May 23

Events - Society & Lifestyle

1844day.year

Báb: A merchant of Shiraz announces that he is a Prophet and founds a religious movement. He is considered to be a forerunner of the Baháʼí Faith.

On May 23, 1844, the Báb announced in Shiraz that he was a prophet, founding a movement regarded as the forerunner of the Baháʼí Faith.
In Shiraz, Persia, merchant Siyyid Ali-Muhammad declared himself the Báb or 'Gate' to a new spiritual dispensation. His proclamation marked the birth of a religious movement that challenged established clerical authority. The Báb's teachings emphasized moral renewal and the imminent arrival of a future messenger, Baháʼu'lláh. Despite intense persecution, his followers spread his message across Persia and beyond. Today, the Baháʼí Faith honors the Báb's declaration each year, recognizing his role as a central figure in its development.
1844 Báb Baháʼí Faith
1905day.year

Abdul Hamid II, Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, publicly announces the creation of the Ullah millet for the Aromanians of the empire, which had been established one day earlier. For this reason, the Aromanian National Day is usually celebrated on May 23, although some do so on May 22 instead.

On May 23, 1905, Sultan Abdul Hamid II recognized the Ullah millet for the Aromanians, granting them official community status within the Ottoman Empire.
In an effort to manage the diverse populations of the empire, Abdul Hamid II approved the Ullah millet, giving Aromanians religious and educational autonomy. This recognized community could establish its own churches and schools under Ottoman law. The decision followed petitions from Aromanian leaders seeking cultural preservation. Aromanian National Day is celebrated on May 23 to commemorate this milestone, although some honor the original May 22 decree. The millet system was a key feature of Ottoman minority governance, balancing unity and diversity.
1905 Abdul Hamid II Sultan of the Ottoman Empire Ullah millet Aromanians Aromanian National Day May 22