Historical Events on December 19: 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 19, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on December 19 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Kitchener's Surrender Offer to Boers: During the Second Boer War, General Horatio Kitchener extended protections to all Boers willing to surrender. He requested the Dutch community of Pretoria to convey this offer, but field leaders ultimately refused to capitulate, prolonging the conflict.
1901 Venezuelan Uprising in Aragua State: On December 19, 1901, the Venezuelan state of Aragua, led by Governor Luciano Mendoza, initiated a significant uprising against the national government of President Cipriano Castro. This rebellion represented a notable challenge to Castro's political authority and highlighted the political instability in Venezuela during the early 20th century.
1902 Birth of Sir Ralph Richardson: Sir Ralph Richardson was born in England, who would later become a renowned stage and film actor, famous for his memorable performances in classic films such as 'David Copperfield', 'Dr. Zhivago', and 'Anna Karenina'. He was a distinguished actor of the 20th century, known for his nuanced and powerful acting style.
1903 Williamsburg Bridge Opens, Connecting Brooklyn and Manhattan: The Williamsburg Bridge was inaugurated, connecting the boroughs of Brooklyn and Manhattan. This significant infrastructure project represented a major engineering achievement of the early 20th century. The bridge not only facilitated transportation but also symbolized the growing connectivity and urban development of New York City. At the time of its completion, it held the record for the longest suspension bridge span for 21 years, showcasing the advanced engineering capabilities of the era.
1904 Dawson City Hockey Team's Epic Journey to Stanley Cup: In a remarkable display of determination, the Dawson City hockey team from the Yukon Territory embarked on an extraordinary 9-day trek to reach Seattle, where they would catch a boat and then a train to Ottawa to compete in the 1905 Stanley Cup finals. This journey highlights the immense challenges and dedication of early Canadian hockey players, who were willing to travel thousands of miles through harsh winter conditions to participate in the prestigious hockey championship.
1905 Opening of the First Parliament of Montenegro: On December 19, 1905, Prince Nicholas I officially inaugurated Montenegro's first parliamentary body, the 60-seat Narodna Skupština (People's Assembly). This historic moment marked a significant step in the principality's political development, as the newly established parliament was tasked with modernizing the country's governance structure and transitioning from a traditional princely rule to a more representative system.
1906 Birth of Leonid Brezhnev: Leonid Ilyich Brezhnev was born in Dniprodzerzhynsk, Ukraine (then part of the Russian Empire). He would go on to become one of the most significant political leaders of the Soviet Union, serving as the General Secretary of the Communist Party from 1964 to 1982 and effectively ruling the USSR during this period. His leadership was characterized by political stability but also economic stagnation, a time known in Soviet history as the 'Era of Stagnation'.
1907 Darr Mine Disaster: On December 19, 1907, a catastrophic gas explosion occurred at the Darr Mine in Jacobs Creek, Pennsylvania, resulting in the tragic death of 239 coal miners. This devastating industrial accident highlighted the dangerous working conditions and significant safety risks faced by miners in the early 20th century.
1908 First Major Commercial Oil Discovery in the Middle East: On December 19, 1908, a groundbreaking commercial oil discovery was made at Masjed Soleyman in southwestern Persia (modern-day Iran). This pivotal moment marked the beginning of the region's transformation into a global petroleum powerhouse, fundamentally altering geopolitical and economic dynamics in the early 20th century. The discovery by the Anglo-Persian Oil Company (later British Petroleum) signaled the start of massive oil exploration and extraction efforts that would reshape the Middle East's economic and political landscape.
1909 Founding of Borussia Dortmund Football Club: Borussia Dortmund, one of Germany's most iconic and beloved soccer clubs, was officially established on December 19, 1909, in the industrial city of Dortmund, located in the North Rhine-Westphalia region. The club would go on to become a powerhouse in German and European football, known for its passionate fan base, distinctive yellow and black colors, and commitment to developing young talent.
1910 Edward Douglass White Becomes Chief Justice: Edward Douglass White is sworn in as the 9th Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court, succeeding Melville Fuller and continuing to shape the nation's judicial landscape.
1911 Political Shift in New Zealand Parliament: On December 19, 1911, a significant political transformation occurred in New Zealand when the long-dominant Liberal Party lost its parliamentary majority. Led by Prime Minister Joseph Ward, the Liberals saw their representation drop from 50 to 33 seats in the 80-seat parliament. The Reform Party, led by William Massey, capitalized on this decline, winning 37 seats and subsequently forming a new government, marking a pivotal moment in New Zealand's political landscape.
1912 General Slocum Disaster Captain Pardoned: William H. Van Schaick, the captain of the steamship General Slocum, which tragically caught fire in 1904 and resulted in the deaths of over 1,000 people, was officially pardoned by U.S. President William Howard Taft after serving three-and-a-half years in Sing Sing prison. The General Slocum disaster remains one of the worst maritime tragedies in U.S. history, occurring in New York City's East River and devastating the local German-American community.
1913 Jack Johnson fights Jim Johnson to a draw in 10 for hw boxing title.
1914 Serbian Victory in Battle of Kolubara: The Battle of Kolubara concluded with a decisive Serbian victory over Austria-Hungary, marking a significant moment in the early stages of World War I. The Serbian army successfully repelled Austro-Hungarian forces, demonstrating remarkable military resilience and strategic prowess during a critical period of the conflict.
1915 Allies Evacuate Gallipoli Peninsula: The Allies complete a strategic and remarkably bloodless evacuation of the Gallipoli Peninsula after months of a brutal stalemate during World War I. Despite earlier heavy casualties estimated at 250,000, the British Navy successfully extracts 83,000 troops by sea, with Turkish forces surprisingly allowing the withdrawal without engagement.
1916 Battle of Verdun: French Army Repels German Offensive: During World War I, on the Western Front, the French Army successfully defended its position against the German Army, ultimately driving the German forces back to their original starting position. This battle was a critical moment in the war, demonstrating the resilience and strategic capabilities of the French military.
1917 First NHL Game on Artificial Ice in Toronto: On December 19, 1917, a groundbreaking moment in hockey history occurred when the first National Hockey League (NHL) game was played on artificial ice at an arena in Toronto. This technological innovation marked a significant advancement in sports infrastructure, allowing for more consistent and controllable playing conditions.
1918 Birth of Professor Longhair, Blues Legend: On December 19, 1918, Henry Roeland Byrd, better known by his stage name Professor Longhair, was born. A pioneering New Orleans rhythm and blues pianist, he would become a significant influence on the development of New Orleans piano style and rock and roll music, inspiring generations of musicians until his death in 1980.
1919 Founding of the American Meteorological Society: The American Meteorological Society (AMS) was established on December 19, 1919, marking a significant milestone in the scientific community's approach to understanding atmospheric and related sciences. The organization was created to promote the development and dissemination of knowledge about meteorology, climatology, and related fields, bringing together researchers, professionals, and enthusiasts dedicated to advancing atmospheric science.
1920 King Constantine I Restored to Greek Throne: King Constantine I was restored as the King of the Hellenes following the death of his son Alexander I of Greece, through a national plebiscite. This event marked a significant political transition in Greek royal governance.
1921 Take Ionescu Becomes Prime Minister of Romania: Take Ionescu was appointed as the Prime Minister of Romania on December 19, 1921, succeeding Alexandru Averescu. A prominent Romanian politician and diplomat, Ionescu was known for his significant role in Romanian politics during the interwar period. His appointment came at a critical time when Romania was consolidating its territorial gains from World War I and working to stabilize its political landscape.
1922 Tragic Fire at New York Naval Shipyard: A devastating fire broke out on the aircraft carrier Constellation (CVA-64) while under construction at the New York Naval Shipyard. The catastrophic incident resulted in 50 worker fatalities and 150 injuries, marking a significant industrial accident in naval shipbuilding history.
1923 King George II and Queen Elisabeth Depart Greece: King George II of Greece and his Queen Consort Elisabeth were compelled to leave the country amid significant political upheaval. Their departure marked a critical moment in Greek political history, signaling the imminent dissolution of the Greek monarchy. The Greek government had determined to abolish the monarchical system, and the royal couple's exit was a strategic and peaceful transition of power. Three months following their departure, the monarchy was officially abolished, transforming Greece's governmental structure.
1924 Fritz Haarmann Sentenced to Death: German serial killer Fritz Haarmann was sentenced to death for a series of horrific murders, bringing an end to a reign of terror that shocked the city of Hanover and Germany.
1925 Abdication of Ali of Hejaz: On December 19, 1925, Ali ibn Hussein, the Sharif of Mecca and King of Hejaz, abdicated his throne. This event was significant in the context of the shifting political landscape of the Arabian Peninsula during the early 20th century, as the region was experiencing major transformations in governance and territorial control.
1926 Remarkable Recovery of the Condé Diamond in Paris: On December 19, 1926, a remarkable incident occurred involving the recovery of the famous Condé diamond, which had been stolen in October. A vigilant hotel chambermaid discovered the stolen gem in an unexpected manner - by biting into an apple left in a hotel room and finding the diamond hidden inside. Her quick thinking and immediate action led her to report the discovery to the authorities, resulting in multiple arrests related to the theft.
1927 Execution of Indian Revolutionaries in Kakori Conspiracy: On December 19, 1927, three prominent Indian revolutionaries - Ram Prasad Bismil, Roshan Singh, and Ashfaqulla Khan - were executed by the British Raj for their participation in the Kakori conspiracy, a significant act of resistance against British colonial rule. These freedom fighters were key members of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) and their execution highlighted the brutal suppression of India's independence movement.
1928 First Autogiro Flight in the United States: On December 19, 1928, the first autogiro, a pioneering aircraft that served as a predecessor to the modern helicopter, completed its inaugural flight in the United States. This groundbreaking aviation milestone represented a significant step in rotary-wing aircraft development, demonstrating an innovative approach to vertical lift technology that would later influence helicopter design.
1929 Indian National Congress Declares Purna Swaraj: On December 19, 1929, the Indian National Congress formally adopted the Purna Swaraj (Complete Independence) declaration, marking a pivotal moment in India's struggle for independence from British colonial rule. This resolution, passed during the Lahore Session under the leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru, proclaimed the goal of complete political independence and challenged British imperial authority. The declaration became a significant milestone in the Indian independence movement, setting the stage for future civil disobedience and nationalist campaigns.
1930 Soviet Leadership Change: Alexei Rykov was removed from his position as Chairman of the Council of People's Commissars of the Soviet Union, falling out of favor with Joseph Stalin. He was replaced by Vyacheslav Molotov, signaling another shift in Stalin's consolidation of power.
1931 Joseph A. Lyons Becomes Australian Premier: Joseph A. Lyons of the United Australia Party (Conservative) was elected as the Premier of Australia, marking a significant political transition during the early 1930s economic challenges.
1932 BBC Begins International Broadcasting: The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) initiated its first overseas transmission, marking a significant milestone in global media communication. This groundbreaking event expanded the reach of British broadcasting beyond national borders, establishing a platform for international news, cultural exchange, and information dissemination.
1933 Electric Home and Farm Authority Established: President Franklin D. Roosevelt authorized the Electric Home and Farm Authority (EHFA), a New Deal initiative designed to help low-income households purchase essential electrical appliances during the Great Depression. This program was part of broader economic recovery efforts to stimulate consumer spending and improve living standards.
1934 Japan Renounces Washington Naval Treaty: On December 19, 1934, Japan officially announced its withdrawal from the Washington Naval Treaty, a significant diplomatic moment in the lead-up to World War II. The treaty, originally signed in 1922 and extended in 1930, had attempted to limit naval armaments among major world powers. Japan's decision was driven by its frustration with being granted fewer naval capabilities compared to the United States and Great Britain, reflecting growing tensions and Japan's increasing militaristic ambitions in the Pacific region.
1935 Labour Party Censure Motion Against Baldwin Government: On December 19, 1935, Labour Party leader Clement Attlee brought a motion of censure against Stanley Baldwin's government, focusing on the controversial Hoare–Laval Pact. Attlee argued that if Samuel Hoare (then Foreign Secretary) was compelled to resign, the entire government should follow suit. Baldwin responded by taking personal responsibility for the diplomatic debacle, declaring the proposed agreement with France regarding Italy's invasion of Ethiopia as 'absolutely and completely dead'. Despite Attlee's passionate argument, the motion was decisively defeated, with 397 votes against and 165 votes in support.
1936 Uneventful Day in 1936: While no specific major historical events were documented for December 19, 1936, this period was part of the tumultuous decade leading up to World War II. In the mid-1930s, global tensions were rising, with significant political shifts occurring in Europe, including the Spanish Civil War and the growing power of fascist regimes in Germany and Italy.
1938 Herschel Grynszpan's Trial in Paris: On December 19, 1938, Herschel Grynszpan appeared before a magistrate in Paris to explain the circumstances surrounding his shooting of German diplomat Ernst vom Rath. Grynszpan, a young Polish-Jewish refugee, testified that his actions were not intended to kill vom Rath, but rather to draw international attention to the brutal treatment of Jewish families, including his own, by Nazi German authorities. His act of protest would later be seen as a pivotal moment preceding the escalation of anti-Jewish violence in Nazi Germany.
1939 Soviet Attack on Finnish Positions during Winter War: On December 19, 1939, Soviet forces launched a coordinated air and ground offensive against Finnish defensive positions near Summa, which was a critical location during the Winter War. This attack was part of the Soviet Union's broader military campaign to invade and annex Finnish territory, marking an intense period of conflict between the two nations.
1940 US Military Aid to China: US President Franklin D. Roosevelt approved $25 million in military aid to the Republic of China, enabling the Nationalist government to purchase one hundred P-40 pursuit aircraft to support their resistance against Japanese invasion.
1941 Hitler Takes Command of German Army: On December 19, 1941, Adolf Hitler assumed complete control of the German Army, marking a significant shift in military leadership during World War II. By taking personal command, Hitler effectively centralized military decision-making and removed General Walther von Brauchitsch from his position as Commander-in-Chief.
1942 German Advance Near Stalingrad During World War II: During the intense Eastern Front campaign of World War II, Field Marshal Erich von Manstein's Wehrmacht forces reached a critical point approximately 30 miles south of Stalingrad. This represented the furthest southern advance of German troops in their ambitious attempt to capture the strategically vital Soviet city. The location marked a significant moment in the Battle of Stalingrad, which would ultimately become a turning point in the war, leading to a decisive Soviet victory.
1943 Bolivian Military Coup of 1943: On December 19, 1943, a significant military coup occurred in Bolivia, marking a pivotal moment in the country's political history. The coup represented a shift in power dynamics and political leadership, reflecting the complex geopolitical landscape of Latin America during World War II.
1944 Battle of Schnee Eifel: German forces successfully captured 9,000 surrounded U.S. troops in the Schnee Eifel region on the Belgian-German border, pushing back the remaining American forces during the Battle of the Bulge.
1945 Hitler's Body Discovered in Berlin: Soviet forces discovered the body of Adolf Hitler buried in an armored shelter within a garden near the Nazi Chancellery in Berlin. A forensic dentist positively identified the remains, confirming Hitler's death following the end of World War II.
1946 Battle of Hanoi Begins: The Battle of Hanoi commenced at 8:03 pm local time when Viet Minh forces cut the city's electric power and launched a massive attack involving 30,000 soldiers against French army units in Hanoi.
1948 Political Action in Java and Sumatra: A significant political event occurred in the Dutch East Indies (Indonesia), involving strategic actions in Java and Sumatra during the Indonesian National Revolution.
1949 Erich von Manstein War Crimes Trial Concludes: The war crimes trial of German General Erich von Manstein concluded with a verdict of guilty on nine charges. He was sentenced to 18 years in prison by a British military court, representing the ongoing post-World War II efforts to hold Nazi military leaders accountable for war crimes.
1950 Eisenhower Appointed NATO Commander: General Dwight D. Eisenhower was officially named as the Supreme Commander of NATO forces in Europe, marking a significant moment in post-World War II military leadership and transatlantic cooperation.
1951 Nazi General Friedrich Christiansen Departs from the Netherlands: On December 19, 1951, Nazi General Friedrich Christiansen officially left the Netherlands, marking the end of his controversial presence in the country following World War II. Christiansen, who served as the German Wehrmacht Commander and Reich Commissioner for the Netherlands during the Nazi occupation, was a significant figure in the German administration of the Netherlands from 1940 to 1945.
1952 Queen Juliana Unveils Docker Memorial Statue: Queen Juliana of the Netherlands officially unveiled the 'Docker' ('Dokwerker') statue, a powerful memorial designed by Mari Andriessen commemorating the February Strike of 1941. The statue honors the public protest against the Nazi arrest of 450 Jews following the killing of a Nazi sympathizer. Originally located in Amsterdam's Waterlooplein Market, the statue was relocated in 1970 to Jonas Daniel Meijerplein (Square).
1953 Death of Robert Millikan, Renowned Physicist: Robert Andrews Millikan, a prominent American physicist and Nobel Prize laureate, passed away. Millikan was known for his groundbreaking work in physics, particularly his precise measurement of the electron's charge and significant contributions to understanding atomic structure.
1954 Death of Frans G. Bengtsson, Swedish Historical Novelist: Frans G. Bengtsson, a renowned Swedish author celebrated for his masterful historical novels, particularly 'The Long Ships' (a Viking-era epic), passed away on December 19, 1954. His literary works were known for their vivid historical detail and engaging narrative style, making significant contributions to Scandinavian literature of the mid-20th century.
1955 Sudan Declares Independence from Egypt: Under the leadership of Ismail al-Azhari, Sudan officially declares its independence from Egypt, with the agreement of both Egypt and the United Kingdom. This declaration is set to take full effect on January 1, 1956, marking a significant milestone in Sudan's path to national sovereignty.
1956 John Bodkin Adams Murder Investigation: Irish-born physician John Bodkin Adams was arrested in connection with the suspicious deaths of multiple patients. The case involved allegations of potential serial medical killings in Eastbourne, Great Britain. While initially suspected of causing the deaths of over 160 patients, Adams was ultimately convicted only of minor charges, making this a complex and controversial medical-legal investigation.
1957 Devastating F5 Tornado Outbreak in Midwestern United States: A catastrophic F5 tornado completely destroyed the entire community of Sunfield, Illinois, as part of a severe tornado outbreak across Illinois, Missouri, and Indiana. The tornado sequence resulted in 19 fatalities, 291 injuries, and caused approximately $15.86 million in property damage, marking it as one of the most destructive tornado events of the year.
1958 First Radio Broadcast from Space: President Dwight D. Eisenhower delivers the first-ever radio broadcast from space, transmitting a Christmas message via satellite. The historic message emphasizes global peace, stating: "To all mankind, America's wish for Peace on Earth and Good Will to Men Everywhere."
1959 First Liberty Bowl Game: Penn State Defeats Alabama: On December 19, 1959, the inaugural Liberty Bowl football game was played in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) defeating the University of Alabama with a decisive 7-0 victory. This historic sporting event marked the first edition of what would become an annual college football bowl game, showcasing the athletic prowess of two prominent collegiate football programs.
1960 Mercury-Redstone 1A Test Flight: NASA's Mercury-Redstone 1A rocket successfully completes a test flight, reaching an altitude of 210 kilometers. This mission was a critical step in the United States' early space exploration program, testing rocket systems and paving the way for future human spaceflight missions.
1961 India Annexes Goa, Daman, and Diu: India annexes Goa, Daman, and Diu through a military operation called 'Operation Vijay', ending over 450 years of Portuguese colonial rule in the region. This marked a significant moment in India's post-independence territorial consolidation.
1962 First Operational Navigation Satellite Launched: Transit 5A1, a groundbreaking navigational satellite, becomes the first operational satellite of its kind, marking a significant milestone in space-based navigation technology.
1963 The Pink Panther Film Premiere: On December 19, 1963, the iconic comedy film 'The Pink Panther' premiered, directed by Blake Edwards and featuring the legendary comedic talents of Peter Sellers and David Niven. The film was notably accompanied by Henry Mancini's memorable theme music, which would become instantly recognizable in popular culture.
1964 Gerald Ford's Republican Leadership Challenge: U.S. Congressman Gerald R. Ford of Michigan announced his intention to challenge minority leader Charles A. Halleck for the Republican leadership position, a pivotal moment in his political career that would eventually lead to his becoming President of the United States.
1965 Charles de Gaulle Re-elected as French President: On December 19, 1965, Charles de Gaulle was re-elected as the President of France in a significant electoral contest. He defeated François Mitterrand, who secured approximately 45 percent of the vote. De Gaulle won with 13,083,699 votes, solidifying his political leadership during a pivotal period in French post-war history.
1966 UN Outer Space Treaty Adoption: The United Nations adopted the landmark Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, establishing fundamental international guidelines for space exploration and preventing potential militarization of extraterrestrial environments.
1967 Origin of the Term 'Black Hole': Professor John Archibald Wheeler first uses the term 'Black Hole' in scientific discourse, introducing a revolutionary concept in astrophysics that would fundamentally change our understanding of cosmic phenomena.
1968 Massive Eastern Air Lines Hijacking to Cuba: A significant aviation security incident occurred when Eastern Air Lines Flight was hijacked to Cuba, involving 151 passengers—the largest single hijacking to Cuba since the practice began in 1959. This event highlighted the escalating political tensions and security challenges in air travel during the Cold War era.
1969 Richard Hammond Born: Richard Hammond, a prominent British television presenter known for his work on automotive and science entertainment shows like Top Gear and Brainiac: Science Abuse, was born on this date. He is widely recognized for his charismatic personality and engaging presenting style in factual entertainment programming.
1970 James Cross Kidnapping Resolved: British Trade Commissioner James Cross was released by the Front de libération du Québec (FLQ) terrorist group after being held hostage for 60 days. The release was negotiated and occurred at the site of the former Expo '67 World's Fair, with a Cuban delegation present.
1971 A Clockwork Orange Debuts in New York City: Stanley Kubrick's groundbreaking dystopian film 'A Clockwork Orange', based on Anthony Burgess's novella, premiered in New York City. The film, set in a futuristic London, received critical acclaim while simultaneously sparking intense debate about its graphic depiction of violence.
1972 Apollo 17: Last Moon Landing Mission Returns to Earth: The Apollo 17 mission, marking the final lunar landing of NASA's historic Apollo program, successfully returned to Earth. Astronauts Eugene Cernan, Ronald Evans, and Harrison Schmitt completed the last human expedition to the Moon, concluding a groundbreaking era of space exploration.
1973 Oriental Monarch Maritime Disaster: A tragic maritime incident occurred when the Liberian-registered cargo ship Oriental Monarch sank in the North Pacific Ocean, approximately 150 nautical miles northwest of Midway Island. All 40 crew members perished in this devastating shipwreck.
1974 Nelson Rockefeller Becomes Vice President: Nelson A. Rockefeller is sworn in as the 41st Vice President of the United States under President Gerald Ford, following the constitutional provisions of the 25th Amendment after Richard Nixon's resignation.
1975 U.S. Senate Rejects Military Aid to Angola: In a significant foreign policy decision during the Cold War era, the U.S. Senate voted 54-22 to reject a proposed $28 million military aid package aimed at combating the Marxist government in Angola. This vote reflected the complex geopolitical tensions and congressional hesitancy to engage in potential proxy conflicts during the mid-1970s.
1976 John Lever's Remarkable Test Cricket Debut: English cricketer John Lever achieved an extraordinary feat in his first Test Cricket innings, taking an impressive 7 wickets for 46 runs against India in Delhi, showcasing his exceptional bowling skills.
1977 Mass Political Prisoner Release in Indonesia: The Indonesian government released over 10,000 political prisoners, many of whom had been detained for 12 years without trial, marking a significant moment in the country's human rights policy.
1978 Third Plenum of 11th National Congress of Communist Party of China: A landmark meeting in Beijing where Deng Xiaoping initiated critical economic reforms, marking a significant departure from Mao-era policies and setting the stage for China's future economic transformation.
1979 Iran Adopts New Constitution: Following the Iranian Revolution earlier in 1979, Iran formally accepted its new constitution on December 19, establishing the framework for an Islamic Republic governed by revolutionary principles. This constitution fundamentally transformed Iran's political system, replacing the monarchical regime with a theocratic structure that emphasized Islamic law and governance.
1980 Iran Seeks US Hostage Release Guarantees: Iran formally requested US$24 billion in United States financial guarantees as part of negotiations to release American hostages, continuing the complex diplomatic tensions following the 1979 Iran Hostage Crisis.
1981 Penlee Lifeboat Disaster: A Tragic Maritime Rescue Attempt: On December 19, 1981, in a heroic but ultimately tragic maritime rescue operation, the Penlee lifeboat crew attempted to save the crew of the stricken coaster Union Star during extremely challenging and dangerous sea conditions. Sixteen brave crew members lost their lives in this selfless effort to rescue those in peril, exemplifying the extraordinary courage of maritime rescue services.
1982 Poland Suspends Martial Law: In a significant political development, Poland's Council of State officially announced the suspension of martial law, which had been imposed to suppress the Solidarity movement. The suspension, set to take effect on December 31, 1982, marked a crucial turning point in Poland's struggle against communist oppression and signaled potential political reforms.
1983 FIFA World Cup Trophy Theft in Brazil: The original FIFA World Cup trophy, known as the Jules Rimet Trophy, was stolen from the headquarters of the Brazilian Football Confederation in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This historic theft shocked the sports world and highlighted security vulnerabilities in sports memorabilia protection.
1984 Sino-British Hong Kong Treaty Signing: People's Republic of China Premier Zhao Ziyang and British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher signed a historic treaty in Beijing, agreeing to the return of Hong Kong to Chinese sovereignty in 1997, marking a significant diplomatic milestone in post-colonial geopolitics.
1985 First Woman Receives Jarvik VII Artificial Heart: Mary Lund made medical history on December 19, 1985, by becoming the first woman to receive a Jarvik VII artificial heart, marking a significant milestone in cardiovascular medical technology and surgical innovation.
1986 Andrei Sakharov Returns to Moscow: Soviet dissident Andrei Sakharov was permitted to return to Moscow after years of internal exile, marking a significant moment in Soviet human rights history. This release came during Mikhail Gorbachev's era of glasnost and perestroika, symbolizing a gradual thawing of Soviet political repression.
1987 Goa Liberation Day: On December 19, 1961, Goa, along with Daman and Diu, was liberated from 450 years of Portuguese colonial rule and officially incorporated into the Republic of India, marking a significant moment in India's post-colonial history.
1988 NASA's Ambitious Space Exploration Plans: NASA unveiled groundbreaking plans for establishing a lunar colony and conducting manned missions to Mars, signaling a bold new era of space exploration and potential human interplanetary travel.
1989 Romanian Workers' Strike Against Communist Regime: In a significant moment of political resistance, workers in multiple Romanian cities launched widespread strikes protesting against the oppressive communist government, signaling growing public discontent and contributing to the broader collapse of communist regimes in Eastern Europe during this period.
1990 Major Winter Storm Impacts Minnesota and South Dakota: A significant winter storm swept through the northwestern regions of Minnesota, initiating snowfall by early afternoon on December 19th, 1990. The precipitation intensified overnight, blanketing the entire northern two-thirds of Minnesota and extending into northeastern South Dakota by the early afternoon of December 20th. The storm brought substantial snowfall, disrupting local transportation and daily activities in the affected regions.
1991 Boris Yeltsin Takes Control of Kremlin: In a pivotal moment of post-Soviet history, Boris Yeltsin assumes control of the Kremlin, marking a significant transition of power following the imminent dissolution of the Soviet Union. This event symbolizes the dramatic political transformation occurring in Russia during this period.
1992 De Klerk Suspends Military Officers Amid Political Tensions: In a significant move during South Africa's transition from apartheid, State President F. W. de Klerk dismissed or suspended 23 military officers, including six generals, who were suspected of engaging in unauthorized activities aimed at disrupting negotiations with the African National Congress (ANC). This action demonstrated de Klerk's commitment to maintaining political stability and preventing potential internal sabotage during the delicate negotiation process.
1993 Red Shoes closes at Gershwin Theater NYC after 5 performances
1994 Mexican Peso Crisis Triggers Global Financial Turmoil: A planned currency exchange rate adjustment spirals into a massive financial crisis in Mexico, causing widespread economic disruption. The 'Tequila Effect' sends shockwaves through global financial markets, prompting the Clinton administration to orchestrate a substantial US$50 billion bailout package.
1995 Royal Divorce Intervention by Queen Elizabeth: Queen Elizabeth II intervened in the troubled marriage of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, formally requesting their divorce. This marked a pivotal moment in the royal family's personal and public history, signaling the breakdown of one of the most high-profile marriages of the 20th century.
1996 Once Upon a Mattress Broadway Revival: A Broadway revival of the musical comedy 'Once Upon a Mattress' by Mary Rodgers and Marshall Barer opened at the Broadhurst Theatre in New York City. The production starred Sarah Jessica Parker and ran for 188 performances, bringing this whimsical adaptation of 'The Princess and the Pea' back to the stage.
1997 Titanic Theatrical Release: James Cameron's epic romantic disaster film 'Titanic' was released to movie theaters, marking the beginning of a cinematic phenomenon that would captivate global audiences. The film would go on to become a massive commercial and critical success.
1998 Clinton Impeachment by House of Representatives: On December 19, 1998, the United States House of Representatives voted to impeach President Bill Clinton, marking a significant moment in American political history. The impeachment was based on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice related to the Monica Lewinsky scandal, making Clinton the second president in U.S. history to be impeached.
1999 Portugal Transfers Sovereignty of Macau to China: On December 19, 1999, Portugal officially transferred the sovereignty of Macau, a former Portuguese colony, to the People's Republic of China. This historic event marked the end of over 400 years of Portuguese administration and completed the decolonization process in Asia. Macau became a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China, maintaining a degree of autonomy under the 'one country, two systems' principle.
2000 UN Security Council Resolution 1333 Against Taliban: The United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 1333, a significant diplomatic measure targeting the Taliban regime. The resolution called for an immediate end to military aid to the Taliban and demanded the closure of their training camps, reflecting international concerns about the group's activities and potential threats.
2001 Argentine Economic Crisis and Political Unrest: In Argentina, President Fernando de la Rúa and finance minister Domingo Cavallo impose stricter austerity measures. The resulting population revolt is violently suppressed by federal police, resulting in 21 fatalities and 1,350 injuries. This event marked a critical moment in Argentina's economic and political instability.
2002 Mother Teresa Beatification Process: Pope John Paul II authorizes the first miracle required for Mother Teresa's beatification, recognizing her extraordinary humanitarian work and dedication to serving the poorest of the poor.
2003 Iraq Occupation and Japanese Troop Deployment: U.S. civil administrator L. Paul Bremer reveals surviving a convoy attack in Iraq. Simultaneously, Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi orders deployment of Japanese troops to South Iraq for non-combat duties, despite significant public opposition.
2004 Deadly Bomb Attacks in Iraqi Shia Cities: Devastating terrorist bombings in the Iraqi Shia cities of Najaf and Karbala resulted in a tragic loss of life, with up to 60 people killed and 120 injured, highlighting the ongoing sectarian violence in post-invasion Iraq.
2005 Voyager 1 Reaches Solar System's Edge: NASA's Voyager 1 spacecraft reaches the outer boundary of our Solar System, marking a significant milestone in space exploration and humanity's furthest direct exploration of our cosmic neighborhood.
2006 Robert Gates Becomes Secretary of Defense: Robert Gates was sworn in as U.S. Secretary of Defense, replacing Donald Rumsfeld. In his inaugural address, he issued a stark warning about potential catastrophic consequences of failure in Iraq, emphasizing long-term national security implications.
2007 CIA Tape Destruction Controversy: White House lawyers discuss the destruction of CIA tapes, prompting a judicial hearing to determine whether the tape destruction violated court orders, raising significant legal and ethical questions.
2008 Obama Administration Nominations: President-elect Barack Obama announced key cabinet nominations: Ray LaHood (Transportation), Hilda Solis (Labor), Karen Mills (Small Business Administration), and Ronald Kirk (Trade Representative).
2009 NASA Discovers Liquid on Titan: NASA made a groundbreaking discovery by capturing the first-ever photograph of liquid outside Earth - sunlight reflecting on a lake on Titan, Saturn's largest moon, marking a significant milestone in planetary exploration.
2010 WikiLeaks Founder Julian Assange Controversy: Julian Assange expressed anger over The Guardian publishing incriminating police documents about alleged sexual assault accusations from two Swedish women. The newspaper had also previously used Assange as a source for hundreds of leaked US Embassy cables.
2011 Death of Kim Jong-il: North Korean supreme leader Kim Jong-il died on December 17, 2011, with his death officially announced by Korean Central Television. His son, Kim Jong-un, was proclaimed as the expected successor, leading to heightened military tensions in the region.
2012 Park Geun-hye Becomes First Female President of South Korea: Park Geun-hye was elected as the first female president of South Korea, marking a significant milestone in the country's political history. She won the presidential election with a substantial majority, representing the conservative Saenuri Party and defeating her opponent Moon Jae-in from the Democratic United Party.
2013 Target Corporation Massive Data Breach: Target Corporation and the U.S. Secret Service confirmed a significant data breach affecting over 40 million debit and credit cards purchased in Target stores, raising serious concerns about consumer data security.
2014 US Sanctions on Crimea: President Barack Obama imposed additional economic sanctions against Russian-controlled Crimea through an executive order, prohibiting the export of US goods and services to the region.
2015 President Obama's Year in Review: President Barack Obama reflected on 2015's top 10 significant events, highlighting economic growth, normalized relations with Cuba, and the historic Paris climate change agreement.
2016 Donald Trump Elected President: Donald Trump was confirmed as the next President of the United States through the Electoral College process, concluding one of the most contentious and polarizing presidential elections in modern American history.
2017 International Pressure on North Korea: Canada and the United States announced the formation of an 18-member international group aimed at applying diplomatic pressure on North Korea regarding its nuclear program. The inaugural meeting was scheduled for January 16, 2018, in Vancouver.
2018 US Troop Withdrawal from Syria: The Pentagon officially began withdrawing U.S. military forces from Syria, marking a significant shift in American military strategy. A Pentagon spokesperson confirmed that coalition forces had successfully liberated territories previously held by the Islamic State (ISIL), though they emphasized that the military campaign against extremist groups is not yet fully complete.
2019 Nationwide Protests Against Citizenship Amendment Act in India: Large-scale demonstrations erupted across India protesting the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Act of 2019. The protests were marked by significant civil unrest, with arrests, internet shutdowns, and violent clashes in cities like Mangalore and Lucknow, resulting in three fatalities.
2020 Israel Begins COVID-19 Vaccination Campaign: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu became the first person in Israel to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, symbolically launching the country's vaccination program by getting the shot on live television.
2021 Gabriel Boric Elected President of Chile: Gabriel Boric, a former student activist and left-wing politician, was elected as the President of Chile, making history as the youngest president in the country's democratic era. At 35 years old, Boric represents a generational shift in Chilean politics, emerging from the student protest movements of 2011 to become a national political leader. His election signaled a significant political transformation in Chile, moving away from traditional conservative politics towards a more progressive, youth-driven political approach.
2022 Jan. 6 Committee Recommends Criminal Charges Against Trump: The U.S. House Select Committee investigating the January 6, 2021 Capitol insurrection voted to refer criminal charges to the Department of Justice against former President Donald Trump. The referral stems from Trump's alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results and his role in inciting the violent attack on the U.S. Capitol, representing an unprecedented moment in American political history.
2023 Israel Considers Shift in Gaza Strategy After US Pressure: Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant indicated a potential gradual transition in military operations against Hamas in Gaza, following discussions with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. Austin urged Israel to adopt 'more surgical' approaches and minimize civilian casualties, as the reported Palestinian death toll approached 20,000.

What Is special about December 19?

December 19 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 19.