1. December 5, 1492 – Christopher Columbus Lands in Hispaniola
On this day, Christopher Columbus landed on the island of Hispaniola, which is now divided into Haiti and the Dominican Republic. This event marked one of the first European encounters with the indigenous peoples of the Caribbean. Columbus had initially set sail in August 1492 with the goal of finding a new route to Asia. His landing in the New World had profound consequences for world history, leading to the widespread exploration and colonization of the Americas. The encounter also triggered significant cultural exchanges and tragic consequences for the native populations.
2. December 5, 1766 – Catherine the Great Becomes Empress of Russia
Catherine the Great ascended to the throne after the death of her husband, Peter III. Her reign marked a period of revitalization for the Russian Empire, with significant territorial expansion and modernization efforts. Catherine was a patron of the arts and education, promoting Enlightenment ideas throughout Russia. She corresponded with many leading intellectuals of the time, including Voltaire and Diderot. Her leadership helped transform Russia into one of the great powers of Europe.
3. December 5, 1933 – Repeal of Prohibition in the United States
The 21st Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, officially ending Prohibition. This amendment repealed the 18th Amendment, which had banned the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages. The repeal was a response to widespread illegal activities and the failure of Prohibition to curb alcohol consumption. It also restored jobs and government revenues through the legal alcohol industry. The end of Prohibition had significant social and economic impacts on American society.
4. December 5, 1968 – Apollo 8 Returns to Earth
Apollo 8, the first manned spacecraft to orbit the Moon, safely returned to Earth on December 5, 1968. The mission was a critical step in the U.S. space program, demonstrating the ability to send humans to lunar orbit and return them safely. Astronauts Frank Borman, James Lovell, and William Anders made history with this mission. During the flight, they took the famous “Earthrise” photograph, showing Earth from lunar orbit. Apollo 8 paved the way for the Apollo 11 Moon landing in 1969.
5. December 5, 1935 – The Nuremberg Laws Are Announced in Nazi Germany
The Nazi regime announced the Nuremberg Laws, which institutionalized racial discrimination against Jews. These laws stripped German Jews of citizenship and prohibited marriages or sexual relations between Jews and non-Jewish Germans. The Nuremberg Laws were a key step in the systematic oppression that eventually led to the Holocaust. They marked the legal foundation for further anti-Semitic policies during Nazi rule. The announcement on December 5 had devastating effects on Jewish communities in Germany and beyond.
6. December 5, 1848 – California Gold Rush Begins
News of gold discovered at Sutter’s Mill in California spread widely, triggering the California Gold Rush. This event led to a massive influx of settlers and prospectors, known as “forty-niners,” seeking fortune. The Gold Rush accelerated California’s admission as the 31st state in the United States in 1850. It also had significant economic impacts, fueling growth and development in the American West. However, it also led to displacement and hardship for Native American populations.
7. December 5, 1939 – The Battle of the Heligoland Bight
The Battle of the Heligoland Bight was the first major air battle of World War II. British Royal Air Force bombers attacked German naval forces near the Heligoland archipelago in the North Sea. The battle demonstrated the increasing importance of air power in naval warfare. Despite suffering losses, the British were able to damage several German ships. This engagement marked the beginning of many aerial confrontations during the war.
8. December 5, 1952 – The Great Smog of London Begins
A severe smog event began in London, lasting several days and causing major health problems and fatalities. The smog was caused by a combination of cold weather, stagnant air, and pollution from coal fires. It led to the deaths of thousands due to respiratory issues and other health complications. The Great Smog highlighted the dangers of air pollution and prompted legislative changes. This event was a turning point for environmental awareness and public health in the UK.
9. December 5, 1930 – The Motion Picture Academy Holds Its First Awards Ceremony
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences held the first Academy Awards ceremony, now known as the Oscars. The event honored outstanding achievements in the film industry from the previous year. The ceremony was a private dinner with about 270 guests, unlike the large public events held today. The first Best Picture award went to the film “Wings,” a silent war movie. This event marked the beginning of an enduring tradition celebrating cinematic excellence.
10. December 5, 1994 – The First World Cup Soccer Draw in the United States
The draw for the 1994 FIFA World Cup took place, determining the group stage matchups for the tournament hosted by the United States. This was the first time the World Cup was held in the U.S., marking a significant moment for the sport’s popularity in the country. The tournament helped increase soccer’s visibility and growth in the American sports landscape. It featured 24 teams from around the world, competing for the prestigious title. The 1994 World Cup is remembered for its high attendance and successful organization.