Happy National Black Cat Appreciation Day! For too long, these cats have been hit with a bad rap. I say let ’em cross right in front of you, adopt one, trap a wizard inside one — let’s give black cats their proper due today.

This is The Reset Button from Classic Nerd, resetting your day.

August 17 in Nerd History

Here are 5 things that happened on August 17th for those of us who know the legend of One-Eyed Willy by heart.

I.

Birthdays of honor: Robert De Niro (1943), Donnie Wahlberg (1969), Davy Crockett (1786), Belinda Carlisle (1958), Mae West (1893), Sean Penn (1960), Larry Ellison (1944), Samuel Goldwyn (1879).

II.

In 1908, what’s considered by most film historians to be the first animated cartoon premiered in Paris. “Fantasmagorie” by Émile Cohl features stickman-like figures moving through a stream-of-consciousness style of events. I mean, in 1908 this had to have just made people completely lose their sh*t.

III.

In 1979, Monty Python’s Life of Brian was released. Considered by many to be one of the best comedy films ever made, production was saved when George Harrison stepped in to provide financing after EMI Films pulled out just days before production was to begin.

In 1990, David Lynch’s controversial Wild at Heart was released. This is one of those movies, not unlike much of Lynch’s work, that people seem to absolutely detest or absolutely love. Except for the French, who simply loved it, because of course they did.

IV.

In 1978, Double Eagle II became the first balloon to successfully travel across the Atlantic Ocean after a 137-hour journey. But more importantly, it went down in history as the most badass name for a balloon ever.

V.

On day 3 of Woodstock in 1969, Country Joe & the Fish led the audience in their “Fish Cheer.” Spoiler alert, this time they ain’t spellin’ “fish”.