Historical Events on November 23: 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 November 23, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on November 23 - Key Moments Throughout History

1901 Great Storm of 1901 Devastates Southern Ireland and Britain: On November 23, 1901, one of the most powerful meteorological events in British historical records struck southern Ireland, Wales, the Midlands, Lincolnshire, and extended into the English Channel. This catastrophic storm claimed over 200 lives during a 48-hour period, demonstrating the immense destructive potential of extreme weather. Wind speeds were extraordinarily high, with sustained winds averaging nearly 70 miles per hour and devastating gusts reaching up to 100 miles per hour. The storm's intensity was particularly evident in maritime regions, where numerous ships were sunk in the Channel and Southwest Approaches, highlighting the storm's devastating maritime impact.
1902 Birth of Victor Jory: Victor Jory, a notable Canadian actor, was born in Dawson City, Yukon Territory on November 23, 1902. Jory would go on to become a prominent figure in Hollywood during the Golden Age of cinema, known for his versatile acting skills and appearances in numerous films across multiple genres.
1903 Colorado Militia Suppresses Miners' Strike in Cripple Creek: Colorado Governor James Hamilton Peabody escalated labor tensions by deploying state militia to Cripple Creek to forcibly break up a miners' strike. This action represented a significant moment in the early 20th-century labor movement, highlighting the often violent confrontations between workers and state authorities during the struggle for labor rights.
1904 Conclusion of the 1904 Summer Olympics in St. Louis: The Games of the III Olympiad concluded in Saint Louis, Missouri, marking the end of the third modern Olympic Games. This event was significant as it represented an early stage in the development of the international Olympic movement, taking place during a period of rapid technological and cultural transformation in the United States.
1905 Henry Watson Furness Appointed Haiti Minister: Dr. Henry Watson Furness, a physician from Indiana, was officially appointed as the diplomatic minister to Haiti on November 23, 1905. This appointment represented a significant moment in early 20th-century U.S. diplomatic relations with the Caribbean nation, highlighting the practice of selecting medical professionals for diplomatic roles during this era.
1906 Mormon Church Leader Convicted of Polygamy: On November 23, 1906, Joseph Smith, the prominent leader of the Mormon Church (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints), was legally convicted of practicing polygamy, which was a significant legal challenge to the church's traditional marriage practices during that era.
1907 Yale Bulldogs Win First College Football National Championship: On November 23, 1907, the Yale Bulldogs secured their first national championship in college football, marking a significant milestone in the early history of the sport. At a time when collegiate athletics were rapidly gaining popularity, Yale's victory represented the team's dominance in the emerging organized football landscape. The championship was recognized by the Intercollegiate Athletic Association of the United States (IAAUS), which would later evolve into the NCAA, solidifying Yale's position as a powerhouse in early 20th-century college football.
1909 Wright Brothers Establish Aviation Corporation: The Wright Brothers formed a million-dollar corporation to manufacture airplanes, marking a significant milestone in the early commercial development of aviation technology.
1910 Last Execution in Sweden: Johan Alfred Ander became the final person to be executed in Sweden, marking a significant moment in the country's judicial history. Convicted of murdering Victoria Hellsten during a robbery at a currency exchange, Ander was executed by guillotine, bringing an end to capital punishment in the nation.
1911 Deadly Railway Bridge Collapse in France: A catastrophic railway bridge collapse occurred near Montreuil-Bellay, France, resulting in a tragic accident that claimed 30 lives. The bridge gave way while carrying approximately 100 passengers, highlighting the critical infrastructure challenges and safety concerns of early 20th-century transportation systems.
1912 The Tragic Sinking of the Rouse Simmons: The freighter Rouse Simmons, known as the 'Christmas Tree Ship', met a tragic end on Lake Michigan during a violent ice storm on November 23, 1912. The vessel, laden with a cargo of Christmas trees, was overwhelmed by severe weather conditions, resulting in the loss of all 13 crew members. This maritime disaster became a poignant story of the perils faced by Great Lakes sailors in the early 20th century.
1913 Founding of Brazil's First Technical Institute in Itajubá: On November 23, 1913, the Instituto Eletrotécnico e Mecânico de Itajubá was officially inaugurated, marking a significant milestone in Brazil's technological education. Located in the city of Itajubá, this pioneering institution represented a crucial step in developing technical and engineering education in the country. The institute was established to provide specialized training in electrical and mechanical engineering, addressing the growing industrial needs of early 20th-century Brazil.
1914 German Advance at Festubert during World War I: In a significant tactical engagement during World War I, a German infantry regiment successfully captured approximately 800 yards (730 meters) of trenches from British Indian forces east of Festubert, France, demonstrating the brutal and dynamic nature of trench warfare.
1915 Einstein Submits General Relativity Paper: Albert Einstein submitted his groundbreaking paper on general relativity to the Prussian Academy of Sciences, a pivotal moment in scientific history that would fundamentally transform our understanding of space, time, gravity, and the fundamental structure of the universe.
1916 Central Powers Capture Bucharest in World War I: During World War I, the Central Powers successfully occupied Bucharest, the capital of Romania, marking a significant strategic victory on the Eastern Front. This occupation represented a major blow to Romanian military efforts and demonstrated the military strength of German, Austro-Hungarian, Bulgarian, and Ottoman forces.
1917 Battle of Cambrai: British Tank Offensive: During World War I, the British 40th Division launched a significant military operation at Cambrai, employing an innovative strategy of using 100 tanks supported by 430 artillery guns. Despite their advanced tactics, the British forces were unable to successfully capture the entrenched German defensive positions on Bourlon Ridge.
1918 Final German Monarch Abdicates: On November 23, 1918, Prince Günther Victor of Schwarzburg-Sondershausen abdicated his throne, marking the final abdication of German monarchs during the German Revolution. This event symbolized the dramatic political transformation of Germany following World War I, as the imperial system collapsed and a new republican order emerged, fundamentally reshaping the nation's political landscape.
1919 Uneventful Day in 1919: While no major historical events were recorded for November 23, 1919, this period was part of the post-World War I era, characterized by significant global political and social transformations. The world was recovering from the devastating conflict, with the Treaty of Versailles having been signed earlier that year, reshaping international relations and setting the stage for future geopolitical developments.
1921 Sheppard-Towner Act Supports Maternal and Child Health: President Warren G. Harding signed the Sheppard-Towner Act, a groundbreaking piece of federal legislation that provided the first federal funding for maternal and child healthcare in the United States. This act represented a significant milestone in public health policy, aiming to reduce infant and maternal mortality rates through federal support and education programs.
1922 NAACP Campaigns Against Lynching: The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) launched a powerful media campaign by publishing a full-page advertisement in the New York Times and other national newspapers. The advertisement was a strategic effort to generate public support for the Dyer Anti-Lynching Bill, which aimed to make lynching a federal crime and provide legal consequences for such racially motivated violence.
1923 German Army Bans Political Parties: German army commander General Hans von Seeckt takes significant political action by banning the Nazi Party (NSDAP) and the Communist Party of Germany (KPD), demonstrating the military's attempt to control political extremism in the unstable Weimar Republic.
1924 Edwin Hubble's Groundbreaking Astronomical Discovery: Edwin Hubble published a revolutionary scientific finding in The New York Times, revealing that the Andromeda 'nebula' is actually an independent galaxy located far beyond the boundaries of our Milky Way. This discovery fundamentally transformed humanity's understanding of the universe's scale and structure.
1925 Landmark Racial Discrimination Case in Rhinelander Divorce Trial: In a deeply controversial legal proceeding, the Rhinelander divorce trial exposed the stark racial prejudices of 1920s America. Mrs. Rhinelander was forced to publicly demonstrate her racial identity by partially undressing in the jury room, highlighting the systemic racism embedded in social and legal institutions of the time.
1926 Birth of Sathya Sai Baba: Sathya Sai Baba was born in Puttaparthi, Karnataka, India. He was a prominent spiritual leader and guru who claimed to be a divine incarnation, attracting millions of followers worldwide. Known for his teachings of love, compassion, and service to humanity, he established numerous educational institutions, hospitals, and humanitarian projects.
1927 Execution of Miguel Agustín Pro: Miguel Agustín Pro, a 36-year-old Mexican Jesuit priest, was executed by government forces during a period of intense religious persecution in Mexico. His martyrdom became a powerful symbol of resistance against anti-clerical policies and he was later beatified by the Catholic Church for his faith and courage.
1928 New York Stock Exchange Overwhelmed by Transaction Volume: On November 23, 1928, the New York Stock Exchange experienced an unprecedented operational challenge, forcing a temporary shutdown to process a massive backlog of 6.9 million transactions. This event highlighted the growing complexity and volume of financial trading during the late 1920s, just before the infamous stock market crash of 1929.
1929 Stock Market Crash of 1929: Hoover's Misguided Optimism: On November 23, 1929, the United States stock market experienced a catastrophic downturn, marking a critical moment in the early stages of the Great Depression. Despite the severe market plunge, President Herbert Hoover attempted to reassure the public by claiming market stability, a statement that would later be seen as dangerously out of touch with the economic reality. The sideways trading indicated significant investor uncertainty and panic, signaling the beginning of a profound economic crisis that would reshape American society.
1930 German Cargo Ship Louise Leonhardt Sinks in North Sea Storm: The German cargo ship *Louise Leonhardt* was completely lost during a catastrophic North Sea storm, with all 31 crew members perishing in the maritime disaster. This tragic event underscored the perilous nature of maritime travel during challenging weather conditions.
1931 National Crisis Committee Established in The Hague: The National Crisis Committee was formed in The Hague, Netherlands, during a period of significant economic and political uncertainty in the early 1930s. This committee was likely established to address the challenges posed by the global economic depression and potential social instability.
1932 Leon Trotsky's Controversial Arrival in Denmark: Leon Trotsky, a prominent Russian revolutionary and former leader of the Red Army, arrived in Denmark to deliver a lecture in Copenhagen about the Russian Revolution. His visit was marked by significant tension, with local police providing extensive security at the Esbjerg dock. Approximately 300 communist protesters gathered to denounce Trotsky, labeling him a traitor to the communist cause, reflecting the deep political divisions within the international communist movement during this period.
1933 English Cricket County Teams Vote to Restrict Fast Bowling: On November 23, 1933, a pivotal meeting of cricket administrators took place where 17 captains of England's first-class county cricket teams deliberated on player safety. In a significant vote of 14 to 3, they passed a resolution to ban or restrict fast bowling techniques, motivated by growing concerns about player injuries. This decision reflected an early attempt to balance the competitive spirit of cricket with athlete protection, highlighting the sport's evolving approach to player welfare.
1934 Italian Garrison Discovered in Ethiopian Territory: An Anglo-Ethiopian boundary commission conducting a territorial survey in the Ogaden region discovered an Italian military garrison positioned at Walwal, which was clearly situated within Ethiopian sovereign territory. This provocative discovery became a critical diplomatic incident that significantly escalated tensions between Italy and Ethiopia, ultimately serving as a key precursor to the Abyssinia Crisis and the subsequent Italian invasion of Ethiopia in 1935.
1935 Discovery of Sulfanilamide's Active Component: In a groundbreaking medical research breakthrough at the Pasteur Institute in Paris, scientists Jacques and Thérèse Tréfouël, Daniel Bovet, and Federico Nitti identified sulfanilamide as the active component of Prontosil, a significant advancement in understanding antibiotic mechanisms. Working in Ernest Fourneau's laboratory, they demonstrated how this compound could effectively combat streptococcal infections in experimental mouse and rabbit models.
1936 Life Magazine First Issue Published: Henry R. Luce launched the first issue of Life magazine, a groundbreaking picture magazine that would revolutionize photojournalism in the United States. This innovative publication transformed how Americans consumed news and visual storytelling, featuring high-quality photography and in-depth visual reporting.
1937 John Steinbeck's 'Of Mice and Men' Premieres: John Steinbeck's powerful play adaptation of his renowned novel 'Of Mice and Men' premiered in New York City on November 23, 1937. The theatrical production would help cement Steinbeck's reputation as a significant American literary voice exploring themes of friendship, dreams, and social struggle.
1938 Oscar Robertson: Basketball Legend Born: Oscar Robertson, one of the most influential basketball players in NBA history, was born on November 23, 1938, in Nashville, Tennessee. Known as 'The Big O', Robertson was a groundbreaking guard who played for the Cincinnati Royals and Milwaukee Bucks. He was a pivotal figure in basketball, winning an Olympic gold medal in 1960 and becoming the first player in NBA history to average a triple-double for an entire season.
1939 Nazi Gov of Poland Hans Frank requires Jews to wear a blue star
1940 Romania Joins the Tripartite Pact: Romania officially becomes a signatory of the Tripartite Pact, aligning with the Axis Powers during World War II. This strategic political move significantly altered Romania's geopolitical position during the conflict.
1941 German Advance Towards Moscow During Operation Barbarossa: On November 23, 1941, during World War II's Operation Barbarossa, German troops captured the strategic town of Klin, located northwest of Moscow. This advance was part of the Nazi Wehrmacht's ambitious attempt to capture the Soviet capital and deal a decisive blow to the Soviet Union's war effort.
1942 Soviet Encirclement of German Forces at Stalingrad: Soviet forces completed a strategic encirclement of German and Romanian forces in Stalingrad, trapping approximately 250,000 Axis soldiers across 22 divisions within a 25 by 30 mile oval. This maneuver marked a critical turning point in World War II's Eastern Front.
1943 US Forces Capture Tarawa and Makin Atolls: In a critical Pacific Theater operation during World War II, American forces successfully captured the Tarawa and Makin atolls in the Gilbert Islands, dealing a significant blow to Japanese territorial control and advancing the Allied island-hopping strategy.
1944 De Gaulle Takes Command of Free French Forces: General Charles de Gaulle assumed full command of all Free French military forces, consolidating leadership of the French resistance and liberation movement during World War II.
1945 Calcutta Anti-British Riots: British colonial police opened fire on anti-British rioters in Calcutta, resulting in a tragic loss of 37 lives. This violent incident highlighted the growing tensions and resistance against British colonial rule in India during the final stages of the independence movement.
1946 French Naval Bombardment of Hai Phong: On November 23, 1946, the French Navy conducted a brutal military operation in Hai Phong, Vietnam, resulting in a massive civilian massacre. The bombardment was part of the First Indochina War, where French colonial forces sought to suppress Vietnamese independence movements. The attack killed thousands of civilians, marking a significant and tragic moment in Vietnam's struggle for independence.
1947 Formation of Schumann Government in France: On November 23, 1947, Robert Schuman formed a new government in France during a critical period of post-World War II reconstruction. Schuman, a prominent Christian Democratic politician, was known for his significant role in European integration and would later become instrumental in the creation of the European Coal and Steel Community.
1948 Israeli Operation Lot: Israeli military forces launched Operation Lot with the strategic objective of establishing a land corridor to the isolated Dead Sea enclave, a significant tactical maneuver during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War.
1949 Soviet Support for Communist China in UN Dispute: Soviet diplomat Andrey Vyshinsky publicly declared Russia's full support for Communist China's demand to remove the Nationalist Chinese delegation from the United Nations. This statement highlighted the ongoing Cold War tensions and the ideological conflict between Communist and Nationalist factions in China.
1950 China's Official Entry into the Korean War: On November 23, 1950, General Douglas MacArthur officially informed the United Nations of China's direct military intervention in the Korean War. The confirmation came after the capture of prisoners from seven distinct Chinese army divisions, marking a pivotal escalation of the conflict. This unexpected entry by the People's Republic of China would dramatically alter the war's dynamics, transforming it from a localized conflict into a complex international confrontation with significant Cold War implications.
1951 Olympic Gold Medalist Jörg Landvoigt Born: Jörg Landvoigt was born in the German Democratic Republic (East Germany). He would later become a renowned Olympic athlete, winning a gold medal in coxless pairs rowing at the 1976 Montreal Olympics, representing East Germany.
1952 Chinese Invasion of Taewha-do during Korean War: On November 23, 1952, during the Korean War, Chinese Communist forces strategically seized Taewha-do, a small island located in the northern Yalu Gulf. The invasion was conducted using an unconventional approach, with troops transported via junks (traditional Chinese sailing vessels) and rubber rafts, demonstrating the military's adaptability in challenging maritime terrain. This tactical move was part of the broader conflict between United Nations forces and Communist Chinese and North Korean troops.
1953 Blasket Islands Evacuation: The final human inhabitants of the remote Blasket Islands off the coast of County Kerry, Ireland, were evacuated to the mainland, marking the end of a centuries-old island community's continuous habitation.
1954 Dow Jones Recovers from 1929 Crash Peak: On November 23, 1954, the Dow Jones Industrial Average closed above its pre-1929 crash peak, symbolizing a significant economic recovery more than two decades after the Great Depression. This milestone represented a powerful signal of renewed investor confidence and economic resilience in the post-World War II era.
1955 Transfer of Cocos Islands from UK to Australia: On November 23, 1955, the Cocos (Keeling) Islands were officially transferred from British colonial control to Australian administration. Located in the Indian Ocean, these strategically positioned islands marked a significant moment in post-colonial territorial transitions. The transfer represented a diplomatic and administrative shift, reflecting the evolving geopolitical relationships between the United Kingdom and its former colonial territories in the mid-20th century.
1956 Suez Crisis Triggers British Petrol Rationing: The Suez Crisis leads to petrol rationing in Britain, causing significant public anxiety. The BBC reports widespread panic among motorists as fuel supplies become constrained due to the geopolitical conflict in the Middle East.
1958 "Have Gun - Will Travel" Radio Drama Premiere: On November 23, 1958, the radio version of the popular Western series "Have Gun - Will Travel" premiered, marking a significant moment in the history of radio entertainment. This broadcast was notable for being one of the last dramatic radio programs to air on commercial radio, symbolizing the declining era of radio drama as television began to dominate entertainment media. While most commercial radio stations would transition to music and talk formats, some National Public Radio (NPR) stations would continue to preserve the tradition of radio dramas in the coming decades.
1959 De Gaulle's Vision of a United Europe: French President Charles de Gaulle delivered a landmark speech in Strasbourg, articulating his ambitious vision of a unified Europe stretching 'from the Atlantic to the Urals', symbolizing a geopolitical perspective that transcended the Cold War divisions of the time.
1960 Hollywood Walk of Fame Dedication: Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street became home to the iconic Walk of Fame, a landmark celebrating the entertainment industry's most significant contributors. This star-studded sidewalk would become a global tourist attraction and a symbol of Hollywood's cultural impact.
1962 Spiegel Scandal Resolution: German authorities concluded their occupation of the offices of 'Der Spiegel', a prominent German news magazine, marking a significant moment in press freedom and government-media relations during the Cold War era.
1963 Lyndon B. Johnson Becomes President: Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in as the 36th President of the United States aboard Air Force One, following the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy. This historic moment marked a sudden and somber transition of presidential power during a deeply traumatic period in American history.
1964 Vatican Reforms Liturgical Language: The Vatican made a significant historical decision to abolish Latin as the official language of Roman Catholic liturgy, marking a major shift in church communication and accessibility for global congregations.
1965 TIROS-2 Satellite Launch: NASA successfully launches TIROS-2, a groundbreaking meteorological satellite that represents a significant milestone in Earth observation and weather monitoring technology.
1966 Death of Seán T. O'Kelly, Former Irish President: Seán T. O'Kelly, the second President of Ireland, who served from 1945 to 1959, passed away on November 23, 1966. A prominent Irish politician and statesman, O'Kelly played a significant role in Ireland's post-independence political landscape. He succeeded Douglas Hyde as President and was a key figure in the early years of the Irish Republic.
1967 Battle of Dak To during Vietnam War: The Battle of Dak To was a significant engagement during the Vietnam War, taking place in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. The South Vietnamese Army, supported by U.S. Special Forces, engaged in a fierce confrontation with North Vietnamese Army (NVA) and Viet Cong forces. The battle was characterized by intense combat around the U.S. Special Forces camp, resulting in substantial casualties. While the South Vietnamese and U.S. forces suffered 73 deaths, the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong suffered catastrophic losses, with over 1,200 troops killed. This battle was part of the broader North Vietnamese strategy to disrupt South Vietnamese and U.S. military operations in the region.
1968 Milwaukee Bucks First NBA Trade: The Milwaukee Bucks completed their first significant NBA trade, exchanging players Bob Love and Bob Weiss to the Chicago Bulls in return for Flynn Robinson. This early transaction was part of the team's strategic player development and roster management during their formative years in the NBA.
1970 Simas Kudirka's Defection Attempt: Lithuanian radio operator Simas Kudirka attempted to defect from a Soviet fishing trawler to the United States by jumping aboard the U.S. Coast Guard vessel USS Quinnebaug, marking a dramatic moment during the Cold War era.
1971 China Joins UN Security Council: The People's Republic of China was officially seated in the United Nations Security Council, marking a significant diplomatic shift in global geopolitics. This momentous event represented a major change in international representation, replacing Taiwan's delegation with mainland China's representatives.
1972 Atari Launches Pong: On November 23, 1972, Atari released Pong, the first commercially successful video game that would revolutionize the entertainment industry. This simple tennis-like arcade game became a cultural phenomenon and laid the groundwork for the modern video game industry.
1974 Vladivostok Summit: SALT-II Framework: On November 23, 1974, U.S. President Gerald Ford and Soviet General Secretary Leonid Brezhnev met at the Vladivostok Summit, where they successfully negotiated a framework for the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT-II). This landmark diplomatic meeting aimed to reduce nuclear weapon stockpiles and ease Cold War tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union.
1975 Death of Francisco Franco: Spanish dictator Francisco Franco's funeral was held in Madrid, marking the end of his 36-year authoritarian regime. This event signaled a critical turning point in Spanish history, paving the way for democratic transition.
1976 Death of André Malraux, Renowned French Intellectual: André Malraux, a prominent French novelist, art historian, and public intellectual, passed away at the age of 75. Known for his seminal work 'The Voices of Silence', Malraux was a significant cultural figure who made substantial contributions to literature, art theory, and French political life during the 20th century.
1977 Deadly Andhra Pradesh Cyclone: A catastrophic cyclone hit the state of Andhra Pradesh, India, causing massive loss of life with approximately 20,000 people killed over a two-day period, making it one of the deadliest natural disasters of the year.
1978 Deadly Cyclone in Sri Lanka: A catastrophic cyclone struck the eastern coastal regions of Sri Lanka, causing widespread devastation and claiming approximately 1,000 lives. The natural disaster resulted in significant loss of human life, infrastructure damage, and humanitarian crisis in the affected areas.
1979 Carter Convenes Crisis Meeting on Iran Hostage Situation: On November 23, 1979, President Jimmy Carter gathered key members of his administration at Camp David in Catoctin Mountain Park, Maryland, to strategize about the Iran Hostage Crisis. The meeting included Secretary of Defense Harold Brown, Secretary of State Cyrus R. Vance, and Vice President Walter F. Mondale. This crisis began on November 4 when Iranian revolutionaries seized the U.S. Embassy in Tehran, marking a critical moment in U.S.-Iran relations.
1980 Southern Italy Earthquake of 1980: A devastating earthquake struck southern Italy, causing massive destruction and loss of life. The magnitude 6.5-6.9 earthquake resulted in over 3,000-4,900 fatalities, approximately 1,900 people missing, 7,700-8,934 injured, and left around 250,000-300,000 people homeless. The earthquake had an extreme Mercalli intensity of X, causing extensive structural damage across the region.
1981 US-Soviet Nuclear Reduction Negotiations Begin: Representatives from the United States and the Soviet Union commenced critical negotiations aimed at reducing intermediate-range nuclear weapons in Europe. These talks were a significant diplomatic effort during the Cold War to reduce nuclear tensions and potential military escalation between the two superpowers.
1982 FCC Deregulates Television Advertising: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) eliminated existing restrictions on the duration and frequency of television advertisements, potentially transforming the landscape of broadcast media and commercial practices.
1983 USSR Withdraws from Weapon Disarmament Talks: The Soviet Union unilaterally withdrew from ongoing weapon disarmament negotiations, escalating Cold War tensions and signaling a breakdown in diplomatic efforts to reduce nuclear armaments.
1984 Doug Flutie's Legendary Hail Mary Pass: In a historic moment of American college football, Boston College quarterback Doug Flutie threw an extraordinary 48-yard Hail Mary pass to wide receiver Gerard Phelan, dramatically defeating the University of Miami Hurricanes 45-41. This play is widely considered one of the most iconic and memorable moments in college football history, instantly elevating Flutie to national sports legend status.
1985 EgyptAir Flight 648 Hijacking and Commando Raid: On November 23, 1985, EgyptAir Flight 648 was hijacked by the Abu Nidal terrorist group while en route from Athens to Cairo. The aircraft was forced to land in Malta, where Egyptian commandos launched a storming operation. Tragically, the raid resulted in 60 fatalities due to gunfire and explosions, highlighting the extreme violence of terrorist hijackings during the 1980s.
1987 Billboard Number 1 Hit in USA: (I've Had) The Time of My Life: On November 23, 1987, the iconic song '(I've Had) The Time of My Life' by Bill Medley topped the US music charts. This song, famously featured in the movie 'Dirty Dancing', became a massive hit and won both an Academy Award and a Grammy Award for Best Original Song.
1988 Chun Doo Hwan's Public Apology and Exile: Former South Korean President Chun Doo Hwan publicly apologizes for widespread corruption during his presidency and announces his intention to go into voluntary exile, marking a significant moment in South Korean political accountability.
1989 Communist Party Resignation in Czechoslovakia: The Communist Party of Czechoslovakia initiated its resignation process, signaling a critical moment in the country's political transformation and the broader collapse of communist regimes in Eastern Europe.
1990 Death of Roald Dahl, Renowned Children's Author: Roald Dahl, the beloved British author famous for his imaginative children's books like 'James and the Giant Peach' and 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory', passed away in Oxford, England. His works have enchanted generations of young readers with their whimsical storytelling and memorable characters.
1991 Freddie Mercury Announces HIV Status: Queen's lead singer Freddie Mercury publicly announced his HIV-positive status in a poignant statement, revealing his battle with AIDS. Tragically, he passed away the following day, marking a significant moment in music history and AIDS awareness.
1992 First Smartphone Introduced: IBM Simon, widely considered the world's first smartphone, was unveiled at the COMDEX computer trade show in Las Vegas, Nevada. This groundbreaking device combined mobile phone capabilities with personal digital assistant (PDA) features, marking a significant milestone in mobile technology.
1993 US Presidential Apology for Hawaiian Monarchy Overthrow: President Bill Clinton signed Public Law 103-150, known as the 'Apology Resolution', acknowledging and apologizing for the United States' role in the illegal overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893. This landmark resolution represented a significant moment of governmental accountability, addressing a historical injustice against Native Hawaiians and marking a rare instance of bipartisan recognition of past wrongs.
1994 Death of Art Barr, Professional Wrestler: Art Barr, an influential American professional wrestler known for his charismatic performances and contributions to lucha libre wrestling, passed away at the young age of 28. Barr was a notable figure in the wrestling world, particularly in Mexico, where he was part of the famous tag team 'Los Gringos Locos' with Eddie Guerrero.
1995 Uneventful Day in Global History: While no major global events were recorded for November 23, 1995, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. Many important developments in science, technology, politics, and culture might have been happening behind the scenes or in localized contexts not widely documented.
1996 Ethiopian Airlines Flight 961 Tragedy: Ethiopian Airlines Flight 961 was hijacked and subsequently crashed into the Indian Ocean off the coast of Comoros after exhausting its fuel supply, resulting in the tragic loss of 125 lives. The incident highlights the severe risks associated with aircraft hijackings and the potential for catastrophic outcomes.
1997 Death of Betty Shabazz: Civil rights activist Betty Shabazz, widow of Malcolm X, passed away on November 23, 1997, after suffering severe injuries from a fire deliberately set by her 12-year-old grandson on June 1, 1997. Her death marked the end of a significant life dedicated to civil rights and social justice.
1998 Iraq Refuses UN Weapons Inspection Cooperation: During the ongoing Iraq disarmament crisis, Iraq unilaterally terminated cooperation with United Nations weapons inspectors (UNSCOM), employing tactics of intimidation and information suppression. This action escalated international tensions and raised significant concerns about potential weapons of mass destruction development.
1999 Hillary Clinton Enters New York Senate Race: Hillary Rodham Clinton officially announced her candidacy for a United States Senate seat representing New York State, marking a significant moment in her political career outside of her role as First Lady.
2001 Convention on Cybercrime Signed in Budapest: The Convention on Cybercrime was signed in Budapest, Hungary, marking a significant international effort to address digital crime and establish legal frameworks for cybersecurity. This landmark treaty aimed to harmonize national laws on cybercrime, improve investigative techniques, and enhance international cooperation in prosecuting computer-related offenses.
2002 Murder of Pim Fortuyn: Confession by Volkert van den Graaf: Volkert van den Graaf, a Dutch environmental activist, confessed to the assassination of controversial Dutch politician Pim Fortuyn. He claimed his motivation was to protect vulnerable societal groups from what he perceived as Fortuyn's potentially harmful political rhetoric and policies.
2003 Georgian Rose Revolution Ends: The Georgian Rose Revolution concludes with a historic political transformation as President Eduard Shevardnadze resigns following weeks of massive peaceful protests challenging fraudulent election results. This marked a pivotal moment in Georgia's democratic evolution, signaling a rejection of electoral manipulation and a demand for transparent governance.
2004 Ukrainian Political Protests: Major political demonstrations occurred in Ukraine, with western regions like Lviv, Ternopil, and Vinnytsia supporting Viktor Yushchenko. Approximately 200,000 people surrounded the Parliament building in Kyiv, demanding Viktor Yanukovych's resignation.
2005 Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf Confirmed as Liberian President: Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf was officially declared the winner of the Liberian presidential election, receiving 59.4% of the vote. This historic victory established her as Africa's first female elected head of state.
2006 Sadr City Sectarian Bombing: A devastating series of mortar and car bomb attacks in Baghdad's predominantly Shi'a Sadr City killed at least 202 people and injured 257, representing the most deadly coordinated attack since the beginning of the Iraq War.
2007 Baghdad Pet Shop Bombing: A devastating bomb blast at the Ghazil pet shop in Baghdad, Iraq, killed at least 13 people and injured 50 others, highlighting the ongoing violence in the region.
2008 US Government Rescues Citigroup: In a significant financial intervention, the United States government saved Citigroup Inc. from potential collapse. The bank agreed to absorb approximately $250 billion in losses and received a $20 billion capital investment to stabilize its financial position.
2009 Maguindanao Massacre: A horrific mass killing occurred in Ampatuan, Maguindanao, Philippines, where 57 citizens and journalists were brutally murdered by gunmen while en route to register voters. This event is considered the worst attack on journalists in recorded history, highlighting the extreme political violence in the region.
2010 North Korean Shelling of Yeonpyeong Island: On November 23, 2010, North Korea launched a significant artillery attack on Yeonpyeong Island, South Korea at 14:34 local time. The attack was a response to South Korean military drills near the North Korean border. The shelling resulted in the deaths of two South Korean marines and marked one of the most severe military confrontations since the 1953 Korean War, escalating tensions between the two nations.
2011 Yemen's Political Transition during Arab Spring: After 11 months of sustained protests challenging his long-standing rule, Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh signed a landmark power transfer agreement, agreeing to cede authority to his vice president in exchange for legal immunity. This pivotal moment marked a significant shift in Yemen's political landscape during the broader Arab Spring movement.
2012 Political Unrest in Egypt: Significant political tensions erupted in Egypt after President Mohamed Morsi issued a controversial decree expanding his presidential powers. The move sparked widespread protests both for and against his decision, with violence reported across the country.
2013 P5+1 Talks on Iran's Nuclear Program: Foreign ministers from the P5+1 group convened in Geneva for critical negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program, seeking diplomatic resolution to international tensions.
2014 Afghanistan Volleyball Match Suicide Bombing: A devastating suicide bombing at a volleyball match in Paktika province, Afghanistan, kills 45 people and injures 50, highlighting ongoing insurgent violence in the region.
2015 Blue Origin's Historic New Shepard Space Vehicle Landing: Blue Origin successfully launched its New Shepard space vehicle, becoming the first rocket to fly to space and return to Earth with a controlled, vertical landing. This milestone represents a significant breakthrough in reusable rocket technology and private space exploration.
2016 Trump's Presidential Transition Appointments: President-elect Donald Trump announced key cabinet appointments, naming Nikki Haley as United States Ambassador to the United Nations and Betsy DeVos as United States Secretary of Education.
2017 Rohingya Refugee Return Agreement: In a diplomatic effort to address the Rohingya crisis, Bangladesh's Foreign Minister A. H. Mahmood Ali and Myanmar's State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi negotiated an agreement to facilitate the return of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar within a two-month timeframe, marking a potential turning point in the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
2018 Karachi Chinese Consulate Attack: A coordinated terrorist attack on the Chinese consulate in Karachi, Pakistan resulted in four fatalities. Three attackers were also killed during the assault. The Balochistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the incident, highlighting ongoing regional tensions and separatist movements.
2019 2019 Samoa Measles Outbreak Emergency: The measles outbreak in the Pacific region escalated dramatically, with Tonga and Fiji declaring states of emergency. Samoa was particularly hard-hit, experiencing a rising death toll and widespread school closures, signaling a severe public health crisis.
2020 COVID-19 Pandemic Surges Across North America: North America experiences significant COVID-19 case spikes: Ohio reports 11,885 new cases (potentially inflated due to lab backlogs), Maryland prepares state trooper enforcement for Thanksgiving, and Canada records a nationwide record of 5,713 new cases, bringing total confirmed cases to 337,555.
2021 Austria and Germany Implement Stricter COVID-19 Restrictions: In response to escalating COVID-19 case numbers, Austria imposed a new nationwide lockdown. Simultaneously, German Chancellor Angela Merkel emphasized the urgent need for tighter restrictions in Germany to curb the record-setting rise in coronavirus infections.
2022 Mass Shooting at Chesapeake Walmart: On November 23, 2022, a tragic mass shooting occurred at a Walmart in Chesapeake, Virginia, resulting in at least six fatalities and multiple injuries. The suspected shooter, who appeared to have acted alone, was also found dead at the scene. Five victims were transported to Norfolk General Hospital for treatment. The incident highlighted the ongoing issue of gun violence in the United States, coming just days after another mass shooting at an LGBTQ nightclub in Colorado Springs and shortly after a campus shooting at the University of Virginia. Walmart expressed condolences, and Senator Mark Warner condemned the violence, emphasizing the recurring nature of such tragic events.
2023 Ron Bland Sets NFL Interception Return Touchdown Record: In a remarkable defensive performance during a 45-10 victory against the Washington Commanders, Dallas Cowboys defensive back Ron Bland made NFL history by breaking the single-season record for interception returns for a touchdown. Bland achieved his fifth interception return touchdown, setting a new benchmark for defensive playmaking in the 2023 NFL season.

What Is special about November 23?

November 23 is notable for a variety of important historical, cultural, and significant events, including famous birthdays and deaths, holidays and more. Find out everything about November 23.