From royal speeches and musical legends to a remarkable Australian journey, May 13 has delivered some memorable moments through history.

1940: Churchill delivers his famous “blood, toil, tears and sweat” speech

Just three days after becoming British prime minister, Winston Churchill addressed the House of Commons on May 13, 1940. In one of the most famous speeches of World War II, Churchill warned Britain of the challenges ahead, declaring: “I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat.” The speech helped rally Britain during one of the darkest periods of the war.

1950: Stevie Wonder is born

Music icon Stevie Wonder was born on this day in Michigan in 1950. Blind from infancy, Wonder became one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century with hits including Superstition, Isn’t She Lovely and I Just Called to Say I Love You.

1917: The first reported visions at Fátima

On May 13, 1917, three Portuguese children reported seeing an apparition of the Virgin Mary near the town of Fátima. The events at Fátima became one of the most famous religious phenomena of the 20th century and continue to attract pilgrims from around the world.

1787: The First Fleet begins its journey to Australia

On this day in 1787, Captain Arthur Phillip and the First Fleet departed Portsmouth, England, bound for Botany Bay. The fleet of 11 ships arrived in Australia in January 1788 and established the first European colony at Sydney Cove, marking a defining moment in Australian history.

Also born on this day

Doris Day (1922)
Stephen Colbert (1964)
Scott Morrison (1968)