National Blocking Day

Cheerful person with a cheerful sun hat blocking harmful thoughts on a sunny beach.. — National blocking day illustration

Welcome to WhatNationalDayIsIt.com, where we bring you all the juicy details about national days that you never knew existed! Today, let's dive into the fascinating world of National Blocking Day.

When is Blocking Day?

It's national blocking day on the 6th August.

The Internet Phenomenon:

On this peculiar day, we celebrate the art of blocking various things, both online and offline. While the exact origin of National Blocking Day remains a mystery, its rise to fame can be attributed to the countless hours people spend navigating the vast wilderness of the world wide web.

Whether it's blocking annoying advertisements, blocking an irritating ex from your social media feed, or even blocking out negative vibes from toxic individuals, this day encourages us to take control and create a blissful bubble of positivity within our digital lives.

But, National Blocking Day isn't just limited to our screens! Some folks embrace this day as an opportunity to clear their physical spaces as well. Got some clutter in your home? Block it! Too many unnecessary meetings on your schedule? Block them! It's all about decluttering and eliminating any unnecessary distractions or negativity from your life.

Fun Ways to Celebrate:

Ready to embrace the block life? Here are a few delightful suggestions on how to revel in National Blocking Day:

Block out a chunk of time to organize and declutter your digital devices.
Unfriend or unfollow anyone who doesn't spark joy on your social media accounts.
If you're feeling adventurous, try blocking a popular phrase or word in your conversations for the day. It'll surely add some intrigue to your interactions!

Did You Know?

On National Blocking Day, have you ever wondered why we don't just call it 'Blocking Day'? Well, it turns out that someone already blocked 'Blocking Day' because they were feeling extra cheeky that day. We just can't win, can we?

History behind the term 'Blocking'

16th century

Origins in 16th Century English

The term 'blocking' finds its origins in 16th century England, where it was first used in the context of theater. In the theater industry, 'blocking' refers to the positioning and movement of actors on stage. It involves the planning and coordination of movements to ensure that actors are positioned correctly and their movements are synchronized with the script and other actors.

1803

Introduction of the term 'block' in the context of theater

In the year 1803, the term 'block' first emerged in the world of theater. It referred to the act of placing an actor in such a way on the stage that they obstructed the view of other actors, hence 'blocking' their movement or visibility.

18th century

The Birth of Theatre Blocking

In the 18th century, theatrical performances started to gain popularity, and with it came the need for actors to choreograph their movements on stage. This led to the birth of 'theatre blocking,' a term used to describe the positioning of actors to ensure smooth and coordinated performances. Actors would rehearse and plan their movements, including where they would stand, walk, or gesture, to enhance the overall narrative and visual appeal of the show.

19th century

Blocking in Sports

In the 19th century, the term 'blocking' expanded beyond the realm of theatre and found its way into sports. It became a common term used in sports such as American football, where players would strategically position themselves to impede opposing team members. The aim of blocking in sports was to create space for teammates, provide protection, or hinder opponents from advancing. This concept of blocking became integral to the strategy of various sports and continues to be employed today.

19th century

Extension to Other Interpretations

As the term 'blocking' became more widely used in the theater world, its meaning started to extend to other areas as well. By the 19th century, 'blocking' began to be used metaphorically to describe the act of obstructing or impeding progress or action in various settings. This broader interpretation of the term allowed it to be applied beyond just theater.

1920

Expansion of the term 'blocking' to film

By the 1920s, the term 'blocking' had made its way into the world of film. Directors began using it to describe the arrangement of actors and their movements within a scene. It became an essential component of film production, ensuring that the actors' positions and actions were properly choreographed to capture the desired shots and storytelling.

20th century

The Rise of Online Blocking

With the advent of the internet and the rise of social media platforms in the 20th century, the concept of blocking transcended physical spaces and entered the virtual realm. Online blocking refers to the action of preventing a specific user from interacting or engaging with another user's online content or communications. It allows individuals to control their online experience, protect their privacy, and mitigate harassment or unwanted interactions. Online blocking has become an essential tool in managing one's digital presence and maintaining a safe online environment.

20th century

Adoption in Film and Television

The 20th century marked the significant expansion of the film and television industry. With the rise of motion pictures and television shows, the term 'blocking' found its way into the world of visual media. In the film and television industry, 'blocking' refers to the planned positioning and movement of actors, cameras, and props to achieve desired visual compositions and storytelling effects. It plays a crucial role in capturing the right angles, emphasizing important moments, and conveying the intended narrative.

1950

Adoption of 'blocking' in the context of sports

In the 1950s, the term 'blocking' took on a new meaning in the realm of sports, particularly American football. It referred to the act of obstructing or impeding the progress of an opponent. Offensive linemen would strategically position themselves to create a barrier, protecting their quarterback or ball carrier from defensive players.

Internet Era

Digital Age and Social Media

In the digital age, the term 'blocking' took on a new significance with the advent of social media platforms. On social media, 'blocking' refers to the act of preventing another user from viewing or interacting with one's profile, posts, or messages. It serves as a tool to manage privacy, protect against harassment, and control the digital connections one makes. Social media platforms have incorporated blocking features to empower users with control over their online experience.

1980

'Blocking' in the context of social media

With the advent of the internet and the rise of social media platforms in the 1980s, the term 'blocking' took on a digital connotation. It became synonymous with the action of preventing another user from interacting or engaging with one's online profile, effectively 'blocking' their access to personal content and communication channels.

Present Day

Blocking for Content Control

In the present day, the term 'blocking' has expanded further to include content control. Many streaming platforms and websites allow users to block or filter specific types of content that they may find objectionable or unsuitable. This feature enables individuals to customize their online experience based on their preferences and values. It gives users greater control over the content they consume and helps them create a more personalized and enjoyable digital environment.

Present Day

Wide Range of Applications

Today, the term 'blocking' has a wide range of applications beyond just theater, film, and social media. It has become a versatile term utilized in various contexts, including sports, technology, networking, and even psychology. 'Blocking' serves as a descriptive term for tactics, strategies, and actions used to intercept, impede, or inhibit progress, interaction, or passage. Its evolution over centuries showcases its adaptability and relevance in different domains of human activity.

Present

Ubiquitous usage of 'blocking' across various domains

Today, the term 'blocking' has become a widely recognized and utilized concept across numerous domains. Whether it be theater, film, sports, or the online world, 'blocking' continues to play a crucial role in managing visibility, protecting individuals, and maintaining a sense of control in various settings.

Did you know?

Did you know that some people take National Blocking Day quite literally and spend the whole day coming up with creative ways to block things? It's like a virtual game of hide and seek!