On this day: December 7
On this day, December 7, several significant events have taken place throughout history. Let’s take a look at some of the most notable occurrences on this day:
Pearl Harbor Attack (1941)
One of the most infamous events in American history, the attack on Pearl Harbor occurred on December 7, 1941. The surprise military strike by the Imperial Japanese Navy against the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, marked the entry of the United States into World War II. The attack resulted in the deaths of over 2,400 Americans and the destruction of numerous ships and aircraft. This event led to the formal declaration of war by the United States against Japan the following day, officially entering the country into World War II.
First successful human heart transplant (1967)
On December 7, 1967, South African surgeon Dr. Christiaan Barnard performed the world’s first successful human-to-human heart transplant. The recipient of the new heart was Louis Washkansky, a 54-year-old man suffering from heart failure. The groundbreaking surgery, which lasted nearly six hours, paved the way for future advancements in organ transplantation and medical science. Although Washkansky only lived for 18 days after the surgery due to complications, the procedure marked a significant milestone in the field of medicine.
Attack on Rome by Vandals (455)
On December 7, 455, the city of Rome was attacked and plundered by the Vandal army led by King Genseric. The Vandals, a Germanic tribe, successfully breached the walls of Rome and looted the city for a period of two weeks. The attack marked the first time in nearly 800 years that Rome had been captured and sacked by a foreign enemy. The event signaled the decline of the Western Roman Empire and the beginning of the end of Roman dominance in the Mediterranean region.
Launch of Apollo 17 (1972)
On December 7, 1972, NASA launched the Apollo 17 mission, the final manned mission to the moon as part of the Apollo program. The spacecraft carried a crew of three astronauts, Eugene Cernan, Harrison Schmitt, and Ronald Evans, who spent a total of 12 days on the lunar surface conducting scientific experiments and collecting samples. Apollo 17 was the last time humans set foot on the moon, marking the end of the Apollo program and the conclusion of the United States’ successful efforts to land astronauts on the moon.
Death of John Lennon (1980)
On December 8, 1980, legendary musician and former Beatles member John Lennon was tragically shot and killed outside of his apartment building in New York City. The assailant, Mark David Chapman, shot Lennon four times in the back as he returned home from a recording session. Lennon was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. The death of Lennon shocked the world and left a lasting impact on the music industry and his fans. Lennon’s legacy as a talented musician and peace advocate continues to be remembered and celebrated to this day.
In conclusion,
December 7 has been a day marked by both triumph and tragedy throughout history. From significant military events to groundbreaking medical advancements, this date has seen a wide range of important occurrences that have shaped the course of history. As we reflect on the events of December 7, we remember the sacrifices made, the achievements reached, and the lessons learned from the past.
