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 5
Today in History: December 5:
On December 5, 1848, President James K. Polk sparked the Gold Rush of ’49 by confirming that gold had been discovered in California.
In 1933, national Prohibition came to an end as the 21st Amendment to the Constitution was ratified, thus repealing the 18th Amendment.
In 1952, the Great Smog of London descended on the British capital; the unusually thick fog, which contained toxic pollutants
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.