1910: The Mexican Revolution Begins
On this day in 1910, Francisco Madero led a rebellion against Mexican President Porfirio Díaz, signaling the start of the Mexican Revolution. This pivotal uprising, driven by widespread social inequality and political corruption, sparked a decade-long struggle that transformed Mexico’s political and social fabric, laying the groundwork for modern reforms.
1945: Nuremberg Trials Get Underway
In 1945, 22 former Nazi leaders stood trial before an international war crimes tribunal in Nuremberg, Germany. These proceedings were groundbreaking, marking the first time in history that world leaders united to hold individuals accountable for crimes against humanity and genocide. The trials set a legal precedent for future international justice, influencing institutions like the International Criminal Court.
1947: A Royal Wedding
The world watched in celebration as Britain’s future queen, Princess Elizabeth, married Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, at Westminster Abbey in 1947. The union symbolized post-war hope and renewal for Britain, a country still recovering from the devastation of World War II.
1969: Native Americans Occupy Alcatraz
Native American activists took over Alcatraz Island in 1969, initiating a 19-month-long occupation. This bold act drew attention to issues of Native sovereignty and the violation of treaty rights. The occupation became a defining moment in the American Indian civil rights movement, inspiring generations to fight for justice and self-determination.
1982: The Most Famous “Play” in College Football
On this day in 1982, the University of California football team secured a legendary victory over Stanford with an unforgettable last-second touchdown involving multiple lateral passes. Known simply as “The Play,” this moment has become one of the most celebrated—and debated—events in college sports history, showcasing the unpredictable magic of football.
1992: Windsor Castle Ablaze
A devastating fire swept through Windsor Castle in 1992, heavily damaging the historic royal residence. The disaster prompted a large-scale restoration project and sparked a national debate about public funding for royal properties. The restoration efforts preserved one of Britain’s most iconic landmarks for future generations.
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.