On November 14, 1889, pioneering journalist Nellie Bly embarked on a daring quest to circumnavigate the globe, inspired by Jules Verne’s fictional “Around the World in 80 Days.” Driven by her ambitious spirit and a mission to challenge societal expectations for women, Bly completed her journey in just over 72 days, breaking records and capturing global attention. Her journey marked a pivotal moment for women in journalism, demonstrating their potential to pursue adventurous, high-profile reporting.
Other Notable Events on November 14:
1851 – Publication of Moby-Dick in the United States
Herman Melville’s novel Moby-Dick; Or, The Whale was published in the United States, nearly a month after its British release. Initially met with mixed reviews, Moby-Dick later became a cornerstone of American literature, exploring complex themes of obsession, fate, and nature. Its influence grew over time, shaping the trajectory of American literary expression and inspiring generations of writers and readers with its depth and symbolism.
1910 – First Aircraft Takeoff from a Ship
In a historic milestone for aviation, Eugene B. Ely became the first aviator to take off from a ship, piloting his Curtiss pusher from a platform on the USS Birmingham off Hampton Roads, Virginia. This achievement marked the birth of naval aviation, ultimately revolutionizing military strategy by demonstrating the potential for air power to be launched from sea, a critical innovation that would shape 20th-century warfare.
1960 – Ruby Bridges Desegregates an Elementary School
Six-year-old Ruby Bridges made history as the first Black student to integrate William Frantz Elementary School in New Orleans, an event that became a powerful symbol of the Civil Rights Movement. Her brave walk past hostile crowds signaled the beginning of a new era in American education, highlighting both the courage of young individuals in the face of adversity and the ongoing struggle for racial equality.
1965 – Start of the Battle of Ia Drang
The U.S. Army launched its first major military operation in the Vietnam War with the five-day Battle of Ia Drang, a conflict that foreshadowed the intensity and challenges of the war to come. This fierce battle, involving new tactics and heavy casualties on both sides, exposed the complex realities of the conflict and deepened American involvement in Vietnam, shaping public perception and military strategy for years.
1993 – Don Shula Becomes NFL’s Winningest Coach
Legendary Miami Dolphins coach Don Shula made history as the NFL’s all-time winningest coach with his victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. Shula’s achievement reflected decades of dedication and a strategic mind that left an indelible mark on the sport. His record serves as a benchmark for coaching excellence and underscores his lasting impact on the NFL’s competitive landscape.
Today in History: December 20
A Look Back At Today, December 20
The Louisiana Purchase was completed.
“It’s a Wonderful Life” premiered at the Globe Theater.
The United States launched Operation Just Cause.
The United States Space Force was established.
Today in History: December 19
Today in History: December 19
In 1777, General George Washington led an army of more than 12,000 soldiers to Valley Forge.
In 1972, Apollo 17 splashed down in the Pacific, concluding the Apollo program.
In 2011, North Korean announced the death of Kim Jong Il and proclaimed Kim Jong Un as the leader.
In 2022, the House Jan. 6 Committee urged the Justice Department to bring criminal charges against the previous president
Today in History: December 18
Today in History: December 18
In 1865, the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, abolishing slavery, was proclaimed in effect.
In 1892, Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s ballet “The Nutcracker” publicly premiered in St. Petersburg, Russia; although now considered a classic, it received a generally negative reception from critics.
In 1957, the Shippingport Atomic Power Station in Pennsylvania, the first nuclear facility to generate electricity in the United States, went on line. (It was taken out of service in 1982.)
In 2011, the last convoy of heavily armored U.S. troops left Iraq, crossing into Kuwait in darkness in the final moments of a nearly nine-year war.
Today in History: December 17
Today in History: December 17
In 1903 The Wright brothers’ flight redefined the possibilities of travel and opened the skies to human exploration.
In 1933 The first NFL championship laid the foundation for professional football’s evolution into a national pastime.
In 1989 “The Simpsons” redefined animated television, blending humor with social commentary to leave an indelible mark on entertainment.
In 1992 NAFTA reshaped North American trade, fostering economic ties while sparking debates on globalization.
In 2014 The U.S.-Cuba rapprochement signaled a pivotal moment in the post-Cold War world, rekindling hopes for reconciliation.
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