May 23: History, Birthdays & Marketing Ideas

May 23 marks major moments in history, leadership, and culture. Explore how today’s events and birthdays can inspire compelling content and marketing.

A Day of Breakouts, Breakthroughs & Brave New Beginnings

May 23 celebrates moments when people took bold steps, sparked conversations, and created new paths—whether in politics, art, or science. This day is perfect for brands that want to honor transformation, individuality, and impactful storytelling.

Whether you’re launching something new, spotlighting a powerful voice, or celebrating creativity, May 23 offers the momentum to make your message memorable.


This Day in History: Key Events from May 23

  • 1934 – Bonnie and Clyde Are Killed in a Police Ambush
    The infamous criminal couple’s story has lived on in American culture, blending crime, romance, and rebellion.
    Marketing Idea: Use this to explore themes of myth vs. reality, brand storytelling, or pop culture perceptions. Great for lifestyle or entertainment brands with an edgy vibe.
  • 1995 – Sun Microsystems Releases the Java Programming Language
    Java revolutionized software development and became a backbone for web-based platforms and apps.
    Marketing Idea: Tech brands can reflect on tools that changed everything. Highlight how your product or service supports growth, innovation, or independence.
  • 2008 – Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull Premieres
    A return to a beloved adventure series, sparking debates and nostalgia.
    Marketing Idea: Lean into legacy, brand revivals, or “bringing back what your audience loves”—ideal for rebranding campaigns or product relaunches.

Celebrity Birthdays: Notable Figures Born on May 23

  • Carolus Linnaeus (1707–1778) – Father of modern taxonomy; his work organized how we name and classify species.
  • Margaret Fuller (1810–1850) – Early feminist, journalist, and advocate for women’s rights and intellectual freedom.
  • Joan Collins (1933– ) – Actress known for bold roles, glamor, and long-lasting influence in entertainment.
  • Drew Carey (1958– ) – Comedian and host known for his everyman appeal and long TV career.
  • James Charles (1999– ) – Beauty influencer and entrepreneur with a massive Gen Z following.

Marketing Idea:

  • Celebrate individuality and creative expression like James Charles or Margaret Fuller.
  • Share brand organization tips, naming conventions, or systems thinking inspired by Linnaeus.
  • Use Joan Collins or Carey to highlight longevity, evolution, or humor in your brand voice.

Marketing Ideas & Content Strategies for May 23

Tap into pop culture, tech milestones, and personal style with these approaches:

1. Reclaim Legacy & Launch Something Bold

With Java and Indiana Jones:

  • Highlight your brand’s foundational tools—what powers your success?
  • Share a “legacy meets modern” campaign or reintroduction of a classic service or feature.
  • Ask, “What’s one thing we brought back—better than ever?”

2. Celebrate Powerful Personalities

With Fuller, Collins, and James Charles:

  • Share a “meet the team” or “founder energy” post.
  • Talk about standing out in a crowded industry, building personal brands, or staying unapologetically original.
  • Ask, “What’s your brand’s signature look or message?”

3. Use Crime & Culture Themes Playfully

With Bonnie and Clyde:

  • Post about breaking outdated industry rules (legally 😉).
  • Run a “what myths do people believe about our industry?” myth-busting series.
  • Share content that flirts with rebellion while staying on-brand.

4. Spotlight Naming, Structure & Clarity

With Linnaeus’ system:

  • Share how your brand keeps things organized and easy for customers.
  • Talk about naming conventions, taglines, or classification systems behind your content or offers.

5. Themed Hashtags to Use

Expand your reach with:

  • #May23
  • #TechMilestones
  • #BeautyBoss
  • #LegacyAndLaunch
  • #StoryBehindTheName
  • #FearlessVoices
  • #PopCultureBranding

Conclusion: May 23 Is for Bold Ideas, Bright Voices & Brand Evolution

From taxonomies to tech stacks, May 23 is all about frameworks that free us, voices that shake the norm, and stories that keep us coming back. Use this day to spark curiosity, bring something back to life, or celebrate the unique spark that sets your brand apart.

Thank You For Reading!

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