Major Historical Events on November 26- Today in History

November 26 has been witness to some of the most fascinating moments in history. From groundbreaking events that shaped nations to inspiring stories of resilience and progress. Let’s delve into the major historical events of November 26 and discover how they’ve contributed to shaping our world.

Pelagius II’s Papal Ascension – 579 AD

On November 26, 579, Pelagius II succeeded Benedict I as pope, assuming leadership during a period marked by Lombard sieges and political instability in Rome.

Passing of Sojourner Truth – 1883 AD

Sojourner Truth, the African American evangelist and reformer renowned for her advocacy in the abolitionist and women’s rights movements, passed away on November 26, 1883.

Marriage of Tsar Nicholas II and Alexandra – 1894 AD

On November 26, 1894, Nicholas II, the last tsar of Russia, married Alexandra Feodorovna, a union that intertwined the Romanov dynasty with German nobility.

Birth of Eugène Ionesco – 1909 AD

Eugène Ionesco, the Romanian-born French dramatist whose 1949 one-act “antiplay” La Cantatrice chauve (The Bald Soprano) sparked a revolution in dramatic techniques and helped inaugurate the Theatre of the Absurd, was born on November 26, 1909.

Founding of the National Hockey League – 1917 AD

The National Hockey League (NHL) was established on November 26, 1917, initially featuring four Canadian teams; the Boston Bruins became the first American club to join in 1924.

Birth of Charles Schulz – 1922 AD

Charles M. Schulz, the American cartoonist best known for creating the comic strip Peanuts, featuring characters like Charlie Brown and Snoopy, was born on November 26, 1922, in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

First Successful Technicolor Film Premieres – 1922 AD

On November 26, 1922, The Toll of the Sea, the first successful Technicolor feature film, premiered at the Rialto Theatre in New York City for the general public. This silent film marked a significant advancement in color cinematography.

Proclamation of the Mongolian People’s Republic – 1924 AD

Following the defeat of White Russian and Chinese forces, the Mongolian People’s Republic was proclaimed on November 26, 1924, marking Mongolia’s transition to a socialist state.

Birth of Tina Turner – 1939 AD

American singer Tina Turner, acclaimed for her dynamic performances across rhythm-and-blues, soul, and rock genres, was born on November 26, 1939.

Cordell Hull’s Ultimatum to Japan – 1941 AD

On November 26, 1941, U.S. Secretary of State Cordell Hull issued a stern note to Japan, demanding a complete withdrawal from China and Indochina, escalating tensions leading up to World War II.

Premiere of Casablanca – 1942 AD

Set in World War II-occupied Morocco, the film Casablanca, directed by Michael Curtiz and starring Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, and Paul Henreid, premiered on November 26, 1942, and became one of Hollywood’s most-revered classics.

France Launches First Satellite, Astérix – 1965 AD

On November 26, 1965, France launched its first satellite, Astérix, becoming the third country to achieve independent satellite launch capability, following the USSR and the USA.

Nakasone Yasuhiro Becomes Prime Minister – 1982 AD

Nakasone Yasuhiro, leader of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party, was elected prime minister on November 26, 1982, succeeding Suzuki Zenkō and initiating significant economic and administrative reforms.

Brink’s-Mat Gold Heist – 1983 AD

On November 26, 1983, the Brink’s-Mat robbery occurred at Heathrow Airport in London, where £26 million worth of gold, diamonds, and cash were stolen. This heist is considered one of the largest in British history.

Mumbai Terror Attacks – 2008 AD

On November 26, 2008, ten gunmen, allegedly linked to the Pakistan-based terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Taiba, launched coordinated attacks in Mumbai; the siege ended three days later, resulting in at least 174 deaths.

Also Read: Major Historical Events on November 25- Today in History