December 19 Events in History

December 19th has witnessed a multitude of significant events throughout history, spanning centuries and impacting various facets of human civilization.

From the coronation of influential monarchs and pivotal voyages that shaped nations to tragic disasters and landmark political decisions, this day serves as a reminder of the complex tapestry of our past.

This article delves into twenty notable occurrences on December 19th, offering a chronological journey through time to explore moments that have left lasting legacies. These events, ranging from royal ascensions to aerospace milestones, encapsulate the diverse and dynamic nature of historical progress and human achievement.

December 19th – On this Day in History

1154 – Henry II Crowned King of England

Henry II

On December 19, 1154, Henry II was crowned King of England at Westminster Abbey. This coronation marked the beginning of the Plantagenet dynasty, which would rule England for the next 331 years.

Henry II, the first of the Angevin kings, was a formidable ruler known for his administrative reforms and the expansion of royal justice. His reign saw significant legal advancements, including the development of common law and the establishment of the jury system.

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Henry II’s marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine brought vast territories in France under English control, significantly influencing the political landscape of medieval Europe.

1606 – Voyage to Establish Jamestown

On December 19, 1606, three ships—the Susan Constant, the Godspeed, and the Discovery—set sail from London, embarking on a voyage that would lead to the establishment of the first permanent English colony in America at Jamestown, Virginia. This expedition, sponsored by the Virginia Company, aimed to find gold and a water route to the Orient.

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After a perilous journey across the Atlantic, the settlers arrived in May 1607. Despite numerous hardships, including disease, famine, and conflicts with Indigenous peoples, Jamestown eventually became the first successful English settlement in North America, laying the foundation for the future United States.

1777 – Continental Army at Valley Forge

On December 19, 1777, George Washington’s Continental Army entered winter quarters at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania.

This six-month encampment became infamous for the harsh conditions and severe lack of supplies, which tested the resilience and endurance of the American troops. Despite the suffering, the time spent at Valley Forge proved crucial for the Continental Army.

Under the supervision of Baron von Steuben, a Prussian military officer, the soldiers underwent rigorous training and drills, transforming them into a more effective and disciplined fighting force. This reorganization and newfound morale played a pivotal role in subsequent American victories in the Revolutionary War.

1812 – Establishment of Internal Improvements System

On December 19, 1812, the U.S. Congress passed an act establishing a system of internal improvements to aid navigation and commerce. This legislation marked the beginning of federal involvement in the development of infrastructure within the United States.

The act aimed to enhance the country’s transportation network by funding the construction and maintenance of roads, canals, and other public works. These improvements were crucial for the nation’s economic growth, facilitating the movement of goods and people across the expanding country.

This era of internal improvements laid the groundwork for the American System, which promoted a self-sufficient and interconnected national economy.

1828 – Nullification Crisis: South Carolina Exposition and Protest

On December 19, 1828, Vice President of the United States John C. Calhoun authored the South Carolina Exposition and Protest, a document protesting the Tariff of 1828.

Dubbed the “Tariff of Abominations” by its Southern critics, the tariff imposed high duties on imported goods, disproportionately affecting the Southern economy while benefiting Northern industrial interests.

Calhoun’s Exposition argued that states had the right to nullify federal laws deemed unconstitutional. This document laid the ideological foundation for the Nullification Crisis of 1832, when South Carolina threatened to secede from the Union over tariff disputes. The crisis highlighted the growing sectional tensions that would eventually lead to the American Civil War.

1843 – Publication of “A Christmas Carol”

On December 19, 1843, Charles Dickens’ novella “A Christmas Carol” was published. This iconic work of literature tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man who is transformed by the visits of three ghosts on Christmas Eve. “A Christmas Carol” was an immediate success, selling out its initial print run in just a few days.

The story’s themes of redemption, compassion, and the spirit of Christmas resonated deeply with readers and helped to revitalize the celebration of Christmas as a festive and charitable occasion. Dickens’ vivid characters and enduring message have made “A Christmas Carol” a timeless classic, continually adapted into numerous films, plays, and other media.

1900 – Removal of Great Pyramid of Giza’s Casing Stones

Great Pyramid of Giza

On December 19, 1900, the upper portion of the Great Pyramid of Giza’s casing stones was removed to construct a mosque.

The Great Pyramid, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was originally covered in smooth, white Tura limestone casing stones that reflected sunlight, making the pyramid shine brightly.

Over the centuries, many of these stones were removed for use in other construction projects, including mosques and fortresses. The removal in 1900 was part of a larger trend of repurposing ancient materials for new religious and civic structures. This event highlights the changing attitudes toward cultural heritage and the impact of historical preservation.

1907 – Darr Mine Disaster

On December 19, 1907, the Darr Mine Disaster occurred in Jacob’s Creek, Pennsylvania, resulting in the deaths of 239 coal miners. This tragic event was one of the deadliest mining accidents in U.S. history. An explosion, likely caused by the ignition of methane gas combined with coal dust, devastated the mine.

The disaster had a profound impact on the local community and brought national attention to the dangerous working conditions faced by miners. In response to this and other similar disasters, reforms were gradually introduced to improve mine safety, including better ventilation, the use of safer equipment, and stricter regulations enforced by state and federal authorities.

1916 – End of the Battle of Verdun

Battle of Verdun

On December 19, 1916, the Battle of Verdun, one of the longest and costliest battles of World War I, officially ended. The battle had raged for 10 months, starting in February 1916, between German and French forces.

Verdun became a symbol of French determination and national pride, as the French army, under the leadership of General Philippe Pétain, held off the German assault despite suffering immense casualties.

The battle resulted in approximately 700,000 combined casualties, with both sides experiencing horrific conditions and relentless artillery bombardments. The end of the Battle of Verdun marked a strategic victory for France and demonstrated the futility and devastation of trench warfare during the Great War.

1924 – Last Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Sold

On December 19, 1924, the last Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost was sold in London, England. The Silver Ghost, introduced in 1906, was renowned for its exceptional quality, reliability, and luxury, establishing Rolls-Royce’s reputation as a premier automobile manufacturer.

The car was originally named the “40/50 hp” but earned the nickname “Silver Ghost” due to its elegant appearance and whisper-quiet operation. Over the course of its production, approximately 7,874 units were built, making it one of the most famous and desirable cars of its era.

The discontinuation of the Silver Ghost marked the end of an important chapter in automotive history, paving the way for new innovations and models from Rolls-Royce.

1928 – Wreck of the Clipper Ship C.W. Parker

On December 19, 1928, the clipper ship C.W. Parker met its tragic end when it was wrecked in a storm. This event marked the final chapter in the era of clipper ships, which were renowned for their speed and elegance during the mid-19th century.

The C.W. Parker was among the last of these majestic sailing vessels, symbolizing a bygone age of maritime trade and adventure. Clipper ships were designed for rapid transit of goods, especially tea and opium, between continents.

The wreck of the C.W. Parker in 1928 highlighted the transition from sail to steam and motor-powered vessels, underscoring the technological advancements that had rendered these once-cutting-edge ships obsolete.

1941 – Hitler Becomes Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the German Army

Adolf Hitler

On December 19, 1941, Adolf Hitler assumed the role of Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the German Army, following a series of setbacks on the Eastern Front during World War II. This decision was part of Hitler’s increasing centralization of power, as he sought direct control over military operations.

By taking on this role, Hitler sidelined his generals and imposed his strategic vision on the German military, often with disastrous consequences. His leadership led to several critical miscalculations, including the underestimation of Soviet resilience and the failure to adequately supply and support his forces.

Hitler’s assumption of command marked a turning point in the war, contributing to the eventual downfall of Nazi Germany.

1946 – Start of the First Indochina War

On December 19, 1946, the First Indochina War began when Viet Minh forces launched an attack against French colonial forces in Hanoi. This conflict arose from the Vietnamese desire for independence following Japan’s occupation of French Indochina during World War II.

Led by Ho Chi Minh, the Viet Minh sought to expel the French and establish a communist government. The war lasted until 1954, culminating in the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, where Viet Minh forces decisively defeated the French.

This victory led to the Geneva Accords, which temporarily divided Vietnam at the 17th parallel and set the stage for further conflict, eventually leading to the Vietnam War.

1950 – Eisenhower Becomes Supreme Commander of NATO-Europe

On December 19, 1950, General Dwight D. Eisenhower was appointed as the Supreme Commander of NATO-Europe.

This position was created to strengthen the military alliance of Western nations against the growing threat of Soviet aggression during the early stages of the Cold War.

Eisenhower

Eisenhower, a highly respected military leader and World War II hero, was tasked with organizing and leading NATO forces to ensure collective security and deter potential Soviet expansion into Western Europe.

His leadership helped to solidify NATO’s strategic framework and operational readiness, establishing a unified command structure that played a crucial role in maintaining stability and security throughout the Cold War era.

1963 – Zanzibar Gains Independence

On December 19, 1963, Zanzibar gained independence from the United Kingdom, becoming a constitutional monarchy under Sultan Jamshid bin Abdullah. This momentous event ended over a century of British influence on the islands, which had begun in the 19th century when Zanzibar became a British protectorate.

The move towards independence was part of a broader wave of decolonization across Africa and Asia during the post-World War II period. However, Zanzibar’s independence was short-lived, as a revolution in January 1964 led to the overthrow of the Sultan and the establishment of a republic.

Subsequently, Zanzibar merged with Tanganyika to form the United Republic of Tanzania later that year, marking a significant shift in the political landscape of East Africa.

1972 – Apollo 17 Returns to Earth

On December 19, 1972, the Apollo 17 mission, the last of NASA’s Apollo moon missions, safely returned to Earth. Commanded by Eugene Cernan, with Harrison Schmitt as the lunar module pilot and Ronald Evans as the command module pilot, Apollo 17 was notable for several reasons. It was the final manned mission to the moon, and Harrison Schmitt was the first professional scientist (a geologist) to land on the lunar surface.

The mission gathered a wealth of scientific data and samples, enhancing our understanding of the moon’s geological history. Upon their return, the astronauts were celebrated as heroes, and the mission marked the end of an era in space exploration, as NASA shifted its focus to other projects such as the Skylab program and the Space Shuttle.

1983 – Theft of the FIFA World Cup Trophy

On December 19, 1983, the original FIFA World Cup Trophy was stolen from the Brazilian Football Confederation headquarters in Rio de Janeiro.

Known as the Jules Rimet Trophy, named after the former FIFA president who initiated the World Cup, it had been awarded permanently to Brazil after their third World Cup win in 1970. The trophy, made of gold-plated sterling silver, was a symbol of global football excellence.

Despite extensive investigations, the trophy was never recovered. This theft was a significant loss for the football world, leading FIFA to commission a new trophy for future tournaments. The incident also highlighted the need for better security measures for valuable sports memorabilia.

1995 – Restoration of Federal Recognition to the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi

On December 19, 1995, the United States Government restored federal recognition to the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi Indian tribe. This recognition acknowledged the tribe’s sovereignty and historical rights, allowing them to establish self-governance and access federal assistance programs.

The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi, originally part of the larger Potawatomi nation, had faced numerous challenges and displacements since European settlement. Federal recognition was a significant milestone, enabling the tribe to preserve their cultural heritage, improve their community’s socio-economic conditions, and reclaim a measure of autonomy.

This decision was part of a broader movement to recognize and support Native American tribes across the United States.

1997 – Crash of SilkAir Flight 185

On December 19, 1997, SilkAir Flight 185, en route from Jakarta, Indonesia, to Singapore, tragically crashed into the Musi River near Palembang, Indonesia, killing all 104 people on board. The Boeing 737-300 aircraft inexplicably went into a steep dive and disintegrated upon impact with the water.

The subsequent investigation by the National Transportation Safety Committee of Indonesia and the National Transportation Safety Board of the United States faced challenges due to the lack of conclusive evidence. While some suggested mechanical failure, others speculated on pilot involvement in the crash.

This disaster brought attention to aviation safety and the need for rigorous investigation protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

1998 – Impeachment of President Bill Clinton

Bill Clinton

On December 19, 1998, the United States House of Representatives forwarded articles of impeachment against President Bill Clinton to the Senate. The impeachment stemmed from charges of perjury and obstruction of justice related to Clinton’s extramarital affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky.

This marked only the second time in U.S. history that a sitting president had been impeached. The proceedings were highly contentious and politically charged, highlighting deep divisions within American society and government.

In February 1999, the Senate trial concluded with Clinton’s acquittal on both charges, allowing him to complete his second term in office. The impeachment saga left a lasting impact on American politics and the public’s perception of presidential accountability.