1. 1170 – The murder of Thomas Becket
On December 29, 1170, Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury, was murdered in Canterbury Cathedral. Becket had been in conflict with King Henry II over the rights and privileges of the Church. His death shocked the Christian world and led to his canonization as a martyr and saint. The incident significantly strained the relationship between the monarchy and the church in England. Becket’s shrine became an important pilgrimage site during the Middle Ages.
2. 1845 – Texas is admitted to the United States
On December 29, 1845, Texas was officially admitted to the United States as the 28th state. This event was a pivotal moment in American history, leading to increased tensions with Mexico. Mexico had never recognized the independence of Texas from its territory, which contributed to the outbreak of the Mexican-American War in 1846. The annexation of Texas was also controversial within the U.S., particularly because Texas permitted slavery. This addition expanded the territory of the United States significantly.
3. 1890 – The Wounded Knee Massacre
The Wounded Knee Massacre occurred on December 29, 1890, when U.S. Army troops killed hundreds of Lakota Sioux at Wounded Knee Creek in South Dakota. This tragic event marked the end of the Indian Wars and represented a devastating blow to Native American resistance. The massacre was partly a result of fears surrounding the Ghost Dance movement among the Sioux. It remains a symbol of the brutal treatment of Native Americans by the U.S. government. The event is remembered as one of the darkest moments in American history.
4. 1911 – The first official airmail flight in India
On December 29, 1911, India witnessed its first official airmail flight. A French pilot named Henri Pequet carried around 6,500 letters from Allahabad to Naini, covering a distance of approximately 13 miles. This marked a significant milestone in the development of aviation and postal services in India. The flight demonstrated the potential of airplanes to improve communication over long distances. It was a precursor to the establishment of regular airmail services globally.
5. 1937 – The Irish Free State adopts a new constitution
On December 29, 1937, the Irish Free State adopted a new constitution, which officially renamed the country “Ireland” (Éire in Irish). This constitution marked a key step in Ireland’s development as a sovereign nation, reducing the influence of the British monarchy. It established the framework for the modern Irish government and defined the country’s political and social structures. The new constitution also recognized the Irish language as the national language. It laid the foundation for Ireland’s eventual full independence.
6. 1940 – The first flight of the de Havilland Mosquito
The de Havilland Mosquito, a British multi-role combat aircraft, had its first flight on December 29, 1940. Known as the “Wooden Wonder,” it was made largely of wood, which was unusual for military aircraft at the time. The Mosquito was fast, versatile, and used in various roles including reconnaissance, bombing, and as a night fighter during World War II. Its design allowed it to evade enemy fighters thanks to its high speed. The Mosquito became one of the most effective aircraft of the war.
7. 1972 – Apollo 17 astronauts return to Earth
On December 29, 1972, the Apollo 17 astronauts returned to Earth, marking the end of the last manned mission to the Moon. The crew included Eugene Cernan, Harrison Schmitt, and Ronald Evans. Apollo 17 was notable for being the longest lunar landing mission and for conducting extensive scientific research on the Moon. Eugene Cernan was the last person to walk on the lunar surface. The mission contributed valuable data to our understanding of the Moon’s geology.
8. 1993 – The Maastricht Treaty takes effect
The Maastricht Treaty, which formally established the European Union (EU), came into effect on December 29, 1993. The treaty marked a major step in European integration, creating a political and economic union among member states. It introduced the concept of European citizenship and laid the groundwork for the euro currency. The Maastricht Treaty aimed to promote peace, stability, and economic cooperation across Europe. It significantly reshaped the continent’s political landscape.
9. 2003 – Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva takes office
On December 29, 2003, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was inaugurated as the President of Brazil. Lula, a former metalworker and union leader, represented the Workers’ Party and was known for his focus on social programs and poverty reduction. His presidency marked a shift towards leftist policies in Brazil. He worked to improve the economy and expand social welfare initiatives. Lula’s leadership had a lasting impact on Brazil’s development.
10. 2013 – The European Space Agency launches the Gaia satellite
On December 29, 2013, the European Space Agency (ESA) launched the Gaia satellite from French Guiana. Gaia’s mission is to create the most precise three-dimensional map of the Milky Way galaxy. By measuring the positions, distances, and motions of stars, Gaia helps scientists understand the structure and evolution of our galaxy. The satellite’s data has revolutionized astronomy and astrophysics. Gaia continues to provide valuable insights into the cosmos.