1. December 21, 1620 – Pilgrims Land at Plymouth Rock
On December 21, 1620, the Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower sighted land at what is now Plymouth, Massachusetts. This marked the beginning of one of the earliest successful English settlements in North America. The Pilgrims were seeking religious freedom and a new life away from persecution in England. Their settlement laid the groundwork for future colonies and eventually the United States. The harsh winter ahead would test their survival skills, but their perseverance became a foundational story in American history.
2. December 21, 1898 – Marie and Pierre Curie Announce Discovery of Radium
On this day in 1898, Marie and Pierre Curie announced the discovery of the radioactive element radium. This discovery was groundbreaking and opened new avenues in science, especially in the study of radioactivity. Radium would later be used in medical treatments, such as cancer therapy. The Curies’ work earned them international acclaim and a Nobel Prize. Their research significantly advanced our understanding of atomic science.
3. December 21, 1913 – The Lincoln Highway Opens
The Lincoln Highway, the first road across the United States, officially opened on December 21, 1913. It stretched from Times Square in New York City to Lincoln Park in San Francisco. This marked a significant development in American transportation, facilitating coast-to-coast travel by automobile. The highway helped boost commerce and tourism, connecting rural areas to urban centers. It also symbolized the growing importance of the automobile in American life.
4. December 21, 1937 – First Flight of the Douglas DC-4
The Douglas DC-4, an important four-engine propeller-driven airliner, made its first flight on December 21, 1937. This aircraft was significant for its role in both civilian and military aviation during World War II. The DC-4 could carry more passengers and cargo than earlier planes, improving long-distance air travel. After the war, many DC-4s were converted for commercial airline use. Its success helped pave the way for modern airliners.
5. December 21, 1968 – Apollo 8 Enters Lunar Orbit
On this day, Apollo 8 became the first manned spacecraft to orbit the moon. Astronauts Frank Borman, James Lovell, and William Anders spent about 20 hours orbiting the lunar surface. This mission was a major milestone in the space race between the United States and the Soviet Union. It provided critical data for the later Apollo 11 moon landing. The famous “Earthrise” photograph was taken during this mission, showing Earth from lunar orbit.
6. December 21, 1988 – Pan Am Flight 103 Bombing
Pan Am Flight 103 exploded over Lockerbie, Scotland, on December 21, 1988, killing all 259 people on board and 11 people on the ground. This terrorist bombing shocked the world and led to extensive investigations. The attack was linked to Libyan agents, and it had a profound impact on international aviation security. It highlighted the need for stronger anti-terrorism measures in air travel. The tragedy remains one of the deadliest acts of aviation terrorism.
7. December 21, 1984 – The First Commercial CD Player Released in the U.S.
Sony released the first commercial compact disc (CD) player in the United States on December 21, 1984. This marked a revolutionary change in how people listened to music. CDs offered higher sound quality and durability compared to vinyl records and cassette tapes. The introduction of CD players transformed the music industry and consumer habits. It also paved the way for further digital audio innovations.
8. December 21, 1991 – The Dissolution of the Soviet Union Officially Recognized
Although the Soviet Union formally dissolved in December 1991, December 21 was notable for the signing of the Alma-Ata Protocol by many former Soviet republics. This agreement recognized the independence of the republics and created the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). It marked the definitive end of the Soviet Union as a political entity. The breakup led to major geopolitical changes and the emergence of new nations. It also ushered in a new era of relations between Russia and the West.
9. December 21, 2012 – The World Does Not End
December 21, 2012, was widely publicized as the date of a supposed apocalypse based on interpretations of the Mayan calendar. Many people believed this date would bring catastrophic events or the end of the world. However, the day passed without incident, dispelling fears and myths. The event became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring movies, books, and discussions about prophecy and science. It highlighted the power of misinformation and the human fascination with doomsday predictions.
10. December 21, 2017 – Total Solar Eclipse Visible Across the United States
On December 21, 2017, a total solar eclipse was visible across parts of the United States, an event that captivated millions. Eclipses occur when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, temporarily blocking sunlight. This eclipse was notable for its wide visibility and the scientific opportunities it presented. Observers across the country gathered to witness this rare celestial event. It also raised awareness about astronomy and the natural wonders of our solar system.