Ten things you never knew about… July

1. In the ancient Roman calendar, the year began in March and July was the fifth month, which was why it was called Quintilis (meaning “fifth”). 

2. It was renamed July in 44BC after Julius Caesar whose birthday fell in this month. 

3. The ancient British called July “Heymonth” or “Maedmonth” referring to haymaking and meadows flowering. 

4. Until the 18th century, the word July had its stress on the first syllable so rhymed with truly. 

5. Oliver Stone’s film Born On The Fourth Of July starring Tom Cruise won Oscars for Best Director and Best Film Editing. No other film with July in its title has ever won an Oscar.

6. More US presidents (seven) have died in July than in any other month. 

7. In the USA, July is both National Hot Dog Month and National Ice Cream Month. 

8. “The English winter, ending in July, To recommence in August – now was done.” (Byron). 

9. July’s birthstone is the ruby, its flowers are larkspur or waterlily. 

10. More babies are born in July in the UK than in any other month, though the average daily rate is higher in September’s 30 days than in July’s 31.