Historical Events on December 18: 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 18, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on December 18 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Puffing Billy Railway Inaugurated in Victoria, Australia: On December 18, 1900, the Upper Ferntree Gully to Gembrook Narrow-gauge Railway was officially opened for traffic. This historic railway, now famously known as the Puffing Billy Railway, was constructed with a narrow gauge of 2 ft 6 in (762 mm), which was typical for rural and mountainous terrain in Australia during the early 20th century. The railway was designed to serve the local timber and agricultural communities in the Dandenong Ranges of Victoria, providing crucial transportation infrastructure for the region's economic development.
1901 Uneventful Day in World History: While no specific major historical events were recorded for December 18, 1901, this date falls during an interesting period of global transformation. The turn of the 20th century was marked by significant technological, political, and social changes. At this time, the world was experiencing rapid industrialization, colonial expansions, and emerging scientific discoveries.
1902 British House of Lords Prorogation by King Edward VII: On December 18, 1902, King Edward VII prorogued the British House of Lords at the request of Prime Minister Arthur Balfour. This parliamentary procedure temporarily suspended the legislative activities of the upper chamber, a significant moment in the early 20th-century British political landscape.
1903 United States-China Commercial Treaty of 1903: A significant diplomatic agreement between the United States and China aimed at expanding bilateral trade relations and establishing more comprehensive commercial interactions. The treaty was formally ratified by the United States Senate on December 18, 1903, marking an important milestone in early 20th-century international economic diplomacy.
1904 Birth of George Stevens, Influential Hollywood Filmmaker: George Stevens was born on December 18, 1904, in Oakland, California. He would become a pioneering American film director, producer, writer, and cinematographer who significantly shaped Hollywood's golden era. Stevens was renowned for directing critically acclaimed films such as 'Shane', 'Giant', and 'A Place in the Sun', and was known for his innovative storytelling techniques and visual style. He won two Academy Awards for Best Director and was a key figure in documenting World War II through his military documentary work.
1905 Discovery of Pharaoh Siptah's Tomb by Edward R. Ayrton: English archaeologist Edward R. Ayrton made a significant historical discovery by unearthing Tomb KV47, the burial site of Egyptian Pharaoh Siptah. The tomb had remained undisturbed for approximately 3,100 years, offering unprecedented insights into ancient Egyptian burial practices and royal funerary traditions.
1906 Birth of Kam Tong, Notable Asian-American Actor: Kam Tong was born, a pioneering Asian-American actor who would later gain recognition for his roles in significant films like 'Across the Pacific' and the landmark musical 'Flower Drum Song'. His career was instrumental in representing Asian actors during a time of limited opportunities in Hollywood.
1907 Passage of Discriminatory Senate Bill One: On December 18, 1907, Senate Bill One, also known as the 'coach law', was approved. This was Oklahoma's first Jim Crow law, which legally mandated racial segregation in public transportation and other spaces. The bill was a deeply discriminatory piece of legislation that formalized racial separation and inequality, reflecting the systemic racism prevalent in early 20th-century American governance.
1909 U.S. Diplomatic Tension with Nicaragua: U.S. Secretary of State Philander C. Knox escalated diplomatic tensions by sending an official note to Nicaragua that effectively severed diplomatic relations between the two countries. This action was part of the complex geopolitical landscape of early 20th-century Central American diplomacy, reflecting the United States' interventionist foreign policy of the era.
1910 Battle of the Trebia: A pivotal battle during the Second Punic War where Hannibal's Carthaginian army decisively defeated Roman forces in northern Italy, demonstrating Hannibal's military genius and strategic prowess.
1911 Der Blaue Reiter Art Exhibition Opens in Munich: On December 18, 1911, the groundbreaking art group Der Blaue Reiter (The Blue Rider) held their first public exhibition in Munich, Germany. This landmark event showcased the innovative and revolutionary artistic vision of key modern artists like Wassily Kandinsky and Franz Marc. The exhibition represented a pivotal moment in the development of early 20th-century avant-garde art, challenging traditional artistic conventions and paving the way for abstract expressionism.
1912 Piltdown Man Discovery: Charles Dawson discovers what would become known as the Piltdown Man fossil in the Piltdown Gravel Pit in Sussex, England. This archaeological find initially appeared to be a significant breakthrough in understanding human evolution, purportedly representing a missing link between apes and humans. The specimen consisted of a skull fragment and a jawbone that seemed to combine human and ape characteristics.
1913 Ray Meyer Birth: Ray Meyer, legendary basketball coach at DePaul University, was born on this date. Meyer would go on to become one of the most respected and influential college basketball coaches in American history, leading the Blue Demons for 42 seasons and establishing DePaul as a prominent basketball program.
1914 Battle of Givenchy Begins: On December 18, 1914, intense fighting erupted at Givenchy on the Western Front during World War I. This battle was part of the broader conflict between Allied and German forces, representing the brutal trench warfare that characterized the early stages of the war.
1915 Allied Evacuation of Gallipoli Peninsula: The Allies successfully executed a strategic and orderly withdrawal from the Gallipoli Peninsula during World War I. Of the approximately 500,000 Allied troops who participated in the campaign, over one-third were killed or wounded. The British Navy masterfully evacuated 83,000 survivors by sea, with Turkish forces surprisingly allowing the withdrawal without engagement. This evacuation is considered the most successful aspect of the entire Gallipoli Campaign, minimizing further potential casualties.
1916 Battle of Verdun Concludes in World War I: The Battle of Verdun, one of the longest and most devastating battles of World War I, ended with a French offensive that successfully pushed German forces back two to three kilometers, compelling them to halt their attacks. This battle was a critical moment in the war, representing a significant turning point on the Western Front.
1917 President Wilson's State of the Union Address: U.S. President Woodrow Wilson delivered a pivotal State of the Union Address to the 65th United States Congress, emphasizing the nation's involvement in World War I and outlining the strategic and moral imperatives of the conflict.
1918 United States Approves Prohibition Amendment: On December 18, 1918, the United States House of Representatives voted to approve the Eighteenth Amendment, which would ultimately lead to the nationwide prohibition of alcohol production, transportation, and sale. This landmark legislative action represented a significant moment in American social and legal history, reflecting the growing temperance movement's influence on national policy.
1919 Sir John Alcock Dies in Tragic Plane Crash: Sir John Alcock, the pioneering British aviator famous for completing the first non-stop transatlantic flight, tragically died in a plane crash in northern France at the young age of 27. His groundbreaking achievement in aviation history was cut short by this unexpected and devastating accident.
1920 King Constantine I Restored to Greek Throne: King Constantine I was reinstated as the monarch of Greece following the death of his son, Alexander I of Greece. This political restoration marked a significant moment in Greek royal history and political transitions during the early 20th century.
1921 Austria and Czechoslovakia Border Conference: In a diplomatic effort to resolve territorial tensions, Austria and Czechoslovakia convened an international conference on border disputes. After extensive negotiations, both nations agreed to suspend immediate discussions and commit to peaceful resolution mechanisms for future controversies, demonstrating a commitment to diplomatic dialogue in the post-World War I era.
1922 Soviet Union Implements First Land Code: On December 18, 1922, the Soviet Union enacted its groundbreaking Land Code, a pivotal legal framework that fundamentally reshaped property ownership and land use regulations across the newly formed communist state. This comprehensive legislation established guidelines for both private and public property management, marking a significant transition in the Soviet approach to land rights following the Russian Revolution. The code was developed by the All-Russian Central Executive Committee and represented a critical step in implementing communist economic principles, redistributing land ownership, and centralizing property control under state management.
1923 Andrew Volstead Discusses Prohibition Enforcement: On December 18, 1923, Congressman Andrew Volstead, namesake of the Volstead Act which enforced national Prohibition, spoke at a law enforcement conference in Minnesota. He noted a shifting public sentiment, suggesting that Americans were becoming more accepting of the controversial alcohol prohibition laws.
1924 Uneventful Day in 1924: While no specific major historical events were recorded for December 18, 1924, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. The mid-1920s were a dynamic period globally, with ongoing political, social, and economic transformations following World War I and during the early years of the Roaring Twenties.
1925 14th Congress of the All-Union Communist Party: The 14th Congress of the All-Union Communist Party (Bolsheviks) convened in Moscow, marking a significant moment in Soviet political history. This congress was crucial in shaping the Communist Party's strategic direction during the early years of the Soviet Union, likely discussing leadership, economic policies, and party organization.
1926 Turkey Adopts Gregorian Calendar: Turkey officially transitions from the traditional Islamic calendar to the Gregorian calendar, synchronizing its timekeeping with Western European standards. This significant change marks a pivotal moment in the country's modernization efforts, aligning its date system with international norms and facilitating global communication and administrative processes.
1927 Book of Common Prayer Revision Approved by House of Lords: On December 18, 1927, the British House of Lords voted to approve a significant revision to the Book of Common Prayer, a foundational liturgical text for the Church of England. The revision, proposed by the Archbishop of Canterbury, passed with a substantial majority of 241 votes in favor and 88 votes against. This update represented an important moment in the ongoing evolution of Anglican religious practices and reflected the changing theological and cultural landscape of early 20th-century Britain.
1928 Birth of Józef Glemp, Polish Cardinal and Primate: Józef Glemp was born on December 18, 1928, in Włocławek, Poland. He would later become a significant religious leader in the Polish Catholic Church, serving as the Primate of Poland from 1981 to 2006. During a critical period of Poland's transition from communist rule to democracy, Cardinal Glemp played an important role in mediating between the church, political dissidents, and the communist government.
1929 Maritime Collision in Ambrose Channel: On December 18, 1929, a significant maritime incident occurred in the Ambrose Channel, a critical shipping lane between New York and New Jersey. The cruise ship RMS Fort Victoria was struck by the ocean liner SS Algonquin during dense fog conditions. Despite the potential for a catastrophic event, all passengers and crew aboard the Fort Victoria were successfully rescued before the vessel ultimately sank. The Algonquin sustained damage but remained seaworthy after the collision, highlighting the maritime challenges of navigation in low visibility conditions during the early 20th century.
1930 Donald Bradman's Record-Breaking Cricket Performance: Donald Bradman, the legendary Australian cricketer, delivered an extraordinary batting performance in a domestic match between New South Wales and South Australia. He scored an impressive 258 runs, batting for 289 minutes and hitting 37 fours, demonstrating his exceptional skill and establishing himself as one of cricket's most formidable batsmen.
1931 Noel McGregor: New Zealand Cricket Player: Noel McGregor was a notable New Zealand cricket player who represented his country in international Test cricket. During his career spanning from 1955 to 1965, McGregor participated in 25 Test matches, contributing to the national cricket team's performance during a significant period of New Zealand's sporting history.
1932 First NFL Championship Game: The Chicago Bears defeated the Portsmouth Spartans 9-0 in the first-ever NFL Championship Game. Due to a severe blizzard, the game was uniquely relocated from Wrigley Field to the Chicago Stadium, with the indoor field measuring only 80 yards long, significantly shorter than a standard football field.
1933 College Oratorical Contest: An oratorical contest was conducted at West Virginia Wesleyan College, showcasing students' public speaking skills, rhetorical abilities, and intellectual prowess.
1934 Fascist Conference in Moreaux: On December 18, 1934, a low-profile fascist conference was convened in Moreaux, likely involving regional political leaders discussing ideological strategies and potential expansion of fascist influence during the interwar period.
1935 Edvard Beneš Becomes Czechoslovak President: Edvard Beneš was elected President of Czechoslovakia, a pivotal moment in the country's interwar political history. Beneš was a key democratic leader who would play a significant role in Czechoslovak politics before and after World War II.
1936 Death of Computing Pioneer Leonardo Torres Quevedo: Leonardo Torres Quevedo, a visionary Spanish engineer who made significant contributions to early computing and automation, passed away. His innovative work laid crucial groundwork for future technological developments and computational theory.
1937 First African-American Federal Judge Appointed: William Henry Hastie makes history by becoming the first African-American appointed to a federal judgeship, a groundbreaking moment in the advancement of civil rights and judicial representation.
1938 Inauguration of Carbonia: A New Sardinian Coal Town: On December 18, 1938, Italian dictator Benito Mussolini officially inaugurated Carbonia, a newly constructed coal mining town in Sardinia, Italy. This event was part of the Fascist regime's industrial development and self-sufficiency strategy, aiming to reduce Italy's dependence on foreign coal imports. The town was meticulously planned as a model industrial settlement, reflecting the architectural and social engineering principles of the Fascist era.
1939 First Major Air Battle of World War II: The Battle of the Heligoland Bight marked the first significant aerial engagement of World War II, taking place over the North Sea near the German Heligoland islands. This battle was a crucial early test of aerial combat strategies and technologies.
1940 Hitler's Operation Barbarossa Directive: Adolf Hitler issued Directive No. 21, outlining the strategic plans for the German invasion of the Soviet Union, codenamed Operation Barbarossa. This directive would mark a critical turning point in World War II, representing a massive military operation that would dramatically alter the course of the conflict.
1941 Manhattan Project S-1 Committee First Meeting: The S-1 Committee held its inaugural meeting, recommending a significant investment of $400,000 for Ernest Lawrence's groundbreaking work in electromagnetic isotope separation, a crucial early step in the development of the atomic bomb.
1942 Allied Victory at El Agheila and Operation Lilliput: The Battle of El Agheila concluded with a decisive Allied victory. Following this success, the Allies launched Operation Lilliput, a strategic transportation service designed to move troops, weapons, and supplies between Milne Bay and Oro Bay in New Guinea, enhancing their logistical capabilities in the Pacific theater.
1943 Nazi Deportation Policy Intensified: Heinrich Himmler issued new directives for the arrest and deportation of Jews in Germany, systematically eliminating previous exemptions and expanding the scope of Nazi persecution. These orders further tightened the Nazi regime's brutal policy of Jewish displacement and potential extermination.
1944 Korematsu v. United States Supreme Court Decision: The Supreme Court of the United States issued a controversial decision in Korematsu v. United States, upholding Franklin D. Roosevelt's Executive Order 9066, which authorized the mass incarceration of approximately 120,000 Japanese Americans during World War II. This decision effectively legalized the forced relocation and internment of American citizens of Japanese descent, despite two-thirds being U.S. citizens born and raised in the United States.
1945 Uruguay Joins the United Nations: On December 18, 1945, Uruguay officially became a member state of the United Nations (UN), marking a significant moment in the country's international diplomatic engagement. As one of the founding members of the UN, Uruguay demonstrated its commitment to global cooperation, peaceful resolution of conflicts, and multilateral diplomacy in the post-World War II era. This membership provided Uruguay with a platform to participate in international decision-making processes and contribute to global discussions on peace, security, and development.
1946 Birth of Steve Biko, Anti-Apartheid Icon: Stephen (Steve) Biko was born, who would become a pivotal figure in the South African anti-apartheid movement. Biko was a key founder of the Black Consciousness Movement, which empowered Black South Africans to assert their dignity and rights during the oppressive apartheid era. His philosophical and activist work significantly influenced the struggle against racial segregation, ultimately leading to profound social and political transformations in South Africa.
1947 Pope Pius XII Publishes Encyclical on Peace: On December 18, 1947, Pope Pius XII issued the encyclical 'Optissima Pax' (On the Best Path to Peace), addressing global tensions in the post-World War II era. The document emphasized the importance of international cooperation, reconciliation, and Christian principles in achieving lasting peace and rebuilding war-torn societies.
1948 Indonesia's Second Political Election: Indonesia held its second national political election, a significant milestone in the young nation's democratic development following its independence from Dutch colonial rule. This election was crucial in establishing democratic processes and political representation.
1949 Khrushchev's Rise in Soviet Leadership: Nikita Khrushchev was appointed as a secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, marking a significant step in his political ascendancy. This role would later help him become the leader of the Soviet Union.
1950 Nevada Proving Ground Established: On December 18, 1950, President Harry S. Truman officially ordered the establishment of the Nevada Proving Ground, a critical nuclear testing site located in the southern Nevada desert. This facility would become instrumental in the United States' nuclear weapons development and testing program during the Cold War era, serving as a key location for atmospheric and underground nuclear weapon tests.
1951 Birth of Andrew S.W. Thomas, Australian Astronaut: Andrew S.W. Thomas was born in Adelaide, Australia. He would later become a notable NASA astronaut, participating in multiple Space Shuttle missions including STS-77, STS-89, and STS-91, representing significant achievements in international space exploration.
1952 Passing of Paleontologist Ernst Stromer: Ernst Stromer, a prominent German paleontologist known for his significant contributions to paleontological research, passed away on December 18, 1952. Stromer was particularly renowned for his work in exploring and documenting prehistoric fossil discoveries, particularly in North Africa.
1953 Piltdown Man Hoax Definitively Exposed: The infamous Piltdown Man archaeological fraud, which had been presented as a significant early human fossil since 1912, was conclusively proven to be a scientific hoax during a landmark presentation at the Geological Society of London. This exposure represented a critical moment in anthropological research, demonstrating the importance of rigorous scientific verification.
1954 Ray Liotta Born in Newark, New Jersey: On December 18, 1954, Ray Liotta was born in Newark, New Jersey. He would later become a renowned American actor, best known for his iconic roles in films like 'Goodfellas' and 'Field of Dreams'.
1955 Death of Garegin Nzhdeh, Armenian Statesman: Garegin Nzhdeh, a prominent Armenian political leader and national hero, died around December 21, 1955. He was a key figure in Armenian political history, known for his nationalist ideology and resistance efforts during complex geopolitical periods of the early-to-mid 20th century.
1956 Japan Joins the United Nations: On December 18, 1956, Japan was officially admitted as a member state of the United Nations, marking a significant milestone in its post-World War II international rehabilitation and diplomatic reintegration.
1957 First Nuclear Power Plant Generates Electricity: The Shippingport Atomic Power Station became the first nuclear power plant in the United States to successfully generate electricity, marking a significant milestone in clean energy production and technological innovation.
1958 Project SCORE: World's First Communications Satellite Launch: On December 18, 1958, the United States launched Project SCORE (Signal Communications by Orbiting Relay Equipment), marking a groundbreaking milestone in space communication technology. This pioneering satellite became the world's first communications satellite, demonstrating humanity's emerging capability to transmit messages via space-based platforms.
1959 Iraqi Territorial Claim Against Iran: Iraqi leader Abd al-Karim Qasim made a provocative diplomatic statement by declaring the Iranian Khūzestān Province as part of Iraqi territory. This unilateral claim heightened tensions between Iraq and Iran, potentially setting the stage for future territorial disputes in the region.
1960 General Meeting of United Nations condemns apartheid.
1961 India Annexes Portuguese Colonies: India militarily annexes the Portuguese colonial territories of Goa, Damao, and Diu, marking a significant moment in the decolonization of the Indian subcontinent.
1962 WAIQ TV channel 26 in Montgomery, AL (PBS) begins broadcasting
1963 The Pink Panther Film Premiere: The iconic comedy film 'The Pink Panther,' directed by Blake Edwards and featuring the comedic talents of Peter Sellers and David Niven, made its debut on December 18, 1963. The film would go on to become a classic of the comedy genre and launch a successful film franchise.
1964 US Nuclear Test at Nevada Test Site: The United States conducted a nuclear test at the Nevada Test Site, part of the ongoing Cold War-era nuclear weapons development and testing program. These tests were crucial in understanding nuclear technology and maintaining strategic military capabilities.
1965 Gemini VII Mission Concludes: NASA astronauts Frank Borman and James Lovell successfully completed their groundbreaking two-week Gemini VII space mission by splashing down in the Atlantic Ocean. This mission was crucial in testing human endurance for long-duration spaceflight and preparing for future lunar missions.
1966 First Broadcast of 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas': The classic animated television special 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas', narrated by Boris Karloff, is broadcast for the first time on CBS. This adaptation of Dr. Seuss's beloved children's book quickly becomes an annual Christmas tradition, enchanting generations of viewers with its heartwarming story of redemption and the true meaning of the holiday season.
1967 Gladys Knight Tops R&B Charts: 'I Heard It Through The Grapevine' by Gladys Knight And The Pips was the number 1 R&B song on December 18, 1967. This iconic track would later become a landmark recording in soul and R&B music history.
1968 Graham Nash Leaves The Hollies: Graham Nash made the pivotal decision to leave the British pop group The Hollies and form the legendary supergroup Crosby, Stills & Nash with David Crosby and Stephen Stills, a move that would significantly impact the folk-rock music scene.
1969 UK Parliament Votes to Suspend Death Penalty: Home Secretary James Callaghan successfully passes a motion in both the House of Commons and House of Lords to suspend the death penalty for five years, with exceptions for treason, piracy with violence, and certain military jurisdiction crimes.
1970 US Nuclear Test at Nevada Site: The United States conducts a nuclear test at the Nevada Test Site, part of ongoing Cold War-era nuclear weapons development and testing programs.
1971 PUSH Founded by Jesse Jackson: Jesse Jackson established People United To Save Humanity (PUSH) in Chicago, an organization dedicated to advancing civil rights, economic empowerment, and social justice for African Americans.
1972 Operation Linebacker II: Nixon's Christmas Bombing Campaign: During the Vietnam War, President Richard Nixon ordered a massive aerial bombing campaign against North Vietnam after peace negotiations with Hanoi broke down. The operation, known as Operation Linebacker II or the 'Christmas Bombing', involved intense strategic bombing of military and industrial targets in North Vietnam, aimed at forcing the North Vietnamese back to peace talks.
1973 Soyuz 13 Space Mission Launch: The Soviet Union launched Soyuz 13, a significant space mission that would remain in Earth's orbit for 8 days, marking another milestone in the Soviet space exploration program.
1974 Michail Stasinopoulos Elected President of Greece: Michail Stasinopoulos of the New Democracy Party was elected President of Greece by a near-unanimous vote of the Hellenic Parliament, marking a significant moment in post-military junta Greek political history.
1975 Algerian Expulsion of Moroccans: Algerian president Houari Boumediene ordered the mass expulsion of all Moroccan nationals from Algeria, a significant diplomatic and humanitarian incident that highlighted tensions between the two North African countries during the mid-1970s.
1976 Cold War Prisoner Exchange: Soviet dissident Viktor Bukovski is exchanged for Chilean Communist Party leader Luis Corvalan, symbolizing complex Cold War diplomatic negotiations.
1977 Portuguese Naming Convention Reform: Portugal implemented a progressive legal change allowing children to inherit surnames from either the mother or father, marking a significant shift in traditional family naming practices and gender equality.
1978 Deng Xiaoping Launches Economic Reforms in China: Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping initiated groundbreaking economic reforms that would fundamentally transform China's economic landscape, marking the beginning of China's transition from a centrally planned economy to a more market-oriented system. These reforms would eventually lead to unprecedented economic growth and modernization.
1979 First Land Speed Record Breaking Sonic Speed: Stanley Barrett achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first person to exceed the speed of sound on land, driving a specially designed vehicle and reaching an incredible speed of 739.666 miles per hour. This groundbreaking achievement represented a significant moment in automotive and speed engineering history.
1980 Vietnam Adopts New Constitution: Vietnam officially adopted a new constitution, signaling an important milestone in the country's political development following the Vietnam War and reflecting the nation's transition towards a more structured governance framework.
1981 First Flight of Tu-160 Strategic Bomber: On December 18, 1981, the Soviet Union achieved a significant milestone in aviation history with the inaugural flight of the Tu-160 strategic bomber. This remarkable aircraft was groundbreaking in multiple dimensions: it was the world's largest combat aircraft, the largest supersonic aircraft, and featured the most advanced variable-sweep wing design of its era. The Tu-160, nicknamed 'White Swan' by Soviet pilots, represented a pinnacle of Soviet aerospace engineering and military technological prowess during the late Cold War period.
1982 R&B Number 1 Hit: 'Sexual Healing': Marvin Gaye's iconic R&B track 'Sexual Healing' was the number 1 R&B song, showcasing the artist's significant influence on the music genre during this period.
1983 NBA San Diego Clippers Break Road Losing Streak: On December 18, 1983, the San Diego Clippers (now the Los Angeles Clippers) dramatically ended their historic 29-game road losing streak, a remarkable moment in NBA basketball history. This achievement represented a significant psychological breakthrough for the struggling franchise, demonstrating resilience in the face of prolonged adversity.
1984 Sweden Triumphs in 73rd Davis Cup Tennis Tournament: In a decisive display of tennis prowess, the Swedish national tennis team defeated the United States team 4-1 in the 73rd Davis Cup final held in Gothenburg, Sweden. This victory solidified Sweden's growing reputation as a dominant force in international tennis during the 1980s.
1985 First Woman Receives Jarvik VII Artificial Heart: Mary Lund made medical history by becoming the first woman to receive a Jarvik VII artificial heart at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis, marking a significant milestone in cardiovascular medical technology.
1986 Robert Gates Appointed Acting CIA Director: Robert Gates was appointed as the acting Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), marking a significant moment in U.S. intelligence leadership during the Cold War era.
1987 First Perl Programming Language Release: Larry Wall releases the first version of Perl, a dynamic programming language that would become crucial for system administration, web development, and network programming.
1988 Australia Wins Women's Cricket World Cup: Australia defeated England by 8 wickets in the Cricket Women's World Cup, demonstrating their dominance in international women's cricket.
1989 European Community-Soviet Trade Agreement: The European Community and the Soviet Union signed a significant trade and economic cooperation agreement, marking an important diplomatic milestone during the late Cold War period. This agreement represented a key step in improving economic relations between Western Europe and the Soviet Union as geopolitical tensions were beginning to thaw.
1990 National League 1993 Expansion Team Selection: The National League announced six finalist cities for its 1993 expansion, ultimately selecting Miami and Denver as the new franchise locations. The finalist cities included Buffalo, Denver, Miami, Orlando, Tampa-St. Petersburg, and Washington, DC.
1991 General Motors Announces Major Plant Closures: General Motors (GM) announced the strategic closure of 21 manufacturing plants, signaling a significant restructuring of the automotive industry. This decision reflected the company's efforts to streamline operations, reduce costs, and adapt to changing market dynamics during the early 1990s.
1992 South Korean Presidential Election Milestone: Kim Young-sam wins the South Korean presidential election, marking a historic moment as the first non-military candidate elected since 1961. This election signaled a significant transition in South Korean democracy, breaking the long-standing military-political dominance.
1993 Hubble Telescope Captures First Corrected Images: NASA's Hubble Space Telescope successfully captured its first corrected images, representing a major breakthrough in space observation technology following the earlier repair of its optical system.
1994 First Chechen War Escalates: The War in Chechnya intensified as Russian forces launched a ground attack towards Grozny. The conflict was marked by internal dissent, with military leaders like General Eduard Vorobyov resigning in protest, calling the military action 'a crime against its own people'.
1995 Deadly Lockheed L-188 Electra Crash in Angola: On December 18, 1995, a Lockheed L-188 Electra aircraft crashed in Jamba, Cuando Cubango province, Angola, resulting in a tragic loss of 141 lives. This devastating aviation accident represents one of the deadliest air disasters in Angolan history, highlighting the significant aviation safety challenges of the mid-1990s.
1996 Oakland School Board Recognizes Ebonics: The Oakland, California school board made a groundbreaking resolution by officially recognizing Ebonics as a distinct language or dialect, sparking nationwide discussions about linguistic diversity, cultural identity, and educational approaches.
1997 Titanic Premieres in the United States: James Cameron's epic film 'Titanic' premiered in the United States, marking the beginning of a cinematic phenomenon that would become the highest-grossing film of its time until Cameron's later film 'Avatar'.
1998 Impeachment of President Bill Clinton: The U.S. House of Representatives voted to impeach President Bill Clinton on two articles of impeachment: perjury to a grand jury and obstruction of justice. These charges stemmed from the Monica Lewinsky scandal and Clinton's subsequent attempts to conceal details of his personal relationship. This was only the second presidential impeachment in U.S. history, marking a significant moment in American political governance.
1999 NASA Terra Platform Launch: NASA successfully launched the Terra Earth Observation satellite platform into orbit on December 18, 1999. This sophisticated mission carried five advanced scientific instruments: ASTER (Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer), CERES (Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System), MISR (Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer), MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer), and MOPITT (Measurements of Pollution in the Troposphere). The Terra satellite represents a significant milestone in global environmental monitoring and climate research, providing unprecedented data about Earth's complex environmental systems.
2000 Tragic Death of Kirsty McColl in Boating Accident: On December 18, 2000, Kirsty McColl, a beloved 41-year-old English singer-songwriter, was tragically killed in a devastating boating accident in Cozumel, Mexico. While spending time with her children, McColl was struck by a speeding boat, cutting short her life and promising musical career. Her death shocked the music community and led to significant discussions about maritime safety and boat operator accountability.
2001 Controversial Deportation of Ahmed Agiza and Muhammad al-Zery: In a controversial CIA-led operation, Ahmed Agiza and Muhammad al-Zery were secretly deported from Sweden to Egypt. This extraordinary rendition raised significant human rights concerns and highlighted complex international legal and diplomatic tensions in the post-9/11 era.
2002 Indian Court Sentences Men for Parliament Attack: Three Indian men were sentenced to death for their involvement in preparing the 2001 Indian Parliament terrorist attack, which resulted in nine fatalities and escalated tensions with Pakistan. Notably, capital punishment is rare in India.
2003 Saddam Hussein Capture Details: A Jordanian news source claimed that Saddam Hussein was betrayed and drugged by General Mohammed Ibrahim Omar al-Muslit, a family member, leading to his eventual capture by US forces.
2004 African Union Intervention in Darfur Conflict: The African Union imposed a deadline for warring parties in the Darfur conflict to cease hostilities, warning that peace talks in Nigeria would end if the ceasefire was not respected. This diplomatic intervention aimed to de-escalate the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.
2005 Democratic Republic of Congo Holds Historic Election: The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) holds its first democratic national poll in over 40 years, marking a crucial moment in the country's political development and potential path to stability.
2006 Six-Party Talks on North Korea's Nuclear Program: International six-party talks resumed to discuss North Korea's nuclear weapons program. The initial negotiations revealed significant divergence between the United States and North Korea, with both parties maintaining seemingly irreconcilable positions.
2007 CIA Interrogation Videos Controversy: United States District Judge Henry Kennedy called for a hearing to investigate whether the Bush administration violated a court order by destroying CIA interrogation videos of two Al-Qaeda suspects.
2008 UN Court Sentences Rwandan Genocide Mastermind: The United Nations International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda sentenced former army colonel Theoneste Bagosora to life in prison for his role in the 1994 Rwandan genocide, which resulted in the slaughter of approximately 800,000 people.
2009 Auschwitz Sign Theft: The infamous 'Arbeit macht frei' sign was stolen from the Auschwitz concentration camp, a shocking act targeting a symbol of Holocaust remembrance.
2010 Tunisian Revolution Begins: Widespread protests against the Tunisian government erupted, marking the start of the 2010-2011 Arab Spring protests in the Middle East and North Africa. These demonstrations would ultimately lead to the overthrow of President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and inspire similar movements across the region.
2011 US Army Completes Iraq War Withdrawal: The formal end to the Iraq War is marked by the withdrawal of the last US Army soldier convoy from Iraq, concluding nearly nine years of military engagement.
2012 Queen Elizabeth II Attends Cabinet Meeting: Queen Elizabeth II made history by attending a Cabinet meeting, a first for a British monarch since Queen Victoria. She received a gift honoring her Diamond Jubilee, including a British Antarctic Territory named after her.
2013 Russia's Ukraine Bailout Sparks Protests: Russian President Vladimir Putin offered Ukraine a $15 billion bailout and reduced gas prices, strengthening ties with the financially struggling country. This move prompted significant protests in Kiev, with citizens angry about abandoning potential European Union relations.
2014 EU Sanctions Against Crimea: The European Union imposed comprehensive sanctions against Russia-occupied Crimea, including prohibitions on investments, tourism, and oil exploration activities, in response to the 2014 pro-Russian unrests in Ukraine.
2015 U.S. B52 Bomber Flies Near Chinese Artificial Island: A U.S. B52 bomber conducted a routine mission over the South China Sea, flying within two nautical miles of a Chinese-created artificial island in the disputed Spratly Islands. China accused the U.S. of intentionally raising tensions in the region.
2016 Syrian Civil War: Aleppo Offensive Bus Attack: During the Syrian Civil War's Aleppo Offensive in November-December 2016, rebels targeted and set fire to several buses intended to evacuate ill and wounded civilians from the besieged Syrian villages of Al-Fu'ah and Kafriya, escalating the humanitarian crisis.
2017 Oldest Evidence of Life Discovered: Researchers from UCLA and University of Wisconsin-Madison reported finding microscopic fossils in Western Australia nearly 3.5 billion years old, representing the oldest and most direct evidence of life ever discovered.
2018 U.S. Bans Bump Stocks: The U.S. Department of Justice issued a final regulation prohibiting bump stocks, semi-automatic rifle attachments that can increase firing rates to match automatic weapons. The ban, which became effective March 21, 2019, was largely influenced by the 2017 Las Vegas shooting, aiming to enhance public safety.
2019 Impeachment of Donald Trump: On December 18, 2019, the United States House of Representatives voted largely along party lines to impeach President Donald Trump for two articles of impeachment: abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. This historic event made Trump the third American president to be impeached by the House, following Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton. The impeachment proceedings would subsequently move to the Senate for a final verdict on potential removal from office.
2020 Multiple Armed Conflicts in Africa and Afghanistan: On December 18, 2020, multiple violent incidents occurred across different conflict zones. In Afghanistan, a tragic explosion during a Quran recitation ceremony in Ghazni resulted in at least 15 civilian deaths and 20 injuries. In Somalia, a suicide bombing outside a stadium in Galkayo claimed the lives of seven civilians and three soldiers. Meanwhile, in Ethiopia, the ongoing Tigray conflict escalated as the government offered a substantial reward of 10 million birr (approximately US$250,000) for information leading to the capture of Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) officials, including their leader Debretsion Gebremichael, who were in hiding after the fall of Mekelle.
2022 Argentina Wins 2022 FIFA World Cup in Thrilling Final Against France: In a dramatic and historic match, Argentina defeated France in the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final, securing their third World Cup title. The match was an intense, nail-biting encounter that went to penalties after a 3-3 draw in regular and extra time, with Lionel Messi leading his team to a memorable victory.
2023 Volcanic Eruption Forces Mass Evacuation in Iceland: The Sundhnúkur volcanic eruption occurred on Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula following weeks of seismic activity, necessitating the evacuation of approximately 4,000 residents. The event highlights the dynamic geological landscape of Iceland and the ongoing volcanic risks in the region.

What Is special about December 18?

December 18 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 18.