International Left-Handers Day

International Left-Handers Day is a real holiday for those who see the world from a left-handed point of view. Scientists have found that about 825 million lefties live on the planet. Most of these people are concentrated in Papua New Guinea, where almost a quarter of the population is left-handed. In the US and UK, it is around 10%.

History

The day was first in 1976 at the initiative of Dean R. Campbell, founder of Lefthanders International, Inc. A left-handed club was created in 1990 to address various issues, provide assistance, and conduct research. Members of the club are also in constant search of things that simplify the lives of left-handers.

International Left-Handers Day is all over the world, but it receives special attention in the UK. Parties, sports matches, regional festivals, and other events take place in the country.

The purpose of the holiday is to convey to people that being left-handed is normal and natural.

Interesting Facts

• In 1860, it was believed that left-handers were in a conspiracy with the devil;
• Many famous people are or were left-handed, including Barack Obama, Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, and Albert Einstein;
• Left-handers are prone to periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD);
• One Yale study claims left-handed people are more likely to suffer from schizophrenia and other mental disorders;
• Left-handers are 11 times more likely to have allergies;
• There are more left-handed men than women.

How to Take Part

Is there at least one left-hander in your circle? Or maybe you are one? Throw a party and share life stories about this. Tell right-handed people that sometimes you get into awkward situations and also face misunderstanding from society.

When is International Left-Handers Day in 2024?

International Left-Handers Day is observed on August 13 each year.

Observations