December 21

In 2023, a tragic mass shooting at Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic, resulted in the deaths of 14 individuals and injuries to 25 others. The shooter, a student at the university, took his own life following the incident and had previously killed his father. This heartbreaking event highlights critical issues surrounding campus safety and gun violence.

In 2020, a remarkable astronomical event took place as Jupiter and Saturn formed a stunning conjunction, separated by just 0.1 degrees in the night sky. This rare alignment marks the closest conjunction of these two planets since 1623, offering stargazers a breathtaking sight. Discover the significance of this celestial event in our universe!

Explore the 2012 phenomenon, a significant cultural event celebrated in parts of Mesoamerica, marking the end of b’ak’tun 13. This remarkable 5,126-year cycle in the Mesoamerican Long Count Calendar sparked the interest of New Age spiritualists, who speculated that its conclusion could herald transformative or catastrophic events. Discover the rich traditions and festivities that surround this intriguing milestone in Mesoamerican history.

On November 12, 2004, during the Iraq War, a devastating suicide bombing at a forward operating base adjacent to the main U.S. military airfield in Mosul, Iraq, resulted in the tragic loss of 22 American soldiers. This incident marks the deadliest suicide attack targeting U.S. military personnel during the conflict.

In 1999, Cubana de Aviación Flight 1216 tragically overshot the runway at La Aurora International Airport, resulting in the loss of 18 lives. This incident remains a significant event in aviation history, highlighting the importance of safety measures in air travel.

In 1999, the Spanish Civil Guard successfully intercepted a van carrying 950 kg of explosives linked to the terrorist group ETA, which was planning an attack on Torre Picasso in Madrid, Spain. This significant event highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to thwart terrorism in the region.

Discover the historical transition of Bethlehem in 1995, as the city transfers from Israeli to Palestinian control. This significant moment marks an important chapter in the region's history, showcasing the complex dynamics of territorial governance.

In 1992, a tragic aviation incident occurred when Martinair Flight MP 495, a Dutch DC-10, crashed at Faro Airport, resulting in the loss of 56 lives.

In 1991, the leaders of 11 Soviet republics signed the Alma-Ata Protocol, marking the dissolution of the Soviet Union and establishing the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). This pivotal agreement symbolized the transition to autonomy for these nations as the USSR collapsed, reshaping the geopolitical landscape of Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

In 1988, the Antonov An-225 Mriya embarked on its inaugural flight, setting the record as the largest aircraft in the world. Discover the history and significance of this engineering marvel that continues to capture the world's fascination.