4

December


December 4


Events

  • In 2021, Semeru volcano on Indonesia's Java island erupted, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 68 lives. This natural disaster highlights the ongoing volcanic activity in Indonesia and its impact on local communities.

  • In 2017, the Thomas Fire ignited near Santa Paula, California, ultimately evolving into the largest wildfire in modern California history. The devastating blaze scorched an area of 440 square miles (1,140 km²) across Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, leaving a significant impact on the region's landscape and communities.

  • In 2015, a tragic incident occurred in Cairo, Egypt, when a firebomb was thrown into a popular restaurant, resulting in the deaths of 17 people. This devastating act highlights ongoing security concerns in the region.

  • In 2014, Islamic insurgents targeted state police in Grozny, resulting in the tragic deaths of three officers at a traffic circle. The insurgents also seized an unoccupied school and a press building. The ensuing gun battles led to the deaths of ten state forces and left 28 others injured, with ten insurgents ultimately killed in the conflict.

  • In 2006, a controversial incident occurred in Jena, Louisiana, where six black youths were involved in the assault of a white teenager. This event sparked national discussions about race relations and justice.

  • In 2005, a massive wave of protests swept through Hong Kong as tens of thousands marched for democracy, demanding the government implement universal and equal suffrage. This significant event highlighted the people's desire for fair representation and political reform in the region.

  • In 1998, the Unity Module, the second component of the International Space Station (ISS), successfully launched into orbit, marking a significant milestone in space exploration and infrastructure development in low Earth orbit.

  • In 1992, during the Somali Civil War, President George H. W. Bush deployed 28,000 U.S. troops to Northeast Africa to provide humanitarian aid and stabilize the region.

  • Pan American World Airways, a legendary airline with a history spanning 64 years, officially ceases operations in 1991, marking the end of an era in aviation history.

  • In 1991, Terry A. Anderson was released after spending seven years as a hostage in Beirut, making him the last and longest-held American hostage in Lebanon's turbulent history. His extraordinary story of endurance highlights the challenges faced by hostages during this period.


Births

  • Sebastián Vegas

    1996 – Sebastián Vegas, Chilean footballer

  • Diogo Jota

    1996 – Diogo Jota, Portuguese footballer

  • Gabriel Lundberg

    1994 – Gabriel Lundberg, Danish basketball player

  • Blake Snell

    1992 – Blake Snell, American baseball player

  • Joe Musgrove

    1992 – Joe Musgrove, American baseball player

  • Jean-Claude Iranzi

    1992 – Jean-Claude Iranzi, Rwandan footballer

  • Peta Hiku

    1992 – Peta Hiku, New Zealand rugby league player

  • Reality Winner

    1991 – Reality Winner, American intelligence specialist convicted of espionage

  • André Roberson

    1991 – André Roberson, American basketball player

  • Duje Dukan

    1991 – Duje Dukan, Croatian basketball player

Deaths

  • Patrick Tambay

    2022 – Patrick Tambay, French race car driver (b. 1949)

  • Bob McGrath

    2022 – Bob McGrath, American singer and actor (b. 1932)

  • Shashi Kapoor

    2017 – Shashi Kapoor, Indian actor (b. 1938)

  • Yossi Sarid

    2015 – Yossi Sarid, Israeli journalist and politician, 15th Israeli Minister of Education (b. 1940)

  • Robert Loggia

    2015 – Robert Loggia, American actor and director (b. 1930)

  • Bill Bennett

    2015 – Bill Bennett, Canadian lawyer and politician, 27th Premier of British Columbia (b. 1932)

  • V. R. Krishna Iyer

    2014 – V. R. Krishna Iyer, Indian lawyer and judge (b. 1914)

  • Claudia Emerson

    2014 – Claudia Emerson, American poet and academic (b. 1957)

  • Joana Raspall i Juanola

    2013 – Joana Raspall i Juanola, Spanish author and poet (b. 1913)

  • Miguel Calero

    2012 – Miguel Calero, Colombian footballer and manager (b. 1971)