May the 4th be with you this Star Wars Day

Star Wars fans and fellow geeks, today, celebrate one of the most successful franchises in our modern history. In galaxies near and far, May 4th highlights all things Star Wars.

‘May The Fourth Be With You’

The unofficial holiday originated from the catchphrase, ‘May the fourth be with you’. It is a play on words from George Lucas’ first film in the space series “Star Wars: A New Hope”. The movie released in 1977. In the film, General Dodonna says the phrase to the rebel alliance as they prepare for their attack on the Death Star:

Then man your ships! And may the Force be with you

Star Wars — The calm General Jan Dodonna serves as the military leader of the rebel base on Yavin 4 // STAR WARS

The slogan was then flipped in 1978 and used to greet others on July 4th. The very next year, Margaret Thatcher won the election and became Britain’s first female prime minister. Her victory came on May 4th.

To celebrate the win, her party took a half-page advert in the May 4th issue of The London Evening News in 1979, it read:

May the Fourth Be With You, Maggie. Congratulations

Nearly 46 years ago, George Lucas released his fantastical franchise. Who would have thought it would become one of the most successful franchises in entertainment history. So far, there have been as many as 20 films – including originals to spin-offs, TV series – all with the latest production of The Mandalorian.

The debate remains if the new additions are true to the original spirit of Star Wars. What is undisputed, is the pop culture impact this franchise continues to have.

A worldwide celebration of Star Wars

“May the 4th Be With You” is not as punchy when translated into other languages. Thus, Star Wars Day has been adopted to create a global meaning for the worldwide celebration.

May is actually a notable month for the Star Wars franchise. The original film premiered on May 25, 1977. The creator and brains behind it, George Lucas, celebrates his birthday on May 14.

Adding to the many festivities across the globe, Disney+ is premiering Star Wars Visions Volume 2. This is a collection of short episodes by storytellers and anime creators – who put their own creative twist on the universe.

New adventures await.#StarWarsVisions Volume 2 is streaming tomorrow, only on #DisneyPlus. pic.twitter.com/OW7FKFRUOu

— Disney+ (@DisneyPlus) May 3, 2023