On this day: December 5
1868: The Birth of Arnold Sommerfeld
Arnold Sommerfeld, a German physicist known for his work on atomic and quantum physics, was born on December 5, 1868. He made significant contributions to the field of theoretical physics, particularly in the areas of atomic structure and quantum mechanics. Sommerfeld’s work laid the foundation for many of the advancements in physics that followed, and he is considered one of the most influential physicists of the 20th century.
1933: The End of Prohibition in the United States
On December 5, 1933, the 21st Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified, officially ending the era of Prohibition in the country. Prohibition, which had been in effect since 1920, had banned the production, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages. The repeal of Prohibition was a major victory for advocates of individual freedom and personal choice, and it marked the end of a controversial and tumultuous period in American history.
1955: The Montgomery Bus Boycott Begins
On December 5, 1955, the Montgomery Bus Boycott began in Montgomery, Alabama. The boycott was organized in response to the arrest of Rosa Parks, a black woman who refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus to a white passenger. The boycott lasted for over a year and played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement, ultimately leading to the desegregation of public transportation in Montgomery and setting a precedent for future protests and demonstrations for racial equality.
1978: The Assassination of Harvey Milk
Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California, was assassinated on December 5, 1978. Milk had been a vocal advocate for LGBT rights and had made significant strides in advancing equality for the gay community. His assassination sent shockwaves through the country and galvanized support for the LGBT rights movement. Milk’s legacy continues to inspire activists and advocates for equality around the world.
1994: The First Billboard Music Awards
The first Billboard Music Awards were held on December 5, 1994, in recognition of the top performers in the music industry. The awards ceremony has since become an annual event, honoring artists and musicians for their achievements in various genres of music. The Billboard Music Awards have become a prestigious event in the music industry, with winners receiving recognition for their contributions to the world of music.
2013: Nelson Mandela’s Memorial Service
The memorial service for Nelson Mandela, the former President of South Africa and anti-apartheid activist, was held on December 5, 2013, in Johannesburg. Mandela had passed away a few days earlier, and his memorial service drew thousands of people from around the world who came to pay their respects to the revered leader. Mandela’s legacy as a champion of peace and equality continues to inspire people across the globe, and his memorial service was a fitting tribute to his life and accomplishments.
