Historical Events on December 10: Significant Moments in History

Throughout history, certain dates stand out for the remarkable events that unfolded on them. From turning points in politics to cultural breakthroughs, these days often carry significance that echoes through time. Explore the most important events that occurred on December 10, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on December 10 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Uneventful Day in History: While December 10, 1900, might appear unremarkable at first glance, it represents a moment in the broader context of the turn of the 20th century. During this period, the world was experiencing significant technological, social, and political transformations, even if this specific date did not witness a major recorded event.
1901 First Nobel Prize Ceremony: The inaugural Nobel Prize ceremony was held in Stockholm, Sweden, marking a historic moment in recognizing outstanding achievements across multiple disciplines. The prizes were awarded in five categories: Physics, Chemistry, Medicine, Literature, and Peace, celebrating remarkable contributions to human knowledge and humanitarian efforts.
1902 First Nobel Prize Ceremony: The Nobel Prizes are officially awarded for the first time in Stockholm, Sweden, marking a historic moment in recognizing global achievements in science, literature, and peace. This inaugural ceremony established what would become one of the most prestigious international awards, honoring exceptional contributions to human knowledge and progress.
1903 Nobel Prize in Physics Awarded to Pierre and Marie Curie: On December 10, 1903, Pierre and Marie Curie were jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for their groundbreaking research on radioactivity. This historic recognition marked a significant milestone in scientific understanding, highlighting their collaborative work in exploring radiation and radioactive elements. The Curies were pioneers in the field of radioactivity, with Marie Curie later becoming the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the first person to win Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields.
1904 First Nobel Prize Awards Ceremony: The Nobel Prizes are officially awarded for the first time in Stockholm, Sweden, marking a historic moment in recognizing global achievements in science, literature, and peace.
1905 Publication of 'The Gift of the Magi' by O. Henry: O. Henry's beloved short story 'The Gift of the Magi' was first published in the magazine section of The New York Sunday World. The story, renowned for its poignant twist ending, tells the tale of a young, impoverished couple who sacrifice their most prized possessions to buy Christmas gifts for each other, ultimately demonstrating the profound depth of their love. This narrative has since become a classic of American literature, celebrated for its emotional resonance and masterful storytelling.
1906 Theodore Roosevelt Wins Nobel Peace Prize: President Theodore Roosevelt was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his pivotal role in mediating the Russo-Japanese War, becoming the first American to receive this prestigious international honor. His diplomatic efforts successfully negotiated a peaceful resolution to the conflict between Russia and Japan, demonstrating exceptional statesmanship and commitment to global peace.
1907 Rudyard Kipling Receives Nobel Prize: Rudyard Kipling was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature, marking a significant milestone in his literary career. He became the first English-language writer to receive this prestigious international recognition.
1908 Birth of Olivier Messiaen: Olivier Messiaen, a renowned French composer, organist, and ornithologist, was born in Avignon, France. He would later become one of the most significant and innovative classical composers of the 20th century, known for his unique musical style that incorporated complex rhythms, innovative harmonies, and a deep fascination with bird songs.
1909 First Female Nobel Prize in Literature: Selma Lagerlöf became the first woman to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, marking a significant milestone for female writers and literary recognition. Her groundbreaking achievement paved the way for future women in the literary world.
1910 Johannes van der Waals Wins Nobel Prize in Physics: Johannes van der Waals, a prominent Dutch physicist, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for his groundbreaking work on the equation of state for gases and liquids, which significantly advanced understanding of molecular interactions and thermodynamic properties.
1911 First Transcontinental Airplane Journey in the United States: Calbraith Rogers successfully completed the first transcontinental airplane crossing of the United States, a remarkable journey that took 84 days. This pioneering flight represented a significant milestone in early aviation history, demonstrating the emerging potential of powered flight for long-distance travel.
1912 Austria-Hungary Military Mobilization: Austria-Hungary issued a general mobilization to all of its military men and reservists worldwide in anticipation of potential conflict, signaling rising tensions in pre-World War I Europe.
1913 Establishment of Guantanamo Bay Naval Base: The United States Navy officially opened the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, a strategic 45 square mile (120 km²) leased territory in southeastern Cuba, marking a significant moment in U.S. military presence in the Caribbean.
1914 French Offensive in Artois and Champagne: On December 10, 1914, French military forces launched coordinated attacks along the Western Front, targeting the Artois region in northern France and the Champagne region. Despite initial hopes of making strategic gains against German positions, these offensives ultimately proved unsuccessful. The attacks were quickly suspended after failing to achieve significant territorial or tactical advantages, reflecting the challenging and stalemated nature of combat during the early stages of World War I.
1915 Nobel Prize Awards Ceremony: The Nobel Prize Committee conducted its annual awards, featuring several remarkable recipients. British physicists William Henry Bragg and his son Lawrence Bragg were jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics, making history as the first and only father-son duo to receive the prize. Lawrence Bragg also became the youngest Nobel laureate at the time. Additionally, German chemist Richard Willstätter received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, and French author Romain Rolland was honored with the Nobel Prize in Literature.
1916 German Raiding Ship SMS Möwe Captures British Cargo Ship: During World War I, the German raiding ship SMS Möwe captured and scuttled the British cargo ship Georgic off the coast of Newfoundland. The attack resulted in one crew member's death and 141 crew members being taken as prisoners, highlighting the naval warfare tactics of the period.
1917 Nobel Prizes Awarded: The Nobel Prize Committee announced prestigious awards across multiple categories. Charles Glover Barkla won the Nobel Prize in Physics, while Danish authors Karl Adolph Gjellerup and Henrik Pontoppidan shared the Nobel Prize in Literature. The International Committee of the Red Cross was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize for its humanitarian efforts during World War I.
1918 John A. Heyder Elected National League President: John A. Heyder was elected as the president of Major League Baseball's National League, a significant leadership role in professional sports during the early 20th century. This appointment would have influenced the direction and governance of professional baseball during that era.
1919 Lady Nancy Astor Enters British Parliament: Lady Nancy Astor became the first woman to be officially recognized and take her seat in the British House of Commons, representing a milestone in women's political representation and suffrage movement.
1920 Woodrow Wilson Awarded Nobel Peace Prize: President Woodrow Wilson was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize for his pivotal role in establishing the League of Nations and his efforts to promote international diplomacy in the aftermath of World War I. Wilson's vision of collective security and peaceful conflict resolution was embodied in his famous 'Fourteen Points' speech, which outlined principles for post-war global cooperation.
1921 First Nobel Prize Awards Ceremony in Stockholm: The inaugural Nobel Prize Awards Ceremony was held in Stockholm, Sweden, marking a significant milestone in recognizing global achievements in science, literature, and peace. This prestigious event would become an annual tradition celebrating human excellence and groundbreaking contributions across various fields.
1922 Nobel Prizes Awarded to Scientific Luminaries: On December 10, 1922, the Nobel Prizes were awarded to three remarkable scientists: Fridtjof Nansen, Niels Bohr, and Albert Einstein. These distinguished researchers were recognized for their groundbreaking contributions to science, exploration, and understanding of the physical world.
1923 1923 Nobel Prizes Awarded: The prestigious Nobel Prizes for 1923 were awarded across multiple disciplines. Robert A. Millikan won the Physics Prize, Fritz Pregl received the Chemistry Prize, Frederick Banting and John Macleod were honored in Medicine, and William Butler Yeats was recognized in Literature. Notably, the Peace Prize was not awarded that year.
1924 First Gay Rights Organization in America: Henry Gerber founded the Society for Human Rights in Chicago, establishing the first documented gay rights organization in the United States. This pioneering group represented a crucial early milestone in the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement.
1925 George Bernard Shaw Receives Nobel Prize in Literature: George Bernard Shaw, the renowned Irish playwright, critic, and political activist, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature on December 10, 1925. Known for his sharp wit, social commentary, and groundbreaking plays like 'Pygmalion', Shaw was recognized for his significant contributions to dramatic literature and his ability to challenge societal norms through his writing. His works often critiqued social inequalities and explored complex human relationships, making him a pivotal figure in early 20th-century literature.
1926 1926 Nobel Prize Awards Ceremony in Oslo: The annual Nobel Prize ceremony was held in Oslo, recognizing outstanding achievements across multiple disciplines. Notable recipients included Jean Baptiste Perrin for Physics, Theodor Svedberg for Chemistry, Johannes Fibiger for Physiology or Medicine, and Grazia Deledda for Literature. The Peace Prize was particularly significant, honoring diplomatic efforts through the Locarno Treaties: Aristide Briand (France), Gustav Stresemann (Germany), and Austen Chamberlain (United Kingdom) were recognized for their contributions to international reconciliation. Additionally, Charles G. Dawes of the United States was honored for the Dawes Plan, which helped stabilize Germany's post-World War I economic situation. Notably, Chamberlain and Dawes were retroactively awarded for the 1925 Peace Prize, which had no previous recipients.
1927 Grand Ole Opry First Radio Broadcast: The Grand Ole Opry, a legendary country music radio program, made its inaugural radio broadcast from Nashville, Tennessee. This groundbreaking moment would become a pivotal platform for country music artists and help popularize the genre across the United States. The weekly country music concert program would go on to become the longest-running radio broadcast in American history.
1928 1928 Nobel Prize Awards Ceremony: The 1928 Nobel Prizes were awarded on December 10, 1928, recognizing outstanding achievements across multiple disciplines. Recipients included Owen Richardson (Physics), Adolf Windhaus (Chemistry), Charles Nicolle (Medicine), and Sigrid Undset (Literature). Notably, the Peace Prize was not awarded that year, reflecting the complex global political landscape of the time.
1929 1929 Nobel Prize Awards Ceremony: The prestigious Nobel Prizes were awarded across multiple disciplines, recognizing groundbreaking achievements in science, literature, and peace. Notable recipients included Louis de Broglie in Physics, Arthur Harden and Hans von Euler-Chelpin in Chemistry, Christiaan Eijkman and Sir Frederick Gowland Hopkins in Physiology or Medicine, Thomas Mann in Literature, and Frank Billings Kellogg in Peace.
1930 Karl Landsteiner Awarded Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine: Austrian-American scientist Karl Landsteiner was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his groundbreaking discovery of human blood groups. His research revolutionized medical understanding of blood compatibility, enabling safe blood transfusions and laying the foundation for modern immunology and medical diagnostics.
1931 Jane Addams Receives Nobel Peace Prize: Jane Addams becomes the first American woman to be named a co-recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, recognizing her groundbreaking work in social reform, peace activism, and women's rights.
1932 Thailand Becomes a Constitutional Monarchy: King Rama VII (Prajadhipok) fundamentally transformed Thailand's governance by granting the country its first constitution, marking a pivotal moment in Thai political history. This landmark event transitioned Thailand from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy, significantly reshaping the nation's political landscape.
1933 Nobel Prize in Physics Awarded to Dirac and Schrödinger: Paul Dirac and Erwin Schrödinger were jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for their groundbreaking contributions to atomic theory. Their work fundamentally transformed our understanding of quantum mechanics, providing new and productive theoretical frameworks that explained atomic and subatomic behavior.
1934 SS Concentration Camp Inspectorate Creation: Heinrich Himmler established the Inspectorate of Concentration Camps under SS General Theodor Eicke, a significant step in the Nazi regime's systematic persecution and imprisonment infrastructure.
1935 First Heisman Trophy Awarded: The Downtown Athletic Club Trophy, which would later become the prestigious Heisman Trophy, was awarded to halfback Jay Berwanger of the University of Chicago, marking the inaugural presentation of this iconic college football honor.
1936 King Edward VIII Abdicates Throne: King Edward VIII voluntarily abdicates the British throne to marry Wallis Simpson, an American divorcee, creating a constitutional crisis that would reshape the British monarchy.
1937 1937 Nobel Prize Awards Ceremony: The prestigious Nobel Prize ceremony was held in Stockholm and Oslo, honoring outstanding achievements across multiple disciplines. Notable recipients included Clinton Davisson and George Paget Thomson in Physics, Norman Haworth and Paul Karrer in Chemistry, Albert Szent-Györgyi in Physiology or Medicine, Roger Martin du Gard in Literature, and Robert Cecil in Peace for his diplomatic work with the League of Nations.
1938 1938 Nobel Prize Awards Ceremony: The prestigious Nobel Prize awards ceremony took place in Stockholm and Oslo, honoring outstanding achievements across multiple disciplines. Notable recipients included Enrico Fermi (Physics), Richard Kuhn (Chemistry), Corneille Heymans (Physiology or Medicine), Pearl S. Buck (Literature), and the Nansen International Office for Refugees (Peace Prize).
1939 1939 Nobel Prize Awards Ceremony: The Nobel Prize ceremony was held in Stockholm, with notable recipients including Ernest Lawrence (Physics), Adolf Butenandt and Leopold Ružička (Chemistry), Gerhard Domagk (Physiology or Medicine), and Frans Eemil Sillanpää (Literature). Due to World War II tensions, some German laureates were initially forced to decline their awards, later accepting them after the war.
1940 British anti-offensive in Libya (Sidi Barrani).
1941 Sinking of HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse: During World War II, the Royal Navy capital ships HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse were sunk by Imperial Japanese Navy torpedo bombers near British Malaya, marking a significant naval defeat for the British and demonstrating Japan's naval air power in the early stages of the Pacific War.
1942 First Official Holocaust Report Sent by Polish Government-in-Exile: During World War II, the Polish Government-in-Exile sent the Raczyński's Note, which was the first official comprehensive report documenting the Holocaust, to 26 governments that had signed the Declaration by United Nations. This document was a critical early attempt to alert the international community about the systematic genocide being perpetrated by Nazi Germany.
1943 Roosevelt Honors General Mark Clark: President Franklin D. Roosevelt personally awarded the Distinguished Service Cross to General Mark Clark, commander of the US Fifth Army, in a ceremony at Castelvetrano, Sicily. This recognition highlighted Clark's strategic leadership and contributions to the Allied campaign in Italy during World War II.
1944 Toscanini's Powerful Beethoven Performance: Legendary Italian conductor Arturo Toscanini led a profound concert performance of Beethoven's 'Fidelio' on NBC Radio, symbolically protesting against tyranny and dictatorship. Conducting in German, he dedicated the performance as a tribute to oppressed German people suffering under Hitler's regime.
1945 Preston Tucker Unveils Revolutionary Car Design: Automotive innovator Preston Tucker publicly revealed his ambitious plan to produce the Torpedo, a groundbreaking automobile capable of reaching speeds up to 150 miles per hour. This announcement represented a significant moment in post-war automotive design and innovation, showcasing the technological optimism of the mid-1940s.
1946 Nobel Prizes Resumed After World War II: The Nobel Prize ceremony was reinstated after a hiatus during World War II, marking a symbolic return to international academic and cultural recognition following the global conflict.
1947 USSR-Czechoslovakia Trade Agreement: On December 10, 1947, the Soviet Union and Czechoslovakia signed a significant trade agreement, further solidifying economic cooperation between the two communist bloc countries during the early years of the Cold War.
1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights Adoption: On December 10, 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a landmark document that articulates fundamental human rights to be universally protected. This groundbreaking declaration established, for the first time, basic rights and fundamental freedoms applicable to all human beings, regardless of race, color, gender, language, religion, political opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, or other status.
1949 Chinese Civil War: Fall of Chengdu: The People's Liberation Army (PLA) launched a decisive siege of Chengdu, the final Kuomintang-held city in mainland China. This critical military operation effectively concluded the Chinese Civil War, compelling President Chiang Kai-shek and his Nationalist government to evacuate to Taiwan, marking a pivotal moment in modern Chinese history.
1950 Ralph J. Bunche Receives Nobel Peace Prize: Dr. Ralph Bunche became the first African American to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, recognizing his groundbreaking diplomatic efforts in mediating conflicts between Israel and neighboring Arab states in 1949.
1951 Death of Algernon Blackwood: Algernon Blackwood, a prominent English author known for his supernatural and horror fiction, passed away on December 10, 1951. Blackwood was a significant figure in the genre of weird fiction and ghost stories, influencing many later writers with his atmospheric and psychologically complex narratives.
1952 Yitzhak Ben-Zvi Elected President of Israel: On December 10, 1952, Yitzhak Ben-Zvi was elected as the second President of Israel, succeeding Chaim Weizmann. Ben-Zvi was a prominent Zionist leader, historian, and scholar who played a significant role in the establishment and early years of the State of Israel.
1953 1953 Nobel Prize Awards Ceremony: The prestigious Nobel Prize Awards Ceremony was held in Stockholm, Sweden, and Oslo, Norway, recognizing outstanding achievements across multiple scientific and humanitarian fields. Winners included Frits Zernike (Physics), Hermann Staudinger (Chemistry), Hans Adolf Krebs and Fritz Albert Lipmann (Physiology or Medicine), Winston Churchill (Literature), and Albert Schweitzer (Peace Prize).
1954 Albert Schweitzer Awarded Nobel Peace Prize: Dr. Albert Schweitzer, renowned physician, theologian, and humanitarian, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his significant contributions to global understanding and humanitarian work, particularly his medical missions in Africa.
1955 Australian Federal Election of 1955: In a significant political event, Robert Menzies' Liberal/Country Coalition Government secures re-election with a substantially increased parliamentary majority, decisively defeating the Labor Party led by H. V. Evatt. This election reinforced Menzies' political dominance and continued conservative governance in Australia during the mid-1950s.
1956 Establishment of MPLA in Angola: On December 10, 1956, the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) was founded, marking a significant moment in Angola's struggle for independence from Portuguese colonial rule. The MPLA was a key political and revolutionary movement that played a crucial role in the Angolan War of Independence and later became a major political party in the country.
1957 Lester B. Pearson Receives Nobel Peace Prize: Canadian diplomat Lester B. Pearson was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his groundbreaking peacekeeping efforts within the United Nations. His innovative approach to international conflict resolution, particularly during the Suez Crisis, established the modern concept of UN peacekeeping missions and set a new standard for diplomatic conflict resolution.
1958 First Domestic Jet Passenger Flight in the United States: National Airlines pioneered domestic jet airliner service in the United States. A Boeing 707, leased from Pan American World Airways, departed New York City's Idlewild Airport at 9:54 a.m. EST, flying 111 passengers to Miami International Airport, marking a significant milestone in commercial aviation.
1959 DUPE: US Military Withdrawal from Iceland: The United States completed its military withdrawal from Iceland, marking the end of a significant military presence in the strategically important North Atlantic island nation.
1961 Vietnam War Begins: The Vietnam War officially commences with the arrival of the first American helicopters in Saigon, accompanied by 400 U.S. military personnel, marking the escalation of American involvement in the conflict.
1962 First Successful Planetary Data Transmission: The U.S. spacecraft Mariner 2 successfully flew by Venus and became the first space probe to transmit scientific data from another planet, marking a significant milestone in space exploration and planetary research.
1963 Martin Luther King Jr. Receives Nobel Peace Prize: Martin Luther King Jr. was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of his nonviolent resistance to racial segregation and his leadership in the American Civil Rights Movement.
1964 Martin Luther King Jr. Receives Nobel Peace Prize: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo, Norway, recognizing his nonviolent approach to advancing civil rights and racial equality in the United States. In his acceptance speech at the University of Oslo, King emphasized the ongoing struggle for justice and highlighted the collective efforts of the civil rights movement.
1965 Soviet Union Launches Kosmos 99: The Soviet Union successfully launched Kosmos 99 via a Vostok-2 rocket from Baikonur Cosmodrome, achieving a significant milestone in space exploration by placing a satellite into orbit simultaneously with an ongoing American crewed mission featuring astronauts Borman and Lovell.
1966 Shmuel Yosef Agnon Wins Nobel Prize in Literature: Shmuel Yosef Agnon, a prominent Hebrew writer, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, recognizing his significant contributions to modern Hebrew literature. Agnon's works often explored Jewish life, tradition, and the complexities of Jewish identity in the modern world.
1967 Tragic Death of Otis Redding in Plane Crash: On this day in music history, soul legend Otis Redding and most of his backing band, the Bar-Kays, were killed in a devastating plane crash. The 26-year-old musician, known as 'The King of Soul,' was en route to a performance in Wisconsin when his private jet went down. His posthumous hit '(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay' became the first posthumous No.1 record on both the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts, cementing his lasting musical legacy.
1968 Death of Thomas Merton: Thomas Merton, a renowned French-American Catholic writer and Trappist monk, tragically died at the age of 53 after being accidentally electrocuted by an electric fan in Thailand. Merton was a prominent spiritual writer, social activist, and influential figure in interfaith dialogue during the mid-20th century.
1969 Carlos Marighella: Brazilian Political Activist: Carlos Marighella was a significant Brazilian political activist and revolutionary, known for his opposition to the military dictatorship in Brazil during the late 1960s.
1970 Solzhenitsyn Declines Nobel Prize: Soviet novelist Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn chooses not to claim his Nobel Prize in Literature, fearing that the Soviet government would prevent his return to the USSR if he traveled abroad to accept the award. This act of defiance symbolizes the intellectual resistance against Soviet oppression.
1971 Willy Brandt Receives Nobel Peace Prize: West German Chancellor Willy Brandt was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of his efforts towards international reconciliation and diplomatic progress.
1972 USSR Nuclear Test in Kazakhstan: The Soviet Union conducted a nuclear test at the Semipalatinsk Test Site in northeastern Kazakhstan, continuing its Cold War-era nuclear weapons development program.
1973 American League Introduces Designated Hitter Rule: The American League made a significant strategic decision by unanimously voting to adopt the designated hitter rule on a trial basis for three years, fundamentally changing baseball's gameplay dynamics.
1974 UN International Women's Year Declaration: The United Nations General Assembly passed Resolution 3275, officially designating 1975 as International Women's Year to promote gender equality and women's rights globally.
1975 Andrei Sakharov's Nobel Peace Prize Acceptance: Yelena Bonner, wife of renowned Soviet physicist and human rights activist Andrei Sakharov, accepts the Nobel Peace Prize on his behalf. Sakharov was unable to attend due to Soviet government restrictions on his travel and political activism.
1976 UK Secures IMF Loan: British Chancellor Denis Healey announced a critical £2.3 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund, a significant financial intervention during the UK's economic challenges of the mid-1970s.
1977 Soyuz 26 Mission to Salyut 6 Space Station: On December 10, 1977, the Soyuz 26 spacecraft successfully launched and transported two Soviet cosmonauts to the Salyut 6 space station, marking an important milestone in Soviet space exploration and long-duration space missions.
1978 Nobel Peace Prize Awarded to Begin and Sadat: Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat were jointly awarded the 1978 Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo for their historic diplomatic efforts in negotiating the Camp David Accords, a significant breakthrough in Arab-Israeli relations that marked a pivotal moment of peace in the Middle East.
1979 Mother Teresa Receives Nobel Peace Prize: Mother Teresa was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her extraordinary humanitarian work with the poor and destitute in India. Her selfless service and dedication to helping the most marginalized populations brought global attention to issues of poverty and compassion.
1980 USSR Conducts Underground Nuclear Test: During the Cold War era, the Soviet Union performed an underground nuclear test, continuing its nuclear weapons development and testing program, which was a significant aspect of the geopolitical tensions of the time.
1981 El Mozote Massacre: In a horrific incident during El Salvador's civil war, army units systematically kill approximately 900 civilians in the village of El Mozote, representing one of the most brutal massacres in the country's history.
1982 Early AIDS Research by CDC: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a critical case involving a transfusion recipient who developed AIDS symptoms, which was an important early documentation in understanding the transmission and progression of the AIDS epidemic.
1983 Democracy Restored in Argentina: On December 10, 1983, Argentina marked a pivotal moment in its political history with the inauguration of President Raúl Alfonsín, effectively ending years of military dictatorship and restoring democratic governance. This transition symbolized a critical turning point for the nation, signaling the end of a dark period of authoritarian rule and the beginning of a new era of civilian leadership.
1984 Desmond Tutu Receives Nobel Peace Prize: Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a prominent South African anti-apartheid activist and cleric, is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his courageous non-violent struggle against racial oppression and his significant role in promoting human rights and racial reconciliation.
1985 Argentine Junta Leaders Sentenced: In a landmark human rights trial, Jorge Rafael Videla and Emilio Eduardo Massera, key leaders of Argentina's military junta during the 'Dirty War' period, were sentenced in Buenos Aires for their roles in systematic human rights violations and state-sponsored terrorism.
1986 Elie Wiesel Awarded Nobel Peace Prize: Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his profound advocacy and testimony about the Holocaust, recognizing his lifelong efforts to promote human rights and prevent genocide.
1987 Death of Jascha Heifetz, Renowned Violinist: Jascha Heifetz, a legendary Lithuanian-born American violinist widely considered one of the greatest violin virtuosos of the 20th century, passed away at the age of 86. Known for his extraordinary technical precision and expressive performances, Heifetz revolutionized violin playing and set new standards for classical music performance.
1988 US Billboard Number 1 Song: On December 10, 1988, the rock band Chicago topped the US Billboard charts with their hit single 'Look Away', a popular soft rock ballad from their album 'Chicago 19'.
1989 First Non-Communist Government in Czechoslovakia: Czechoslovakia saw the assumption of power by its first non-Communist government since 1948, signaling a dramatic political transformation following decades of communist rule.
1990 Hyderabad-Aligarh Communal Violence: A severe Hindu-Muslim rebellion erupted in Hyderabad-Aligarh, India, resulting in 140 fatalities. This incident highlighted the ongoing religious tensions in the region.
1991 Kazakhstan Gains Independence: Nursultan Nazarbayev is sworn in as the first President of Kazakhstan, marking a significant moment in the country's transition from Soviet republic to independent nation.
1992 International Human Rights Day Established: The United Nations General Assembly officially declares December 10 as the "International Human Rights Day", a global commemoration to promote and protect human rights worldwide.
1993 Closure of Wearmouth Colliery: The final shift concludes at Wearmouth Colliery in Sunderland, marking the end of a 156-year-old coal mining operation. This event symbolizes the decline of traditional coal mining in County Durham, a region with mining roots dating back to the Middle Ages.
1994 Nobel Peace Prize for Middle East Diplomacy: Yitzhak Rabin, Shimon Peres, and Yasser Arafat were jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts towards peace in the Middle East, recognizing significant diplomatic progress.
1995 Israeli Withdrawal from Nablus: As part of the Oslo Accord implementation, the Israeli army withdrew from Nablus, a significant step in the Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations and territorial agreements.
1996 South Africa Adopts New Constitution: On December 10, 1996, President Nelson Mandela officially promulgated the new Constitution of South Africa, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's transition from apartheid to a democratic, inclusive society. This constitution, widely celebrated as one of the most progressive in the world, enshrined principles of equality, human rights, and social justice.
1997 Kazakhstan Relocates Capital City: On December 10, 1997, Kazakhstan officially transferred its capital city from Almaty to Astana (now known as Nur-Sultan). This strategic move was driven by several factors, including Almaty's vulnerability to earthquakes, its proximity to the Chinese border, and the desire to develop a more centrally located administrative center. The relocation represented a significant political and infrastructural transformation for the young post-Soviet nation, symbolizing Kazakhstan's emergence as an independent state.
1998 Amartya Sen Wins Nobel Prize in Economics: Indian economist Amartya Sen was awarded the 1998 Nobel Prize in Economics for his groundbreaking work in welfare economics. Sen's research fundamentally transformed understanding of economic well-being by introducing concepts of individual welfare, social choice theory, and the relationship between economic development and human freedom. His scholarly contributions have been pivotal in analyzing poverty, famines, and social welfare from a multidimensional perspective.
1999 European Union Enhances Military Capabilities: European Union leaders agreed to expand their military and intelligence capabilities, planning to deploy up to 60,000 troops to crisis zones like Kosovo, demonstrating a commitment to a more robust collective defense strategy.
2000 Herbert Kroemer Wins Nobel Prize in Physics: Herbert Kroemer was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for his groundbreaking work in semiconductor technology. His research significantly advanced the development of fast transistors, laser diodes, and integrated circuits while working at RCA Laboratories and Varian Associates, contributing to major technological innovations in electronics.
2001 Release of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring: The groundbreaking fantasy film directed by Peter Jackson was released, marking the first installment of the epic trilogy based on J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved novel. The movie, featuring an ensemble cast and revolutionary visual effects, would go on to win multiple awards and transform the fantasy film genre.
2002 Breakthrough in Schizophrenia Prediction: A groundbreaking study led by University of Melbourne's Christos Pantelis suggested the potential use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to predict the onset of schizophrenia, offering hope for early intervention and preventative treatment of major psychotic episodes.
2003 Shirin Ebadi Receives Nobel Peace Prize: Iranian human rights activist Shirin Ebadi becomes the first Iranian and first Muslim woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo, Norway. In her powerful acceptance speech, she criticized the War on Terrorism for perpetuating human rights violations and argued that discrimination against Muslim women stems from cultural practices, not religious doctrine.
2004 Tragic Death of Rania Siam: Eight-year-old Rania Siam is killed by Israeli troops while eating lunch at her home in Khan Yunis, Gaza Strip. The incident occurred after three mortar shells were fired into an Israeli settlement by Hamas, with Israeli troops responding to the source of fire. The Israeli army announced an investigation into her death.
2005 2005 Nobel Prize Ceremony: The Nobel Prizes for various disciplines are awarded in Stockholm, recognizing outstanding achievements in Medicine, Physics, Chemistry, Economics, and Literature. Notable recipients include Barry J. Marshall, Robin Warren, Roy J. Glauber, and John L. Hall.
2006 Death of Augusto Pinochet: Former Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet passed away, marking the end of a controversial political era. Pinochet ruled Chile from 1973 to 1990 through a military regime known for severe human rights violations and political repression.
2007 Putin Announces Medvedev as Successor: Russian President Vladimir Putin announced at a party meeting that Dmitry Medvedev would be his successor in the March 2008 presidential election, signaling a carefully orchestrated political transition.
2008 Global Food Insecurity Crisis: The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization reported that 963 million people worldwide were experiencing prolonged food insecurity, underscoring a critical global humanitarian challenge.
2009 Barack Obama Receives Nobel Peace Prize: President Barack Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo, Norway, in a significant international diplomatic moment. The ceremony recognized Obama's early efforts towards international diplomacy and hope for global peace, despite criticism about the award's timing so early in his presidency.
2010 United States Diplomatic Cables Leak: WikiLeaks releases sensitive US diplomatic cables, causing significant international diplomatic tension and revealing confidential government communications.
2011 Russian Protests Against Election Fraud: Large-scale protests erupted across Russian cities challenging the alleged electoral manipulation by Vladimir Putin and the United Russia Party. In Moscow, approximately 50,000 demonstrators gathered, while 25 protesters were detained in Khabarovsk. These protests marked a significant moment of public dissent against the government's electoral practices.
2012 European Union Receives Nobel Peace Prize: European Union leaders accept the 2012 Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo, Norway, recognizing the organization's contributions to peace and unity in Europe.
2013 Nelson Mandela Memorial Service in Johannesburg: A memorial service was held in Johannesburg to celebrate the life of Nelson Mandela, marking a significant moment of global mourning and remembrance for the iconic anti-apartheid leader.
2014 Human Rights Day and Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony: On Human Rights Day, Amnesty International highlighted ongoing torture issues globally. Malala Yousafzai and Kailash Satyarthi received their Nobel Peace Prizes in Oslo for their work in children's rights. Former Polish President Aleksander Kwasniewski also admitted authorizing a CIA interrogation site.
2015 ISIL Oil Sales Revelation: A U.S. Treasury official disclosed that ISIL has generated over $500 million from oil sales to Turkey and Syrian President Bashar Assad, revealing the complex economic networks sustaining the terrorist organization.
2016 Istanbul Stadium Bombings: Two terrorist explosions occurred outside the Vodafone Arena in Istanbul, Turkey, killing 38 people and injuring 166 others. Ten suspects were subsequently arrested in connection with the attacks.
2017 ISIL Defeated in Iraq: The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) has been comprehensively defeated in Iraq, marking a significant milestone in the fight against the terrorist organization.
2018 Brexit Developments: The Court of Justice of the European Union ruled that an EU member state can unilaterally revoke Article 50. Simultaneously, Prime Minister Theresa May announced the postponement of the crucial Brexit withdrawal vote, signaling significant political uncertainty.
2019 Iranian Military Base Expansion in Syria: Satellite imagery revealed the construction of an extensive tunnel system at the Imam Ali military base in eastern Syria, controlled by Iranian forces. Western intelligence agencies believe these tunnels are being developed to store and potentially launch missiles, indicating ongoing Iranian military infrastructure development in the region.
2020 FDA Panel Recommends Tozinameran Emergency Approval: An expert panel advising the FDA recommended granting emergency approval for Tozinameran (Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine) for usage in the United States, marking a significant milestone in the fight against the pandemic.
2021 Global COVID-19 Pandemic Updates: Multiple COVID-19 developments occurred globally: Laos reported a record 1,645 new cases, bringing its total to 86,148. Singapore approved the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children aged 5-11. Cyprus detected its first Omicron variant case. The Czech government mandated COVID-19 vaccination for people over 60, healthcare workers, police, firefighters, and military personnel.
2022 Russian Forces Devastate Bakhmut in Ukraine: Russian military forces have reportedly 'destroyed' the strategic eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky. The ongoing assault is part of a broader campaign of missile and rocket attacks across multiple Ukrainian regions, intensifying the conflict.
2023 Israel-Hamas Conflict: Intense Fighting in Gaza Strip: A severe military confrontation continues in the Gaza Strip, with Israeli forces advancing into Khan Younis, the primary city in southern Gaza. Israeli tanks have reached the city center, while warplanes conduct ongoing bombing campaigns. The conflict has resulted in massive displacement, with approximately 85% of Gaza's Palestinian population forced to relocate. The United States continues to support Israel militarily, despite growing international calls for a cease-fire. The United Nations has highlighted the critical humanitarian situation, noting a complete lack of safe zones for civilians.

What Is special about December 10?

December 10 is notable for a variety of important historical, cultural, and significant events, including famous birthdays and deaths, holidays and more. Find out everything about December 10.