Historical Events on December 21: 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 21, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

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Events on December 21 - Key Moments Throughout History

  • 1900 Premiere of "Michael Kramer" by Gerhart Hauptmann: On December 21, 1900, the renowned German playwright Gerhart Hauptmann's dramatic work "Michael Kramer" premiered in Berlin. This play, characteristic of Hauptmann's naturalistic style, likely explored complex human emotions and social dynamics of the era. Hauptmann, a Nobel Prize in Literature winner (1912), was known for his realistic and socially critical dramatic works that often depicted the struggles of working-class people.
  • 1901 Kuwait Declares Independence from Ottoman Empire: On December 21, 1901, Kuwait symbolically declared its independence from the Ottoman Empire, with significant British military backing. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of Kuwait's journey towards sovereignty, leveraging British imperial influence to challenge Ottoman control in the Arabian Peninsula. The declaration represented a strategic geopolitical shift, positioning Kuwait as a distinct political entity with emerging international recognition.
  • 1902 Pierre Nord Alexis Becomes President of Haiti: Pierre Nord Alexis, an elderly statesman, assumed the presidency of Haiti through a military coup at the remarkable age of 82. This unusual transition of power highlighted the political instability and turbulent nature of Haitian governance during the early 20th century. Nord Alexis's ascension represented a significant moment in Haiti's complex political landscape, demonstrating the role of military intervention in determining national leadership.
  • 1903 Wright Brothers' Early Aviation Period: While no specific event is directly recorded for December 21, 1903, this date falls within a pivotal period of early aviation history. Just days before, on December 17, 1903, the Wright Brothers achieved their groundbreaking first powered, sustained, and controlled airplane flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. This momentous achievement marked the beginning of the modern era of aviation, transforming transportation and human technological capabilities forever.
  • 1905 Japan Establishes Resident-General in Korea: On December 21, 1905, Korea officially became a protectorate of the Japanese Empire when former Prime Minister Itō Hirobumi was appointed as the first Resident-General. This marked a significant moment in Korean history, signaling the beginning of Japanese colonial control and the erosion of Korean sovereignty. Itō Hirobumi, a prominent Japanese statesman, was instrumental in negotiating the Protectorate Treaty that effectively stripped Korea of its diplomatic and administrative independence.
  • 1906 Uneventful Day in History: On December 21, 1906, no significant historical events were recorded. This day appears to have passed without notable global or local occurrences that would later be deemed historically important.
  • 1907 Discovery of the Diamond Sūtra: On December 21, 1907, British archaeologist Aurel Stein discovered the Diamond Sūtra in the Mogao Caves in China. This woodblock printed Buddhist scripture, dated 868 CE, is recognized as the earliest complete dated printed book in human history. The discovery is of immense significance to understanding the development of printing technology and Buddhist scholarship.
  • 1908 Uneventful Day in World History: While no major global events were documented for December 21, 1908, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. Many historical moments happen without immediate widespread recognition. During this period, the world was experiencing significant transformations in technology, politics, and society, with the early 20th century marked by rapid industrialization, colonial expansions, and emerging global tensions.
  • 1909 University of Copenhagen Challenges North Pole Discovery Claim: The University of Copenhagen officially rejected Frederick A. Cook's claim of being the first person to reach the North Pole, sparking a significant controversy in the exploration community.
  • 1910 Hulton Bank Colliery Mining Disaster: A catastrophic underground explosion occurred at the Hulton Bank Colliery No. 3 Pit in Over Hulton, Westhoughton, England, resulting in the tragic death of 344 miners. This devastating incident stands as one of the most significant mining accidents in early 20th-century British industrial history, highlighting the dangerous working conditions in coal mines during that era.
  • 1911 Uneventful Day in World History: While no specific major historical events were recorded for December 21, 1911, this date falls during a significant period of global transformation. In the early 20th century, the world was experiencing rapid technological, political, and social changes, including the decline of European empires, emerging industrial technologies, and shifting geopolitical landscapes.
  • 1912 Moroccan Rebellion Against French Colonial Forces: Moroccan rebels launched an attack against the French Army, highlighting ongoing tensions during the colonial period in North Africa.
  • 1913 First Crossword Puzzle Published: Arthur Wynne created and published the first crossword puzzle, titled 'word-cross', in the New York World newspaper. This groundbreaking puzzle featured 32 clues and marked the beginning of a new form of word-based entertainment that would become globally popular in the decades to follow.
  • 1914 First Feature-Length Silent Film Comedy Released: "Tillie's Punctured Romance" premiered, marking a significant milestone in early cinema history. Directed by Mack Sennett and featuring pioneering comedy stars Marie Dressler, Mabel Normand, and Charlie Chaplin, this groundbreaking film represented a pivotal moment in the development of feature-length comedic storytelling in the silent film era.
  • 1915 Oregon State Record Rainfall in Glenora: On December 21, 1915, Glenora, Oregon experienced an extraordinary rainfall event, recording 25.83 cm (10.17 inches) of precipitation. This remarkable amount of rainfall established a state record for a single day's rainfall, highlighting the region's potential for extreme weather conditions.
  • 1916 John Boon Publisher Establishment: On December 21, 1916, John Boon established himself as a publisher, potentially contributing to the literary or print media landscape of the early 20th century. While details are sparse, this event marks a moment in the publishing industry during World War I era.
  • 1917 Battle of Jaffa during World War I: On December 21, 1917, the British 21st Corps conducted a decisive bayonet attack against Ottoman units, successfully capturing the city of Jaffa. This battle was a significant moment in the Middle Eastern theater of World War I, demonstrating the British military's strategic capabilities.
  • 1918 Kurt Waldheim Born: Kurt Waldheim was born, a controversial Austrian politician who would later serve as the 4th Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1972 to 1981 and subsequently as President of Austria from 1986 to 1992. His political career was notably complicated by revelations about his involvement with Nazi military units during World War II.
  • 1919 Deportation of Emma Goldman: On December 21, 1919, Emma Goldman, a prominent anarchist and feminist activist, was deported from the United States to Russia during the height of the Red Scare. This significant event marked a pivotal moment in the suppression of radical political dissent in early 20th-century America. Goldman, known for her passionate advocacy of anarchism, workers' rights, and women's liberation, was forcibly removed from the country due to her political beliefs and activism.
  • 1920 300th Anniversary of the Mayflower Landing: Plymouth, Massachusetts commemorates the 300th anniversary of the Pilgrims' historic landing, marking a significant milestone in early American colonial history. This event celebrated the arrival of the Mayflower and the establishment of one of the first European settlements in North America.
  • 1921 US Supreme Court Landmark Labor Rights Decision: The United States Supreme Court made a significant ruling declaring labor injunctions and picketing unconstitutional, a pivotal moment in labor rights and workers' freedom of assembly.
  • 1922 Quiet Day in Global History: While no major historical events were prominently recorded for December 21, 1922, this date falls during an interesting period of global transition. The Soviet Union was formally established just a day earlier on December 30, 1922, marking a significant geopolitical transformation. The interwar period was characterized by significant political and social changes across Europe and the world.
  • 1923 Nepal's Independence from British Rule: On December 21, 1923, Nepal transitioned from being a British protectorate to an independent sovereign nation, marking a significant milestone in its political history. This event represented a crucial step in Nepal's journey towards self-governance and national sovereignty.
  • 1924 Uneventful Day in 1924: While no specific major historical events were recorded for December 21, 1924, this day represents a typical moment in the interwar period between World War I and World War II. The mid-1920s were characterized by global economic recovery, shifting political landscapes, and emerging cultural movements. The absence of a notable event does not diminish the ongoing historical processes of the time.
  • 1925 Battleship Potemkin Film Premiere: Sergei Eisenstein's groundbreaking silent film 'Battleship Potemkin' made its historic debut in Moscow on December 21, 1925. The film, renowned for its revolutionary montage techniques and powerful political narrative, would go on to become a landmark work in cinema history, dramatically influencing future filmmakers and storytelling techniques.
  • 1926 Formation of DOS Struggle Soccer Team: On December 21, 1926, the soccer team DOS Struggle was officially established, marking a new chapter in local sports history. The team's formation represented the growing popularity of soccer in the region during the mid-1920s.
  • 1927 Death of Australian Cricket Player Jack Saunders: Jack Saunders, a notable Australian cricket player who represented his national team between 1902 and 1908, passed away. During his international cricket career, he was recognized for his significant bowling performance, taking 79 wickets across 14 Test matches. His contributions to Australian cricket in the early 20th century marked him as an important sporting figure of his era.
  • 1928 Griffith's Groundbreaking DNA Experiment: Frederick Griffith conducts his landmark experiment, indirectly proving the existence of DNA and providing crucial insights into genetic inheritance and molecular biology.
  • 1929 Stalin's 50th Birthday and Emerging Personality Cult: On December 21, 1929, Joseph Stalin's 50th birthday became a pivotal moment in Soviet propaganda, signaling the beginning of an extensive state-orchestrated cult of personality. The day was marked by an unprecedented media campaign, with the influential newspaper *Pravda* dedicating its entire issue to glorifying Stalin, setting the stage for his future totalitarian leadership.
  • 1930 Soviet Leadership Transition: Rykov Replaced by Molotov: On December 21, 1930, a significant political shift occurred in the Soviet Union when Alexei Rykov was removed from his position as Chairman of the Council of People's Commissars, effectively being dismissed as Soviet Premier. This change was orchestrated by Joseph Stalin, who was consolidating his power within the Communist Party leadership. Vyacheslav Molotov was appointed as Rykov's replacement, marking another step in Stalin's systematic elimination of potential political rivals and his tightening grip on Soviet governance.
  • 1931 Japanese Offensive in Manchuria: Japanese Imperial Army launched the Jinzhou Operation in Manchuria, escalating military tensions in the region. This offensive was part of Japan's broader strategic expansion in Northeast China, which would eventually lead to the establishment of the puppet state of Manchukuo and heighten regional conflicts preceding World War II.
  • 1932 Collier Beer Bill Passes House of Representatives: In a significant legislative moment during the final years of Prohibition, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 230-165 to pass the 'Collier beer bill', which would legalize beer with 3.2% alcohol content. This vote represented a crucial step towards the eventual repeal of Prohibition in 1933.
  • 1933 Medical Breakthrough: Dried Human Blood Serum Preparation: Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania achieved a significant medical milestone by successfully preparing dried human blood serum for the first time. This breakthrough would have important implications for medical treatments, blood storage, and transfusion techniques.
  • 1934 Birth of Hanif Mohammad, Pakistani Cricket Legend: Hanif Mohammad, born on December 21, 1934, would become one of Pakistan's most prolific and influential cricket batsmen. Active from 1952 to 1969, he was renowned for his exceptional batting technique and was a pivotal figure in establishing Pakistan's early cricket legacy.
  • 1935 Birth of John G. Avildsen, Notable Film Director: John G. Avildsen was an acclaimed American film director known for directing iconic films like 'Rocky' and 'The Karate Kid'. His work significantly influenced American cinema in the late 20th century, earning him an Academy Award for Best Director for 'Rocky' in 1977.
  • 1936 Junkers Ju 88 Prototype Maiden Flight: On December 21, 1936, the Junkers Ju 88, a revolutionary German bomber aircraft, completed its first prototype flight. This advanced multi-role combat aircraft would become one of the most significant Luftwaffe aircraft during World War II, known for its versatility and performance.
  • 1937 Snow White: Disney's Landmark Film: RKO Radio Pictures world premiered Disney's 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' at the Carthay Circle Theatre. The film, costing $1.5 million and comprising two million drawings over 83 minutes, nearly bankrupted the company but became a landmark in animation history.
  • 1938 British Air-Raid Shelter Proposal: Sir John Anderson, a prominent British politician, presented a comprehensive government plan to the House of Commons for constructing steel air-raid shelters nationwide. This strategic initiative was a critical preparatory measure in anticipation of potential aerial bombardment during the rising tensions of pre-World War II Europe. The shelters, which would later become known as 'Anderson shelters', were designed to protect civilian populations from potential German bombing campaigns.
  • 1939 Nazi Leadership Appointment: Adolf Eichmann's Role in Jewish Affairs: On December 21, 1939, Adolf Hitler appointed Adolf Eichmann as the leader of 'Referat IV B', a critical administrative department within the Nazi SS responsible for Jewish emigration and deportation policies. This appointment would prove pivotal in the systematic planning and execution of the Holocaust, with Eichmann becoming a key architect of the Nazi regime's genocidal strategies.
  • 1940 Death of F. Scott Fitzgerald: Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald, renowned American novelist and key figure of the Jazz Age, died of a heart attack in Hollywood, California. Best known for his masterpiece 'The Great Gatsby' and his tumultuous relationship with his wife Zelda, Fitzgerald passed away at the tragically young age of 44, cutting short a brilliant literary career that profoundly influenced 20th-century American literature.
  • 1941 Thailand-Japan World War II Alliance Treaty: On December 21, 1941, a formal treaty of alliance between Thailand and Japan was signed in a significant ceremony at Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok. This diplomatic agreement solidified Thailand's strategic alignment with Japan during World War II, marking a pivotal moment in the geopolitical landscape of Southeast Asia.
  • 1942 British Military Operation in Burma: British troops launched a strategic military campaign, crossing from India back into Burma with the objective of recapturing Akyab (modern-day Sittwe) during World War II.
  • 1943 Arrest of Pierre-Étienne Flandin in Algiers: On December 21, 1943, Pierre-Étienne Flandin, a prominent French politician who had served as Prime Minister during the early years of World War II, was arrested in Algiers. As a former high-ranking official of the Vichy France regime, which collaborated with Nazi Germany during the occupation, Flandin was detained along with four other Vichy government officials. This arrest was part of the broader post-war efforts to hold accountable those who had supported the collaborationist government during the German occupation of France.
  • 1944 American Victory in Battle of Ormoc Bay: The Battle of Ormoc Bay concluded with an American victory, representing a crucial naval engagement in the Pacific Theater of World War II that helped advance Allied control in the Philippines.
  • 1945 World Bank Establishment: Twenty-eight nations signed a historic international agreement to create the World Bank, a pivotal moment in global economic cooperation and post-World War II reconstruction efforts.
  • 1946 It's a Wonderful Life Premieres in USA: Frank Capra's iconic holiday film 'It's a Wonderful Life' makes its theatrical debut in the United States, introducing audiences to the heartwarming story of George Bailey and marking the beginning of what would become a beloved Christmas classic.
  • 1947 Paco de Lucía Birth: Paco de Lucía, born Francisco Gustavo Sánchez Gómez, was a legendary Spanish flamenco guitarist, composer, and innovator who significantly transformed flamenco music by introducing jazz and classical elements into the traditional genre.
  • 1948 Ireland Becomes a Republic: The State of Eire (formerly Irish Free State) officially declares its independence, marking a significant milestone in Irish political history and completing its transition to a fully sovereign republic.
  • 1949 Dutch Parliament Recognizes Indonesian Sovereignty: The Dutch First Chamber officially accepted the sovereignty of Indonesia, marking a significant milestone in the decolonization process of the Dutch East Indies after years of struggle and negotiation.
  • 1950 MacArthur's Korean War Media Censorship: General Douglas MacArthur implemented comprehensive censorship of news reports related to the Korean War, establishing strict control over information dissemination. His office would be the sole provider of approved information, effectively managing the public narrative of the ongoing conflict.
  • 1951 Joe DiMaggio Retires from Major League Baseball: On December 21, 1951, legendary New York Yankees center fielder Joe DiMaggio announced his retirement from professional baseball. Known as 'The Yankee Clipper', DiMaggio was one of the most iconic players of his era, famous for his 56-game hitting streak in 1941 and his exceptional fielding skills. His retirement marked the end of a remarkable 13-year career with the Yankees, during which he was a 13-time All-Star and helped the team win nine World Series championships.
  • 1952 Broadway Tunnel Opens in San Francisco: The Broadway Tunnel, a significant infrastructure project, was completed and opened in San Francisco, California, connecting different parts of the city and improving urban transportation.
  • 1953 Betty Wright Birth: Betty Wright, an influential American gospel and soul singer, television hostess, and performer known for her work in the Little Miss Broadway show, was born on this date. She would later become a significant figure in the music industry, particularly in gospel and soul genres.
  • 1954 Death of Edwin G. Seibels, Vertical Filing System Inventor: Edwin G. Seibels, a pioneering innovator in office organization and document management, passed away at the age of 88. His invention of the vertical filing system revolutionized record-keeping in businesses and offices worldwide, dramatically improving efficiency and document accessibility during the early 20th century.
  • 1955 France Addresses Algerian Unrest: French Prime Minister Edgar Faure convenes an extraordinary cabinet meeting in response to escalating violence in Algeria. The urgent meeting is prompted by recent guerrilla activities that resulted in approximately 100 casualties within a 24-hour period, highlighting the intense conflict during the Algerian War of Independence.
  • 1956 Death of Lewis M. Terman: Lewis M. Terman, a distinguished American psychologist and pioneer in intelligence testing, died on December 21, 1956, at the age of 79. Best known for his work on the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales and longitudinal studies of gifted children, Terman made substantial contributions to educational psychology and the understanding of human intelligence.
  • 1957 Indonesia Ends State of War: On December 21, 1957, Indonesia officially proclaimed the end of its state of war, marking a significant diplomatic and political milestone in the nation's post-colonial history. This declaration signaled Indonesia's transition from a period of conflict and tension to a more stable national governance framework.
  • 1958 French Presidential Election of 1958: Charles de Gaulle is elected President of France, with his Union des Démocrates pour la République party gaining a significant 78.5% of the vote. This election marks the beginning of the Fifth Republic and establishes de Gaulle as a pivotal figure in modern French political history.
  • 1959 Birth of Olympic Sprint Legend: Florence Griffith Joyner, born on this date, would become an iconic American sprinter known for her world records in 100m and 200m, and her Olympic gold medals, leaving an indelible mark on track and field.
  • 1960 Saudi Arabian Political Leadership Change: Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud was dismissed from his position as Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia by King Saud, marking a significant internal political transition within the Saudi royal family. This dismissal involved the removal of Prince Faisal and his entire cabinet of ministers from their governmental roles.
  • 1961 Kennedy-MacMillan Diplomatic Meeting: US President John F. Kennedy and British Prime Minister Harold MacMillan held a significant diplomatic meeting in Bermuda, likely discussing Cold War strategies and international relations during a critical period of global tensions.
  • 1962 Britain Purchases Polaris Missiles: The United Kingdom agreed to purchase Polaris missiles from the United States, significantly enhancing its nuclear deterrence capabilities during the Cold War era. This strategic procurement demonstrated the close military cooperation between the two nations.
  • 1963 TIROS-8 Weather Satellite Launch: A significant milestone in meteorological technology occurred with the launch of TIROS-8 weather satellite on December 21, 1963. This groundbreaking satellite became the first to successfully relay digital images back to Earth, revolutionizing weather monitoring and forecasting capabilities.
  • 1964 Britain Abolishes Death Penalty: The United Kingdom's House of Commons votes to abolish capital punishment, marking a significant milestone in British legal and human rights history. This landmark decision represented a major shift in the country's approach to criminal justice.
  • 1965 UN Adopts International Convention Against Racial Discrimination: The United Nations adopted the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), a landmark human rights treaty aimed at combating racial discrimination globally. This convention represents a significant milestone in the international community's commitment to promoting equality and preventing racial prejudice.
  • 1966 USSR Luna 13 Moon Landing: The Soviet Union successfully launched Luna 13, achieving a soft landing in the Oceanus Procellarum (Ocean of Storms) region of the Moon. This mission was a significant milestone in the Space Race, demonstrating advanced lunar exploration capabilities and providing valuable scientific data about the lunar surface.
  • 1967 First Human Heart Transplant Recipient Dies: Louis Washkansky, a 55-year-old patient, passed away in Cape Town, South Africa, 18 days after receiving the world's first human-to-human heart transplant. This groundbreaking medical procedure, performed by Dr. Christiaan Barnard, marked a significant milestone in surgical and medical history, demonstrating the potential of organ transplantation.
  • 1968 Apollo 8: First Humans to Leave Earth's Gravity: The Apollo 8 mission marked a historic milestone in human space exploration. Launched from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, this groundbreaking mission was the first manned lunar voyage. Astronauts Frank Borman, Jim Lovell, and William Anders became the first humans to leave Earth's gravitational field and travel to another celestial body, performing the first manned Trans Lunar Injection.
  • 1969 UN Adopts Convention Against Racial Discrimination: The United Nations adopted the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, a landmark international treaty aimed at combating racism and promoting equality among all peoples.
  • 1970 First Flight of F-14 Tomcat: The Grumman F-14 Tomcat, a sophisticated multi-role combat aircraft, completed its inaugural flight, marking a significant milestone in United States naval aviation technology. This advanced fighter jet would become a cornerstone of the U.S. Navy's air defense capabilities throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
  • 1971 United Nations Security Council Elects Kurt Waldheim as Secretary-General: On December 21, 1971, the United Nations Security Council selected Kurt Waldheim as the fourth Secretary-General of the United Nations. Waldheim was chosen with a decisive vote of 11 in favor, 1 against, and 3 abstentions, marking a significant moment in UN diplomatic history.
  • 1972 CSCE Preparatory Meeting Begins: The preparatory meeting for the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE) commenced in Helsinki, bringing together 34 countries including the United States and Canada. This meeting was a crucial diplomatic effort to improve relations between Eastern and Western bloc countries during the Cold War.
  • 1973 Geneva Conference on Arab-Israeli Conflict: A pivotal diplomatic summit convened in Geneva, Switzerland, bringing together representatives from Israel, Egypt, Syria, Jordan, the United States, and the Soviet Union to discuss resolution of ongoing tensions in the Middle East following the 1973 Yom Kippur War. The conference aimed to negotiate peace terms and establish a framework for potential diplomatic reconciliation.
  • 1975 OPEC Conference Kidnapping: A terrorist incident occurred in Vienna where six individuals, including the infamous Carlos (the Jackal), kidnapped delegates during an OPEC conference, creating an international security crisis.
  • 1976 US Nuclear Test at Nevada Site: The United States conducted a nuclear test at the Nevada Test Site, continuing Cold War-era nuclear weapons development and testing programs.
  • 1977 Interstate 75 Final Stage Completed: The final stage of the U.S. superhighway Interstate 75 was officially opened, marking the culmination of nearly two decades of construction. This significant infrastructure project connected multiple states and represented a major milestone in American transportation development.
  • 1978 John Wayne Gacy Jr. Arrested: Police in Des Plaines, Illinois, arrest serial killer John Wayne Gacy Jr. for multiple murders, marking a significant breakthrough in a notorious criminal investigation.
  • 1979 Lancaster House Agreement Signed: A pivotal independence agreement for Rhodesia (soon to become Zimbabwe) is signed in London by key political figures including Lord Carrington, Robert Mugabe, Joshua Nkomo, and others, marking a critical moment in the decolonization of Southern Africa.
  • 1980 Aeroecésar Jet Airliner Crash in Colombia: A devastating aviation disaster occurred when an Aeroecésar SE-210 Caravelle jet airliner crashed shortly after takeoff from a Colombian airport, resulting in the tragic loss of all 70 people on board. The aircraft was destroyed just five minutes after departure, marking a significant air safety incident.
  • 1981 Preferential Trade Area for Eastern and Southern Africa: The Preferential Trade Area (PTA) was established to promote regional economic cooperation and trade among Eastern and Southern African countries, laying groundwork for future economic integration.
  • 1982 US Billboard Number 1 Hit: 'Maneater': 'Maneater' by the popular duo Daryl Hall & John Oates topped the US Billboard charts on December 21, 1982, representing the pop music landscape of the early 1980s.
  • 1983 First Heart Transplant Patient's Passing: Louis Washkansky, the world's first heart transplant recipient, passes away in Cape Town, South Africa, 18 days after his groundbreaking surgical procedure. His case was a pivotal moment in medical history, demonstrating the potential of organ transplantation.
  • 1984 Soviet Space Mission to Halley's Comet: The Soviet Union launches the Vega 2 spacecraft as part of an international mission to conduct a fly-by of Halley's Comet, contributing to significant scientific exploration of celestial bodies.
  • 1985 ARCO Anchorage Maritime Incident: The oil tanker ARCO Anchorage ran aground near Port Angeles, Washington, potentially causing environmental and maritime safety concerns.
  • 1986 75th Davis Cup Final: Australia triumphed over Sweden in the 75th Davis Cup tennis tournament, held in Melbourne, with a decisive 3-2 victory, demonstrating the nation's tennis excellence.
  • 1987 Soyuz TM-4 Space Mission to Mir: The Soyuz TM-4 spacecraft launched three cosmonauts—Vladimir Titov, Musa Manarov, and Anatoli Levchenko—to the space station Mir. Titov and Manarov would go on to set a remarkable spaceflight record by staying in space for nearly 366 days.
  • 1988 Lockerbie Bombing - Pan Am Flight 103 Terrorist Attack: On December 21, 1988, Pan Am Flight 103 from London to New York was destroyed by a terrorist bomb over Lockerbie, Scotland. A bomb hidden inside an audio cassette player detonated in the cargo area at an altitude of 31,000 feet, killing all 259 passengers and crew members aboard, as well as 11 residents on the ground. This tragic event remains the deadliest air disaster in British history and a significant act of international terrorism.
  • 1989 Romanian Revolution: Fall of Ceaușescu: After a week of intense demonstrations, Ion Iliescu assumes the presidency of Romania, effectively ending Nicolae Ceaușescu's communist dictatorship. Ceaușescu, facing inevitable capture, attempts to escape via helicopter after rioters invade his palace. In a dramatic turn of events, Romanian troops who previously followed Ceaușescu's orders to suppress protesters now join the uprising.
  • 1990 Saddam Hussein Defies UN Withdrawal Deadline: In a provocative German television interview, Iraqi President Saddam Hussein explicitly stated that he would not withdraw Iraqi forces from Kuwait, directly challenging United Nations resolutions and escalating tensions in the lead-up to the Gulf War.
  • 1991 Dissolution of the Soviet Union: The leaders of 11 now effectively autonomous Soviet republics signed the Alma-Ata Protocol, establishing the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) in place of the collapsing Soviet Union. This historic event marked the official end of the Soviet era and the beginning of a new geopolitical landscape.
  • 1992 Martinair Flight 495 Crash in Faro, Portugal: On December 21, 1992, a Dutch Martinair DC-10 (Flight MP 495) crashed during landing at Faro Airport in Portugal, resulting in a tragic accident that claimed the lives of 56 passengers and crew. The aircraft encountered severe difficulties during its approach, leading to a catastrophic landing that shocked the aviation community and prompted extensive investigations into the cause of the crash.
  • 1993 Dissolution of the KGB: On December 21, 1993, Russian President Boris Yeltsin officially abolished the KGB (Komitet Gosudarstvennoy Bezopasnosti), the powerful Soviet secret police and intelligence agency that had been a symbol of state surveillance and control during the Cold War era. This landmark decision marked a significant step in Russia's post-Soviet transformation, signaling a break from the totalitarian practices of the past and a move towards democratic reforms.
  • 1994 Deadly Suicide Bombing at U.S. Military Base in Mosul: A devastating suicide bombing occurred at a forward operating base adjacent to the primary U.S. military airfield in Mosul, Iraq. The attack resulted in 22 fatalities, marking it as the most lethal suicide attack in Iraq up to that point in time. This incident highlighted the escalating security challenges faced by U.S. military personnel in the region.
  • 1995 Transfer of Bethlehem to Palestinian Control: Palestinians took control of Bethlehem as Israeli troops withdrew from the city, marking a significant milestone in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. This transfer occurred under the Interim Agreement on the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, signed in September 1995. Historically, Bethlehem had been under various administrations: a British mandate from 1920 to 1948, captured by Jordan in the Arab-Israeli War, and then controlled by Israel since the Six-Day War in 1967.
  • 1996 David Ho Named Time Magazine's Person of the Year: David Ho, a pioneering Taiwanese-American AIDS researcher, was honored by Time Magazine as the Person of the Year. His groundbreaking work in HIV/AIDS research and treatment has been instrumental in understanding and combating the global AIDS epidemic.
  • 1997 Barry Sanders Achieves 2,000-Yard Season Milestone: Detroit Lions running back Barry Sanders became the third NFL player in history to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season, highlighting his exceptional athletic prowess and place in football history.
  • 1998 UN Security Council Tensions over Iraq Sanctions: During the Iraq disarmament crisis, France, Germany, and Russia called for an end to sanctions against Iraq and proposed disbanding or restructuring UNSCOM (United Nations Special Commission). The United States firmly rejected these proposals, indicating a significant diplomatic standoff regarding Iraq's compliance with international weapons inspections.
  • 1999 ETA Terrorist Plot Intercepted in Madrid: The Spanish Civil Guard successfully intercepted a van loaded with 950 kg of explosives that the Basque terrorist group ETA planned to use in a potential attack on Torre Picasso, a prominent skyscraper in Madrid, Spain. This critical intervention prevented a potentially catastrophic terrorist incident.
  • 2000 Eric Joyce Wins Falkirk West By-Election: Eric Joyce, representing the Labour Party, secured victory in the Falkirk West by-election on 21 December 2000. The by-election was triggered by the resignation of Dennis Canavan, a prominent Labour politician. Joyce's win maintained Labour's political presence in this Scottish constituency during a period of significant political transition.
  • 2001 Hamid Karzai Becomes Afghan Leader: Hamid Karzai was sworn in as the new leader of Afghanistan, marking a critical moment in the country's post-Taliban transition. In his inaugural address, Karzai, a prominent tribal chief, passionately appealed for national unity and called upon both his fellow citizens and the international community to support the rebuilding of the war-torn nation, signaling hope for Afghanistan's future.
  • 2002 Landmark DNA Exoneration Case: Larry Mayes was released from prison after serving 21 years for a rape he consistently maintained he did not commit. His case marked a significant milestone as the 100th instance of a wrongful conviction being overturned through DNA testing, highlighting the critical role of forensic science in the justice system.
  • 2003 Conflicting Reports About Saddam Hussein's Capture: Contradictory accounts emerged regarding Saddam Hussein's capture. A British military intelligence officer claimed he was captured by US troops before the official announcement, while the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan reported his discovery. A member of the al-Jabour tribe, whose daughter was raped and killed by Saddam's son Uday Hussein, reportedly helped locate him.
  • 2004 Deadly Suicide Attack on US Military Base in Mosul: A devastating suicide bombing occurred at a U.S. military base in Mosul, Iraq, resulting in 22 fatalities, including 13 American soldiers. This attack was one of the most significant and deadly attacks on U.S. forces during the Iraq War.
  • 2005 US Senate Extends PATRIOT Act: The United States Senate approved a six-month extension of the USA PATRIOT Act, allowing further legislative review and potential modifications.
  • 2006 Somalia: Escalating Regional Conflict: Heavy fighting was reported near the Baidoa base of Somalia's weak transitional government, raising serious concerns about potential state collapse in the strategically important Horn of Africa region.
  • 2007 Queen Elizabeth II Becomes Longest-Reigning British Monarch: Queen Elizabeth II surpassed Queen Victoria's record as the longest-lived monarch in United Kingdom history, marking a significant milestone in British royal heritage at 81 years and 7 months.
  • 2008 Mumbai Hotels Reopen After Terrorist Attacks: The Oberoi Trident Hotel and Taj Mahal Palace Tower Hotels in Mumbai reopened less than a month after the devastating November terrorist attacks, symbolizing resilience and recovery.
  • 2009 Auschwitz 'Arbeit Macht Frei' Sign Recovered: Polish police arrested five men and recovered the infamous 'Arbeit macht frei' sign that hung above the Auschwitz Nazi death camp, a powerful symbol of the Holocaust and Nazi atrocities.
  • 2010 2010 United States Census Results: The US Census Bureau released initial 2010 Census data, revealing a total population of 308,745,538 as of April 1, 2010. Nevada remained the fastest-growing state, while Michigan was the only state to lose population.
  • 2011 North Korea Prepares for Kim Jong-il's Funeral: North Korea closes its borders with China in preparation for the funeral of recently deceased leader Kim Jong-il, signaling a period of national mourning and potential political transition.
  • 2012 YouTube Milestone: Gangnam Style Reaches 1 Billion Views: "Gangnam Style" by South Korean singer PSY becomes the first YouTube video to reach 1 billion views, marking a significant moment in digital media and global pop culture.
  • 2013 NASA Spacewalk to Repair ISS Coolant Pump: NASA astronauts began a series of critical spacewalks on the International Space Station to repair a damaged ammonia coolant pump, ensuring the continued functionality of this vital orbital research platform.
  • 2014 Tunisia Elects Secularist President: Beji Caid Essebsi of the Nidaa Tounes Party won Tunisia's presidential election, representing a significant moment in the country's post-Arab Spring democratic transition.
  • 2015 Bagram Suicide Bombing: A devastating suicide bombing targeted a joint Afghan-U.S. military patrol in Parwan Province, Afghanistan. The attack resulted in six U.S. troops killed and six more injured. The Taliban, through spokesperson Zabiullah Mojahid, claimed responsibility for the attack via social media.
  • 2016 2016 Berlin Attack Manhunt: German officials offer a reward of up to 100,000 Euros ($104,000) for information leading to the capture of Anis Amri, a 24-year-old Tunisian asylum seeker whose identification was found in the truck used during the terrorist attack.
  • 2017 UN Resolution on Jerusalem: The United Nations General Assembly passed a non-binding resolution demanding the United States retract its recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital. The vote was 128 in favor, 9 against, with 35 abstentions, reflecting global diplomatic tensions over the status of Jerusalem.
  • 2018 James Mattis Resigns as Defense Secretary: Defense Secretary James Mattis announces his resignation, citing fundamental disagreements with President Trump's foreign policy, particularly regarding troop withdrawals and treatment of international allies.
  • 2019 UK House of Commons Approves Brexit Bill: The United Kingdom's House of Commons decisively voted 358 to 234 in favor of Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Brexit legislation, representing a crucial milestone in Britain's planned departure from the European Union. This parliamentary vote signaled a clear path toward completing the complex Brexit process.
  • 2020 COVID-19 Relief Package Approved: Congressional Democrats and Republicans finalized a $900 billion coronavirus relief package. The legislation included $600 stimulus checks per person, with reduced benefits for higher-income earners, and enhanced unemployment benefits of $300 per week starting December 27th.
  • 2021 U.S. Arms Sale to Lithuania Amid Russia Tensions: The U.S. State Department approved a significant military equipment sale to Lithuania, a NATO ally, consisting of 341 FGM-148 Javelin anti-tank guided missiles and 30 command launch units. This arms transfer occurred during a period of heightened geopolitical tensions with Russia, signaling strategic military support for Eastern European NATO members.
  • 2022 Ukrainian President Zelensky's Historic Washington DC Visit: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a significant diplomatic trip to Washington, DC during the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War. During this crucial visit, he met with US President Joe Biden at the White House to discuss continued military and financial support for Ukraine's defense against Russian invasion. Zelensky also delivered a powerful address to a joint session of Congress, appealing for continued American assistance and highlighting Ukraine's struggle for sovereignty.
  • 2023 Lockerbie Pan Am Flight 103 Bombing: On December 21, 1988, Pan Am Flight 103 was destroyed by a terrorist bomb while flying from London to New York over Lockerbie, Scotland. The explosion killed all 259 passengers and crew members aboard, as well as 11 residents on the ground. The bomb, hidden inside an audio cassette player in the cargo area, caused one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in UK history and a significant international incident.

What Is special about December 21?

December 21 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 21.