Historical Events on November 26: 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 26, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on November 26 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Uneventful Day in Global History: While no specific major historical events were recorded on November 26, 1900, this date falls during a significant period of global transformation. The turn of the 20th century was marked by rapid industrialization, colonial expansions, and technological innovations. The world was transitioning from the Victorian era to the modern age, with significant geopolitical shifts occurring across continents.
1901 Italy and Britain Establish Colonial Border in East Africa: On November 26, 1901, Italy and Britain signed a diplomatic agreement to definitively demarcate the colonial frontier between their respective territories in East Africa, specifically involving the colonies of Eritrea and Sudan. This agreement was part of the broader European colonial partitioning of the African continent during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, aimed at clarifying territorial boundaries and preventing potential conflicts between imperial powers.
1902 Uneventful Day in 1902: While no specific major historical events were recorded on November 26, 1902, this day represents a typical moment in the early 20th century. During this period, the world was experiencing significant transformations in technology, politics, and social structures, though this particular date appears to have passed without remarkable incident.
1903 Uneventful Day in 1903: While no major historical events were specifically documented for November 26, 1903, this day represents a typical moment in the early 20th century. The year 1903 was significant for technological and social developments, such as the Wright Brothers' first powered flight in December and ongoing global industrialization. Even seemingly uneventful days contribute to the broader historical narrative by representing the everyday life and context of the era.
1905 Deadly Train Collision in Lincoln, Massachusetts: A catastrophic train collision occurred in Lincoln, Massachusetts, resulting in a tragic loss of 17 lives and causing injuries to 33 people. This incident highlighted the significant safety challenges in early 20th-century rail transportation.
1906 Uneventful Day in World History: On November 26, 1906, no significant global events were documented. This day appears to have been relatively quiet across political, social, and technological domains during the early 20th century.
1907 Uneventful Day in 1907: While no specific major historical events were recorded for November 26, 1907, this does not mean the day was entirely without significance. During this period, the early 20th century was marked by significant global transformations, including technological advancements, colonial expansions, and emerging social movements. The absence of a notable event does not diminish the ongoing historical processes of the time.
1908 Uneventful Day in 1908: While no major historical events were recorded for November 26, 1908, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. Many historical moments happen quietly, without immediate global recognition. This date falls during the late Ottoman Empire period and the early 20th century, a time of significant geopolitical transitions.
1909 Founding of Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity: On November 26, 1909, Sigma Alpha Mu (ΣAM), a prominent Jewish-founded college fraternity, was established at the City College of New York by a group of eight visionary young Jewish students. The fraternity would go on to become a significant social and professional network for Jewish college students across the United States.
1910 Tragic Factory Fire in Newark Claims 24 Lives: A devastating fire at the Wolf Muslin company factory in Newark, New Jersey, resulted in the deaths of 24 women and girls. This tragic incident underscored the dangerous working conditions and limited safety regulations for industrial workers during the early 1900s, particularly for female laborers.
1911 Death of Komura Jutarō, Japanese Diplomat: Komura Jutarō, a prominent Japanese diplomat and Foreign Minister from 1901 to 1906, passed away at the age of 56 due to tuberculosis. Komura was a significant figure in early 20th-century Japanese diplomacy, playing a crucial role during the Russo-Japanese War and in negotiating international treaties that elevated Japan's global standing.
1912 Black Sea Fleet Mutiny Executions: Eleven sailors from the Imperial Russian Navy's Black Sea Fleet were executed in Sevastopol after being convicted of mutiny. This event occurred during a period of significant social and political unrest in the Russian Empire, reflecting the growing tensions that would eventually lead to the Russian Revolution.
1913 Launch of HMS Warspite: The Royal Navy battleship Warspite was ceremonially launched at Devonport Shipyard in Plymouth. This powerful vessel would go on to play a significant role in World War I, most notably participating in the pivotal Battle of Jutland in 1916, and would later become one of the most decorated warships in British naval history.
1914 Battle of Łódź: During World War I, the German 9th Army engaged in a significant military confrontation with Russian forces in the Battle of Łódź, a strategic engagement on the Eastern Front that demonstrated the complex military maneuvers of the conflict.
1915 Gallipoli Campaign: Severe Weather Impact: During the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I, a significant heavy rainstorm struck the peninsula, disrupting Allied military operations. The unexpected severe weather conditions impacted troop movements and strategic positioning of the U.S. 12th Infantry under the command of William H. Gallipoli, highlighting the challenging environmental conditions soldiers faced during this campaign.
1916 Greece Enters World War I Against Germany: On November 26, 1916, Greece officially declared war on Germany, marking a significant turning point in its involvement in World War I. This declaration came after prolonged political tensions and diplomatic maneuvering, ultimately aligning Greece with the Allied Powers.
1917 Sykes-Picot Agreement Revealed: The Manchester Guardian publishes details of the 1916 secret Sykes-Picot Agreement between the United Kingdom and France, exposing the proposed partition of Ottoman territories in the Middle East after World War I. This diplomatic document would have profound implications for the region's geopolitical landscape, revealing the colonial powers' intentions to divide the Arab territories.
1918 Montenegrin Podgorica Assembly Votes for Union with Serbia: On November 26, 1918, the Podgorica Assembly, a pivotal political gathering in Montenegro, voted decisively to merge with the Kingdom of Serbia. This momentous decision marked a significant turning point in the political landscape of the Balkans, effectively ending Montenegro's independent status and paving the way for the formation of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes (later Yugoslavia).
1919 Uneventful Day in 1919: While no specific major historical events were documented for November 26, 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 nations rebuilding and negotiating new international relationships through the Treaty of Versailles and the emerging League of Nations.
1920 Red Army Surprise Attack on Makhnovshchina: During the Ukrainian War of Independence, the Red Army launched a strategic surprise attack against the Makhnovshchina, a revolutionary anarchist movement led by Nestor Makhno. This military operation was part of the broader conflict between the Bolsheviks and various Ukrainian independence movements, significantly impacting the region's political landscape.
1921 Uneventful Day in 1921: While no specific major historical events were recorded for November 26, 1921, this period was part of the interwar years following World War I. The world was experiencing significant geopolitical shifts, economic recoveries, and social transformations during this time.
1922 Discovery of King Tutankhamun's Tomb Treasures: Howard Carter views inside a second doorway of King Tutankhamun's burial chamber in Egypt's Valley of the Kings, witnessing an extraordinary sight of glimmering gold artifacts. This moment represented one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.
1923 Uneventful Day in 1923: While no major historical events were recorded on November 26, 1923, this does not diminish the broader historical context of the early 1920s. This period was marked by significant global transitions following World War I, including economic recovery, political restructuring, and social transformations across Europe and the world.
1924 Establishment of the Mongolian People's Republic: On November 26, 1924, the Mongolian People's Republic was proclaimed, marking a significant political transformation in the country's history. This event represented a pivotal moment of transition from a traditional monarchical system to a socialist state model, guided by revolutionary principles.
1925 Italy's Crackdown on Secret Societies: Under Benito Mussolini's Fascist regime, Italy enacted a significant legislative measure targeting secret societies, particularly Freemasonry. The bill brought such organizations under strict state control and prohibited government employees from membership, reflecting the regime's efforts to consolidate power and suppress potential political opposition.
1926 Mass Arrest of Italian Communist Deputies: On November 26, 1926, the Italian government under Benito Mussolini's fascist regime arrested all Communist deputies, further consolidating political control and suppressing opposition.
1927 Canadian Football League Grey Cup Championship: The 15th Canadian Football League (CFL) Grey Cup championship was held on November 26, 1927, where the Toronto Balmy Beach team defeated the Hamilton Tigers in a closely contested match with a final score of 9-6. This game represented an important moment in early Canadian football history, showcasing the competitive spirit of the sport during the late 1920s.
1928 Death of German Admiral Reinhard Scheer: Reinhard Scheer, a prominent German naval commander who played a significant role in World War I, particularly in naval engagements like the Battle of Jutland, passed away at the age of 65. His death marked the end of an era for German naval leadership in the interwar period.
1929 Uneventful Day in 1929: While no major historical events were specifically documented for November 26, 1929, this period was situated during the early stages of the Great Depression, which had begun with the stock market crash on October 29, 1929. The global economic landscape was experiencing significant turbulence, with financial uncertainty and economic challenges prevalent across many countries.
1930 Berlin Students Arrested for Defying Duelling Ban: On November 26, 1930, Berlin police conducted a significant crackdown on student duelling culture, arresting 200 students who were publicly challenging the government's prohibition on the traditional practice. During the operation, law enforcement also seized a substantial number of rapiers and sabres, demonstrating the deeply ingrained cultural tradition of academic fencing among German university students.
1931 Discovery of Deuterium: American chemist Harold Urey discovers heavy hydrogen, which he later names deuterium. This isotope of hydrogen, with one proton and one neutron in its nucleus, would become crucial in scientific research, nuclear physics, and understanding molecular structures.
1932 Uneventful Day in 1932: While no specific major historical events were recorded for November 26, 1932, this period was during the Great Depression, a significant economic downturn affecting many parts of the world. The United States was experiencing severe economic challenges under President Herbert Hoover's administration, with high unemployment and widespread economic hardship. Global political tensions were also rising, with the rise of fascism in Europe and economic instability in many countries.
1933 Camille Chautemps Becomes French Premier: On November 26, 1933, Camille Chautemps assumed the role of Premier of France, leading the government during a complex period of political transition in the early 1930s. Chautemps, a prominent Radical Socialist politician, took office at a time of significant economic and social challenges in France following the global economic depression.
1934 Assassination of Sergei Kirov in Soviet Union: In a pivotal moment of Soviet political intrigue, Politburo member Sergei Kirov was assassinated at the Communist Party headquarters in Leningrad by Leonid Nikolaev. Historians widely believe that Soviet leader Joseph Stalin orchestrated this murder, which became a significant catalyst for the Great Purge and Stalin's subsequent political repressions.
1935 China Clipper Reaches Wake Island: The China Clipper, a pioneering Pan American Airways flying boat, successfully landed at Wake Island, marking a significant milestone in transpacific aviation. This event represented an important advancement in long-distance air travel and communication capabilities during the 1930s.
1936 Anti-Comintern Pact Signed by Germany and Japan: On November 26, 1936, Germany and Japan signed the Anti-Comintern Pact, a significant diplomatic agreement aimed at countering the spread of communist influence globally. This pact represented a strategic alliance between Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan, laying groundwork for their future Axis partnership during World War II.
1937 Birth of Olympic Skier Leo Lacroix: Leo Lacroix was born in France, who would later become a notable Olympic athlete, winning a silver medal in skiing during the 1964 Winter Olympics. His athletic achievements would contribute to France's winter sports legacy.
1938 French Government Requisitions Railways to Suppress General Strike: On November 26, 1938, French Prime Minister Édouard Daladier took decisive action by decreeing the military requisition of principal railways. This strategic move was designed to preemptively crush an impending French general strike, demonstrating the government's determination to maintain economic and social stability during a period of significant labor unrest.
1939 Shelling of Mainila: Soviet False Flag Operation: The Soviet Army deliberately orchestrated a staged artillery attack on the village of Mainila near the Finnish-Russian border, creating a fabricated pretext for military intervention. This calculated provocation was designed to provide a false justification for launching the Winter War against Finland, a significant geopolitical manipulation that would soon lead to armed conflict.
1940 Warsaw Jewish Ghetto Establishment: Nazi Germany forcibly confined approximately 500,000 Jews within a walled ghetto in Warsaw, marking a critical moment in the Holocaust's systematic persecution and isolation of Jewish populations.
1941 US Delivers Ultimatum to Japan: The United States presents the Hull note to the Japanese ambassador, demanding Japan's withdrawal from China and French Indochina, with the promise of lifting economic sanctions. Simultaneously, Japan's 1st Air Fleet departs Hitokappu Bay for Hawaii, signaling imminent military action.
1942 Casablanca Film Premiere: The iconic film Casablanca, starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, makes its debut at the Hollywood Theater in New York City. This romantic drama set during World War II would go on to become one of the most celebrated films in cinema history, winning three Academy Awards and becoming a timeless classic.
1943 Red Army Recaptures Kiev: In a significant Eastern Front operation during World War II, the Soviet Red Army successfully recaptured Kiev, the capital of Ukraine. This strategic victory marked a crucial turning point in the Soviet counteroffensive against Nazi German forces, demonstrating the Red Army's growing military strength and momentum.
1944 Himmler Orders Destruction of Auschwitz Crematoriums: Heinrich Himmler, a key Nazi leader, issued orders to destroy the crematoriums at the Auschwitz and Birkenau concentration camps, likely in an attempt to hide evidence of mass genocide as Allied forces approached.
1945 Ezra Pound Indicted for Treason: U.S. Attorney General Tom C. Clark announced the second indictment of poet Ezra Pound on 19 counts of treason, specifically for accepting payments from Fascist Italy to make propaganda broadcasts during World War II.
1946 Uneventful Day in Post-World War II Era: On November 26, 1946, the world was in a period of post-World War II reconstruction and recovery. While no specific major historical events were documented for this particular date, it represents a typical day during the complex process of global rebuilding and geopolitical realignment following the most devastating conflict in human history.
1948 Ireland Severs Ties with British Crown: The Dáil Éireann (Irish Parliament) passed the Republic of Ireland Bill, officially severing the last remaining constitutional ties between Ireland and the British Crown. This landmark legislation marked a significant milestone in Ireland's journey to full independence.
1949 India Adopts Constitution as a Republic: On November 26, 1949, India officially adopted its constitution, transforming from a British colonial territory to a sovereign democratic republic. This momentous event marked a critical milestone in India's journey to independence, establishing the foundational legal and governance framework for the world's largest democracy.
1950 Chinese Communist Forces Launch Major Korean War Counterattack: On November 26, 1950, Communist Chinese troops launched a massive counteroffensive against United Nations and South Korean forces, marking a critical turning point in the Korean War. The counterattack focused on two significant battles: the Battle of the Ch'ongch'on River and the Battle of Chosin Reservoir, which dramatically altered the conflict's trajectory.
1951 Birth of Sulejman Tihić: Bosnian Political Leader: Sulejman Tihić, a prominent Bosnian lawyer, judge, and political figure, was born on November 26, 1951. He played a significant role in Bosnian politics during the complex post-Yugoslav era, serving as a key leader in the Party of Democratic Action and later becoming a member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina from 2002 to 2006. Tihić was instrumental in navigating Bosnia's political landscape during its transition and recovery period following the Bosnian War.
1952 First Modern 3-D Movie Premieres in Hollywood: The groundbreaking film 'Bwana Devil' premiered in Hollywood, marking a significant milestone in cinema technology by introducing modern 3-D movie experiences to mainstream audiences. This color film, directed by Arch Oboler, used the Natural Vision 3-D process and sparked widespread interest in three-dimensional film technology during the 1950s.
1953 Zen Buddhist Spiritual Milestone: Yamada Koun, a prominent leader of the Sanbo Kyodan lineage of Zen Buddhism, experiences his first significant spiritual awakening, marking an important moment in his personal and religious journey.
1954 Dutch Coaster Tarpo Sinks off Cornwall Coast: On November 26, 1954, the Dutch coastal cargo vessel Tarpo met a tragic end off the treacherous Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall, United Kingdom. The maritime disaster resulted in the complete loss of the entire twelve-member crew, highlighting the dangerous conditions sailors faced in mid-20th century maritime transportation. The precise circumstances of the sinking remain unclear, but the Lizard coast, known for its rocky shores and challenging navigational conditions, has been the site of numerous shipwrecks throughout maritime history.
1955 Rosa Parks Refuses to Give Up Bus Seat: In Montgomery, Alabama, Rosa Parks courageously defies segregation laws by refusing to give up her bus seat to a white passenger, leading to her arrest and sparking the pivotal Montgomery bus boycott, a landmark moment in the American Civil Rights Movement.
1956 Olympic Gold Medalist's Dramatic Medal Loss: Soviet single sculls athlete Vyacheslav Ivanov won the Olympic gold medal. In a moment of unbridled excitement after his victory, he jumped for joy, accidentally causing his hard-earned medal to sink into the water, creating a memorable and poignant Olympic moment.
1957 Nixon Discusses Sputnik 2 at White House: U.S. Vice-President Richard Nixon engaged in an extensive eight-hour White House meeting to analyze and strategize potential responses to the Soviet Union's recent launch of Sputnik 2, a critical moment in the early Space Race and Cold War tensions.
1958 Uneventful Day in Global History: While no significant documented historical events were recorded for November 26, 1958, this date falls within the late 1950s, a period marked by Cold War tensions, technological advancements, and significant social transformations.
1959 Atlas-Able Rocket Maiden Flight Failure: On November 26, 1959, the United States experienced a significant setback in its early space exploration efforts when the maiden flight of the Atlas-Able rocket ended in failure. The rocket, which was considered the most powerful of its time, malfunctioned and crashed less than a minute after launch. This incident highlighted the immense technical challenges and risks associated with developing advanced rocket technology during the early years of the Space Race.
1960 New Zealand National Party Wins Parliamentary Majority: In a significant political shift, the National Party, led by Keith Holyoake, secured control of the New Zealand Parliament by gaining 7 additional seats, signaling a change in the country's political landscape.
1961 Thalidomide Withdrawal Marks Medical Safety Milestone: West German pharmaceutical manufacturer Grünenthal GmbH became the first company to voluntarily withdraw the drug thalidomide from the market, responding to emerging evidence of severe birth defects and health risks. This pivotal moment would later become a landmark case in pharmaceutical regulation and medical ethics, highlighting the critical importance of drug safety testing.
1962 Kennedy Inspects HAWK Missile Sites: President John F. Kennedy visited Key West to inspect HAWK missile sites, aiming to reassure the American public about national security and the safety of the region during the Cold War era. This inspection came at a critical time of heightened tensions with the Soviet Union.
1963 Roger Staubach Wins Heisman Trophy: Roger Staubach of the United States Naval Academy (Navy) was awarded the 29th Heisman Trophy, recognizing him as the most outstanding college football player of the year. Staubach's exceptional performance and leadership on the field distinguished him among his peers.
1965 Pentagon Recommends Troop Increase in Vietnam: Military leadership advised President Lyndon B. Johnson that successfully neutralizing Viet Cong forces would require expanding American troop presence from 120,000 to 400,000, signaling a potential escalation of U.S. military engagement in Vietnam.
1966 First Major Tidal Power Plant in France: The world's first significant tidal power plant was inaugurated at the Rance estuary in Brittany, France. This groundbreaking facility marked a pivotal moment in renewable energy development, harnessing the power of ocean tides to generate electricity. The plant demonstrated the potential of marine energy as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel-based power generation.
1967 Devastating Lisbon Flood: On November 26, 1967, a catastrophic cloud burst struck Lisbon, Portugal, causing massive flooding that resulted in the tragic loss of 462 lives. The sudden and intense rainfall overwhelmed the city's infrastructure, leading to widespread destruction and significant loss of life. This natural disaster highlighted the vulnerability of urban areas to extreme weather events and prompted subsequent improvements in flood prevention and emergency response strategies.
1968 The Beatles Release White Album: The Beatles released their groundbreaking self-titled double album, commonly known as the 'White Album', which became a landmark recording in rock music history.
1969 Selective Service Reform Bill Signed: President Richard Nixon signed the Selective Service Reform bill, a significant legislative action during the Vietnam War era. The bill introduced a lottery system for military draft selection, reduced draft eligibility from seven to one year, and prioritized 19-year-olds for conscription. This reform aimed to make the draft process more equitable and transparent during a tumultuous period in American history.
1970 Benjamin O. Davis Sr.: Pioneering African American Military Leader: Benjamin O. Davis Sr. passed away in Chicago, Illinois at the age of 93. He was a groundbreaking figure as the first African American general in the United States military, breaking significant racial barriers during his distinguished military career.
1971 Czechoslovak Federal Assembly Elections: In a significant political event, Czechoslovakia conducted two-day elections for the 200 seats of the lower house of the Federal Assembly, specifically the Chamber of the National Assembly. These elections were part of the communist-era electoral process, where candidates were typically pre-selected by the ruling Communist Party, reflecting the political structure of Czechoslovakia during the Cold War period.
1972 Pete Gogolak scores New York Giants record 8 points after a touchdown.
1973 Rose Mary Woods Testifies in Watergate Tape Gap Controversy: During a federal court hearing, Rose Mary Woods, personal secretary to US President Richard Nixon, claimed she accidentally caused the mysterious 18½-minute gap in a crucial Watergate tape. Her testimony was a pivotal moment in the unfolding Watergate scandal, raising questions about potential deliberate erasure of potentially incriminating evidence.
1974 Kakuei Tanaka Resigns as Japan's Prime Minister: Japan's Prime Minister Kakuei Tanaka announced his resignation following an investigative committee report from the House of Representatives, signaling a significant political transition in Japan.
1975 Lynette Fromme Assassination Attempt Trial: A U.S. Federal jury found Lynette Fromme guilty of attempting to assassinate President Gerald Ford on November 26, 1975. Fromme, a member of the Charles Manson cult, was charged for pointing a loaded pistol at President Ford in Sacramento, California, on September 5, 1975, in a shocking attempt on the president's life.
1976 Sex Pistols Debut Single Release: The Sex Pistols released their groundbreaking debut single 'Anarchy In The UK', a pivotal moment in the punk rock movement that would dramatically influence music and youth culture.
1977 Southern Television Alien Broadcast Hijacking: On November 26, 1977, an unidentified hijacker claiming to represent the 'Ashtar Galactic Command' dramatically interrupted Southern Television's broadcast in the United Kingdom. The mysterious transmission, lasting approximately six minutes, featured a voice purporting to be an alien named Vrillon, who delivered a message urging humanity to abandon weapons and prepare for a 'future awakening' and 'higher state of evolution'.
1978 Deadly Holiday Inn Fire in Rochester, New York: A tragic fire erupted at a Holiday Inn in Rochester, New York, resulting in ten fatalities. The incident highlighted the critical importance of fire safety protocols and emergency preparedness in public accommodations.
1979 China Readmitted to International Olympic Committee: The International Olympic Committee (IOC) voted to readmit China to the Olympic movement after a 21-year absence, marking a significant diplomatic and sporting milestone. This decision symbolized China's re-engagement with the global sporting community and represented an important moment in international relations.
1980 Soyuz T-3 Mission to Salyut 6: The Soyuz T-3 spacecraft successfully launched with a three-member cosmonaut crew, docking with the Salyut 6 space station as part of the Soviet Union's ongoing space exploration program.
1981 Spain Joins NATO: In a significant geopolitical moment, the Spanish Senate voted 106-60 to approve Spain's membership in NATO, following a narrow approval by the Congress of Deputies. This vote marked Spain's strategic alignment with Western military and political structures during the late Cold War period.
1982 Yasuhiro Nakasone Becomes Prime Minister of Japan: Yasuhiro Nakasone was elected as the Prime Minister of Japan, succeeding Zenko Suzuki. He would go on to serve until 1987 and was known for his strong conservative policies and close alignment with Western powers during the Cold War era.
1983 Brinks Mat Robbery: On November 26, 1983, a significant gold heist occurred at Heathrow Airport in London, where six armed robbers broke into the Brinks Mat warehouse and stole 6,800 gold bars. The total value of the stolen gold was approximately £26 million (equivalent to over £100 million in today's currency). This meticulously planned robbery is considered one of the most notorious heists in British criminal history, involving insider knowledge and sophisticated planning. The stolen gold was later believed to have been melted down and laundered through various criminal networks.
1984 US and Iraq Restore Diplomatic Relations: The United States and Iraq officially re-establish diplomatic relations, marking a significant moment in Middle Eastern geopolitical dynamics during the early 1980s. This diplomatic reconnection occurred before the complex tensions that would later define their relationship.
1985 French Nuclear Test at Mururoa Atoll: France conducted a nuclear test at Mururoa Atoll in French Polynesia, continuing its nuclear weapons testing program. This event was part of the Cold War era's nuclear proliferation and raised significant environmental and geopolitical concerns.
1986 John Demjanjuk War Crimes Trial Begins in Jerusalem: The landmark trial of John Demjanjuk commenced in Jerusalem, charging him with war crimes committed as a guard at the Treblinka Nazi extermination camp during World War II. This high-profile legal proceeding represented a significant moment in Holocaust justice and international war crimes prosecution.
1987 Tokyo Disneyland Milestone Celebration: On November 26, 1987, Tokyo Disneyland achieved a significant milestone by welcoming its 50-millionth guest, marking an impressive achievement for the first Disney theme park in Asia. Located in Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture, near Tokyo, the park had rapidly become a cultural phenomenon since its opening on April 15, 1983. This momentous occasion highlighted the park's immense popularity and the growing enthusiasm for Western entertainment concepts in Japanese popular culture.
1988 Space Mission Launch: A multinational space mission launched, featuring cosmonauts Alexander Volkov and Sergei Krikalev, along with French astronaut Jean-Loup Chretien, representing a collaborative effort in space exploration.
1989 Indian General Election: India's Congress Party, led by Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, loses the general election to an opposition front headed by V. P. Singh, marking a significant political shift in Indian democracy.
1990 US Proposes UN Resolution on Kuwait: The United States proposed an addition to a UN resolution that would mandate Iraq's complete withdrawal from Kuwait by January 1, 1991, intensifying diplomatic efforts to resolve the Gulf Crisis.
1991 Azerbaijan Abolishes Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Status: The National Assembly of Azerbaijan officially abolished the autonomous status of Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Oblast, simultaneously renaming several cities to reflect their Azeri names. This administrative action was part of the broader political changes occurring during the dissolution of the Soviet Union, signaling Azerbaijan's assertion of territorial sovereignty.
1992 Queen Elizabeth II Agrees to Pay Personal Income Tax: In a historic moment of royal transparency, British Prime Minister John Major announced that Queen Elizabeth II had voluntarily agreed to pay personal income tax, marking a significant shift in the monarchy's financial practices. This decision represented a modernization of the royal household's approach to taxation and public perception.
1993 Riddick Bowe vs. Evander Holyfield II Boxing Match: The highly anticipated heavyweight boxing match between Riddick Bowe and Evander Holyfield II took place at Caesars Palace in Paradise, Nevada. In a closely contested bout, Holyfield emerged victorious by majority decision, adding another significant chapter to their boxing rivalry.
1994 Uneventful Day in Global History: On November 26, 1994, no major historical events were documented. While this day might seem unremarkable, it represents the countless ordinary days that form the backdrop of human history, where routine activities and personal experiences continue uninterrupted by significant global occurrences.
1995 Ireland Legalizes Divorce: In a historic referendum, Ireland voted to end its 58-year ban on divorce, with 50.3% of voters supporting the constitutional amendment. This marked a significant social and legal transformation for the traditionally conservative Catholic country.
1996 Pro-Democracy Protests Suppressed in Burma: Widespread student pro-democracy protests are forcibly dispersed by authorities in Burma (Myanmar), highlighting the ongoing political repression and struggle for democratic freedoms in the country.
1997 US Technician Arrested for Espionage in Russia: On November 26, 1997, Richard Bliss, an American telephone technician, was arrested in Russia on suspicion of espionage. This incident highlighted the ongoing tensions and complex diplomatic relations between the United States and Russia during the post-Cold War era. The arrest underscored the sensitive nature of international telecommunications and intelligence gathering during this period.
1998 Historic UK-Ireland Parliamentary Address: Tony Blair became the first Prime Minister of the United Kingdom to address the Oireachtas, the parliament of the Republic of Ireland, marking a significant diplomatic milestone in UK-Ireland relations during the Northern Ireland peace process.
1999 Vanuatu Earthquake and Tsunami: On November 26, 1999, a devastating magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck the Ambrym region of Vanuatu, triggering a destructive tsunami that caused significant loss of life and widespread damage. The powerful seismic event resulted in at least ten fatalities and approximately forty injuries, highlighting the region's vulnerability to geological hazards.
2000 2000 US Presidential Election - Florida Electoral Vote Certification: Republican candidate George W. Bush was certified as the winner of Florida's electoral votes, ultimately securing the presidency despite losing the national popular vote. This controversial certification effectively decided the outcome of the highly contested 2000 presidential election between Bush and Democratic candidate Al Gore Jr.
2002 Terrorism Risk Insurance Act Signed into Law: President George W. Bush signed the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act, establishing a federal backstop for insurance claims related to terrorist acts. This legislation aimed to provide financial stability and protection for insurance companies in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
2003 India-Pakistan Kashmir Ceasefire: India and Pakistan announced a ceasefire for the Kashmir region, offering a potential diplomatic breakthrough in their long-standing territorial dispute.
2004 Chile's Compensation for Pinochet Victims: President Ricardo Lagos promised economic compensation for 28,000 torture victims who suffered under Augusto Pinochet's military dictatorship, representing a significant step towards national reconciliation.
2005 Palestinian Control of Rafah Crossing: Palestinians assume control of the Rafah crossing connecting the Gaza Strip to Egypt for the first time, a significant moment in regional border management.
2006 Assassination of Pierre Gemayel: Pierre Gemayel, an anti-Syrian Lebanese Minister and Member of Parliament, was assassinated in suburban Beirut, highlighting the volatile political landscape in Lebanon.
2007 France-China Airbus Deal: During French President Nicolas Sarkozy's visit to China, a significant commercial agreement was reached for the purchase of 160 Airbus aircraft, valued at $17 billion, strengthening international economic ties.
2008 2008 Mumbai Terror Attacks: A coordinated terrorist assault on Mumbai, India's financial capital, where ten heavily-armed gunmen launched synchronized attacks across five locations. The attacks targeted multiple sites including luxury hotels, a railway station, and cafés, resulting in 174 deaths and 295 injuries. The Deccan Mujahedeen claimed responsibility, though investigations later linked the attacks to Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based terrorist organization.
2009 Dublin Catholic Church Abuse Scandal: The Murphy Report, commissioned by the Irish government, revealed that the Roman Catholic Archdiocese in Dublin had systematically covered up widespread child abuse by priests until the mid-1990s.
2010 Irish Financial Crisis Deepens: Widespread speculation emerges about senior bondholders of Irish banks being required to share in EU bailout costs, leading to significant credit rating downgrades for financial institutions most impacted by the recent property market collapse.
2011 Mars Science Laboratory Launch: NASA launches the Mars Science Laboratory with the Curiosity Rover from Kennedy Space Center, marking a significant milestone in planetary exploration. This is the most complex Martian exploration vehicle ever sent, designed to search for evidence of past or current life on Mars.
2012 Syrian Civil War: Cluster Bomb Tragedy in Deir al-Asafir: A Syrian government aircraft dropped a cluster bomb on a village playground in Deir al-Asafir, resulting in the deaths of 10 children and injuring 15 others. This horrific incident highlights the brutal nature of the ongoing Syrian Civil War and its devastating impact on innocent civilians, particularly children.
2013 Supreme Court to Hear Religious Freedom and Healthcare Cases: The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear significant cases concerning religious freedom and contraceptive coverage under the Affordable Care Act, focusing on whether for-profit companies can refuse mandated contraceptive coverage.
2014 Ferguson Protests and National Day of Action: Following the grand jury's decision not to indict Officer Darren Wilson for the shooting of Michael Brown, protests erupted in Ferguson, Missouri, with over 40 arrests. This sparked a nationwide day of action with demonstrations in more than 170 cities, highlighting ongoing racial tensions in the United States.
2015 UK Considers Military Action Against ISIL: British Prime Minister David Cameron addressed Parliament, arguing that UK military airstrikes on ISIL in Syria would enhance national security and support France in the aftermath of the Paris attacks.
2016 Death of Fidel Castro: Cuban state television reported the death of Fidel Castro, the former president of Cuba, at the age of 90. Castro was a pivotal revolutionary leader who significantly shaped Cuba's political landscape throughout the 20th century.
2017 Russian Airstrike Kills Civilians in Syrian Civil War: Russian airstrikes targeted residential buildings in Al-Shafah, a village held by ISIS in Deir Elzor province, resulting in at least 53 civilian deaths, including 21 children, further highlighting the humanitarian crisis in the Syrian Civil War.
2018 Kerch Strait Incident: Tensions escalated between Russia and Ukraine as Russia requested an urgent United Nations Security Council meeting. The Kerch Strait was reopened for commercial shipping, and Ukraine declared martial law in 10 oblasts for 30 days following a maritime confrontation.
2019 Devastating Earthquake in Western Albania: A powerful magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck western Albania, causing widespread destruction and significant loss of life. The seismic event resulted in at least 52 fatalities and over 1,000 injuries, marking it as the world's deadliest earthquake in 2019 and the most catastrophic to hit Albania in nearly a century. The earthquake caused extensive structural damage to buildings and infrastructure, triggering a humanitarian crisis in the affected regions.
2020 Argentina Mourns Diego Maradona: Argentines bid a final farewell to soccer legend Diego Maradona as the nation entered a period of national mourning, celebrating the life of their flawed but beloved sports hero.
2021 WHO Identifies Omicron COVID-19 Variant: The World Health Organization (WHO) officially identifies the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant, marking a significant moment in the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic. This new variant raised immediate international health concerns due to its potentially increased transmissibility and potential vaccine resistance.
2022 Rare Public Protests Against COVID-19 Lockdowns in China: Unprecedented public demonstrations erupted across China, challenging the government's strict zero-COVID policies. Protesters in major cities like Beijing and in the Xinjiang region openly defied authorities, marking a significant moment of public dissent against the government's pandemic control measures. These protests represented a rare display of collective resistance in a country known for tight social control.
2023 US and China Trade Accusations Over South China Sea Tensions: Diplomatic tensions escalated between the United States and China on November 26, 2023, with both nations accusing each other of violations in the disputed South China Sea. The U.S. claimed China illegally forced an American ship from the region using naval and air forces, while the ship was reportedly conducting a routine peacekeeping mission.

What Is special about November 26?

November 26 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 26.