those honoring famous scientists, artists, and holidays, there are numerous lesser-known celebrations that showcase Google’s creative and cultural awareness. Let’s explore seven Google celebrations that may have flown under the radar.

Unconventional Cultural Celebrations

Google’s doodles often highlight diverse cultural events and traditions from around the world. One such example is the

, a Persian New Year observed in several countries, including Iran, Afghanistan, and Turkey. On March 20, 2014, Google honored this significant cultural event with a doodle featuring a stylized representation of the “Haft-Seen” table setting, a traditional arrangement of symbolic items that mark the beginning of the new year.

Nowruz, which translates to “new day” in Persian, is a celebration of renewal and new beginnings. The Haft-Seen table typically includes seven items starting with the letter “seen” (the Persian letter “س”), each representing a different aspect of life, such as renewal, abundance, and love. Google’s doodle beautifully captured the essence of this cultural tradition, highlighting the rich heritage and symbolism associated with Nowruz.

Hidden Historical Figures

Google has also used its doodles to bring attention to lesser-known historical figures who have made significant contributions to various fields. For instance, on August 26, 2015, Google celebrated the life and work of

, the renowned American jazz singer often referred to as the “First Lady of Song.” The doodle featured an animated illustration of Fitzgerald in her signature style, paying tribute to her impressive vocal range and iconic performances.

Ella Fitzgerald’s legacy extends far beyond her impressive vocal talent. She was a trailblazer for women in jazz and paved the way for future generations of female musicians. Google’s doodle not only celebrated her artistic achievements but also acknowledged her impact on the music industry and her enduring influence on contemporary artists.

Overlooked Scientific Discoveries

Google’s doodles have also highlighted important scientific discoveries and milestones that may have gone unnoticed by the general public. A notable example is the

, 51 Pegasi b, on October 6, 2015. The doodle featured an animated representation of the exoplanet and its host star, marking a significant moment in the history of astronomy.

The discovery of 51 Pegasi b, announced in 1995, revolutionized our understanding of planetary formation and the search for life beyond our solar system. Google’s doodle acknowledged the groundbreaking work of the scientists involved in this discovery and brought attention to the fascinating field of exoplanetary research.

Unsung Heroes

Google has used its doodles to honor unsung heroes who have made significant contributions to society. For example, on March 8, 2017, Google celebrated

with a global doodle that featured a series of illustrations created by women from around the world. The doodle highlighted the achievements and stories of women who have broken barriers and pushed boundaries in their respective fields.

The International Women’s Day doodle was more than just a celebration; it was a call to action. By showcasing the work and experiences of women from diverse backgrounds, Google encouraged users to reflect on the progress made towards gender equality and the challenges that still need to be addressed.

Forgotten Historical Events

Google’s doodles have also shed light on forgotten historical events that have shaped our world. On June 12, 2013, Google honored the

, a British ethnographer and writer who traveled extensively throughout West Africa during the late 19th century. The doodle featured an illustration of Kingsley in her travels, highlighting her groundbreaking work in documenting African cultures and challenging colonial stereotypes.

Mary Kingsley’s work was pioneering in many ways, as she ventured into uncharted territories and documented her experiences with remarkable insight and sensitivity. Google’s doodle brought attention to her remarkable life and legacy, encouraging users to explore the rich cultural heritage of West Africa.

Unappreciated Artistic Movements

Google has celebrated various artistic movements and styles through its doodles, often bringing attention to lesser-known or underappreciated forms of creative expression. On October 26, 2016, Google honored the

, a series of somber and melancholic paintings characterized by their blue and blue-green hues.

Picasso’s “Blue Period” is a testament to the artist’s innovative style and his ability to convey complex emotions through his work. Google’s doodle featured a stylized representation of one of Picasso’s iconic “Blue Period” paintings, highlighting the artist’s unique vision and his enduring influence on modern art.

Overlooked Technological Milestones

Finally, Google has used its doodles to celebrate significant technological milestones that have shaped our modern world. On September 20, 2013, Google honored the

, the first commercially successful photocopier. The doodle featured an animated illustration of the Xerox 914 in action, highlighting its impact on office work and document reproduction.

The Xerox 914 was a groundbreaking invention that revolutionized the way businesses and organizations handled document copying. Google’s doodle acknowledged the significant role this technology played in shaping modern office culture and facilitating the widespread dissemination of information.

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