Historical Events on December 20: 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 20, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on December 20 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 US Senate Ratifies Nicaragua Canal Treaty: The United States Senate voted 55-18 to ratify a treaty with the United Kingdom concerning the Nicaragua Canal. The ratification included three key amendments, notably providing for American defense of the proposed canal route. This treaty represented a significant moment in early 20th-century geopolitical and infrastructure negotiations, highlighting the strategic importance of trans-oceanic canal projects.
1901 Gopal Krishna Gokhale's Rise in Indian National Congress: Gopal Krishna Gokhale emerged as a pivotal figure in the Indian National Congress, marking a significant moment in India's independence movement. A moderate nationalist leader and mentor to Mahatma Gandhi, Gokhale would play a crucial role in advocating for Indian self-governance and social reforms during the early 20th century.
1902 Venezuela International Arbitration Agreement: On December 20, 1902, a significant diplomatic resolution occurred when Britain, Germany, and Italy mutually agreed to resolve their outstanding claims against Venezuela through arbitration at The Hague tribunal. This agreement represented an important moment in international conflict resolution, demonstrating a preference for diplomatic negotiation over potential military confrontation.
1903 Wright Brothers' First Flight Era: While no specific event is directly documented for December 20, 1903, this period marks a pivotal moment in human history, just days after the Wright Brothers achieved the first sustained, controlled, powered flight on December 17, 1903, at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. This groundbreaking achievement fundamentally transformed transportation, technology, and human mobility.
1904 Uneventful Day in 1904: On December 20, 1904, no significant historical events were recorded. This day appears to have been relatively quiet in terms of global or local historical developments, representing a typical day in the early 20th century.
1905 New Zealand Māori Electoral Representation: On December 20, 1905, voting took place for the four designated Māori seats in the New Zealand House of Representatives. This election was significant in the ongoing process of political representation for the indigenous Māori people within the New Zealand parliamentary system, reflecting the complex dynamics of colonial governance and indigenous rights.
1906 Venezuelan Naval Conflict with Dutch Fleet: On December 20, 1906, Venezuela, under the leadership of Vice-President Juan Vicente Gómez, initiated a military confrontation with the Dutch naval forces. This incident was part of the broader political tensions in Venezuela during the early 20th century, reflecting the complex international relations and power dynamics of the period.
1907 Yolande Alabama Coal Mine Disaster: On December 20, 1907, a catastrophic explosion occurred at the Yolande coal mine in Alabama, resulting in the tragic loss of 91 miners' lives. This devastating incident highlighted the dangerous working conditions in early 20th-century coal mining operations and the significant risks faced by industrial workers during that era.
1908 Uneventful Day in History: On December 20, 1908, no significant historical events were recorded. While this might seem unremarkable, it serves as a reminder that not every day in history is marked by dramatic occurrences. Such days represent the quiet, routine moments that form the backdrop of human experience.
1909 U.S. Marines Deployed to Nicaragua: On December 20, 1909, a U.S. expeditionary force consisting of 709 Marines and 32 officers, commanded by Colonel James E. Mahoney, arrived at the port of Corinto, Nicaragua aboard the U.S.S. Buffalo. The mission was strategically designed to protect American economic and geopolitical interests during a period of regional political instability. The Marines were prepared to intervene militarily if deemed necessary, reflecting the United States' interventionist foreign policy in Central America during the early 20th century.
1911 Agadir Crisis Resolution in French Parliament: The Agadir Crisis, a significant diplomatic tension between France and Germany over colonial interests in Morocco, reached a pivotal moment when the French Chamber of Deputies approved a Moroccan agreement with Germany. The vote was decisive, with 393 deputies supporting the agreement and 36 opposing, though notably 141 deputies chose to abstain, reflecting the complex geopolitical nuances of the time.
1912 Broadway Premiere of 'Peg O' My Heart': J. Hartley Manners' popular romantic comedy play 'Peg O' My Heart' debuts in New York City, launching what would become a significant theatrical production of the early 20th century. The play would later be adapted into multiple film versions and help establish Manners' reputation as a notable playwright.
1913 Wellington Labour Strike of 1913: A significant industrial dispute in Wellington, New Zealand, where the United Federation of Labour (UFL) ultimately conceded defeat after a prolonged and intense labor conflict. This strike was a pivotal moment in New Zealand's labor history, highlighting the tensions between workers and employers during the early 20th century.
1914 German Attack on Givenchy Repelled by Indian Corps: During World War I, German forces launched an offensive against the British position in Givenchy, located in northern France. The Indian Corps, part of the British Expeditionary Force, successfully defended their position and repelled the German attack, demonstrating the significant contribution of colonial troops to the Allied war effort in the early stages of the conflict.
1915 Australian Troops Evacuate Gallipoli Campaign: During World War I, the last Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) troops completed their strategic withdrawal from the Gallipoli Peninsula in the Ottoman Empire. This evacuation marked the end of a brutal and costly military campaign that had lasted since April 1915, characterized by high casualties and challenging terrain.
1917 Establishment of Cheka: Soviet Secret Police: On December 20, 1917, the Cheka (All-Russian Extraordinary Commission for Combating Counter-Revolution and Sabotage) was officially founded by the Bolshevik government. Led by Felix Dzerzhinsky, this secret police organization became a critical instrument of state control during the Russian Revolution and early Soviet period, responsible for suppressing political opposition and enforcing revolutionary policies.
1918 Masaryk Returns to Czechoslovakia: Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, a key founding figure of Czechoslovakia, returns to his newly independent country after years of exile. His return symbolizes the birth of the Czechoslovak Republic following the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire at the end of World War I, marking a pivotal moment in Czech and Slovak national history.
1919 Canadian National Railways Established: On December 20, 1919, the Canadian National Railways was officially formed, creating North America's most extensive railway network spanning approximately 50,000 kilometers. This consolidation of several smaller railway companies represented a significant milestone in Canadian transportation infrastructure and national economic development.
1920 Soviet Intelligence Service Reorganization: Felix Dzerzhinsky restructured the Soviet Union's intelligence service, establishing the Foreign Intelligence Section, which would play a crucial role in Soviet espionage and intelligence gathering.
1921 Vienna Economic Riots: Significant civil unrest erupted in Vienna due to economic pressures, with widespread riots resulting in looting of shops and attacks on foreign hotel guests, highlighting the severe economic strain in post-World War I Austria.
1922 Formation of the Soviet Union: Fourteen Soviet republics formally unite to establish the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), marking a significant geopolitical transformation in Eastern Europe and setting the stage for a major global political entity that would shape 20th-century history.
1923 BEGGARS Fraternity Founded at Jesuit College: On December 20, 1923, the BEGGARS Fraternity was established as the first social fraternity at a Jesuit college in the United States. Nine founding members secured papal permission to create this unique organization, marking a significant moment in collegiate social and religious history.
1924 Adolf Hitler's Release from Landsberg Prison: Adolf Hitler is released from Landsberg Prison after serving nine months of a five-year prison sentence for his role in the Beer Hall Putsch. This event was pivotal in Hitler's political trajectory, as the imprisonment provided him time to write 'Mein Kampf' and strategize his future political movements.
1926 Pope Pius XI Confronts Fascist Expansion: Pope Pius XI issued a critical statement addressing the growing fascist movement in Italy, signaling the Catholic Church's increasing concern about Benito Mussolini's political ideology and its potential threat to religious and civil liberties. This marked an important moment of institutional resistance against the rising fascist regime.
1927 George Remus Murder Trial: Landmark Insanity Defense: In a sensational legal proceeding on December 20, 1927, George Remus, a prominent lawyer-turned-bootlegger during the Prohibition era, was acquitted of murder charges through a successful insanity defense. The trial captivated public attention, highlighting the complex legal and psychological dynamics of criminal responsibility during the tumultuous 1920s. Remus, who had previously been a successful criminal defense attorney before becoming a notorious bootlegger, was accused of murdering his wife Imogene in a dramatic case that exposed the personal and professional tensions of the Prohibition period.
1928 Ethel Barrymore Theater Opens in New York City: The historic Ethel Barrymore Theater, a landmark Broadway venue, officially opened at 243 West 47th Street in the heart of Manhattan's Theater District. Named after the renowned actress Ethel Barrymore, this theater would become an iconic location for theatrical performances in New York City.
1929 Pope Pius XI Celebrates Mass Outside Vatican: In a historic moment, Pope Pius XI left the Vatican for the first time since the Lateran Treaty of 1929, which established Vatican City as a sovereign state. He celebrated mass at the Archbasilica, symbolizing a significant diplomatic and religious event that marked the resolution of tensions between the Catholic Church and the Italian state.
1930 Hoover's Emergency Relief Legislation: In response to the ongoing economic challenges of the Great Depression, President Herbert Hoover signed two critical relief bills: a $110 million emergency construction bill and a $45 million drought relief bill. These legislative actions were part of the administration's efforts to provide economic support and infrastructure development during a severe national crisis.
1931 Birth of Mala Powers: Mala Powers, a notable American film actress, was born in San Francisco on December 20, 1931. She would later become known for her contributions to cinema during the mid-20th century.
1932 Significant Nevada Earthquake: A powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck the remote Cedar Mountains region of Nevada. Despite occurring in an uninhabited area, the seismic event was significant enough to be felt across considerable distances, including major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles.
1933 First US Ambassador to Soviet Union Arrives: William C. Bullitt became the first American ambassador to the Soviet Union, arriving in Moscow and being welcomed with a Kremlin banquet attended by Soviet leadership. A notable and unusual moment occurred when Soviet leader Joseph Stalin reportedly kissed Bullitt on the mouth, an incident Bullitt would later describe with bitterness, feeling ultimately betrayed by Soviet diplomacy.
1934 Royal Engagement of Infante Jaime of Spain: On December 20, 1934, the Spanish royal family officially announced the engagement of Infante Jaime, Duke of Segovia, to Emmanuelle de Dampierre, a noblewoman of French-Italian descent. This engagement was significant in the context of Spanish royal marriages during the tumultuous period of the Second Spanish Republic, highlighting the continued social importance of royal unions despite the changing political landscape.
1935 Pope Pius XI Publishes Encyclical on Priesthood: Pope Pius XI issued the encyclical 'Ad Catholici Sacerdotii', providing significant guidance and theological reflection on the role and responsibilities of Catholic priests in the modern era.
1936 Birth of Niki Bettendorf: Niki Bettendorf, a prominent Luxembourgian politician, was born on December 20, 1936, in Luxembourg. Throughout his career, Bettendorf would become an influential figure in the country's political landscape, contributing to the nation's governance and public service.
1937 Tragic School Fire in Japan: A devastating fire occurred in a primary school in South Tonda (now Shirahama), Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, while schoolchildren were watching a film. The incident resulted in 81 fatalities, marking a significant tragedy in Japanese educational history.
1938 Hitler Named Time's 'Man of the Year': In a controversial decision, Time magazine names Adolf Hitler as their 'Man of the Year' for 1938, recognizing his significant geopolitical influence despite his increasingly aggressive and destructive actions in Europe. This selection highlighted Hitler's growing power and the mounting tensions preceding World War II, not as an endorsement but as a recognition of his impact on world events.
1939 Captain Hans Langsdorff's Tragic End in World War II: Captain Hans Langsdorff, commander of the German pocket battleship Admiral Graf Spee, commits suicide in Buenos Aires, Argentina, following the ship's defeat in the Battle of the River Plate. His decision to take his own life was a symbolic act of personal honor, reflecting the complex moral dilemmas faced by military personnel during World War II.
1940 Liverpool Endures First Night of Christmas Blitz: During World War II, German Luftwaffe aircraft begin a three-night bombing campaign targeting Liverpool, known as the Christmas Blitz. This devastating aerial assault was part of the broader strategic bombing of British cities aimed at breaking civilian morale and disrupting war production.
1941 First Battle of the Flying Tigers: On December 20, 1941, the American Volunteer Group (AVG), famously known as the 'Flying Tigers,' engaged in their first combat mission in Kunming, China. These volunteer American pilots, fighting alongside Chinese forces, played a crucial role in resisting Japanese aerial advances in the early stages of World War II in the Asian theater.
1942 US Eighth Air Force Bombing Mission over Paris: On December 20, 1942, the US Eighth Air Force launched a strategic bombing mission targeting the Romilly-sur-Seine air depot outside Paris. The mission involved 101 B-17 and B-24 bombers, but suffered significant losses with 6 B-17 aircraft destroyed during the operation, highlighting the dangerous nature of aerial combat during World War II.
1943 Remarkable WWII Bomber Mission and Act of Mercy: U.S. Army Air Forces VIII Bomber Command conducted Mission 159, dispatching 546 heavy bombers (B-17 Flying Fortresses and B-24 Liberators) from Great Britain to attack the port of Bremen, Germany. During this mission, a remarkable humanitarian incident occurred when German fighter pilot Franz Stigler, instead of shooting down a crippled B-17, escorted the damaged bomber to safety, demonstrating an extraordinary act of compassion during wartime.
1944 Battle of Bastogne: Critical World War II Engagement: During the Battle of Bastogne, Nazi forces surrounded the 101st Airborne Division in a pivotal moment of the Battle of the Bulge, creating a critical military confrontation in the Ardennes region of Belgium.
1945 United Nations Participation Act Signed: President Harry S. Truman signed the United Nations Participation Act on December 20, 1945, formally committing the United States to participation in the newly established United Nations organization, a crucial step in post-war international diplomacy and cooperation.
1946 Nankaidō Earthquake and Tsunami: A devastating 8.1 magnitude earthquake struck the Nankaidō region of Japan, triggering a massive tsunami that caused widespread destruction. The natural disaster resulted in over 1,300 fatalities and destroyed approximately 38,000 homes, leaving a significant impact on the local population and infrastructure.
1947 Birth of Gigliola Cinquetti, Italian Singer: Gigliola Cinquetti was born on December 20, 1947, in Italy. She would later become a renowned Italian singer and Eurovision Song Contest winner, known for her powerful vocal performances and significant contributions to Italian popular music during the 1960s and 1970s.
1948 Dutch Capture of Yogyakarta during Indonesian National Revolution: During the Indonesian National Revolution, the Dutch military captured Yogyakarta, which was serving as the temporary capital of the newly formed Republic of Indonesia. This was a significant military action in the struggle for Indonesian independence.
1949 Clark Gable Marries Sylvia Ashley: Hollywood icon Clark Gable married Sylvia Ashley on December 20, 1949, at a ranch in Solvang, California. This was the fourth marriage for both Gable and Ashley, reflecting the complex romantic lives of Hollywood celebrities during the mid-20th century.
1950 Harvey Film Premiere in New York: The classic comedy film 'Harvey', starring James Stewart, premiered in New York City. The movie, based on Mary Chase's Pulitzer Prize-winning play, tells the story of Elwood P. Dowd, a charming man whose best friend is an invisible six-foot-tall rabbit named Harvey. James Stewart's portrayal of Elwood became one of his most iconic roles, capturing the whimsical and heartwarming nature of the character.
1951 First Nuclear Power Generation: The Experimental Breeder Reactor I (EBR-1) successfully generated electricity for the first time, powering four light bulbs in a groundbreaking demonstration of nuclear power's potential. Located in Arco, Idaho, this milestone marked a pivotal moment in energy technology, proving that nuclear reactions could be harnessed to produce electrical power.
1952 Tragic C-124 Globemaster Crash in Moses Lake: A devastating United States Air Force C-124 Globemaster aircraft crash near Moses Lake, Washington, results in the tragic loss of 87 lives out of 115 people on board, representing one of the most significant military aviation accidents of the early 1950s.
1953 Eisenhower's Atoms for Peace Address: U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower delivered his groundbreaking 'Atoms for Peace' speech to the United Nations General Assembly in New York City, proposing international cooperation in nuclear technology for peaceful purposes and marking a pivotal moment in Cold War diplomacy.
1954 Birth of Sandra Cisneros: Sandra Cisneros, a renowned Chicana author and poet, was born in Chicago. She is best known for her groundbreaking novel 'The House on Mango Street', which explores themes of cultural identity, gender, and social class through the perspective of a young Latina girl. Cisneros has been instrumental in bringing Latina voices to mainstream American literature and has significantly influenced Chicano literature.
1955 Cardiff Becomes Capital of Wales: On December 20, 1955, Cardiff was officially proclaimed as the capital city of Wales by the British Government. This historic designation recognized Cardiff's significant role in Welsh political, economic, and cultural life. As the largest city in Wales, Cardiff had long been a center of administrative and economic activity, making its selection as the capital a symbolic and practical milestone in Welsh national identity.
1956 Montgomery Bus Boycott Concludes: The Montgomery Bus Boycott successfully concluded with a landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling in *Browder v. Gayle*, which declared bus segregation in Montgomery, Alabama unconstitutional. This pivotal legal decision was a major victory for the Civil Rights Movement, challenging systemic racial discrimination in public transportation.
1957 Boeing 707 First Flight: The initial production version of the Boeing 707 makes its first flight, a pivotal moment in commercial aviation history. This aircraft would revolutionize air travel, becoming a cornerstone of modern passenger jet transportation.
1958 Uneventful Day in Global History: On December 20, 1958, no major historical events were recorded. This day represents a moment of relative global calm during the late 1950s, a period characterized by Cold War tensions, technological advancements, and significant social transformations.
1959 Fatal Bus-Truck Collision in Arizona: A devastating traffic accident near Tucson, Arizona, where a cattle truck collided with a Greyhound Scenicruiser bus, resulting in nine fatalities and 21 injuries, underscoring the potential dangers of road transportation.
1960 Viet Cong Formally Established: The National Liberation Front of South Vietnam, commonly known as the Viet Cong, was formally established in Tân Lập village, Tây Ninh province, marking a significant moment in the Vietnam War's political and military landscape.
1961 Death of Moss Hart, Renowned American Playwright: Moss Hart, a celebrated American dramatist famous for his play 'You Can't Take It with You', died at the age of 57. Hart was a significant figure in 20th-century American theater, known for his comedic and insightful works.
1962 Osmond brothers debut on Andy Williams Show
1963 Auschwitz Camp Guards Trial Begins: A landmark trial commenced against 21 former Auschwitz concentration camp guards, representing a critical moment in post-World War II justice and Holocaust accountability.
1964 Levi Eshkol forms Israeli government.
1965 Soviet Union Supplies Rockets to North Vietnam: The Soviet Union announced its decision to ship rockets to North Vietnam, escalating its military support during the Vietnam War and further complicating the geopolitical tensions of the Cold War era.
1966 Harold Wilson Takes Firm Stance on Rhodesian Independence: British Prime Minister Harold Wilson withdrew previous offers to the Rhodesian government, declaring that independence would only be granted after the establishment of a Black majority government. This statement was a significant moment in the decolonization process and the fight against racial segregation.
1967 US Military Presence in Vietnam: On this date, the United States military had 474,300 soldiers deployed in Vietnam, representing the peak of American involvement in the Vietnam War. This significant troop presence underscored the escalating conflict and the war's immense human and geopolitical impact.
1968 Mao's Cultural Revolution: 'Up to the Mountains and Down to the Villages': Chinese Communist Party leader Mao Zedong initiated a significant social engineering program by advocating for urban educated youth to be sent to rural areas for re-education. This marked the beginning of the 'Up to the Mountains and Down to the Villages' movement, which would dramatically impact millions of young Chinese lives during the Cultural Revolution.
1969 First Oil Discovery in Norwegian Sector of North Sea: Phillips Petroleum made a groundbreaking discovery by finding the first oil in the Norwegian sector of the North Sea. This discovery would later become pivotal in transforming Norway's economy and establishing it as a major oil-producing nation.
1970 Assassination of Luis Carrero Blanco: A car bomb planted by the Basque separatist group ETA in Madrid resulted in the death of three people, including Spanish Prime Minister Admiral Luis Carrero Blanco. This assassination was a significant moment in Spanish political history during the late Franco era.
1971 Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Becomes President of Pakistan: Zulfikar Ali Bhutto assumed office as the fourth President of Pakistan, succeeding Yahya Khan. This marked a pivotal moment in Pakistani political history, as Bhutto would go on to become a transformative and controversial leader.
1972 Derry Bar Shooting Incident: A tragic gun attack occurred at the Top of the Hill Bar in Derry, Northern Ireland, resulting in the deaths of five civilians: four Catholics and one Protestant. This event highlights the ongoing sectarian tensions during the Northern Ireland conflict.
1973 Assassination of Luis Carrero Blanco: A devastating car bomb planted by the Basque separatist group ETA in Madrid killed three people, including Spanish Prime Minister Admiral Luis Carrero Blanco. This high-profile political assassination was a significant moment in Spanish political history, striking at the heart of Francisco Franco's authoritarian regime and highlighting the intense political tensions in Spain during the 1970s.
1974 Ethiopia Becomes Socialist One-Party State: Ethiopia undergoes a significant political transformation, transitioning to a socialist one-party state, which would dramatically reshape the country's political landscape and governance structure.
1975 Arts and Artifacts Indemnity Act Signed: President Gerald R. Ford signed the Arts and Artifacts Indemnity Act, empowering the Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities to provide insurance for international art exhibitions traveling to U.S. museums, thereby facilitating cultural exchange and protecting valuable artworks.
1976 Yitzhak Rabin's Resignation: Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin resigned from his position, dissolving the Israeli Parliament (Knesset) and calling for new elections. This political event marked a significant moment in Israeli political history.
1977 Soviet Cosmonaut's First Space Walk: Cosmonaut Georgy Grechko conducted the first space walk from the Salyut space station, marking a significant milestone in Soviet space exploration.
1978 Formation of Kampuchean United Front for National Salvation: Heng Samrin and 70 other dissidents form the Kampuchean United Front for National Salvation in Kratié province, near the Vietnamese border. This organization would play a crucial role in overthrowing the brutal Khmer Rouge regime of Pol Pot in 1979, with significant support from Vietnam.
1979 Comin' Uptown Musical Premieres in New York City: A musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic 'A Christmas Carol' opened at the Winter Garden Theater in New York City. The production, created by Garry Sherman and Peter Udell, featured the talented Gregory Hines in a leading role. Despite its innovative approach to the beloved holiday story, the musical had a relatively short run of 45 performances, indicating mixed audience reception.
1980 Death of Alexei Kosygin: The Soviet Union officially announces the death of Alexei Kosygin, a prominent Soviet politician who served as Premier of the Soviet Union from 1964 to 1980, marking the end of a significant political era.
1981 Penlee Lifeboat Disaster: A tragic maritime incident occurred off the coast of South-West Cornwall, resulting in significant loss of life during a rescue operation. The Penlee lifeboat crew attempted to save the crew of a stricken vessel in extremely challenging maritime conditions.
1982 First Permanent Artificial Heart Implantation: On December 20, 1982, a groundbreaking medical procedure took place at the University of Utah Medical Center in Salt Lake City. Dr. William De Vries successfully implanted the first permanent artificial heart into 61-year-old patient Barney C. Clark. At the time of the operation, Clark was critically ill and near death. Following the revolutionary surgery, he survived for 112 days with the artificial heart, marking a significant milestone in medical technology and cardiac treatment.
1983 PLO Evacuation from Lebanon: Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) chairman Yasser Arafat and 4,000 of his loyalist fighters evacuate Lebanon, marking a significant moment in the Lebanese Civil War and Middle Eastern geopolitics.
1984 Jonelle Matthews Disappearance: Jonelle Matthews, a young girl from Greeley, Colorado, mysteriously disappeared on this date. Her case remained unsolved for decades until her remains were discovered on July 23, 2019, approximately 24 kilometers southeast of her home. The investigation revealed her cause of death was a gunshot wound to the head.
1985 Pope John Paul II Establishes World Youth Day: Pope John Paul II officially announces the institution of World Youth Day, a global Catholic event aimed at bringing young people together to celebrate faith, unity, and spiritual connection.
1986 Howard Beach Racial Hate Crime: On December 20, 1986, a horrific racially motivated assault occurred in the Howard Beach neighborhood of Queens, New York. A group of white teenagers attacked three African American men, resulting in the tragic death of Michael Griffith, who was killed after being run over by a motorist while attempting to escape the violent attackers. This incident became a significant moment in the ongoing struggle against racial violence and discrimination in the United States.
1987 Doña Paz Ferry Disaster: On December 20, 1987, the passenger ferry Doña Paz collided with the oil tanker MT Vector in the Tablas Strait of the Philippines, resulting in the worst peacetime maritime disaster in modern history. The catastrophic collision and subsequent fire led to an estimated 4,000 deaths, with official records listing 1,749 confirmed fatalities. The tragedy exposed significant maritime safety failures and led to international maritime safety reforms.
1988 UN Convention Against Drug Trafficking Signed in Vienna: The United Nations Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances was signed in Vienna, Austria, representing a significant global effort to combat international drug trade and control dangerous substances.
1989 United States Invasion of Panama: On December 20, 1989, the United States launched a military intervention in Panama, known as Operation Just Cause, with the primary objective of deposing dictator Manuel Noriega. Approximately 25,000 U.S. troops were deployed to occupy Panama City and overthrow the authoritarian government, marking a significant geopolitical event during the late Cold War era.
1990 Significant Soviet Political Shift: Eduard Shevardnadze, a key reformist in Mikhail Gorbachev's government, unexpectedly resigns from his position as Soviet Foreign Minister, signaling potential instability in the Soviet leadership during the final months before its dissolution.
1991 North Atlantic Cooperation Council First Meeting: The North Atlantic Cooperation Council (NAC-C) held its inaugural meeting on the same day the Soviet Union officially dissolved, symbolizing a new era of international cooperation and the end of the Cold War.
1992 Slobodan Milošević Re-elected as Serbian President: Slobodan Milošević is re-elected as the President of Serbia, continuing his controversial leadership during a tumultuous period in the Balkan region. This election occurred amidst rising ethnic tensions and the ongoing breakup of Yugoslavia.
1993 UN Establishes Human Rights Commissioner Position: The United Nations General Assembly voted unanimously to create the position of United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, a significant step towards global human rights protection and oversight.
1994 Death of Dean Rusk, Prominent US Diplomat: Dean Rusk, a significant American diplomat who served as United States Secretary of State during the Kennedy and Johnson administrations from 1961 to 1969, passed away at the age of 85. Rusk was a key figure during critical periods of the Cold War, including the Cuban Missile Crisis and the escalation of US involvement in the Vietnam War. His long diplomatic career shaped American foreign policy during one of the most tumultuous decades of the 20th century.
1995 NATO Begins Peacekeeping in Bosnia: NATO initiates its peacekeeping operations in Bosnia, marking a significant diplomatic and military intervention aimed at stabilizing the region following the Bosnian War and implementing the Dayton Peace Agreement.
1996 Apple Acquires NeXT Software: Apple Computer announces the acquisition of NeXT Software for approximately US$400 million, combining cash and Apple stock. As part of the deal, NeXT Software CEO Steve Jobs will become an advisor to Apple's chairman and CEO Gilbert Amelio, marking a significant moment in tech industry history.
1997 Richard I Captured in Austria: King Richard I of England (Richard the Lionheart) was captured and imprisoned by Leopold V of Austria while returning home after negotiating the Treaty of Ramla with Saladin, which concluded the Third Crusade. This event would have significant political and diplomatic consequences for medieval European politics.
1998 Zinedine Zidane Wins Ballon d'Or: Zinedine Zidane, the legendary French midfielder playing for Juventus, was awarded the prestigious Ballon d'Or, recognizing him as the best footballer in Europe. The voting process occurred on December 20, with the official announcement made on December 22.
1999 Portugal Returns Macau to China: On December 20, 1999, Portugal officially transferred sovereignty of Macau back to the People's Republic of China, ending over 400 years of Portuguese colonial administration. This historic handover marked the end of the last European colonial territory in Asia, with Macau becoming a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China, maintaining a high degree of autonomy under the 'one country, two systems' principle.
2000 Mirusuvil Massacre: A tragic incident occurred where eight Sri Lankan Tamil refugees, including children, were killed by Sri Lankan Army soldiers. This event highlights the brutal violence and human rights violations during the Sri Lankan Civil War, resulting in the victims being buried in a mass grave.
2001 Argentine Political Crisis: During the severe Argentine economic crisis (1999-2002), President Fernando de la Rúa was forced out of office amid widespread economic and social turmoil.
2002 Small Interfering RNAs Breakthrough: Science magazine highlighted the discovery and potential treatment applications of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) as the top scientific story of the year, noting their promising potential in treating complex diseases like HIV and cancer.
2003 Parmalat Financial Scandal Emerges: The massive financial fraud at Parmalat was first exposed, with the company accused of falsifying records totaling approximately USD $5 billion. Founder Calisto Tanzi later admitted to the extensive financial manipulation.
2004 Escalating Sectarian Violence in Iraq: Fears of a potential civil war in Iraq intensified after devastating bombings in two of the country's holiest Shiite cities, resulting in 66 deaths and over 200 injuries, underscoring the deep sectarian tensions.
2005 Intelligent Design Court Ruling: In the landmark Kitzmiller v. Dover Area School District case, US District Court Judge John E. Jones III ruled that intelligent design cannot be taught as science in public school classrooms, affirming it as a religious concept rather than a scientific theory.
2006 US Military Claims Al-Qaeda Leader Capture: The United States military reported capturing an Al-Qaeda leader in Iraq, potentially disrupting terrorist networks during the ongoing conflict.
2007 Queen Elizabeth II Becomes Oldest British Monarch: Queen Elizabeth II surpasses Queen Victoria's record, becoming the longest-lived monarch in United Kingdom history at 81 years, 7 months, and 29 days.
2008 Major Internet Cable Disruption: A significant telecommunications infrastructure incident occurred when three sub-sea communications cables were broken, causing substantial disruptions to Internet transmissions across Asia and the Middle East. This event highlighted the vulnerability of global communication networks.
2009 Saudi Airstrikes in Yemen: Shiite sources reported that Saudi air strikes in northern Yemen resulted in 54 deaths, including women and children.
2010 Taliban Suicide Attacks in Kabul: Two suicide attacks in Kabul result in the deaths of 13 Afghan soldiers, demonstrating the ongoing insurgency and security challenges in Afghanistan.
2011 Kim Jong-il's Death Announced: The death of North Korean leader Kim Jong-il was officially announced, marking a significant moment in North Korean political history.
2012 Rwandan Genocide Perpetrator Sentenced: Augustin Ngirabatware, a former Rwandan minister, was sentenced for his involvement in the 1994 Rwanda Genocide, continuing the international legal process of holding responsible parties accountable for the mass atrocities.
2013 2013 North American Ice Storm: A devastating ice storm struck central and eastern Ontario, southern Québec, and New Brunswick, causing widespread power outages affecting over 600,000 customers and resulting in at least 27 deaths, primarily from carbon monoxide poisoning.
2014 NYPD Officers Murdered in Brooklyn: Ismaaiyl Brinsley killed two New York Police Department officers, Wenjian Liu and Rafael Ramos, in an execution-style shooting in Brooklyn. The incident was allegedly motivated by revenge for the deaths of Eric Garner and Michael Brown. Brinsley subsequently committed suicide in a subway station.
2015 2016 Iranian Assembly of Experts Election: Elections for the 88-seat Experts Assembly were scheduled for February 25, 2016. This clerical body has the power to choose or dismiss Iran's supreme leader and oversee their activities. The election was particularly significant as it might determine the successor to 76-year-old Ayatollah Ahmad Ali Khamenei.
2016 Russian Ambassador Assassination Details: Russia's ambassador to Turkey, Andrei Karlov, was shot and killed at an Ankara art gallery by an off-duty Turkish police officer named Mevlut Mert Altintas. The gunman shouted 'God is great' and 'Don't forget Aleppo' before being killed in a subsequent shootout with Turkish special forces.
2017 United States Passes Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: The United States Senate and House of Representatives passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, a significant tax reform legislation that was set to be signed by President Donald Trump. The act notably included the repeal of Obamacare's individual insurance mandate.
2018 Vancouver and Vancouver Island are hit hard by severe windstorms that cause damage to houses and roads and decimate a 100-year-old pier in White Rock. Helicopter rescues one person who was left on the pier. Due to falling trees, several highways were closed.
2019 ICC Launches Investigation into Palestinian Territories: International Criminal Court Chief Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda announced a full investigation into alleged war crimes in Palestinian territories, signaling a significant legal and diplomatic development in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
2020 Deadly Car Bombing Targets Afghan Lawmaker in Kabul: On December 20, 2020, a sophisticated car bombing in Kabul targeted Khan Mohammad Wardak, a prominent Afghan lawmaker. The attack resulted in nine fatalities and over 20 injuries, with Wardak himself among the wounded. Concurrent attacks were reported in multiple Afghan provinces including Logar, Nangarhar, Helmand, and Badakhshan, causing additional civilian and security force casualties. The complexity and widespread nature of these attacks suggest a coordinated effort, though no terrorist group immediately claimed responsibility.
2021 Global COVID-19 Vaccination and Travel Restrictions: Multiple countries implemented new COVID-19 vaccination and travel policies. Thailand approved the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children aged 5-11. India reported over 85% partial vaccination and 55% full vaccination. Israel banned travel to several countries due to the Omicron variant. Kuwait introduced new requirements for vaccinated travelers, including booster shots and self-isolation.
2022 Taliban Bans Women's University Education in Afghanistan: In a significant setback for women's rights, the Taliban's Ministry of Higher Education issued a decree immediately banning women from accessing university education. This action represents a severe restriction on female educational opportunities and further marginalizes women in Afghan society.
2023 US-Venezuela Prisoner Exchange: The United States and Venezuela conducted a significant prisoner exchange. Venezuela released ten Americans and extradited fugitive Leonard Glenn Francis, while the US released Alex Saab, an ally of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, signaling potential diplomatic thawing.

What Is special about December 20?

December 20 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 20.