On this day: December 19
December 19 has been a significant date throughout history, with various events that have shaped the world we live in today. From political changes to scientific breakthroughs, here are some of the most notable events that took place on this day:
1777: The United States celebrates its first national Thanksgiving Day
On December 19, 1777, the United States celebrated its first national Thanksgiving Day. This was a day set aside to give thanks for the victory in the Battle of Saratoga, a turning point in the Revolutionary War. The Continental Congress declared that December 18 would be a day of “solemn thanksgiving and praise” for the victory, and it was celebrated across the country with feasting and prayer.
1843: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens is published
One of the most beloved Christmas stories of all time, A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, was first published on December 19, 1843. The story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his transformation from a miserly old man to a kind-hearted benefactor has become a classic tale of redemption and the true spirit of Christmas.
1946: The first General Assembly of the United Nations convenes
On December 19, 1946, the first General Assembly of the United Nations convened in London, England. Representatives from 51 countries gathered to discuss and address issues of international concern, including peace and security, human rights, and economic development. The United Nations has since become a vital organization in promoting global cooperation and diplomacy.
1972: Apollo 17 returns to Earth
On December 19, 1972, the Apollo 17 spacecraft returned to Earth, marking the end of NASA’s Apollo program. This mission was the sixth and final manned mission to land on the Moon, with astronauts Eugene Cernan and Harrison Schmitt spending three days exploring the lunar surface. Apollo 17 remains the most recent manned mission to the Moon.
1998: Bill Clinton is impeached by the House of Representatives
On December 19, 1998, President Bill Clinton became the second president in American history to be impeached by the House of Representatives. The impeachment stemmed from charges of perjury and obstruction of justice related to his affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky. Clinton was later acquitted by the Senate and remained in office for the remainder of his term.
2001: Argentina experiences a financial crisis
On December 19, 2001, Argentina experienced a severe financial crisis that led to widespread social unrest and political turmoil. The country’s economy had been struggling for years, but the crisis reached a tipping point when the government defaulted on its debt and imposed strict banking restrictions. The crisis eventually led to the resignation of President Fernando de la Rua and the devaluation of the Argentine peso.
2016: The Electoral College officially elects Donald Trump as President of the United States
On December 19, 2016, the Electoral College officially elected Donald Trump as the 45th President of the United States. Despite losing the popular vote to Hillary Clinton, Trump secured the necessary 270 electoral votes to win the presidency. The Electoral College vote was met with controversy and protests, as some questioned the legitimacy of the electoral system.
These are just a few of the many historical events that have taken place on December 19 throughout the years. Each event has had a lasting impact on society and the world at large, shaping the course of history in its own unique way.
