Adaline Moreira

Written by Adaline Moreira

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

december-7th-all-facts-events-that-happened-today-in-history
Source: Facts.net

Every day is filled with unique events and significant moments that shape the course of history. December 7th holds a special place in the historical timeline as it is marked by a multitude of remarkable occurrences. From important milestones to notable achievements, this date has witnessed numerous events that have left a lasting impact on society. Whether it be in the realms of politics, science, sports, or entertainment, December 7th has seen it all. Join us as we dive into the annals of history to explore the fascinating facts and unforgettable events that have taken place on this momentous day. From groundbreaking discoveries to unforgettable moments, December 7th has truly been a day to remember. Let us embark on a journey through time to uncover the significant events that have unfolded on this remarkable date.

Key Takeaways:

  • December 7th marks the day when Japan attacked Pearl Harbor in 1941, leading the United States to join World War II. It’s a reminder of the impact of historical events on shaping our world.
  • On December 7th, significant milestones like the election of the first female British Prime Minister and the recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel by the U.S. highlight the diverse impact of this date in history.
Table of Contents

HISTORICAL EVENTS

  • 1941: Japanese forces attack the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, leading to the United States’ entry into World War II.
  • 1796: Electors in the U.S. choose John Adams as the country’s second president.
  • 1972: Apollo 17, the final manned mission to the Moon, is launched by NASA.
  • 2003: The space probe Spirit is launched, beginning NASA’s Mars Exploration Rover mission.
  • 1946: A fire at the Winecoff Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia, kills 119 people, making it the deadliest hotel fire in U.S. history.

SCIENTIFIC BREAKTHROUGHS

  • 1909: Chemist Leo Baekeland announces the invention of Bakelite, the world’s first synthetic plastic.
  • 1972: The Pioneer 10 spacecraft becomes the first man-made object to be closest to Jupiter.
  • 1972: Apollo 17 astronaut Harrison Schmitt discovers orange soil on the Moon, indicating the presence of water.
  • 1995: The Galileo spacecraft arrives at Jupiter and begins its exploration of the planet and its moons.
  • 1982: Doctors successfully perform the first human implantation of an artificial heart, the Jarvik-7.

POLITICAL MILESTONES

  • 1787: Delaware becomes the first state to ratify the United States Constitution.
  • 1941: The United Kingdom declares war on Finland, Hungary and Romania during World War II.
  • 1979: Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher wins the general elections and becomes the first female British Prime Minister.
  • 1993: The leaders of the United States, Canada, and Mexico sign the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
  • 2017: The U.S. recognizes Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, leading to protests and international controversy.

CULTURAL EVENTS

  • 1968: The Rolling Stones release their album “Beggars Banquet,” featuring the hit song “Sympathy for the Devil.
  • 2002:The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers,” directed by Peter Jackson, premieres in Los Angeles.
  • 1956: Elvis Presley’s first movie, “Love Me Tender,” premieres in New York City.
  • 1995: The cartoon show “Dexter’s Laboratory” premieres on Cartoon Network.
  • 2003: The final episode of the critically acclaimed TV series “The West Wing” airs.

BIRTHS

  • 1942: Harry Chapin, American singer-songwriter and humanitarian.
  • 1979: Sara Bareilles, American singer-songwriter.
  • 1963: Terrell Owens, American football player.
  • 1928: Noam Chomsky, American linguist, philosopher, and cognitive scientist.
  • 1973: Damien Rice, Irish singer-songwriter.

NOTABLE DEATHS

  • 1963: Arthur Fiedler, American conductor.
  • 1970: Rube Goldberg, American cartoonist and engineer.
  • 1988: John Carradine, American actor.
  • 1999: Rick Danko, Canadian musician (The Band).
  • 2018: Pete Shelley, English musician (Buzzcocks).

Conclusion

December 7th is a significant date in history, marked by various events spanning historical, scientific, political, cultural, and personal realms. From the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II to groundbreaking scientific achievements like the discovery of orange soil on the Moon and the first human implantation of an artificial heart, this day has witnessed moments that have shaped the course of human history.

Additionally, December 7th has witnessed political milestones such as the ratification of the United States Constitution by Delaware, the election of the first female British Prime Minister, and the controversial recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel by the United States. In the cultural sphere, this day has seen the release of iconic albums, movie premieres, and the birth of influential artists.

Overall, December 7th serves as a reminder of how historical events, scientific breakthroughs, political changes, cultural expressions, and the lives of individuals contribute to the rich tapestry of our collective history.

FAQs

Q: What is the significance of Pearl Harbor on December 7th?

A: On December 7th, 1941, Japanese forces launched a surprise attack on the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, leading to the United States’ entry into World War II.

Q: Who was the first female British Prime Minister?

A: Margaret Thatcher became the first female British Prime Minister after winning the general elections on December 7th, 1979.

Q: What scientific achievements are associated with December 7th?

A: December 7th witnessed significant scientific breakthroughs such as the discovery of orange soil on the Moon during the Apollo 17 mission in 1972 and the first human implantation of an artificial heart in 1982.

Q: Which notable musicians were born on December 7th?

A: December 7th is the birthdate of musicians Harry Chapin, Sara Bareilles, Damien Rice, and the late Rick Danko.

Q: Who recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel on December 7th?

A: On December 7th, 2017, the United States recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, leading to protests and international controversy.

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