Why May 13 Is Considered a Bad Day Across the World
By : Vijesh Nair
Date:13/12/2025
May 13 has been viewed with suspicion and negativity in many cultures around the world. While some of these beliefs are rooted in historical events, others come from superstition, religion, myth, and popular culture. In this news-style article, we explore why May 13 carries an unlucky reputation globally.
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1. Connection to the Number 13 – A Universal Superstition
Across many Western countries, the number 13 is considered unlucky. This fear is called triskaidekaphobia.
Buildings skip the 13th floor, airlines avoid seat number 13, and many people hesitate to schedule important events on the 13th.
When 13 coincides with any date, including May 13, it inherits the same superstition.
Cultural belief:
13 guests at a table is bad luck
12 is seen as a “perfect number” (12 months, 12 zodiac signs, 12 apostles), so 13 is considered “out of order”
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2. Religious Interpretations and Mythological Links
Some religious narratives strengthen the negativity around this date:
a) The Last Supper
According to Christian tradition, Judas — the one who betrayed Jesus — was the 13th guest at the Last Supper.
This association adds to the idea that days with the number 13 may attract misfortune.
b) Norse Mythology
In ancient Norse stories, Loki (the god of mischief) was the 13th guest at a divine feast, bringing chaos.
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3. Major Tragic Events That Occurred on May 13
Several historical incidents on May 13 have contributed to its reputation as an unlucky date:
🔴 1981 – Assassination Attempt on Pope John Paul II
On May 13, 1981, the Pope was shot in St. Peter’s Square, shocking the world.
🔴 1846 – Start of the U.S.–Mexico War
The war, which caused heavy loss of life, officially began on this date.
🔴 1985 – MOVE Bombing in Philadelphia
A police operation escalated into a bombing, killing 11 people and destroying over 60 homes.
🔴 2014 – Soma Mine Disaster (Turkey)
One of the worst mining accidents in Turkish history occurred around this date, leaving hundreds dead.
These incidents cause many people globally to associate May 13 with disaster.
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4. Pop Culture & Media Influence
Books and movies have also popularized the idea that dates with “13” bring misfortune.
Even though Friday the 13th is more famous, May 13 is frequently included in lists of “unlucky dates” by global media, strengthening public belief.
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5. Psychological Factor — The Fear Becomes a Tradition
Human psychology often focuses on negative events more than positive ones.
So when something bad happens on a date like May 13, people remember it strongly.
Over time, this creates a cycle of fear, belief, and tradition.
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6. But Is May 13 Really Bad?
There is no scientific evidence that May 13 brings misfortune.
Many positive events also happened on this day:
Major inventions were launched
Famous leaders were born
Countries celebrated achievements
Yet the superstition continues due to culture, religion, past incidents, and human psychology.
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Conclusion
While May 13 is seen as unlucky in many parts of the world, much of its reputation comes from superstition, myth, and a few major historical tragedies.
In reality, the date is just like any other — but cultural beliefs often make it look darker than it truly is.
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