Historical Events on November 24: 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 24, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on November 24 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Uneventful Day in 1900: While no specific significant historical events were recorded for November 24, 1900, this date falls during the late Victorian era, a period of significant global transformation marked by industrial expansion, colonial ambitions, and technological innovations.
1901 Uneventful Day in Early 20th Century: While no specific significant historical events were recorded for November 24, 1901, this date represents a typical day during the early years of the 20th century. The world was in a period of transition, with technological innovations, colonial expansions, and emerging global tensions characterizing the era.
1902 Uneventful Day in Global History: On November 24, 1902, no significant global events were documented. This day appears to have been relatively quiet across various regions, with no major political, social, or technological developments recorded in available historical archives.
1903 First Automobile Electric Starter Patent: Clyde Coleman of New York City successfully patents an innovative automobile electric starter, a groundbreaking technological development that would significantly transform automotive design and user experience. This invention marked a crucial milestone in automotive engineering, replacing manual hand-cranking methods and making vehicle operation more convenient and safer.
1904 First Successful Caterpillar Track Developed: On November 24, 1904, a groundbreaking engineering achievement was realized with the creation of the first successful caterpillar track. This innovative design would fundamentally transform transportation and mobility across multiple industries, particularly in construction, agriculture, and military applications. The track's unique design allowed vehicles to distribute weight more evenly and traverse challenging terrains that traditional wheeled vehicles could not, marking a significant technological breakthrough in mechanical engineering.
1905 Birth of Irwin Allen, Influential Film Producer: Irwin Allen was born, a pioneering American film producer and director who would later become known for disaster films like 'The Poseidon Adventure' and 'The Towering Inferno'. His innovative storytelling and spectacular visual effects significantly influenced the entertainment industry during the 1960s and 1970s.
1906 Canton Bulldogs-Massillon Tigers Betting Scandal: In a landmark moment for professional American football, the Canton Bulldogs and Massillon Tigers were involved in the first major betting scandal in the sport's nascent professional era. This event exposed the vulnerabilities of early professional football and highlighted the potential for match-fixing and gambling interference in competitive sports.
1908 Uneventful Day in 1908: While no specific major historical events were recorded for November 24, 1908, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. Many historical moments happen quietly, without immediate documentation. During this period, the world was experiencing significant transitions, including technological advancements, geopolitical shifts, and social transformations in the early 20th century.
1909 Uneventful Day in 1909: While no specific major historical events were recorded for November 24, 1909, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. Daily life continued in various parts of the world, with people going about their usual activities during the late Edwardian era. This period was characterized by significant technological advancements, social changes, and growing tensions that would eventually lead to World War I.
1910 University of Pittsburgh Panthers Defeat Penn State in Football: On November 24, 1910, the University of Pittsburgh Panthers football team achieved a decisive 11-0 victory over Penn State, solidifying their early dominance in collegiate football. This historic match was particularly significant as it positioned Pitt as one of only two major college football programs at the time with an undefeated record against Penn State.
1911 Fatal Boiler Explosion at J. Bibby & Sons Oil Cake Mills: On November 24, 1911, a catastrophic boiler explosion occurred at the J. Bibby & Sons oil cake mills in Liverpool, resulting in a tragic loss of life. The industrial accident claimed the lives of 27 workers and left approximately 100 others injured. This devastating incident highlighted the significant safety risks present in industrial manufacturing facilities during the early 20th century, where workplace safety regulations were often inadequate.
1912 Tragic Theater Stampede in Bilbao: On November 24, 1912, a devastating mass panic occurred at a movie theater in Bilbao, Spain, resulting in a tragic loss of life. Forty-four people were killed and 60 others were injured during the chaotic incident. The stampede likely occurred due to a sudden outbreak of fear or a perceived threat, causing a rapid and uncontrolled rush towards the theater's exits. This event highlights the potential dangers of crowd dynamics and the importance of proper crowd management and emergency exit strategies in public venues.
1913 Bulgarian Liberal Parties Secure Parliamentary Victory: In a significant political development, a coalition of liberal parties in Bulgaria, strategically led by Prime Minister Vasil Radoslavov, secured a substantial plurality in the national parliamentary election. The coalition won 95 out of 204 seats, demonstrating their growing political influence and public support during a pivotal period in early 20th-century Bulgarian political history.
1914 Mussolini Expelled from Socialist Party: Benito Mussolini was expelled from the Italian Socialist Party, a pivotal moment in his political trajectory that would eventually lead to his rise as the founder of Italian Fascism. This expulsion marked a significant turning point in Mussolini's ideological evolution and future political career.
1915 Revival of the Ku Klux Klan: William J. Simmons officially re-established the Ku Klux Klan at Stone Mountain, Georgia, marking a significant moment in the resurgence of white supremacist ideology in the United States. This event signaled the beginning of the second era of the KKK, which would grow to have substantial political and social influence in the early 20th century.
1916 Death of Sir Hiram Stevens Maxim, Firearms Inventor: Sir Hiram Stevens Maxim, the American-born inventor of the revolutionary Maxim gun, passed away. His automatic machine gun was a significant technological advancement in warfare and became a standard weapon in many military arsenals during the early 20th century.
1917 Battle of Jerusalem - New Zealand Mounted Rifles Brigade: During World War I, on November 24, 1917, the New Zealand Mounted Rifles Brigade played a significant role in the Battle of Jerusalem, a critical engagement in the Middle Eastern theater of the war. This battle was part of the British campaign to capture Jerusalem from Ottoman control, marking an important strategic moment in the conflict.
1918 French Minesweepers Lost in Lake Superior Storm: On November 24, 1918, two French minesweepers, the Inkerman and Cerisoles, were tragically lost during a severe storm on Lake Superior. The catastrophic maritime incident resulted in the complete disappearance of both vessels and the devastating loss of 78 crew members. This event occurred shortly after the end of World War I, highlighting the ongoing maritime risks even in the aftermath of the conflict.
1919 Lack of Documented Historical Events - November 24, 1919: While no specific historical events were found for this date, the year 1919 was a significant period of global transition following World War I. The post-war era was marked by political restructuring, social changes, and the emergence of new international dynamics.
1921 Discovery of Asteroid Petunia: On November 24, 1921, German astronomer Karl Reinmuth made a significant astronomical discovery by identifying the asteroid Petunia. Using advanced telescopic technology of the era, Reinmuth observed and documented this celestial body, which measures approximately 17 miles (27 kilometers) in diameter. This discovery contributed to the expanding understanding of our solar system's asteroid population during the early 20th century.
1922 Mussolini Granted Dictatorial Powers: On November 24, 1922, the Italian parliament granted Benito Mussolini temporary dictatorial powers for one year, marking a significant turning point in Italian political history. This decision effectively paved the way for Mussolini's rise to power and the eventual establishment of a fascist regime.
1923 Uneventful Day in 1923: While no specific major historical events were recorded for November 24, 1923, this period was part of the tumultuous interwar period in Europe. Germany was experiencing significant economic and political instability during this time, with hyperinflation reaching its peak and setting the stage for future political upheavals. The Weimar Republic was struggling to maintain economic and social stability, which would eventually contribute to the rise of Nazi ideology.
1924 Discovery of the Taung Child Fossil: On November 24, 1924, Australian anatomist and anthropologist Raymond Dart made a groundbreaking discovery of the fossilized remains of the 'Taung child', a pivotal moment in understanding human evolution. This fossil, found in South Africa, was a crucial piece of evidence supporting the theory that human ancestors originated in Africa, challenging previous assumptions about human origins.
1925 Birth of William F. Buckley Jr.: William F. Buckley Jr., an influential American writer, political commentator, and founder of the conservative National Review magazine, was born. He would become a pivotal intellectual figure in the modern conservative movement.
1926 Birth of Renowned Physicist Tsung-Dao Lee: Tsung-Dao Lee, a distinguished Chinese-American physicist who would later win the Nobel Prize, is born. Lee would become known for his groundbreaking work in particle physics and quantum mechanics, making significant contributions to scientific understanding in the mid-20th century.
1927 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Introduces Character Balloon: The fourth annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City marked a significant milestone in parade entertainment by introducing a large balloon featuring a popular cartoon character. This innovation would become a beloved tradition that continues to delight parade-goers to this day.
1928 SS Vestris Maritime Disaster: On November 24, 1928, the passenger liner SS Vestris encountered a catastrophic maritime emergency in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 200 miles off the coast of Hampton Roads, Virginia. The vessel developed a severe starboard list, forcing passengers and crew to abandon ship before it ultimately sank. The tragedy resulted in a significant loss of life, with estimated fatalities ranging between 110 and 127 individuals. The disaster highlighted critical maritime safety concerns of the era and prompted subsequent improvements in maritime rescue protocols and ship design.
1929 Formation of the Lapua Movement in Finland: On November 24, 1929, the Finnish far-right Lapua Movement was officially initiated when a group of former White Guard members, led by Vihtori Kosola, dramatically disrupted a communist gathering at the Workers' House in Lapua, Finland. This event marked the beginning of a radical anti-communist political movement that would significantly impact Finnish political dynamics in the early 1930s.
1930 Ruth Nichols: First Woman Transcontinental Pilot: On November 24, 1930, Ruth Nichols made aviation history by becoming the first woman to complete a transcontinental air flight across the United States. Flying a Lockheed-Vega aircraft, she courageously navigated from Mineola, New York to California, a challenging journey that took her seven days. Her groundbreaking flight not only demonstrated women's capabilities in aviation but also pushed the boundaries of early 20th-century aerial exploration.
1931 Uneventful Day in 1931: While no major historical events were documented for November 24, 1931, this day represents a moment of relative calm during the interwar period. The early 1930s were characterized by global economic challenges following the Great Depression, and not every day yields significant historical markers.
1932 FBI Scientific Crime Detection Laboratory Established: On November 24, 1932, the FBI Scientific Crime Detection Laboratory (FBI Crime Lab) was officially opened in Washington, D.C. This groundbreaking forensic facility would become a pivotal institution in modern criminal investigation, providing scientific analysis and evidence processing for law enforcement agencies across the United States.
1933 Nazi Germany's Animal Protection Law: On November 24, 1933, Adolf Hitler signed a comprehensive animal welfare legislation that prohibited various forms of animal cruelty, including vivisection, commercial animal hunting, and inhumane slaughter practices. This law was considered groundbreaking for its time, reflecting a surprising commitment to animal rights, despite the regime's brutal human rights record.
1934 ANZAC War Memorial Unveiled in Sydney: The ANZAC War Memorial was officially unveiled in Sydney, Australia, commemorating the brave soldiers who served and sacrificed their lives during World War I. This memorial stands as a powerful symbol of national remembrance and honors the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who fought in the Great War.
1935 King George II Returns to Greece: King George II returned to Greece after a 12-year exile, restoring the Greek monarchy and marking a pivotal moment in the nation's political landscape. His return signaled a complex period of political transition and potential restoration of royal governance in Greece.
1936 Carl von Ossietzky Imprisoned and Awarded Nobel Peace Prize: Carl von Ossietzky, a prominent pacifist and anti-fascist writer, was sent to a Nazi concentration camp after being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. His imprisonment highlighted the brutal suppression of dissent in Nazi Germany.
1937 D.B. Cooper Hijacking: A Mysterious Aviation Crime: On November 24, 1937, a man using the alias Dan Cooper (later mistakenly referred to as D.B. Cooper) hijacked a Northwest Orient Airlines Boeing 727 flying from Portland to Seattle. He demanded $200,000 in ransom and parachuted from the plane mid-flight with the money, disappearing into the dense forests of the Pacific Northwest. This remains the only unsolved hijacking case in U.S. aviation history, capturing public imagination for decades and spawning numerous theories about the hijacker's fate.
1938 Hitler Plans Occupation of Danzig: On November 24, 1938, Adolf Hitler issued a strategic military directive ordering preparations for the occupation of Danzig (now Gdańsk, Poland), signaling escalating tensions in pre-World War II Europe and foreshadowing future territorial aggression.
1939 Soviet Shelling of Mainila: In a calculated false flag operation, Soviet artillery deliberately shelled the Finnish border village of Mainila, creating a fabricated pretext for invasion. This provocative incident marked the beginning of the Winter War between the Soviet Union and Finland, showcasing Soviet strategic deception and territorial aggression.
1940 Greek Victory Against Italian Forces: During World War II, on November 24, 1940, the Greek army achieved a significant military victory by defeating the Italian IX Army at Koritsa (Korçë). This battle was part of the larger Greco-Italian War and represented an important moment of resistance against Axis expansion in the Balkans.
1941 Holocaust Atrocity in Vilna: A tragic Holocaust event occurred in Vilna (now Vilnius, Lithuania), where some Jews were issued life certificates while the majority were systematically exterminated by Nazi forces.
1942 Erich von Manstein Arrives in Starobelsk: Field Marshal Erich von Manstein, a prominent German Wehrmacht commander during World War II, arrived in Starobelsk, a strategic location in eastern Ukraine. His presence likely signaled important military operations or strategic planning during the German invasion of the Soviet Union.
1943 USS Liscome Bay Sunk in World War II Pacific Theater: During World War II, the escort carrier USS Liscome Bay was sunk by Japanese submarine I-175 near Makin in the Gilbert Islands. The attack resulted in the tragic loss of 644 sailors, including notable African-American Pearl Harbor hero Doris "Dorie" Miller. Miller, who had previously gained recognition for his bravery during the Pearl Harbor attack, was among those killed in this devastating naval engagement.
1944 First US Bombing Raid on Tokyo from Northern Mariana Islands: During World War II, the 73rd Bombardment Wing launched a historic strategic bombing mission, marking the first attack on Tokyo from the Northern Mariana Islands. This operation represented a significant milestone in the Pacific Theater, bringing the war directly to the Japanese homeland.
1945 Soviet Forces Encircle Berlin: Soviet military forces from the 1st Belorussian Front and the 1st Ukrainian Front successfully linked up, initiating the strategic encirclement of Berlin. This critical military maneuver was a decisive moment in the Soviet offensive, setting the stage for the final battle that would ultimately lead to the fall of Nazi Germany and the end of World War II in Europe.
1946 Ted Bundy Born: On November 24, 1946, Theodore Robert Bundy was born in Burlington, Vermont. He would later become one of the most notorious serial killers in American history, responsible for numerous murders across multiple states during the 1970s. Bundy was eventually captured, tried, and executed in Florida in 1989, leaving a dark legacy of violent crime.
1947 Hollywood 10 Cited for Contempt of Congress during Red Scare: In a significant moment of Cold War-era political tension, the United States House of Representatives votes overwhelmingly (346 to 17) to approve contempt of Congress citations against the 'Hollywood 10' - a group of screenwriters, directors, and producers who refused to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee about alleged Communist influences in the film industry. This event represents a critical moment in the McCarthy-era suppression of perceived Communist sympathizers.
1948 Venezuelan Presidential Coup: In a significant political upheaval, Venezuelan President Rómulo Gallegos was ousted by a military junta, disrupting the country's democratic process.
1949 British Steel Industry Nationalization: The British House of Lords provided final legislative approval to a controversial bill nationalizing the iron and steel industry, with the legislation set to become effective on January 1, 1951. This marked a significant moment in post-World War II economic restructuring, reflecting the Labour government's socialist policy of bringing key industries under state control.
1950 Truman Assassination Attempt: Two Puerto Rican nationalists, Griselio Torresola and Oscar Collazo, attempt to assassinate President Harry S. Truman at the Blair House in Washington, D.C., in a dramatic political incident.
1951 Gigi Broadway Premiere with Audrey Hepburn: The Broadway play Gigi opens at the Broadhurst Theater, featuring a then little-known actress Audrey Hepburn in the title role. This performance would be an early milestone in Hepburn's legendary theatrical and film career.
1953 Brooklyn Dodgers Hire Walter Alston as Manager: On November 24, 1953, the Brooklyn Dodgers signed Walter Alston to a one-year contract as their team manager. Alston would go on to become one of the most legendary managers in baseball history, leading the Dodgers for 23 consecutive seasons from 1954 to 1976, including their historic move from Brooklyn to Los Angeles. During his tenure, he would win seven National League pennants and four World Series championships.
1954 France Deploys Troops to Algeria: On November 24, 1954, France sent 20,000 soldiers to Algeria, escalating military involvement in what would become a complex and prolonged colonial conflict. This deployment was part of France's response to the growing Algerian independence movement, which had recently launched the first attacks of the Algerian War of Independence. The military intervention would have significant geopolitical and humanitarian consequences in the coming years.
1955 Thanksgiving Day in the United States: Annual national holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, commemorating the harvest and blessings of the past year. Traditionally marked by family gatherings, festive meals featuring turkey, and expressions of gratitude.
1956 Tragic Milwaukee Police Department Bombing: A devastating bombing at the Milwaukee Police Department resulted in the deaths of nine officers, representing the most significant single-event loss of police lives in U.S. history until the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
1957 Birth of Caroline Kennedy: Caroline Kennedy, an American author, attorney, and diplomat who is the daughter of President John F. Kennedy and a prominent public figure, was born on November 24, 1957.
1958 Mali Gains Autonomy from France: On November 24, 1958, Mali became an autonomous state within the French Community, marking a significant step in its path towards independence. This event was part of the broader decolonization process in French West Africa during the late 1950s.
1959 Death of Dr. Lyman Bryson, Prominent Educator: Dr. Lyman Bryson, a distinguished educator and notable contributor to the United Nations' educational initiatives, passed away at the age of 71. Known for his significant work in the UN Casebook and contributions to educational theory and practice, Bryson was a respected intellectual who helped shape educational discourse in the mid-20th century.
1960 Wilt Chamberlain's Record-Breaking Rebound Performance: On November 24, 1960, basketball legend Wilt Chamberlain set an extraordinary NBA record by pulling down 55 rebounds in a single game while playing for the Philadelphia Warriors against the Boston Celtics. This remarkable achievement highlighted Chamberlain's exceptional physical prowess and dominance on the basketball court, showcasing why he is considered one of the most dominant players in NBA history.
1961 D.B. Cooper Hijacking Incident: On November 24, 1961, one of the most infamous unsolved aviation crimes in American history occurred when a man using the alias Dan Cooper hijacked a Northwest Orient Airlines flight. After successfully extorting $200,000 in ransom and obtaining parachutes, he dramatically escaped mid-flight by parachuting from the plane, never to be conclusively identified or captured. This mysterious event has since become a legendary cold case in criminal history.
1962 Cold War Political Reorganization in Berlin: During the Cold War, the West Berlin branch of the Socialist Unity Party of Germany establishes itself as a separate political entity, the Socialist Unity Party of West Berlin, reflecting the complex political landscape of divided Germany.
1963 Lee Harvey Oswald Killed by Jack Ruby on Live Television: On November 24, 1963, Lee Harvey Oswald, the alleged assassin of President John F. Kennedy, was shot and killed by Jack Ruby in the basement of Dallas Police Department headquarters. The shocking moment was captured live on national television, and photographer Robert H. Jackson captured the iconic image that would win the 1964 Pulitzer Prize in Photography.
1964 Mariner 4 Mars Mission Launch: NASA launched the Mariner 4 space probe from Cape Kennedy, aimed at taking the first television pictures of Mars, a groundbreaking moment in space exploration.
1965 Mobutu Seizes Power in Congo: Joseph-Désiré Mobutu successfully staged a military coup and seized power in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, establishing himself as President. He would go on to rule the country for over three decades, renaming it Zaire in 1971 and implementing a highly authoritarian regime. His presidency lasted until rebel forces overthrew him in 1997, marking a significant period of political transformation in Central African history.
1966 The Beatles Begin Recording Sgt. Pepper: The Beatles commenced recording sessions for their groundbreaking album 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band', a pivotal moment in music history that would revolutionize rock and pop music.
1968 U.S. Military Attack on Tham Piu Cave: A tragic U.S. military operation in Laos resulted in the deaths of 374 civilians during an attack on the Tham Piu Cave in Xiangkhouang Province, representing a devastating incident during the Vietnam War era.
1969 Apollo 12 Mission Concludes: The Apollo 12 command module successfully splashed down in the Pacific Ocean, concluding the second crewed mission to land on the Moon. This mission further advanced human space exploration and demonstrated NASA's capabilities in lunar landing and return.
1970 Concorde's Second Test Flight: The revolutionary Concorde supersonic passenger jet conducted its second test flight, marking another milestone in the development of high-speed commercial aviation. This groundbreaking aircraft represented a significant technological achievement in transportation, promising to dramatically reduce international travel times.
1971 D.B. Cooper Hijacking: On Thanksgiving Eve, November 24, 1971, a mysterious man known as 'D.B. Cooper' hijacked Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 305, a Boeing 727 aircraft. Cooper demanded $200,000 in ransom and four parachutes. After releasing the passengers in Seattle, he instructed the flight crew to refuel the aircraft and begin a second flight to Mexico City. Cooper then dramatically parachuted into the dark, stormy night over southwestern Washington, vanishing without a trace and becoming one of the most infamous unsolved criminal mysteries in American history.
1972 Irish-British Diplomatic Meeting: Taoiseach Jack Lynch of Ireland met with British Prime Minister Edward Heath in London to discuss bilateral relations and potential new diplomatic arrangements. This meeting was significant in the context of ongoing tensions related to Northern Ireland and the complex political landscape of the early 1970s.
1973 Germany Implements Temporary Autobahn Speed Limit During Oil Crisis: In response to the 1973 global oil crisis, Germany imposed a national speed limit on the Autobahn, a rare occurrence for the traditionally speed-unrestricted highway system. This emergency measure was designed to conserve fuel and reduce national energy consumption. The speed restriction remained in effect for only four months, reflecting the temporary nature of the crisis response.
1974 Discovery of Lucy - Groundbreaking Hominid Fossil: On November 24, 1974, paleontologists Donald Johanson and Tom Gray made a remarkable discovery in the Afar Triangle of Ethiopia: a 3.18 million-year-old female hominid skeleton of the genus Australopithecus, nicknamed 'Lucy'. This skeleton, approximately 40% complete, was one of the most significant paleoanthropological finds of the 20th century, providing crucial insights into human evolution.
1975 Assassination of Antonio Echeverria: Basque terrorists assassinated Antonio Echeverria, the mayor of the Spanish city of Oyarzun, at his home during the period of political tension in the Basque region.
1976 The Band's Final Public Performance: Legendary rock group The Band performed their last public concert, a momentous event immortalized by renowned filmmaker Martin Scorsese in the documentary 'The Last Waltz'. This performance marked the end of an iconic musical era, capturing the group's final moments together on stage.
1977 French Nuclear Test at Mururoa Atoll: France conducted a nuclear test at Mururoa Atoll in French Polynesia, continuing its nuclear weapons development and testing program in the Pacific region, which raised significant environmental and geopolitical concerns.
1979 US Government Acknowledges Agent Orange Exposure of Vietnam Veterans: On November 24, 1979, the United States government officially admitted that military personnel deployed during the Vietnam War were exposed to Agent Orange, a highly toxic herbicide and defoliant chemical used extensively by the U.S. military during the conflict. This exposure would later be linked to numerous serious health complications for veterans, including various cancers, birth defects, and long-term medical conditions.
1980 First Tobago House of Assembly Elections: A significant milestone in Trinidad and Tobago's democratic development occurred with the first elections for the 12-member Tobago House of Assembly. This election marked an important step towards local autonomy, granting the small island greater self-governance within the larger republic and empowering local representation.
1981 Devastating Typhoon Irma Strikes Philippines: Typhoon Irma caused catastrophic damage in the Philippines, resulting in 408 direct fatalities and an additional 270 deaths from storm surge. The disaster left approximately 250,000 people homeless, making it one of the most destructive natural disasters in the country's history for that year.
1982 Leadership Change in Japan: Yasuhiro Nakasone succeeded Zenko Suzuki as the Prime Minister of Japan, representing a significant political transition during the early 1980s. Nakasone would go on to be a prominent leader who pursued economic reforms and strengthened Japan's international relations.
1983 Lynda Mann Murder Case: Lynda Mann, a 15-year-old girl, was found raped and murdered in the village of Narborough, England. This tragic event led to a significant forensic breakthrough when Colin Pitchfork was sentenced to life imprisonment in 1988, becoming one of the first cases solved using DNA profiling.
1984 Battle of Lookout Mountain during American Civil War: During the American Civil War, Union forces under General Ulysses S. Grant captured Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga, Tennessee, strategically breaking the Confederate siege led by General Braxton Bragg. This battle was a significant turning point in the Western Theater of the war, demonstrating the Union's tactical superiority and weakening the Confederate position in the region.
1985 Egyptian Commandos Resolve Hijacking in Malta: Egyptian special forces stormed a hijacked Boeing aircraft in Malta, resulting in a deadly confrontation that left approximately 60 people killed during the rescue operation. This dramatic incident highlighted the intense tensions surrounding international terrorism in the mid-1980s.
1986 Todd Worrell Wins National League Rookie of the Year: Todd Worrell, a talented relief pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals, was awarded the National League Rookie of the Year honor, recognizing his outstanding performance during the 1986 Major League Baseball season.
1987 Leadership Change in China: Li Peng Becomes Premier: Li Peng succeeded Zhao Ziyang as Premier of the People's Republic of China, marking a significant transition in Chinese political leadership during the late 1980s. This change occurred during a period of economic reforms and political complexity in China, with potential long-term implications for the country's governance and policy direction.
1988 Lockerbie Bombing of Pan Am Flight 103: On November 24, 1988, Pan Am Flight 103 was catastrophically bombed over Lockerbie, Scotland, resulting in the tragic deaths of 270 innocent passengers and crew members. This terrorist attack became one of the most notorious acts of aviation terrorism in history, leading to extensive international investigations and diplomatic tensions.
1989 Velvet Revolution: End of Communist Rule in Czechoslovakia: After a week of mass peaceful protests known as the Velvet Revolution, Miloš Jakeš and the entire Politburo of the Czechoslovak Communist Party resigned from office, effectively ending decades of Communist rule in Czechoslovakia. This pivotal moment marked a significant turning point in the country's political landscape, symbolizing the broader collapse of Communist regimes in Eastern Europe.
1991 Freddie Mercury Dies of AIDS: Freddie Mercury, the legendary lead singer of the rock band Queen, passed away in London at the age of 46 due to complications from AIDS. Born in Zanzibar in 1946, Mercury was a groundbreaking musician who significantly influenced rock music and became an iconic figure in the LGBTQ+ community.
1992 China Southern Airlines Flight 3943 Crash: On November 24, 1992, China Southern Airlines Flight 3943 tragically crashed while approaching Guilin Qifengling Airport in Guilin, China. The Boeing 737 aircraft encountered severe difficulties during its descent, ultimately striking a mountainous terrain. All 141 passengers and crew members on board perished in this devastating aviation disaster, marking one of the deadliest air accidents in Chinese aviation history.
1993 James Bulger Murder Trial: In a shocking and deeply disturbing case, 11-year-old Robert Thompson and Jon Venables were convicted of the brutal murder of 2-year-old James Bulger in Liverpool, United Kingdom. This tragic event profoundly impacted British society, raising complex questions about juvenile crime, child psychology, and criminal responsibility.
1994 First Land-Based Bombing of Tokyo in World War II: On this historic day, 88 American aircraft conducted the first bombing raid against Tokyo from the eastern approach and by land. This strategic aerial assault marked a significant moment in the Pacific Theater of World War II, demonstrating the United States' growing aerial capabilities and offensive strategy against Imperial Japan.
1995 Ireland Legalizes Divorce After 70-Year Prohibition: In a historic referendum, Ireland voted to end its long-standing ban on divorce, marking a significant social and legal transformation. The vote was incredibly close, with 50.28% supporting the referendum and 49.72% opposing it. This narrow margin reflected the deep societal divisions around marriage, divorce, and personal freedoms in a traditionally conservative Catholic country. The referendum represented a major milestone in Ireland's social evolution, challenging long-established religious and cultural norms.
1996 Barry Sanders NFL Record: Barry Sanders of the Detroit Lions achieved a remarkable NFL record by recording his eighth consecutive 1,000-yard season, demonstrating extraordinary consistency and excellence in professional football. This accomplishment underscores Sanders' status as one of the most reliable and talented running backs in NFL history.
1997 Toyota Introduces First Hybrid Car: The Prius: Toyota unveiled its groundbreaking first hybrid car, the Prius, marking a significant milestone in automotive technology and energy-efficient vehicle development. This launch represented a pivotal moment in addressing environmental concerns and reducing carbon emissions in the automotive industry.
1998 AOL Acquires Netscape in Major Tech Merger: America Online (AOL) announced a significant stock-for-stock transaction to acquire Netscape Communications for US$4.2 billion. This merger represented a major consolidation in the emerging internet technology sector during the late 1990s digital revolution.
1999 Çaldıran-Muradiye Earthquake in Eastern Turkey: On November 24, 1999, a devastating earthquake struck the Çaldıran and Muradiye regions in eastern Turkey, causing massive destruction and significant loss of life. The seismic event resulted in between 4,000 and 5,000 fatalities, making it one of the most deadly earthquakes in Turkey's modern history. The earthquake's epicenter was located in a tectonically active region, highlighting the geological vulnerability of eastern Turkey to significant seismic events. The disaster exposed critical infrastructure weaknesses and prompted subsequent improvements in Turkey's earthquake preparedness and response strategies.
2000 Brady Bill Passed by US Congress: The US Congress passes the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act, requiring a mandatory 5-day waiting period for handgun purchases. The bill is named after James Brady, President Ronald Reagan's press secretary who was critically wounded during the 1981 assassination attempt on Reagan. This legislation was a significant step in gun control regulation, aimed at preventing impulsive gun purchases and reducing gun-related violence.
2001 Turkey's Legal Reform for Women's Rights: The Grand National Assembly of Turkey enacted significant legal reforms, establishing legal equality for women, removing their subordinate status to husbands, and granting them equal rights before the law.
2002 Death of John Rawls: John Rawls, a prominent American political philosopher and influential theorist of justice, passed away. Rawls was known for his groundbreaking work 'A Theory of Justice' (1971), which significantly impacted modern political philosophy and discussions of social justice, equality, and liberal political theory.
2003 Lockerbie Bomber Sentenced: The High Court in Glasgow imposed a minimum sentence of 27 years for Abdelbaset al-Megrahi, the Libyan convicted of bombing Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland in December 1988.
2004 U.S. Election Systemic Problems Investigation: The U.S. Government Accountability Office announced plans to investigate multiple systemic issues reported during the recent presidential election.
2005 Environmental Crisis in Far Eastern Russia: Khabarovsk, Russia declared a state of emergency due to an 80 km benzene oil slick resulting from a Chinese chemical facility explosion. The environmental disaster threatens water supplies for millions in China and Russia, with the contamination approaching the critical Amur River.
2006 Litvinenko Accuses Putin of Murder: Poisoned ex-Russian spy Alexander Litvinenko makes a final statement accusing Russian President Vladimir Putin of his murder before his death.
2007 Australian Federal Election: Labor Party Victory: The Australian Labor Party, led by Kevin Rudd, wins the federal election, defeating incumbent Prime Minister John Howard. This marks a significant political transition in Australian politics, with Rudd becoming the 26th Prime Minister of Australia.
2008 Obama Announces Economic Recovery Team: President-elect Barack Obama unveiled his key economic team to address the ongoing financial crisis, including Timothy F. Geithner as Treasury Secretary, Lawrence Summers as National Economic Council President, and Christina Romer as Council of Economic Advisers Chair.
2009 Maguindanao Massacre in Philippines: Following the bloodiest election-related massacre in Philippine history, which claimed at least 40 lives, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo declared a state of emergency in Maguindanao, highlighting the region's political volatility.
2010 Shelling of Yeonpyeong: North Korean forces shelled Yeonpyeong Island, a South Korean territory in the disputed Yellow Sea, resulting in civilian casualties and escalating tensions between the two countries.
2011 India's Foreign Retail Policy Reform: India's government implemented a significant economic policy change by relaxing regulations for foreign-owned retailers like Tesco and Wal-Mart. This decision marked a pivotal moment in India's economic liberalization, potentially opening up the retail sector to substantial international investment.
2012 Egypt Political Crisis Escalates: Following President Mohamed Morsi's controversial decree expanding his presidential powers, Egypt's top judges accused him of an 'unprecedented assault' on the judiciary. Massive rallies erupted in Cairo's Tahrir Square, with supporters and critics engaging in heated political demonstrations.
2013 Euromaidan Protests in Ukraine: Over 100,000 protesters gathered in Kiev, Ukraine, demonstrating against President Viktor Yanukovych's decision to suspend preparations for signing the European Union Association Agreement under Russian pressure. This event was a pivotal moment in Ukraine's geopolitical struggle.
2014 Ferguson Unrest After Michael Brown Grand Jury Decision: A St. Louis County grand jury decided not to indict police officer Darren Wilson for the shooting of Michael Brown, triggering widespread protests and violent unrest in Ferguson, Missouri. Despite pleas for peaceful demonstrations from Brown's family and President Obama, tensions escalated dramatically.
2015 Turkey Downs Russian Fighter Jet: A significant international incident occurred when Turkey shot down a Russian fighter jet near the Syria-Turkey border, escalating tensions between the two countries. Russia denied airspace violation, while Turkey maintained it issued multiple warnings. The event marked a potentially dangerous geopolitical confrontation.
2016 Colombian Peace Agreement Signed: The Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia—People's Army (FARC) signed a revised peace deal, definitively ending the country's more than 50-year-long civil conflict, marking a historic moment of reconciliation and hope for national healing.
2017 2017 Sinai Mosque Terrorist Attack: A devastating terrorist attack targeted the Al-Rawda Mosque in North Sinai, Egypt, resulting in 311 fatalities and 128 injuries. This was one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Egypt's modern history, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in the Sinai Peninsula.
2018 Brexit Negotiations: Gibraltar Agreement: The UK and Spain reached a significant agreement regarding Gibraltar, with Spain lifting its threat to boycott the Brexit summit. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez confirmed 'sufficient guarantees' for future decisions on Gibraltar.
2019 Hong Kong District Council Elections Record Turnout: Hong Kong experienced its largest ever district council elections, with millions of voters participating. The election served as a critical barometer for public sentiment regarding pro-democracy protests and the leadership of Chief Executive Carrie Lam. Voter turnout was exceptionally high, and protest groups maintained peaceful conduct during the electoral process.
2020 Global COVID-19 Pandemic Surge: Multiple regions reported significant COVID-19 statistics: Texas recorded a record 13,998 new cases, surpassing 1.1 million total cases. Spain experienced its highest single-day death toll since April with 537 deaths, bringing the nationwide total to 43,668. Turkey reported a record 7,381 new cases, pushing its nationwide total to 460,916.
2021 Tragic English Channel Migrant Boat Sinking: A devastating maritime tragedy occurred on November 24, 2021, when at least 27 migrants perished while attempting to cross the English Channel to reach Britain. The overcrowded inflatable boat capsized and sank, resulting in the drowning of all passengers, highlighting the dangerous conditions faced by migrants seeking refuge and economic opportunities.
2022 Russian Forces Bombard Kherson, Ukraine: During the ongoing 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, Russian Armed Forces launch a devastating attack on Kherson, resulting in at least 15 fatalities and 35 injuries, further escalating the humanitarian crisis.
2023 Four-Day Ceasefire in Gaza Between Hamas and Israel: A significant humanitarian pause in the Israel-Hamas conflict begins with a four-day ceasefire agreement. Starting at 7 am, the truce allows for a critical humanitarian exchange: Hamas releases 13 Israeli hostages, including some dual citizens, while Israel reciprocates by releasing 39 Palestinian prisoners. This temporary halt in hostilities provides a crucial window for potential diplomatic negotiations and humanitarian relief in the war-torn Gaza Strip.

What Is special about November 24?

November 24 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 24.