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.
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December
December 20
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...
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...
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: 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: 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: 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...
Events
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.
Births
2001 – Facundo Pellistri, Uruguayan footballer
1998 – Kylian Mbappé, French footballer
1997 – Suzuka Nakamoto, Japanese singer
1997 – De'Aaron Fox, American basketball player
1996 – Jarrod Bowen, English football player
1995 – Christian Wilkins, American football player
1995 – Anžejs Pasečņiks, Latvian basketball player
1994 – Calvin Ridley, American football player
1993 – Robeisy Ramírez, Cuban boxer
1992 – Ksenia Makarova, Russian-American figure skater
Deaths
2022 – Franco Harris, American football player (b. 1950)
2020 – Fanny Waterman, British pianist (b. 1920)
2014 – Per-Ingvar Brånemark, Swedish surgeon and academic (b. 1929)
2013 – Pyotr Bolotnikov, Russian runner (b. 1930)
2009 – Arnold Stang, American actor (b. 1918)
2009 – Brittany Murphy, American actress and singer (b. 1977)
2008 – Igor Troubetzkoy, Russian aristocrat and racing driver (b. 1912)
2008 – Robert Mulligan, American director and producer (b. 1925)
2005 – Raoul Bott, Hungarian-American mathematician and academic (b. 1923)
2001 – Léopold Sédar Senghor, Senegalese poet and politician, 1st President of Senegal (b. 1906)