August is the eighth month of the year (between July and September) in the Julian and Gregorian calendars and one of seven months with a length of 31 days. In the Southern Hemisphere, August is the seasonal equivalent of February in the Northern Hemisphere.
August symbols: The birthstones of August are the peridot and sardonyx. Its birth flower is the gladiolus or poppy, meaning beauty, strength of character, love, marriage and family. The zodiac signs for the month of August are Leo (until August 22) and Virgo (from August 23 onwards).
Historical Events for August, 1861
Day of Week 5th » American Civil War: In order to help pay for the war effort, the Federal government of the United States known as United States government levies the first income tax as part of the Revenue Act of 1861 (3% of all incomes over US $800; rescinded in 1872).
5th » The United States Army abolishes Flagellation e.g flogging.
Day of Week 6th » The United Kingdom annexes Lagos, Nigeria.
Day of Week 19th » First ascent of Weisshorn, fifth highest summit in the Alps.
Day of Week 28th » American Civil War: Union (American Civil War) e.g Union forces attack Cape Hatteras, North Carolina in the Battle of Hatteras Inlet Batteries which lasts for two days.
Day of Week 29th » American Civil War: United States Navy squadron captures forts at Hatteras Inlet, North Carolina.