1. 1814 – Signing of the Treaty of Ghent
On December 24, 1814, the Treaty of Ghent was signed, officially ending the War of 1812 between the United States and Great Britain. The treaty was signed in the city of Ghent, in present-day Belgium. It essentially restored relations between the two nations to their status before the war, with no territorial gains for either side. News of the treaty took weeks to reach the United States, and during that time, the Battle of New Orleans was fought. The treaty marked the beginning of a peaceful relationship between the U.S. and Britain, which has lasted since.
2. 1914 – Christmas Truce during World War I
On Christmas Eve 1914, an unofficial ceasefire took place along parts of the Western Front during World War I. Soldiers from both sides emerged from their trenches and met in no man’s land to exchange greetings, sing carols, and even play football. This spontaneous truce was remarkable given the brutal nature of the conflict. It showed a moment of shared humanity amidst the horrors of war. However, the truce was not widespread and did not last beyond the Christmas period.
3. 1968 – Apollo 8 orbits the Moon
Apollo 8, the first manned mission to orbit the Moon, entered lunar orbit on December 24, 1968. Astronauts Frank Borman, James Lovell, and William Anders became the first humans to see the far side of the Moon and Earth from lunar orbit. They famously broadcast a live television transmission on Christmas Eve, reading from the Book of Genesis. Their mission paved the way for the Apollo 11 Moon landing in 1969. Apollo 8’s success was a major milestone in the space race between the United States and the Soviet Union.
4. 1916 – The Battle of Verdun ends
The Battle of Verdun, one of the longest and bloodiest battles of World War I, ended on December 24, 1916. It lasted for nearly 10 months and resulted in heavy casualties on both the French and German sides. The battle became a symbol of French determination and resilience. Despite the enormous loss of life, the French army managed to hold their ground. Verdun had a profound impact on French military strategy and national memory.
5. 1943 – The Battle of the Bulge preparations
On December 24, 1943, during World War II, German forces were preparing for what would become the Battle of the Bulge, launched in December 1944. This surprise offensive was aimed at splitting the Allied forces in Western Europe. The preparations involved gathering troops and resources in the Ardennes forest. The battle would become the largest fought by the United States during the war. It was a critical moment that tested the resolve and strength of the Allied forces.
6. 1818 – The Christmas Carol “Silent Night” is first performed
On December 24, 1818, the beloved Christmas carol “Silent Night” was performed for the first time in the small town of Oberndorf, Austria. The lyrics were written by Joseph Mohr, and the melody was composed by Franz Xaver Gruber. The song was originally performed with a guitar, which was unusual at the time for church music. “Silent Night” has since become one of the most popular and enduring Christmas songs worldwide. Its peaceful message resonates with people across cultures and generations.
7. 1951 – First successful kidney transplant in the UK
On December 24, 1951, the United Kingdom achieved a medical milestone with its first successful kidney transplant. The operation was performed at the Royal London Hospital. This procedure was part of the early development of organ transplantation techniques. It marked a significant advancement in medical science and opened the door for future transplant surgeries. The success helped improve the prospects for patients with kidney failure.
8. 1979 – Dominica gains independence from the UK
Dominica became an independent nation on December 24, 1979, after being a British colony for many years. The island in the Caribbean chose to celebrate its independence on Christmas Eve, symbolizing a new beginning. The transition to independence was peaceful and marked by the establishment of a parliamentary democracy. Since independence, Dominica has worked to develop its economy and infrastructure. The country is known for its natural beauty and vibrant culture.
9. 1917 – General Allenby enters Jerusalem
On December 24, 1917, British General Edmund Allenby entered Jerusalem during World War I, marking the end of Ottoman control over the city. The entry was significant as Jerusalem held religious and strategic importance. Allenby respected the city’s religious sensitivities by entering on foot rather than on horseback. This event was part of the larger campaign in the Middle East. It had lasting political and cultural implications for the region.
10. 1962 – First live transatlantic television broadcast via Telstar satellite
On December 24, 1962, the Telstar satellite enabled the first live transatlantic television broadcast. This technological breakthrough allowed live images to be transmitted between the United States and Europe. The broadcast was a significant advancement in global communications. It paved the way for the modern era of satellite television and global media. This event marked the beginning of a new age in international connectivity.