Explore the major events that took place on December 22 throughout history. These events have shaped the world we live in today, and learning about them can be both interesting and educational. From significant battles and discoveries to important birthdays and milestones, December 22 has seen it all. Join us as we delve into the past to uncover the stories behind this date in history.
Major Historical Events on December 22 – Today in History
1688 – Earl of Danby Occupies York
The Earl of Danby seizes York in support of King William III (Prince of Orange) during a pivotal moment in the Glorious Revolution.
1772 – First Schoolhouse West of Allegheny
A Moravian missionary builds the first schoolhouse west of the Allegheny Mountains, contributing to education in the early American frontier.
1775 – Formation of the Continental Navy
The Continental Navy is organized with seven ships, marking a crucial step in the American Revolutionary War.
1807 – Embargo Act Signed into Law
U.S. Congress passes the Embargo Act, signed into law by President Thomas Jefferson, prohibiting American ships from foreign port trading due to hostilities between France and Britain.
1814 – Samuel Marsden Arrives in New Zealand
Samuel Marsden arrives in New Zealand to establish the country’s first mission station, introducing livestock and poultry to the region.
1851 – First Freight Train in Roorkee, India
The inaugural freight train runs in Roorkee, India, laying the foundation for modern Indian railways.
1885 – Itō Hirobumi Becomes Japan’s First Prime Minister
Samurai Itō Hirobumi becomes Japan’s inaugural Prime Minister, marking a transformative moment in Japanese history.
1886 – First National Accountants’ Society in the US
The first national accountants’ society in the U.S. is established in New York City, influencing the field of accounting.
1910 – US Postal Savings Stamps Issued
The United States issues its first postal savings stamps, promoting savings among the general public.
1924 – Philip Barry’s Play “The Youngest” Premieres
Philip Barry’s play “The Youngest” makes its debut in New York City, captivating theatergoers with its storytelling.
1932 – “The Mummy” Film Released
“The Mummy,” directed by Karl Freund and starring Boris Karloff, is released in the U.S., becoming the first Mummy horror film.
1934 – First Flight from Netherlands to Curaçao
The inaugural flight from the Netherlands to Curaçao, known as the Christmas flight of 1934, marks a significant aviation milestone.
1940 – Himarë Captured by Greek Army
During World War II, the Greek army captures Himarë, an important strategic victory in the Balkans.
1941 – First Proletarian Brigade in Yugoslavia
Yugoslav partisan leader Tito establishes the first Proletarian Brigade, an elite fighting unit, during World War II.
1944 – Germans Demand Surrender at Bastogne
In the Battle of the Bulge, German forces demand the surrender of American troops in Bastogne, Belgium, a pivotal moment in the conflict.
1947 – Italian Constituent Assembly Adopts New Constitution
The Italian Constituent Assembly adopts a new constitution, shaping Italy’s post-World War II political landscape.
1956 – Birth of Colo the Gorilla
Colo, the first gorilla bred in captivity, is born at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio, contributing to gorilla conservation efforts.
1958 – “The Chipmunk Song” Reaches #1
The holiday novelty single “The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late)” by David Seville and the Chipmunks tops the charts, becoming a classic.
1963 – End of Mourning Period for JFK
The 30-day official mourning period for President John F. Kennedy concludes, marking a solemn moment in U.S. history.
1964 – Denis Law Wins Ballon d’Or
Manchester United striker Denis Law becomes the first Scotsman to win the Ballon d’Or award for best European football player.
1964 – First Flight of Lockheed SR-71
The U.S. aircraft Lockheed SR-71 takes its maiden flight, setting a jet speed record and becoming an iconic reconnaissance plane.
1975 – US President Signs Energy Policy Act
U.S. President Gerald Ford signs the Energy Policy and Conservation Act, establishing the National Petroleum Reserve.
1978 – Adoption of Constitution by Thailand
Thailand adopts a new constitution, shaping the country’s political and legal framework.
1981 – Belgium’s 5th Government of Martens Forms
Belgium’s fifth government, under the leadership of Wilfried Martens, is formed, influencing the nation’s policies.
1988 – Independence Accord for South West Africa
South Africa signs an accord granting independence to South West Africa (now Namibia), marking a milestone in the decolonization process.
1989 – Nicolae Ceausescu Ousted in Romania
After 23 years of dictatorial rule, Romania ousts Communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu, leading to significant political changes in the country.
1990 – Lech Wałęsa Sworn in as Poland’s President
Labor activist Lech Wałęsa is inaugurated as Poland’s first popularly elected president, symbolizing the nation’s transition to democracy.
1997 – Scotty Bowman’s NHL Coaching Milestone
Hockey coach Scotty Bowman reaches 200 wins with the Detroit Red Wings, becoming the first coach to achieve this milestone with three different NHL teams.
2000 – On This Day Launched as HistoryOrb.com
The website “On This Day” is launched, providing historical events and information to the online community.
2006 – Evidence of Modern Humans in East Timor
Australian archaeologist Sue O’Connor discovers evidence of modern humans in Jerimalai cave, near Lene Hara cave in East Timor, reshaping our understanding of human history.
2022 – Decline in American Life Expectancy
A report by the CDC reveals that American life expectancy has reached its lowest point in nearly two decades, with factors including COVID-19 and drug overdoses contributing to the decline.
Also Read: Major Historical Events on December 21 – Today in History
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