Paulita Cauthen

Written by Paulita Cauthen

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

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Source: Facts.net

December 14th is a significant date in the history books, marked by various noteworthy events and facts. It serves as a reminder of the past and offers valuable insights into the world we live in today. From groundbreaking scientific discoveries to political turning points, this date has witnessed a diverse range of events that have shaped our society. Exploring the historical significance of December 14th not only allows us to appreciate the progress we have made, but also sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of those who came before us. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating events and facts that unfolded on December 14th throughout history, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of human civilization.

Key Takeaways:

  • On December 14th, historical events like the first successful kidney transplant and the launch of Apollo 17 took place, shaping the world we live in today.
  • December 14th marks the birth of talented individuals like actress Vanessa Hudgens and the release of cultural phenomena such as “The Simpsons” premiere and the iconic “Gangnam Style” music video.
Table of Contents

HISTORICAL EVENTS

  • 1799: George Washington, the first President of the United States, dies at the age of 67.
  • 1900: Max Planck presents his quantum theory of radiation, laying the foundation for modern quantum mechanics.
  • 1911: Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen becomes the first person to reach the South Pole.
  • 1946: The United Nations General Assembly votes to establish UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund.
  • 1995: The Dayton Agreement is signed, ending the Bosnian War and establishing peace in the region.

SCIENTIFIC BREAKTHROUGHS

  • 1903: The Wright brothers successfully make the first controlled, sustained flight of a powered aircraft.
  • 1954: The first successful kidney transplant is performed by Dr. Joseph Murray and his team at Brigham Hospital in Boston.
  • 1962: NASA’s Mariner 2 spacecraft becomes the first to successfully fly by Venus, providing valuable data about the planet’s atmosphere.
  • 1995: The Galileo spacecraft arrives at Jupiter and begins its mission to study the planet and its moons.
  • 2015: SpaceX successfully lands the first stage of its Falcon 9 rocket after delivering 11 satellites to orbit, marking a major milestone in reusable rocket technology.

POLITICAL MILESTONES

  • 1791: The United States Bill of Rights, comprising the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, is ratified.
  • 1911: Norwegian women are granted the right to vote, becoming the first country in Europe to grant universal suffrage.
  • 1972: Apollo 17, the final manned mission to the moon, launches from Kennedy Space Center.
  • 2003: The European Union enlarges to include ten new member states, expanding its membership to 25 countries.
  • 2019: Boris Johnson wins a decisive victory in the UK general election, leading to the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union.

CULTURAL EVENTS

  • 1896: The Glasgow Subway, the third oldest underground metro system in the world, opens to the public in Glasgow, Scotland.
  • 1968: The Rolling Stones release their album “Beggars Banquet,” featuring hits like “Sympathy for the Devil” and “Street Fighting Man.”
  • 1989: The Simpsons, an animated sitcom created by Matt Groening, premieres on the Fox Broadcasting Company.
  • 2005: The film adaptation of the musical “Rent” is released, bringing Jonathan Larson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning work to the big screen.
  • 2012: Gangnam Style, a music video by South Korean artist Psy, becomes the first YouTube video to reach one billion views.

BIRTHS

  • 1911: Spike Jones, American musician and bandleader known for his comedic musical style.
  • 1946: Jane Birkin, English actress and singer, famous for her collaboration with Serge Gainsbourg.
  • 1963: Cynthia Gibb, American actress known for her roles in film and television.
  • 1988: Vanessa Hudgens, American actress and singer, popular for her role in the High School Musical series.
  • 1991: Onew, South Korean singer and actor, member of the boy band SHINee.

NOTABLE DEATHS

  • 1542: James V of Scotland, father of Mary, Queen of Scots, dies at the age of 30.
  • 1799: George Washington, the first President of the United States, dies at the age of 67.
  • 1896: Paul Verlaine, French poet associated with the Symbolist movement, passes away at the age of 51.
  • 1977: Sir Terence Rattigan, British playwright known for works like “The Winslow Boy” and “Separate Tables,” dies at the age of 66.
  • 2011: Vasili Mitrokhin, former KGB archivist who exposed Soviet intelligence activities, passes away at the age of 81.

Conclusion

The events that occurred on December 14th throughout history are diverse and impactful. From significant historical milestones and scientific breakthroughs to political shifts and cultural phenomena, this date has witnessed numerous noteworthy moments. On this day, we remember the passing of influential figures and celebrate the birth of talented individuals who have left their mark on various fields. December 14th serves as a reminder of the richness and complexity of our shared history.

FAQs

Q: What other notable events happened on December 14th?

A: Apart from the events mentioned above, there have been other noteworthy occurrences on December 14th throughout history. For example, in 1798, the U.S. Navy’s first frigate, the USS Constitution, was launched. In 1964, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in the landmark case of Heart of Atlanta Motel v. United States, upholding the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Moreover, December 14th has also seen the premieres of popular films and the release of significant scientific studies.

Q: Are there any famous people born on December 14th?

A: Yes, December 14th is the birthdate of several notable individuals. Some examples include Jane Birkin, an English actress and singer known for her collaboration with Serge Gainsbourg, and Vanessa Hudgens, an American actress and singer recognized for her role in the High School Musical series.

Q: What significant political events happened on December 14th?

A: December 14th has witnessed significant political milestones. For instance, in 1791, the United States Bill of Rights, comprising the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, was ratified. In 2019, Boris Johnson won a decisive victory in the UK general election, leading to the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union.

Q: Have there been any scientific breakthroughs on December 14th?

A: Yes, December 14th has marked important scientific breakthroughs. In 1900, Max Planck presented his quantum theory of radiation, which laid the foundation for modern quantum mechanics. In 1903, the Wright brothers accomplished the first controlled, sustained flight of a powered aircraft.

Q: Are there any cultural events associated with December 14th?

A: December 14th holds cultural significance as well. In 1896, the Glasgow Subway, the third oldest underground metro system in the world, opened to the public in Glasgow, Scotland. In 1989, the animated sitcom “The Simpsons” debuted on the Fox Broadcasting Company. These cultural events have left a lasting impact on their respective spheres.

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