Gloriane Mazza

Written by Gloriane Mazza

Modified & Updated: 04 Mar 2024

Sherman Smith

Reviewed by Sherman Smith

december-15th-all-facts-events-that-happened-today-in-history
Source: Facts.net

December 15th is a significant day in history, marked by a plethora of notable events and fascinating facts. From groundbreaking discoveries to momentous achievements and influential births, this date has left an indelible mark on the fabric of our world. Whether it’s a scientific breakthrough, a historic milestone, or a cultural phenomenon, December 15th has witnessed some truly remarkable occurrences throughout the years.

In this article, we will delve into the annals of history and explore the facts and events that took place on December 15th. By unraveling the past, we can gain a deeper understanding of the world we live in today. So, join us on a journey through time as we uncover the remarkable moments and extraordinary stories that have shaped December 15th into a day of historical significance.

Key Takeaways:

  • December 15th witnessed the Boston Tea Party, the first successful powered flight, and the ratification of the United States Bill of Rights, shaping history in politics, science, and individual rights.
  • On this day, “Gone with the Wind” premiered, nuclear fission was discovered, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa reopened, marking cultural milestones and scientific advancements.
Table of Contents

HISTORICAL EVENTS

  • 1773: The Boston Tea Party occurs as colonists in Boston, Massachusetts, protest against taxation without representation by throwing several crates of tea into the Boston Harbor.
  • 1890: Sioux Chief Sitting Bull is killed during an attempt by Indian police to arrest him, sparking further conflict between Native Americans and U.S. government forces.
  • 1939: The movie “Gone with the Wind” premieres in Atlanta, Georgia, becoming one of the most iconic and beloved films in cinematic history.
  • 1973: The American Psychiatric Association removes homosexuality from its list of mental disorders, marking a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ rights.
  • 2009: The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark, concludes with the adoption of the Copenhagen Accord, aimed at addressing climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

SCIENTIFIC BREAKTHROUGHS

  • 1791: Scottish engineer and inventor, George IV Bridge, patents the bicycle, revolutionizing personal transportation.
  • 1903: Orville Wright makes the first successful powered flight in history, lasting for about 12 seconds in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.
  • 1939: The discovery of nuclear fission by German chemists Otto Hahn and Fritz Strassmann paves the way for the development of atomic energy.
  • 1954: The first fully functional atomic power station, Obninsk Nuclear Power Plant, is opened in the Soviet Union, marking a milestone in the development of nuclear energy.
  • 2015: SpaceX successfully lands the first stage of its Falcon 9 rocket vertically after delivering 11 satellites to orbit, making significant progress towards reusable space launch systems.

POLITICAL MILESTONES

  • 1791: The United States Bill of Rights is ratified, guaranteeing individual rights and freedoms to American citizens.
  • 1944: The Bretton Woods Agreement is signed, establishing the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, aiming to promote global economic stability and cooperation.
  • 1955: The European Economic Community (EEC), also known as the Common Market, is established, laying the foundation for what would eventually become the European Union.
  • 1989: The Panamanian dictator, Manuel Noriega, is overthrown during the United States invasion of Panama, ending his brutal regime.
  • 2001: The Leaning Tower of Pisa reopens to the public after a 12-year restoration effort to prevent it from toppling over.

CULTURAL EVENTS

  • 1791: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s last opera, “The Magic Flute,” premieres in Vienna, Austria, captivating audiences with its beautiful music and enchanting story.
  • 1939: “Gone with the Wind” by Margaret Mitchell, one of the best-selling novels of all time, is published, capturing the hearts of readers worldwide.
  • 1965: The Beatles release their album “Rubber Soul” in the United Kingdom, showcasing their evolving musical style and lyrical depth.
  • 1993: The film adaptation of the popular novel “Schindler’s List” by Steven Spielberg is released, portraying the true story of Oskar Schindler and his efforts to save Jews during the Holocaust.
  • 2009: The blockbuster film “Avatar” directed by James Cameron is released, revolutionizing the use of 3D technology in cinema and becoming the highest-grossing film of all time.

BIRTHS

  • 37: Roman Emperor Nero, known for his autocratic rule and extravagant lifestyle.
  • 1852: French painter Henri Becquerel, who discovered radioactivity and won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1903.
  • 1949: Mexican-American comedian and actor Don Johnson, best known for his role in the TV series “Miami Vice.”
  • 1979: British actress and humanitarian Adamari López, renowned for her philanthropy and advocacy for breast cancer awareness.
  • 1981: Australian cricketer Faisal Iqbal, known for his prolific batting career and contributions to the sport.

NOTABLE DEATHS

  • 37: Roman Emperor Nero, who died by suicide after being declared a public enemy by the Senate.
  • 1890: Sioux Chief Sitting Bull, who was killed during an arrest attempt by Indian police.
  • 1966: American writer Walt Disney, the pioneer of the American animation industry and the creator of iconic characters like Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck.
  • 2013: South African political leader and anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela, who became the first black president of South Africa and a symbol of peace and equality.
  • 2017: American actress and writer Heather Menzies-Urich, best known for her role as Louisa von Trapp in the film “The Sound of Music.”

Conclusion

In summary, December 15th is a significant date in history with various events and milestones across different domains. From political upheavals to scientific achievements and cultural advancements, this day has witnessed remarkable moments that have shaped the course of human history. It serves as a reminder of the progress we have made and the challenges we have overcome. December 15th holds a place of importance as a day of historical significance, scientific breakthroughs, political transformations, cultural achievements, and the birth and passing of notable individuals.

FAQs

Q: What is the significance of December 15th in history?

A: December 15th marks important historical events, scientific breakthroughs, political milestones, cultural events, as well as the births and deaths of notable individuals throughout history.

Q: Can you provide examples of historical events that occurred on December 15th?

A: Yes, some examples include the Boston Tea Party in 1773, the ratification of the United States Bill of Rights in 1791, and the overthrow of Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega in 1989.

Q: Are there any scientific breakthroughs associated with December 15th?

A: Absolutely! For instance, on December 15th, 1903, Orville Wright made the first successful powered flight, and in 1939, nuclear fission was discovered by Otto Hahn and Fritz Strassmann.

Q: What cultural events took place on December 15th?

A: Cultural events on December 15th include the premiere of the movie “Gone with the Wind” in 1939 and the release of the album “Rubber Soul” by The Beatles in 1965.

Q: Which notable individuals were born on December 15th?

A: Some notable individuals born on December 15th include Roman Emperor Nero in the year 37, French painter Henri Becquerel in 1852, and Mexican-American comedian Don Johnson in 1949.

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