Historical Events on December 13: 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 13, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on December 13 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Einstein's First Academic Publication: Albert Einstein submitted his groundbreaking scientific paper 'Folgerungen aus der Elektrodynamik bewegter Körper' (Consequences of the Electrodynamics of Moving Bodies) to an academic journal, marking a pivotal moment in the early stages of his scientific career. This publication would later become a foundational text in the development of special relativity.
1901 S.F. Barnes Test Cricket Debut in Australia: S.F. Barnes made his historic test cricket debut against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, demonstrating exceptional bowling skills by taking 5 wickets for 65 runs in the first innings. This performance marked the beginning of what would become a significant career in international cricket.
1902 Venezuelan Crisis of 1902-1903: British and German naval forces bombarded Venezuelan coastal fortifications after President Cipriano Castro refused to pay outstanding diplomatic claims and damages. The international blockade was a significant diplomatic incident where European powers used military pressure to force Venezuela to settle outstanding debts. Castro appealed to U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt for mediation, which ultimately led to international arbitration and a diplomatic resolution.
1903 First Powered Flight by Wright Brothers: Orville and Wilbur Wright achieve the first sustained, controlled, powered flight in human history at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Their Wright Flyer traveled 120 feet in 12 seconds, marking a pivotal moment in transportation and technological innovation.
1904 Uneventful Day in 1904: While no specific major historical events were recorded for December 13, 1904, this day represents a typical moment in the early 20th century. During this period, the world was experiencing significant transformations, including technological advancements, colonial expansions, and emerging global tensions. The absence of a notable event does not diminish the ongoing historical processes of the time.
1905 Saskatchewan's First Provincial Election: On December 13, 1905, Saskatchewan held its inaugural provincial election following its establishment as a new province of Canada. The Liberal Party, under the leadership of Walter Scott, secured a decisive victory by winning 17 out of the 25 available legislative seats, marking a significant moment in the province's political development.
1906 German Parliamentary Crisis of 1906: German Chancellor Bernhard von Bülow dissolved the Reichstag (Parliament), creating a significant political moment in the late Imperial German period. This action highlighted the ongoing tensions between the executive branch and the legislative body during the reign of Kaiser Wilhelm II, reflecting the complex political dynamics of pre-World War I Germany.
1907 Wilhelm II's Diplomatic Visit to Amsterdam: German Emperor Wilhelm II conducted an official state visit to Amsterdam, likely as part of diplomatic relations and cultural exchange between Germany and the Netherlands during the early 20th century.
1908 Death of Augustus Le Plongeon, Pioneer Archaeologist: Augustus Le Plongeon, a pioneering American archaeologist known for his early photographic documentation and unconventional theories about Mayan civilization, passed away on December 13, 1908. Le Plongeon was notable for his groundbreaking work in the Yucatán Peninsula during the late 19th century, where he conducted some of the first systematic archaeological studies and photographic surveys of Mayan ruins, particularly at Chichen Itza. Despite being ahead of his time, many of his interpretations were later challenged by subsequent archaeological research.
1909 Council of Trent Convenes: The Council of Trent, summoned by Pope Paul III, commenced its historic session to address critical doctrinal matters in response to the Protestant Reformation. This pivotal ecclesiastical council aimed to clarify Catholic doctrine, reform church practices, and counter the theological challenges posed by Protestant movements.
1910 Uneventful Day in 1910: While no specific major historical events are documented for December 13, 1910, this period was part of the late Edwardian era, characterized by significant social and technological transformations. The world was on the cusp of major changes, with industrialization rapidly progressing and global tensions building towards what would become World War I.
1911 Mona Lisa Recovery in Florence: The famous 'Mona Lisa' painting by Leonardo da Vinci was recovered by Italian authorities in Florence, marking the end of a dramatic theft from the Louvre Museum in Paris earlier in 1911. This recovery was a significant moment in art history, highlighting the painting's immense cultural value and the international intrigue surrounding one of the world's most famous artworks.
1912 Establishment of National Petroleum Reserve No. 2: By executive order, President William Howard Taft established the National Petroleum Reserve No. 2 (NPR-2) in the Buena Vista Hills of Kern County, California. This strategic reserve was located south of the previously established Reserve No. 1, marking an important step in the United States' early efforts to secure and manage national petroleum resources.
1913 Establishment of the Federal Reserve System: The United States established the Federal Reserve System, a pivotal moment in American financial history. This central banking system was created to provide the nation with a safer, more flexible, and more stable monetary and financial system, fundamentally transforming the country's economic infrastructure.
1914 George "Tiger" Haynes - Musician and Actor: George "Tiger" Haynes was a notable British guitarist and actor during the early 20th century, known for his performances in films such as "Land Without Music" and "Guv'nor". Active during the World War I era, Haynes represented the entertainment industry's resilience during challenging times.
1915 First Practical All-Metal Aircraft Flight: Theodor Mallinckrodt made the initial short flight of the Junkers J 1, the world's first practical all-metal aircraft, at Döberitz, Germany. This groundbreaking moment represented a significant technological advancement in aviation, marking a pivotal transition from wooden and fabric aircraft construction to metal-based design.
1916 White Friday Avalanches: A catastrophic series of avalanches struck the Italian front during World War I, with the most devastating incident occurring on Mount Marmolada. The avalanche killed an estimated 270 Austro-Hungarian soldiers in their barracks, with total casualties ranging between 2,000-10,000 soldiers, making it one of the deadliest natural disasters during the war.
1917 Sinking of HMS Stephen Furness: During World War I, on December 13, 1917, the Royal Navy armed steamship HMS Stephen Furness was tragically sunk in the Irish Sea west of the Isle of Man by the German Submarine SM UB-64. The attack resulted in the devastating loss of 101 lives, underscoring the brutal maritime warfare of the period.
1918 U.S. Army Crosses into Germany: Following the armistice of World War I, the United States Army of occupation crosses the Rhine River, entering German territory. This historic moment marked the beginning of the post-war Allied presence in Germany and symbolized the military outcome of the conflict.
1919 First Aerial Circumnavigation of the Globe: Ross and Smith successfully completed a historic flight from London to Australia, marking a significant milestone in aviation history. Their journey demonstrated the emerging capabilities of long-distance aerial transportation and showcased the potential of aircraft for global travel.
1920 International Court of Justice Established: The League of Nations formally establishes the International Court of Justice in The Hague, Netherlands, creating a landmark institution for international dispute resolution.
1921 Mongolia Declares Independence from China: On December 13, 1921, Mongolia officially declared independence from China, marking a significant geopolitical shift in Central Asia. The Russian White Army, led by Baron Roman von Ungern-Sternberg, played a crucial role in capturing the territory from Chinese control. Von Ungern-Sternberg subsequently proclaimed himself the ruler of Mongolia, establishing a brief and tumultuous period of independent governance. This event was part of the complex political landscape following the Russian Revolution and the subsequent Russian Civil War, which dramatically reshaped power dynamics in the region.
1922 Political Duel in Uruguay: A dramatic political confrontation occurred between Uruguay's President Baltasar Brum and his political rival Luis Alberto de Herrera, involving a duel with deadly weapons. This event highlights the intense political tensions and personal honor codes of early 20th-century Uruguayan politics.
1923 Birth of Philip Warren Anderson: Philip Warren Anderson was born, who would later become a renowned American physicist and Nobel Prize laureate. Anderson made significant contributions to condensed matter physics and quantum theory, ultimately winning the Nobel Prize in Physics for his groundbreaking work on electronic structure and magnetic properties of materials.
1924 Ahmet Zogu's Invasion of Albania: Exiled former Albanian Prime Minister Ahmet Zogu launches a significant political and military campaign to reclaim power in Albania. Backed by Yugoslav-supported guerrilla forces, Zogu leads an invasion aimed at overthrowing Prime Minister Fan Noli and returning to political leadership. This event represents a tumultuous period in Albanian political history, highlighting the region's complex power dynamics and external influences.
1926 Miina Sillanpää: First Female Government Minister in Finland: On December 13, 1926, Miina Sillanpää made history by becoming Finland's first female government minister. A pioneering social reformer and women's rights advocate, her appointment represented a significant milestone for gender equality in Finnish political representation.
1927 Birth of Christopher Plummer: Christopher Plummer was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He would go on to become a renowned actor with a distinguished career spanning stage, film, and television, winning numerous awards including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in 'Beginners' (2010).
1928 Gershwin's 'An American in Paris' Debuts: Renowned composer George Gershwin premiered his groundbreaking symphonic tone poem 'An American in Paris' at Carnegie Hall, marking a significant moment in American classical and jazz music history.
1929 U.S. House Approves New Building Construction Plan: A special public buildings subcommittee of the U.S. House of Representatives granted approval for a comprehensive $9.74 million architectural project to construct a dedicated building for congressional operations. This significant infrastructure investment aimed to provide modern facilities for the legislative branch, reflecting the growing administrative needs of the United States government during the late 1920s.
1930 Théodore Steeg Forms French Government: On December 13, 1930, Théodore Steeg was appointed as the new Prime Minister of France, forming a new government during the Third French Republic period.
1931 Japan Abandons Gold Standard: On December 13, 1931, Japan made a significant economic decision by going off the gold standard. This move was part of a global trend during the Great Depression, aimed at providing monetary flexibility and potentially stimulating the domestic economy during a period of severe economic downturn.
1932 Anti-Yugoslav Demonstration in Fascist Italy: A massive anti-Yugoslav demonstration erupted in Rome, reflecting the rising tensions between Fascist Italy and Yugoslavia. Benito Mussolini personally addressed the crowd from the balcony of Palazzo Venezia, dramatically condemning the 'Trogir incident' and signaling potential diplomatic escalation. His inflammatory rhetoric emphasized Italy's nationalist sentiments and suggested potential future confrontational actions.
1933 Warburg Institute Library Escapes Nazi Destruction: In a critical act of cultural preservation, the entire collection of the Warburg Institute library, containing invaluable renaissance materials, was relocated from Hamburg to London. This emergency move was necessitated by the Nazi government's threat to destroy the library due to its Jewish director, Fritz Saxl, representing a significant moment of intellectual resistance against Nazi persecution.
1934 Mark Hellinger Theater Opens in Manhattan: The Mark Hellinger Theater, a landmark Broadway venue owned by Warner Bros, officially opened its doors at 237 West 51st Street in New York City. This historic theater would become an important cultural landmark in the Broadway theater district, hosting numerous significant theatrical productions in the decades to follow.
1935 Hoare-Laval Pact Controversy at League of Nations: The full text of the controversial Hoare-Laval Pact was publicly revealed, causing significant diplomatic tension. Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie denounced the plan as a violation of the League of Nations Covenant, highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding the Italian invasion of Ethiopia.
1936 Second Battle of the Corunna Road Begins: The Second Battle of the Corunna Road commenced on December 13, 1936, as part of the broader Spanish Civil War, representing another significant engagement between Republican and Nationalist forces.
1937 Battle of Nanjing and Nanking Massacre: During the Second Sino-Japanese War, the city of Nanjing (Nanking), defended by the National Revolutionary Army under General Tang Shengzhi, fell to Japanese forces. The capture was immediately followed by the Nanking Massacre, a horrific event where Japanese troops systematically raped, tortured, and murdered hundreds of thousands of Chinese civilians and surrendered soldiers, representing one of the most brutal atrocities of the 20th century.
1938 Establishment of Neuengamme Concentration Camp: On December 13, 1938, the Neuengamme concentration camp was established in the Bergedorf district of Hamburg, Germany. This camp was part of the Nazi regime's systematic persecution and imprisonment of targeted groups during the Holocaust. Initially a satellite camp of Sachsenhausen, Neuengamme would become one of the largest concentration camps in northern Germany, where thousands of prisoners were subjected to forced labor, brutal conditions, and immense human suffering.
1939 Battle of the River Plate: The Battle of the River Plate was a significant naval engagement fought off the coast of Uruguay during the early stages of World War II. The German pocket battleship Admiral Graf Spee, commanded by Captain Hans Langsdorff, engaged three Royal Navy cruisers: HMS Exeter, HMNZS Achilles, and HMS Ajax. This naval battle was the first major naval confrontation of World War II in the South Atlantic, demonstrating the German Navy's commerce raiding strategy and the British Royal Navy's efforts to protect maritime trade routes.
1940 Hitler's Directive for Operation Marita: Adolf Hitler issued Directive No. 20, outlining the strategic plans for the German invasion of Greece, codenamed Operation Marita. This directive was a crucial step in the Axis powers' expansion strategy during World War II.
1941 Sinking of British Aircraft Carrier Ark Royal: German submarine U-81 successfully torpedoes and sinks the British aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal in the Mediterranean Sea, marking a significant naval loss for the British Royal Navy during World War II.
1942 Rommel's Strategic Withdrawal from Tunisia: Field Marshal Erwin Rommel strategically withdraws from Tunisia, defying Adolf Hitler's direct orders to make a stand at El Agheila, signaling the deteriorating German position in North Africa during World War II.
1943 Massacre of Kalavryta during World War II: On December 13, 1943, Nazi German occupying forces committed a horrific war crime in the town of Kalavryta, Greece. In a systematic and brutal act of reprisal, German troops systematically executed more than 1,200 male residents of Kalavryta and surrounding villages. The massacre began at 2:35 PM and was part of the Nazi strategy of collective punishment against civilian populations suspected of supporting resistance movements.
1944 Kamikaze Attack on USS Nashville: During World War II, a Japanese kamikaze pilot deliberately crashed his aircraft into the US cruiser USS Nashville, resulting in the death of 138 American sailors. This attack exemplified the desperate tactics employed by Japanese forces in the late stages of the Pacific War.
1945 Execution of Nazi War Criminals Josef Kramer and Irma Grese: On December 13, 1945, Josef Kramer, known as the 'Beast of Belsen', and Irma Grese, infamously called the 'Hyena of Auschwitz', were executed by hanging at Hamelin Prison in Germany. Both were convicted of war crimes and crimes against humanity during their service in Nazi concentration camps during World War II. Kramer was the commandant of Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, while Grese was a notorious SS guard at Auschwitz and Bergen-Belsen. Their trial was part of the broader Nuremberg trials, which sought to bring Nazi war criminals to justice for their brutal actions during the Holocaust.
1946 UN Establishes Eight Trust Territories: The United Nations General Assembly approved the creation of eight trust territories to be administered by member nations. The ten-member UN Trusteeship Council was tasked with safeguarding the interests of non-self-governing peoples and guiding them towards eventual full independence, marking a significant step in decolonization and international governance.
1947 Maine Turnpike Inaugurates Traffic Operations: The Maine Turnpike officially opened to vehicular traffic, marking a significant milestone in the state's transportation infrastructure and connecting major regions of Maine with improved road connectivity.
1948 Major Financial Fraud Scandal in Argentina: A significant financial fraud scandal erupted in Argentina, involving an elaborate scheme to illegally obtain 11 million pesos. Fourteen individuals were implicated in the plot and subsequently ordered to be arrested by authorities. The scale of the fraud represented a substantial economic crime that highlighted systemic vulnerabilities in Argentina's financial oversight mechanisms during the late 1940s.
1949 Israeli Government Relocation: The Israeli government moved from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, with Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion strategically avoiding an official proclamation of Jerusalem as the capital.
1950 Battle of Chosin Reservoir Concludes: The Battle of Chosin Reservoir ended with a complex strategic outcome. Chinese forces recaptured most of North Korea, but United Nations forces managed a strategic withdrawal. In a significant humanitarian gesture, China released 27 wounded American prisoners of war, allowing them to return to their retreating convoy. A U.S. Army major noted the release as 'pure propaganda', highlighting the complex geopolitical tensions of the Korean War.
1951 Margaret Thatcher's Wedding: Margaret Roberts, later known as Margaret Thatcher, marries Denis Thatcher in a significant personal milestone that would precede her groundbreaking political career. This marriage would be a lifelong partnership that supported her rise to become the United Kingdom's first female Prime Minister.
1952 Declaration of Independence Formally Received by Air Force General: On December 13, 1952, Brigadier General Stoyte O. Ross, the commanding general of the Air Force Headquarters Command, officially received the historic Declaration of Independence in a formal ceremony at 11:00 AM. This event symbolized the preservation and respect for a foundational document of American independence and democratic governance.
1953 Ben Bernanke Born: Ben Bernanke, a prominent American economist, was born on December 13, 1953. He would later become a pivotal figure in economic policy, serving as the Chairman of the Federal Reserve System from 2006 to 2014, playing a crucial role during the 2008 financial crisis.
1954 Tragic Death of Boxer Ed Sanders: On December 13, 1954, U.S. heavyweight boxer Ed Sanders, aged 30, tragically died hours after a boxing match with Willie James, the New England Heavyweight Champion, in Boston, Massachusetts. Sanders' death underscored the inherent risks and potential fatal consequences in professional boxing during this era.
1955 De Havilland Comet 3 Makes Historic US Airport Landing: On December 13, 1955, the de Havilland Comet 3, a pioneering jet airliner developed by the British aircraft manufacturer, made its inaugural stop at Honolulu International Airport. This milestone marked a significant moment in aviation history, demonstrating the growing capabilities of jet-powered commercial aircraft and expanding transpacific air travel routes. The Comet 3 was an advanced iteration of the world's first commercial jet airliner, representing a technological leap forward in passenger transportation and international connectivity.
1956 Jackie Robinson Traded and Retires from Major League Baseball: On December 13, 1956, the Brooklyn Dodgers traded legendary baseball player Jackie Robinson to the New York Giants for pitcher Dick Littlefield and a cash payment of $35,000. Following this trade, Robinson made the decision to retire from professional baseball, concluding his groundbreaking career that had transformed the sport by breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball.
1957 Devastating Farsinaj Earthquake in Iran: On December 13, 1957, a powerful magnitude 6.5 earthquake struck the Farsinaj region of Iran, causing widespread destruction and significant loss of life. The seismic event reached a maximum Mercalli intensity of VII, indicating considerable damage to infrastructure and severe ground shaking. The earthquake resulted in at least 1,119 fatalities and destroyed over 5,000 homes, leaving thousands of residents homeless and devastated.
1958 NASA's First Animal Space Launch with Gordo the Monkey: NASA, the newly established space agency, conducted a groundbreaking mission by launching a squirrel monkey named Gordo into space. The monkey reached an impressive altitude of 300 kilometers, marking an important milestone in early space exploration and animal research for space travel. This mission was part of the critical preparatory work for future human spaceflight.
1959 Cyprus Gains First President: Archbishop Makarios III becomes the first President of Cyprus, marking a significant milestone in the island nation's political history and transition to independence.
1960 Ethiopian Imperial Crisis: While Emperor Haile Selassie I is visiting Brazil, his Imperial Bodyguard stages a coup in Ethiopia, deposing him and proclaiming his son, Crown Prince Asfa Wossen, as the new Emperor.
1961 Eichmann Trial Prosecution Demands Death Penalty: In a pivotal moment of post-World War II justice, chief prosecutor Gideon Hausner delivers a powerful demand for the death penalty against Adolf Eichmann in Jerusalem, a key architect of the Holocaust's systematic genocide.
1962 Relay 1 Communication Satellite Launch: NASA successfully launched Relay 1, a groundbreaking active repeater communications satellite that marked a significant milestone in satellite communication technology. This satellite represented an important step in global telecommunications infrastructure, enabling more advanced long-distance communication capabilities.
1963 Capitol Records Signs The Beatles: Capitol Records secured a right of first refusal agreement with The Beatles, a pivotal moment in the band's early international music distribution and marketing strategy. This agreement would help launch the band's global popularity and music distribution.
1964 US-Mexico Border Modification Project: In a significant cross-border engineering project, US President Lyndon Johnson and Mexican President Gustavo Diaz Ordaz jointly initiated a strategic explosion to divert the Rio Grande river, effectively reshaping the US-Mexico border geography.
1965 Terrorist Attack on Indian Parliament Building: Sansad Bhavan, the building housing the Indian Parliament, is attacked by terrorists, resulting in twelve fatalities, including the attackers. This event underscores the significant security challenges and political tensions in India during this period.
1966 First US Bombing of Hanoi during Vietnam War: On December 13, 1966, the United States conducted its first bombing raid on Hanoi, the capital of North Vietnam, marking a significant escalation in the Vietnam War. This strategic aerial attack was part of the broader military campaign aimed at disrupting North Vietnamese military infrastructure and supply lines.
1967 Constantine II's Failed Counter-Coup in Greece: King Constantine II of Greece attempted an unsuccessful counter-coup against the military Regime of the Colonels, a pivotal moment in modern Greek political history. This event highlighted the intense political tensions and power struggles within Greece during the late 1960s military dictatorship.
1968 Brazil's AI-5: Suspension of Civil Liberties: On December 13, 1968, Brazilian President Artur da Costa e Silva issued the Institutional Act No. 5 (AI-5), a pivotal moment in Brazil's military dictatorship. This decree effectively suspended constitutional rights, enabled government rule by decree, and eliminated habeas corpus protections. The act marked the beginning of the most repressive period of Brazil's military regime, granting the government unprecedented powers to suppress political opposition, censor media, and arbitrarily arrest and persecute dissidents.
1969 Birth of Raymond A. Spruance: Raymond A. Spruance, a notable American naval admiral who would become crucial in World War II Pacific naval strategies, was born in 1886. Spruance was a key strategic commander during pivotal naval battles like Midway, significantly contributing to the United States' naval success in the Pacific Theater.
1970 First Spacecraft Landing on Venus: The Soviet spacecraft Venera 7 successfully landed on Venus, becoming the first human-made object to land on another planet and transmit scientific data back to Earth, marking a significant milestone in space exploration.
1971 John Sinclair Released from Prison after Controversial Marijuana Conviction: John Sinclair, a prominent counterculture activist, was freed after serving time for selling two marijuana joints. His harsh 10-year sentence became a symbol of disproportionate drug law enforcement and sparked significant public debate about marijuana criminalization in the early 1970s.
1972 Apollo 17: Final Moonwalk of the 20th Century: On December 13, 1972, astronauts Eugene Cernan and Harrison Schmitt conducted the third and final Extra-vehicular activity (EVA) during the Apollo 17 mission. This historic moonwalk marked the last human lunar exploration of the 20th century, representing a significant milestone in space exploration and human achievement.
1973 MPLA and FNLA Accord Against Portuguese Forces: The People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) and the National Front for the Liberation of Angola (FNLA) signed an accord to coordinate their combat efforts against Portuguese colonial forces in Angola, signaling a united front in the Angolan independence struggle.
1974 North Vietnamese Spring Offensive Begins: During the Vietnam War, North Vietnamese forces launched their decisive 1975 Spring Offensive, a major military campaign that would ultimately lead to the complete capitulation of South Vietnam by April 30, 1975. This offensive marked a critical turning point in the conflict, signaling the imminent end of the prolonged war.
1975 Australian Federal Election of 1975: The Liberal Party of Australia, led by Malcolm Fraser, won a historic parliamentary election, securing the largest majority in Australian political history. This election marked a significant shift in the country's political landscape, following the controversial dismissal of Prime Minister Gough Whitlam earlier that year.
1976 Argentine Military Executes Guerrillas: During the period of Argentina's military dictatorship, a unit of the Argentine Army conducted a brutal operation, torturing and executing 22 suspected Montoneros guerrillas, representing the severe human rights violations of the era.
1977 University of Evansville Basketball Team Plane Crash: On December 13, 1977, a tragic aviation disaster occurred when a United States government DC-3 aircraft crashed near Evansville Regional Airport, resulting in the complete loss of the University of Evansville basketball team. The crash killed all 29 people on board, including players, support staff, and team boosters, marking one of the most devastating moments in collegiate sports history.
1978 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coin Launch: The United States Mint officially introduced the Susan B. Anthony dollar coin, marking a historic milestone as the first U.S. coin to honor a prominent woman in American history. This groundbreaking coin commemorates Susan B. Anthony, a pivotal leader in the women's suffrage movement who played a crucial role in securing women's right to vote.
1979 Canadian Government Falls: The government of Prime Minister Joe Clark was defeated in the House of Commons, triggering a significant political event that would lead to the 1980 Canadian federal election and potential shifts in the country's political leadership.
1980 José Napoleón Duarte Becomes President of El Salvador: José Napoleón Duarte, previously serving as El Salvador's Foreign Minister and a member of the governing junta, was announced as the new president of El Salvador. This marked a significant political transition, as Duarte became the first civilian president in nearly 50 years, breaking a long-standing military governance that had been in place since the 1931 overthrow of Arturo Araujo.
1981 Martial Law in Poland: General Wojciech Jaruzelski declared martial law in Poland, a significant political crackdown aimed at suppressing the growing Solidarity movement and maintaining communist control. The military intervention suspended civil liberties, arrested key opposition activists, and effectively crushed the emerging democratic resistance.
1982 Devastating Yemen Earthquake of 1982: A severe magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck southwestern Yemen, centered approximately 46 miles south of Sana'a, the capital. The catastrophic event resulted in massive destruction: over 2,800 people killed, 1,500 injured, 700,000 left homeless, and around 300 villages destroyed or severely damaged. The earthquake had a maximum Mercalli intensity of VIII (Severe), causing widespread structural damage and significant human suffering.
1983 Harrods Bombing by Provisional IRA: A car bomb planted by the Provisional IRA outside Harrods department store in London kills 6 Christmas shoppers and injures 90, demonstrating the intense political violence in Northern Ireland during the 1980s.
1984 William Schroeder's First Stroke After Artificial Heart Implantation: On December 13, 1984, William Schroeder, a pioneering recipient of an artificial heart, experienced his first stroke. Schroeder was part of the groundbreaking Jarvik-7 artificial heart program at Humana Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky, and was the second patient to receive a permanent artificial heart after Barney Clark. This medical event highlighted the complex challenges and potential complications of early artificial heart transplantation.
1985 Australian Cricket Test Debut Trio: Three prominent Australian cricketers - Merv Hughes, Geoff Marsh, and Bruce Reid - made their Test match debut against India on December 13, 1985. This marked the beginning of significant careers for these players who would go on to become key figures in Australian cricket during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
1986 Notable Deaths on December 13, 1986: On December 13, 1986, several significant public figures passed away, marking a somber day in history. The most prominent among them was Smita Patil, a pioneering Indian actress known for her powerful performances in parallel and mainstream cinema. Heather Angel, a British-American film actress from the Golden Age of Hollywood, also died. Additionally, Ella Baker, a crucial civil rights activist who played a pivotal role in the African American civil rights movement, was remembered on this day. Baker was particularly notable for her grassroots organizing and her work with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee.
1987 USSR Nuclear Test in Kazakhstan: The Soviet Union conducted a nuclear test at the Semipalatinsk Test Site in Eastern Kazakhstan, continuing its nuclear weapons development program during the late Cold War period.
1988 Yasser Arafat UN Speech in Geneva: PLO Chairman Yasser Arafat delivered a pivotal speech at the UN General Assembly meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, after the United States denied him a visa to speak at UN headquarters in New York. This diplomatic incident highlighted the complex geopolitical tensions surrounding the Palestinian leadership during the late Cold War era.
1989 Derryard Checkpoint Attack during The Troubles: The Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) launches a deadly attack on a British Army temporary vehicle checkpoint near Rosslea, Northern Ireland, resulting in the deaths of two British soldiers and wounding two others.
1990 Historic Meeting Between De Klerk and Mandela: South African President F. W. de Klerk met with Nelson Mandela in a pivotal discussion aimed at dismantling apartheid. This meeting represented a critical moment in South Africa's journey towards racial reconciliation and democratic transformation.
1991 Korean Reconciliation Accord: North and South Korea signed a historic accord calling for mutual reconciliation, marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough in their long-standing tensions.
1992 FCC Fines Infinity Broadcasting: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) imposed a $600,000 fine on Infinity Broadcasting for regulatory violations.
1993 Kazakhstan's Nuclear Non-Proliferation Commitment: Kazakhstan's parliament demonstrates a commitment to global peace by approving the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and agreeing to dismantle over 100 missiles, a significant step in post-Soviet nuclear disarmament.
1994 Fred and Rose West Serial Killings Exposed: Fred West, a 53-year-old builder from Gloucester, was remanded in custody and charged with murdering 12 people, including two of his own daughters. Bodies were primarily discovered buried at his residence on Cromwell Street. His wife Rose West, 41, was simultaneously charged with ten murders. Law enforcement investigations suggested the murders occurred between 1967 and 1987, with suspicions that the couple might have been responsible for up to 30 killings.
1995 Christopher Reeve's Rehabilitation Milestone: Actor Christopher Reeve is released from physical rehabilitation center following his devastating horseback riding accident, marking a significant moment in his journey of recovery and advocacy for spinal cord injury research.
1996 Kofi Annan Elected UN Secretary-General: Kofi Annan was elected as the Secretary-General of the United Nations, marking a significant moment in international diplomacy. As the first African to hold this prestigious position, Annan would go on to serve two terms and receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 2001.
1997 Charles Woodson Wins 63rd Heisman Trophy: Charles Woodson, a cornerback from the University of Michigan, was awarded the 63rd Heisman Trophy, becoming the first primarily defensive player to win the prestigious college football award. His exceptional performance and versatility on the field made him a standout athlete in the 1997 season.
1998 Tragic Christmas Market Massacre in Liège: A horrific murder-suicide occurred at a Christmas market in Liège, Belgium, resulting in a devastating loss of life and numerous injuries. The incident claimed six lives and left 125 people wounded, shocking the local community and highlighting the potential for sudden, extreme violence in public spaces.
1999 Charles Hatfield's Controversial Rain-Making Incident in San Diego: In a bizarre historical event, the San Diego city council hired Charles Hatfield, a self-proclaimed 'moisture accelerator', to address the city's drought conditions by inducing rainfall. Hatfield successfully brought rain, but the resulting massive flooding led to significant property damage. When the council refused to pay him, Hatfield fled the city, taking his mysterious rain-making formula with him.
2000 2000 US Presidential Election Supreme Court Decision: The U.S. Supreme Court halts the Florida presidential recount, effectively deciding the outcome of the 2000 presidential election in favor of George W. Bush, determining the next President of the United States.
2001 Bin Laden Videotape Released: The United States government released a videotape showing Osama bin Laden discussing the September 11 terrorist attacks. In the footage, bin Laden is seen laughing and boasting about the extensive damage caused by the attacks, providing crucial evidence of his involvement and mindset.
2002 European Union Enlargement Announcement: The European Union officially announced a historic expansion, inviting ten Central and Eastern European countries to join the union on May 1, 2004. This landmark decision included Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia, marking a significant moment of post-Cold War integration.
2003 Capture of Saddam Hussein: Saddam Hussein, the former president of Iraq, was captured by US forces near his hometown of Tikrit in a military operation called Operation Red Dawn. This significant event marked a turning point in the Iraq War, leading to his eventual trial and execution for crimes against humanity.
2004 Ongoing Iraq Conflict Violence: A car bomb attack near Baghdad's Green Zone resulted in at least 13 fatalities. In response to the murder of eight US Marines, the United States Army launched an air strike on Fallujah, escalating tensions in the region.
2005 Bush Acknowledges Iraqi Civilian Casualties: President George W. Bush publicly recognized approximately 30,000 civilian deaths in Iraq since the war's beginning, highlighting the conflict's human cost.
2006 Extinction of the Chinese River Dolphin (Baiji): The Chinese River Dolphin, also known as the Baiji, was officially declared extinct, marking a tragic milestone in environmental conservation. This species, native to the Yangtze River, became the first dolphin species driven to extinction primarily by human activities such as habitat destruction, pollution, and overfishing.
2007 Treaty of Lisbon Signed by European Leaders: European leaders formally signed the Treaty of Lisbon in Lisbon, Portugal, a pivotal moment in European Union integration that would reshape governance and decision-making processes across member states.
2008 East Asian Leaders Discuss Financial Crisis: Leaders from China and South Korea convened on the Japanese island of Kyushu to discuss collaborative strategies in response to the global financial crisis of 2008.
2009 Tony Blair's Iraq War Admission: In a candid interview, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair admitted he would have proceeded with the Iraq War even knowing there were no weapons of mass destruction, revealing the complex motivations behind the controversial military intervention.
2010 Bernie Sanders' Landmark Senate Speech on Tax Inequality: U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders delivers an extraordinary 8.5-hour speech denouncing tax cuts for the wealthy, highlighting growing income inequality and warning about the potential transformation of the United States into a 'banana republic'.
2011 Potential Higgs Boson Detection at CERN: Researchers reported promising evidence of the Higgs boson's potential detection through two separate experiments at CERN's Large Hadron Collider, a breakthrough in particle physics.
2012 Deadly Car Bombing in Syria: A catastrophic car bomb exploded in Qatana, located 25km southwest of Damascus, resulting in at least 16 fatalities and 25 injuries. This attack follows a similar explosion near the Interior Ministry building that killed five people, highlighting the ongoing violence in the Syrian civil war.
2013 Nelson Mandela's Funeral Preparations: Nelson Mandela's body will be transported to Qunu, Eastern Cape, for his final resting place, marking the end of a historic journey for the anti-apartheid icon.
2014 Civil Rights Protest in Washington D.C.: Thousands of protesters marched in Washington, D.C., demanding an end to police brutality and racial injustice following recent killings of unarmed black men by police officers, highlighting ongoing civil rights tensions in the United States.
2015 Paris Climate Agreement Signed: The United Nations Climate Change Summit (COP21) reached a landmark global agreement in Paris, establishing the Paris Agreement to address the critical challenges of global warming and climate change. This international treaty represented a significant diplomatic effort to combat environmental challenges.
2016 Syrian Civil War: Battle of Aleppo Ceasefire: After intense fighting, warring parties in Aleppo agreed to a ceasefire to facilitate the evacuation of civilians and rebel fighters. The evacuation was scheduled to begin at 5:00 a.m. EET Wednesday (03:00 UTC), with five buses designated to transport passengers out of the war-torn city.
2017 Theresa May Suffers Parliamentary Defeat on Brexit: UK Prime Minister Theresa May was defeated 309-305 in the House of Commons. MPs from both major parties approved an amendment to the Brexit bill that would require a preliminary parliamentary vote on the final deal.
2018 UN-Brokered Ceasefire in Yemen: A significant diplomatic breakthrough occurred as the UN mediated a ceasefire in Al Hudaydah, Yemen. Both warring factions agreed to evacuate the port city within three weeks to facilitate humanitarian aid in the war-torn country.
2019 Trump Impeachment Proceedings Move Forward: On December 13, 2019, the House Judiciary Committee voted along party lines to advance two articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump. The committee's decision set the stage for a full House vote on December 18, marking a significant moment in U.S. political history.
2020 Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine Distribution Begins: Pfizer and BioNTech commence nationwide vaccine distribution from their Michigan facility, shipping doses to all 50 U.S. states. This marks a significant milestone in the country's COVID-19 vaccination strategy and global efforts to combat the pandemic.
2021 U.S. Coronavirus Death Toll Reaches 800,000: The United States coronavirus-related death toll reached 800,000, marking a devastating milestone in the pandemic. Public health officials warned of potential new case surges during winter, with increased indoor gatherings and the spread of the highly infectious Omicron variant raising significant health concerns.
2022 First US Presidential European Visit: President Woodrow Wilson made history by becoming the first sitting US President to visit European countries, arriving in France to participate in the pivotal Versailles Conference following World War I.
2023 Bush Claims Presidency After Supreme Court Decision: On December 13, 2000, Republican George W. Bush claimed the presidency following a pivotal U.S. Supreme Court ruling that halted further recounts of disputed ballots in Florida. Democratic candidate Al Gore subsequently conceded, delivering a speech that emphasized national unity and the importance of peaceful democratic transition.

What Is special about December 13?

December 13 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 13.