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On December 20

10

Important Days

41

Important Events

247

Births and Deaths

recorded.

Holidays and Occasions

Events

Births and Deaths

Abolition of Slavery Day, also known as Fête des Cafres (Réunion, French Guiana)

Abolition of Slavery Day: Fête des Cafres and Its Significance

The Abolition of Slavery Day, known as Fête des Cafres, is a significant observance celebrated in Réunion Island and French Guiana each year on December 20th. This important day commemorates the abolition of slavery in France's colonies, marking a pivotal moment in the struggle for human rights and dignity...

Bo Aung Kyaw Day (Myanmar)

Commemorating Bo Aung Kyaw Day: A Symbol of Myanmar's Freedom

In the heart of Myanmar's rich tapestry of history, there lies a significant commemoration known as Bo Aung Kyaw Day. Celebrated each year on February 13, this day is dedicated to honoring the heroic sacrifices made by those who fought for Myanmar's independence and sovereignty...

Earliest date for Winter solstice's eve (Northern Hemisphere), and its related observances:

The Earliest Date for Winter Solstice's Eve: Celebrations and Significance

The winter solstice, occurring around December 21st or 22nd each year, marks the longest night and the shortest day in the Northern Hemisphere. The evening before this celestial event is often referred to as Winter Solstice's Eve, a time that holds both cultural significance and astronomical importance...

Yaldā (Iran)

Yaldā: The Persian Festival of Winter Solstice in Iran

Yaldā, also known as Shab-e Yaldā or Shab-e Chelleh, is a cherished Persian festival celebrated on the night of the winter solstice in Iran. Marking the longest night of the year, this ancient festival has been observed for millennia, rooted in Zoroastrian traditions that symbolize the victory of light over darkness and the rebirth of the sun...

International Human Solidarity Day (International)

International Human Solidarity Day: A Global Call for Collective Action

International Human Solidarity Day, observed annually on December 20th, serves as a reminder of the importance of solidarity in the global fight against poverty and inequality. This day encourages the international community to work together to support those who are marginalized and deprived of basic human rights...

Macau Special Administrative Region Establishment Day (Macau)

Macau Special Administrative Region Establishment Day: A Commemoration of Heritage and Growth

The Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) Establishment Day is an important occasion that commemorates the transfer of sovereignty over Macau from Portugal to China on December 20, 1999. This significant historical event marks the beginning of a new era for Macau, which has since flourished both culturally and economically...

Dominic of Silos
FEAST

Saint Dominic of Silos: A Pillar of Monastic Reform

Saint Dominic of Silos, also known as San Domingo de Silos, is one of the most revered saints in the Catholic Church. Born in the 10th century in Spain, Dominic spent much of his life as a hermit and later became an accomplished abbot...

O Clavis
FEAST

Unlocking the Mysteries of O Clavis: The Key to Knowledge

In a world brimming with information, finding definitive answers is a quest that many embark upon. Enter O Clavis, a virtual portal that opens the door to unparalleled knowledge across a spectrum of subjects...

Ursicinus of Saint-Ursanne
FEAST

Ursicinus of Saint-Ursanne: A Beacon of Christian Faith

Ursicinus of Saint-Ursanne is a revered figure in Christian history, known for his unwavering faith and dedication to monastic life. His legacy lives on, especially in the region of Saint-Ursanne, Switzerland, where he established a monastery that played a vital role in the spiritual and cultural development of the area...

Katharina von Bora (Lutheran)
FEAST

Katharina von Bora: The Influential Wife of Martin Luther

Katharina von Bora, often referred to simply as "Katie", was an influential figure in the early Protestant Reformation, notably as the wife of Martin Luther, the seminal figure in the Lutheran movement. Born in 1499, Katharina's life encapsulates a unique blend of noble heritage, formidable intellect, and unwavering support for her husband, making her an essential character in the history of religion...

  • Established in 2019, the United States Space Force is the first new branch of the U.S. Armed Forces since 1947, marking a significant milestone in military history and space exploration.

  • In 2007, two iconic works of art were stolen from the São Paulo Museum of Art in Brazil: "The Portrait of Suzanne Bloch" (1904) by Spanish master Pablo Picasso and "O Lavrador de Café" by Brazilian modernist Cândido Portinari. Fortunately, both masterpieces were successfully recovered just a few weeks later.

  • In 2007, Elizabeth II made history by becoming the oldest reigning monarch in the United Kingdom, surpassing the record previously held by Queen Victoria, who lived for 81 years and 243 days. This significant milestone highlights the longevity and enduring legacy of Queen Elizabeth II in British history.

  • In 2004, a notorious gang of thieves executed one of the largest bank robberies in British history, stealing £26.5 million in currency from the Northern Bank's headquarters on Donegall Square West in Belfast, Northern Ireland. This daring heist remains a significant event in the history of crime in the UK.

  • In 1999, Portugal officially handed over sovereignty of Macau to China, marking a significant transition in the region's history. Discover more about this pivotal moment in Macau's timeline and its impact on cultural and political relations.

  • In 1995, American Airlines Flight 965, a Boeing 757, tragically crashed into a mountain 50 km north of Cali, Colombia. This devastating accident resulted in the loss of 159 lives out of the 163 passengers and crew on board.

  • "Discover how NATO initiated peacekeeping efforts in Bosnia in 1995, marking a significant milestone in international diplomacy and conflict resolution."

  • In 1991, a Missouri court sentenced Palestinian militant Zein Isa and his wife Maria to death for the tragic honor killing of their daughter, Palestina. This case highlights the serious issues surrounding honor-based violence and its impact on communities.

  • In 1989, the United States launched an invasion of Panama that led to the overthrow of General Manuel Noriega. Explore the historical significance and impact of this pivotal event in U.S.-Latin American relations.

  • In 1988, the United Nations established the United Nations Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, a pivotal treaty in the global war on drugs. This agreement is one of three key drug control treaties currently in effect, aiming to combat drug trafficking and enhance international collaboration in tackling substance abuse.

  • In 1987, the Doña Paz ferry tragedy marked one of the deadliest peacetime maritime disasters in history. The passenger ferry collided with the oil tanker MT Vector in the Tablas Strait of the Philippines, resulting in a catastrophic loss of life, with estimates suggesting around 4,000 fatalities, though official reports confirm 1,749 casualties.

  • In 1985, Pope John Paul II officially established World Youth Day, an empowering global event aimed at uniting and inspiring young people in their faith.

  • In 1984, Jonelle Matthews vanished from Greeley, Colorado, sparking a decades-long mystery. On July 23, 2019, her remains were tragically located approximately 24 km (15 miles) southeast of her home. The investigation revealed that the cause of death was a gunshot wound to the head, bringing closure to this heartbreaking case.

  • In 1984, the Summit Tunnel fire became one of the largest transportation tunnel fires in history when a freight train derailed near Todmorden, England, in the picturesque Pennines, igniting over one million liters of gasoline. This significant incident highlights the risks associated with transporting hazardous materials through tunnels.

  • In 1977, China's two leading newspapers, People's Daily and Guangming Daily, made a historic move by fully publishing the Second Chinese Character Simplification Scheme, following approval from the State Council. This seminal moment marked a significant step in the modernization of the Chinese writing system.

  • "On December 20, 1973, a devastating car bomb orchestrated by the Basque separatist group ETA in Madrid resulted in the assassination of Admiral Luis Carrero Blanco, the Prime Minister of Spain, along with two others. This pivotal event marked a significant point in Spanish history and the ongoing conflict in the region."

  • In 1970, the Koza riot erupted as approximately 5,000 Okinawans protested against the U.S. occupation of Okinawa. Triggered by a series of hit-and-run incidents involving American military personnel, demonstrators clashed with American law enforcement, highlighting rising tensions in the region. This significant event marked a pivotal moment in Okinawa's history and its relations with U.S. forces.

  • In 1968, the infamous Zodiac Killer committed his first confirmed murders, taking the lives of David Arthur Faraday and Betty Lou Jensen on Lake Herman Road in Benicia, California. This chilling event marked the beginning of a series of crimes that would haunt the region and capture national attention.

  • In 1967, a Pennsylvania Railroad Budd Metroliner achieved speeds exceeding 249 kilometers per hour (155 mph) on its New York Division, which is now part of Amtrak's Northeast Corridor. Discover the history of high-speed rail travel in the U.S. and the significance of this milestone in train technology.

  • In 1960, the National Liberation Front of South Vietnam, commonly known as the Viet Cong, was officially established in Tân Lập village, located in today's Tây Ninh province. This significant event marked a pivotal moment in the Vietnam War history.

  • In 1957, the Boeing 707 marked a significant milestone in aviation history with the first flight of its initial production version. Experience the legacy of this iconic aircraft that revolutionized air travel.

  • In 1955, Cardiff was officially designated as the capital city of Wales, marking a significant milestone in its history within the United Kingdom.

  • In 1952, a tragic accident occurred when a United States Air Force C-124 crashed and burned in Moses Lake, Washington, resulting in the loss of 87 lives out of the 115 individuals on board. This devastating event remains one of the deadliest aviation disasters in U.S. history.

  • In 1951, the EBR-1 in Arco, Idaho, made history as the world’s first nuclear power plant to generate electricity, illuminating four light bulbs. This groundbreaking achievement marked a significant milestone in nuclear energy production and set the stage for future advancements in renewable energy sources.

  • In 1948, during the Indonesian National Revolution, the Dutch military seized Yogyakarta, the temporary capital of the newly established Republic of Indonesia, marking a significant event in Indonesia’s struggle for independence.

  • In 1946, a devastating earthquake struck Nankaidō, Japan, triggering a massive tsunami that claimed the lives of over 1,000 individuals and resulted in the destruction of 36,000 homes. This catastrophic event remains a significant moment in Japan's history, highlighting the region's vulnerability to natural disasters.

  • In 1946, the beloved classic "It's a Wonderful Life" premiered at New York's Globe Theatre, garnering mixed reviews from critics. Discover the enduring legacy of this iconic film that continues to resonate with audiences today.

  • "1942 – In the midst of World War II, Japanese air forces conducted a significant bombing raid on Calcutta, India, marking a pivotal moment in the conflict."

  • 1941 – World War II: The inaugural battle of the American Volunteer Group, famously known as the "Flying Tigers," takes place in Kunming, China, marking a significant moment in aviation history and wartime bravery. Discover the story of these legendary pilots and their impact on the war effort.

  • In 1940, the groundbreaking Captain America Comics #1 debuted, featuring the iconic superhero's first appearance. This pivotal comic book marked the beginning of Captain America's legacy in the world of superheroes.

  • In 1924, Adolf Hitler was released from Landsberg Prison, marking a pivotal moment in his political ascent. This event played a crucial role in shaping Germany's future and his subsequent rise to power.

  • In 1917, the Cheka was established as the inaugural secret police of the Soviet Union, marking a significant turning point in the history of law enforcement.

  • In 1915, during World War I, the final Australian troops were evacuated from Gallipoli, marking a significant moment in military history. Discover the impact of this pivotal event on Australia’s role in the war.

  • In 1860, South Carolina made history as the first state to initiate its secession from the United States through the South Carolina Declaration of Secession. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a significant chapter in American history.

  • In the historic 1848 French presidential election, Louis Napoleon Bonaparte achieved a remarkable landslide victory, securing the popular vote. He was inaugurated as the first and only president of the French Second Republic, marking a significant milestone in French political history.

  • In 1832, HMS Clio, commanded by Captain Onslow, arrived at Port Egmont with orders to assert British sovereignty over the Falkland Islands. This historic mission marked a significant moment in the islands' colonial history.

  • 1818 – Peninsular War: The Siege of Zaragoza Commences. Discover the significant events and strategies during this pivotal moment in the Peninsular War, which shaped the course of European history.

  • In 1803, the historic Louisiana Purchase was finalized during a ceremonial event in New Orleans, marking a significant expansion of U.S. territory.

  • In 1334, Cardinal Jacques Fournier, a renowned Cistercian monk, ascended to the papacy as Pope Benedict XII, marking a significant moment in Church history.

  • In 1192, Richard I of England was captured by Leopold V of Austria while returning home after the Third Crusade. This pivotal moment in history highlights the challenges faced by the Crusader king and the political tensions of the era.

  • In AD 69, Antonius Primus arrives in Rome to support Vespasian, the former general of Nero, in his bid for the title of Emperor. Discover the pivotal moment in Roman history when power shifts and Vespasian rises to prominence.

Births

  • Marcelo Pitaluga

    2002 – Marcelo Pitaluga, Brazilian footballer

  • Facundo Pellistri

    2001 – Facundo Pellistri, Uruguayan footballer

  • Kylian Mbappé

    1998 – Kylian Mbappé, French footballer

  • Suzuka Nakamoto

    1997 – Suzuka Nakamoto, Japanese singer

  • De'Aaron Fox

    1997 – De'Aaron Fox, American basketball player

  • Jarrod Bowen

    1996 – Jarrod Bowen, English football player

  • Christian Wilkins

    1995 – Christian Wilkins, American football player

  • Anžejs Pasečņiks

    1995 – Anžejs Pasečņiks, Latvian basketball player

  • Calvin Ridley

    1994 – Calvin Ridley, American football player

  • Robeisy Ramírez

    1993 – Robeisy Ramírez, Cuban boxer

  • Ksenia Makarova

    1992 – Ksenia Makarova, Russian-American figure skater

  • Fabian Schär

    1991 – Fabian Schär, Swiss footballer

  • Jillian Rose Reed

    1991 – Jillian Rose Reed, American actress

  • Jorginho

    1991 – Jorginho, Brazilian footballer

  • Rachael Boyle

    1991 – Rachael Boyle, Scottish footballer

  • Marta Xargay

    1990 – Marta Xargay, Spanish basketball player

  • JoJo

    1990 – JoJo, American singer and actress

  • Malcolm Jenkins

    1987 – Malcolm Jenkins, American football player

  • Chay Genoway

    1986 – Chay Genoway, Canadian ice hockey player

  • David Tavaré

    1984 – David Tavaré, Spanish singer and DJ

Deaths

  • Franco Harris

    2022 – Franco Harris, American football player (b. 1950)

  • Ezra Vogel

    2020 – Ezra Vogel, American sociologist (b. 1930)

  • Fanny Waterman

    2020 – Fanny Waterman, British pianist (b. 1920)

  • John Freeman

    2014 – John Freeman, English lawyer, politician, and diplomat, British Ambassador to the United States (b. 1915)

  • Per-Ingvar Brånemark

    2014 – Per-Ingvar Brånemark, Swedish surgeon and academic (b. 1929)

  • Pyotr Bolotnikov

    2013 – Pyotr Bolotnikov, Russian runner (b. 1930)

  • Victor Merzhanov

    2012 – Victor Merzhanov, Russian pianist and educator (b. 1919)

  • Robert Juniper

    2012 – Robert Juniper, Australian painter and sculptor (b. 1929)

  • Stan Charlton

    2012 – Stan Charlton, English footballer and manager (b. 1929)

  • K. P. Ratnam

    2010 – K. P. Ratnam, Sri Lankan academic and politician (b. 1914)

  • Arnold Stang

    2009 – Arnold Stang, American actor (b. 1918)

  • Brittany Murphy

    2009 – Brittany Murphy, American actress and singer (b. 1977)

  • Igor Troubetzkoy

    2008 – Igor Troubetzkoy, Russian aristocrat and racing driver (b. 1912)

  • Robert Mulligan

    2008 – Robert Mulligan, American director and producer (b. 1925)

  • Anne Rogers Clark

    2006 – Anne Rogers Clark, American dog breeder and trainer (b. 1929)

  • Raoul Bott

    2005 – Raoul Bott, Hungarian-American mathematician and academic (b. 1923)

  • Léopold Sédar Senghor

    2001 – Léopold Sédar Senghor, Senegalese poet and politician, 1st President of Senegal (b. 1906)

  • Hank Snow

    1999 – Hank Snow, Canadian-American singer-songwriter and guitarist (b. 1914)

  • Riccardo Freda

    1999 – Riccardo Freda, Egyptian-Italian director and screenwriter (b. 1909)

  • Alan Lloyd Hodgkin

    1998 – Alan Lloyd Hodgkin, English physiologist and biophysicist, Nobel Prize laureate (b. 1916)

...