On November 3, 1979, five members of the Communist Workers Party were tragically killed during an anti-Klan protest in Greensboro, North Carolina, after an armed confrontation with Ku Klux Klan members and neo-Nazis. This event, known as the “Greensboro Massacre,” highlighted the violent resistance faced by civil rights activists at the time and intensified national scrutiny of hate groups. The massacre spurred later reforms in how law enforcement responds to public protests, reshaping conversations around safety and justice for activists.
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In 1908, Republican William Howard Taft won the U.S. presidential election, defeating Democrat William Jennings Bryan. As President Theodore Roosevelt’s handpicked successor, Taft’s victory ensured the continuation of Roosevelt’s progressive policies, although Taft would struggle to match his predecessor’s popularity. His presidency laid the groundwork for later progressive reforms, even as political divisions within his own party began to deepen.
In 1957, the Soviet Union launched Sputnik 2, which carried the first animal into orbit—a dog named Laika. This milestone in space exploration not only marked a significant advance in the Space Race but also opened complex debates around the ethics of using animals in scientific research. Laika’s journey remains a poignant symbol of sacrifice and scientific ambition that helped pave the way for human spaceflight.
In 1961, U Thant of Burma (modern-day Myanmar) was appointed Secretary-General of the United Nations, stepping into the role following the tragic death of Dag Hammarskjold. Thant’s tenure saw him guide the UN through numerous global crises, including the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Congo conflict. His leadership emphasized diplomacy and non-violence, strengthening the UN’s role in maintaining international peace during a turbulent era.
In 2014, thirteen years after the tragic events of September 11, the new One World Trade Center officially opened for business in New York City. Standing 1,776 feet tall, this towering symbol of resilience honored those lost while affirming the enduring spirit of New Yorkers and the nation. Its opening marked a milestone in the city’s recovery, signaling a renewed commitment to unity and resilience in the face of adversity.
In 2020, Democrat Joe Biden won the U.S. presidential election, though the result was only confirmed days later due to extended ballot counting in battleground states. Incumbent President Donald Trump, however, refused to concede, claiming without evidence that widespread voter fraud had taken place. Biden’s victory brought a profound shift in leadership, impacting domestic policy and international relations as his administration worked to address the pandemic, climate change, and global alliances.
Today in History: December 4
Today in History: December 4:
On Dec. 4, 1991, after being abducted and held for nearly seven years as a hostage by Hezbollah militants in Lebanon,Terry Anderson was released from captivity.
In 1783, Gen. George Washington bade farewell to his Continental Army officers at Fraunces Tavern in New York.
In 1969, Fred Hampton and Mark Clark of the Black Panther Party were shot and killed during a raid by Chicago police.
Today in History: December 3
Excerpts:Today in History: December 3:
In 1947, the Tennessee Williams play “A Streetcar Named Desire” opened on Broadway.
In 2015, Defense Secretary Ash Carter ordered the armed services to open all military jobs to women.
Today in History: December 2
Today in History: December 2:
In 1804, Napoleon crowned himself emperor of France in a coronation ceremony at Notre Dame de Paris cathedral.
In 2018, Israeli police recommended indicting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on bribery charges, adding to a growing collection of legal troubles for the longtime leader.
Today in History: December 1
Today in History: December 1:
In 1955, Rosa Parks, a Black seamstress, was arrested after refusing to give up her seat to a white man on a Montgomery, Alabama, city bus.
In 1824, the presidential election was turned over to the House of Representatives after none of the candidates (John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson, William Crawford, and Henry Clay) won over 50% of the electoral vote.
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