National Abel Day, on August 17, celebrates everyone named Abel. Abel is a biblical first name that probably comes from the Hebrew ‘Hebel,’ itself derived from ‘hevel’ meaning ‘breath.’ It could also be from the Assyrian word for ‘son.’ In the biblical account, Abel is the second son of Adam and Eve and was killed out of spite by his brother Cain. In England, the name ‘Abel’ came into use during the Middle Ages, and it was common during the 17th-century Puritan era. Abel has variations in other languages such as ‘Aapeli’ in Finnish, ‘Ábel’ in Hungarian and ‘Abele’ in Italian.
History of National Abel Day
Abel is a boy’s given name. Numerous prominent people around the world bear this name. One of the most popular ones is Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, whose stage name is The Weeknd. He is a Canadian musician with a successful career, winning 20 Billboard Music Awards, 17 Juno Awards, six American Music Awards, four Grammy Awards, and two M.T.V. Video Music Awards. Tesfaye also received nominations for a Latin Grammy Award, an Academy Award, and a Primetime Emmy Award. In February 2021, Toronto Mayor John Tory announced that the city will observe February 7 as ‘The Weeknd Day’ to commemorate Tesfaye’s solo Super Bowl halftime performance.
Tesfaye is also an actor and has appeared in the film “Uncut Gems” and the skit “On The Couch.” He voiced two characters in an episode of “The Simpsons” as well.
Another notable personality is Abel Gance, a French film director, producer, writer, and actor. Gance was a pioneer in the theory and practice of montage. His three major silent films — “J’accuse” (1919), “La Roue” (1923), and “Napoléon” (1927) — were big hits and are still acclaimed today.
During World War I, Gance was rejected by the army on medical grounds. In 1915, he shifted to writing and directing for a new film company called “Le Film d’art.” His comic fantasy “La Folie du docteur Tube” soon caused controversy because he and his cameraman Léonce-Henri Burel created some disturbing visual effects with distorting mirrors. The producers were taken aback and refused to show the film.
Critics agree that Gance’s innovations in the techniques of the cinema were brilliant. He used Polyvision to create his multiscreen ventures and explored the use of superimposition of images, extreme close-ups, and fast rhythmic editing. Gance also made the camera mobile in bizarre ways through hand-held techniques, mounting it on wires or a pendulum, or even strap it to a horse.
National Abel Day timeline
Dutch seafarer Abel Tasman is charged and found guilty of having hanged one of his men without trial in the previous year.
Ethiopian professional footballer Abel Yalew Tilahun is born.
Kenyan long-distance runner Abel Kirui wins the 25th Vienna City Marathon.
Tesfaye begins his music career by anonymously releasing music on YouTube.
National Abel Day FAQs
What gang is Abel Briones Ruiz a part of?
Ruiz is a member of the Gulf Cartel, a criminal group based in Tamaulipas, Mexico.
How many albums does Abel Tesfaye have?
Tesfaye has five studio albums.
How long did Abel Valdemarsen rule as King of Denmark?
Abel Valdemarsen reigned as Denmark’s monarch for a year and a half.
National Abel Day Activities
Hug an Abel
Give the Abels in your life a heartfelt hug. If it happens to be their birthday, treat them to something special.
Name your baby
Are you looking for a good name for your baby boy who's on the way? Abel would be a great one to give your little one.
Dive into history
Learn more about the name ‘Abel.’ Going back in time will reveal some interesting people.
5 Interesting Facts About The Name Abel
The Weeknd is a successful musician
Tesfaye is among the world's best-selling music artists with over 75 million records sold.
Tasman discovers new islands
Tasman was the first known European explorer to reach New Zealand and the islands of Fiji and Van Diemen's Land (Tasmania).
Abel is a fugitive from U.S. justice
Mexican entrepreneur Abel Briones Ruiz faces life imprisonment and up to US$10 million in fines for alleged drug trafficking activities.
Abel can participate in a race
Namesake Abel Tasman, a retired American thoroughbred racehorse, finished her career at age four with eight wins from 16 starts and winnings of $2,793,385.
Abel is a top-dollar horse
After retirement, racehorse Tasman was sold to the breeding company “Coolmore Stud” for $5 million.
Why We Love National Abel Day
We celebrate achievers
Name any profession and surely, there is one person named Abel. This day recognizes them and their achievements.
We learn history
Throughout history, Abels have done incredible things. On this day we learn how they have shaped historical events.
It's party time
National Abel Day is a time to celebrate. Invite a friend over and make merry in honor of all Abels.
National Abel Day dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2024 | August 17 | Saturday |
2025 | August 17 | Sunday |
2026 | August 17 | Monday |
2027 | August 17 | Tuesday |
2028 | August 17 | Thursday |