December 22 Events in History

December 22 has been a significant date throughout history, marked by a series of notable events that have shaped the world in various ways.

From groundbreaking advancements in science and technology to pivotal moments in political and military history, this date offers a glimpse into the diverse and impactful occurrences that have taken place over the centuries.

This article explores twenty key events that occurred on December 22, providing a chronological overview and expanding on the details of each event to highlight their historical importance.

December 22nd – On this Day in History

69 AD – The Roman Senate Declares Vespasian as Emperor

Vespasian

In the year 69 AD, a tumultuous period known as the Year of the Four Emperors, the Roman Senate declared Vespasian as the new Roman emperor.

This period followed the chaotic and violent end of Nero’s reign, leading to a power vacuum and a series of civil wars as multiple claimants vied for the throne.

Also Read: December 21 Events in History

Vespasian, a seasoned military commander who had gained prominence through his campaigns in Judea, emerged victorious after the defeat of his rivals, Vitellius, Otho, and Galba.

His ascension to the throne marked the beginning of the Flavian dynasty, which would bring stability and significant administrative reforms to the Roman Empire.

401 AD – Pope Innocent I is Elected

In 401 AD, Pope Innocent I was elected as the bishop of Rome. His papacy, which lasted until his death in 417 AD, was marked by his efforts to uphold the authority of the Roman See and to combat heretical movements within the Christian Church.

Also Read: December 23rd – On this Day in History

Innocent I played a crucial role in the Pelagian controversy, supporting the orthodox stance against Pelagianism, which denied the concept of original sin.

He also corresponded with St. Augustine and other prominent theologians of the time, reinforcing the theological foundations of the Western Church. His leadership during the sack of Rome by the Visigoths in 410 AD demonstrated his pastoral care and resilience in the face of adversity.

1135 – Coronation of King Stephen of England

On December 22, 1135, Stephen of Blois was crowned King of England, marking the beginning of a turbulent period known as The Anarchy. Stephen’s claim to the throne was contested by his cousin, Empress Matilda, leading to a protracted civil war.

Stephen’s reign was characterized by his struggles to maintain control over his barons and his frequent conflicts with Matilda’s supporters. Despite his initial popularity, his inability to establish a stable and effective government led to widespread disorder and lawlessness throughout the kingdom. The Anarchy finally ended with the Treaty of Wallingford in 1153, which recognized Matilda’s son, Henry, as Stephen’s successor.

1216 – Pope Honorius III Approves the Dominican Order

Pope Honorius III

In 1216, Pope Honorius III issued the papal bull “Religiosam vitam,” formally approving the establishment of the Dominican Order. Founded by St. Dominic, the order was created to combat heresy and to promote orthodox Christian teachings through preaching, scholarship, and community life.

The Dominicans, also known as the Order of Preachers, played a pivotal role in the intellectual and spiritual life of medieval Europe. They established schools, universities, and were instrumental in the development of scholastic theology.

The approval of the Dominican Order by Honorius III marked a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church, contributing to the revitalization of religious life and the spread of Christian doctrine.

1807 – The Embargo Act Passed by U.S. Congress

On December 22, 1807, the U.S. Congress, at the urging of President Thomas Jefferson, passed the Embargo Act. This legislation aimed to pressure Britain and France, who were engaged in the Napoleonic Wars, to respect American neutrality and maritime rights.

The Act prohibited American ships from trading with foreign ports, intending to force the European powers to change their policies by depriving them of American goods. However, the embargo had a devastating effect on the American economy, particularly harming merchants and shipowners in New England.

The Act was highly unpopular and difficult to enforce, leading to widespread smuggling and economic hardship. It was eventually repealed in 1809, but it highlighted the challenges of maintaining American neutrality and sovereignty in the face of global conflicts.

1808 – Premier of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 and Symphony No. 6

On December 22, 1808, Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67, and Symphony No. 6 in F major, Op. 68, were premiered in a monumental concert in Vienna. This concert, lasting over four hours, is often remembered as one of the most extraordinary events in classical music history. Beethoven, who was already beginning to lose his hearing, conducted the concert himself.

The Symphony No. 5, with its iconic four-note motif, is one of the most recognizable and frequently performed symphonies in the world. Symphony No. 6, also known as the “Pastoral Symphony,” reflects Beethoven’s deep love for nature, depicting scenes of rural life.

This concert, despite its length and the cold conditions of the unheated theater, cemented Beethoven’s reputation as a master composer and showcased his genius and innovative approach to symphonic music.

1864 – Savannah Falls to General Sherman

On December 22, 1864, during the American Civil War, Savannah, Georgia, fell to Union forces led by General William Tecumseh Sherman, marking the culmination of his “March to the Sea.”

This campaign involved a devastating march through Georgia from Atlanta to Savannah, with the aim of crippling the Confederacy’s ability to wage war.

March to the Sea

Sherman’s troops destroyed railroads, factories, and infrastructure, effectively employing a strategy of total war. The capture of Savannah provided a significant strategic and psychological boost to the Union.

In a famous telegram to President Abraham Lincoln, Sherman presented the city of Savannah as a “Christmas gift.” This victory helped to expedite the conclusion of the Civil War by weakening the Confederate war effort and eroding Southern morale.

1885 – Itō Hirobumi Becomes First Prime Minister of Japan

On December 22, 1885, Itō Hirobumi, a prominent statesman and samurai, became the first Prime Minister of Japan. Itō was a key figure in the Meiji Restoration, which transformed Japan from a feudal society into a modern industrial state.

As Prime Minister, he played a crucial role in drafting the Meiji Constitution, which established a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary government. Itō’s leadership helped to modernize Japan’s political and economic systems, paving the way for its emergence as a major global power.

His tenure marked the beginning of Japan’s rapid industrialization and expansion, setting the stage for its significant role in world affairs in the 20th century.

1891 – First Asteroid Discovered Using Photography

On December 22, 1891, German astronomer Max Wolf discovered the asteroid 323 Brucia using photography, marking the first time an asteroid was found with this technology. The discovery of Brucia was a significant milestone in the field of astronomy, demonstrating the power of photographic techniques in celestial observation.

Prior to this, asteroids were typically discovered through direct visual observation. The use of photography allowed for more precise and detailed study of celestial objects, leading to numerous discoveries and advancements in our understanding of the solar system. Wolf’s pioneering work laid the groundwork for modern astrophotography and the continued exploration of space.

1894 – The Dreyfus Affair Begins in France

On December 22, 1894, the Dreyfus affair began with the wrongful conviction of Captain Alfred Dreyfus, a French Jewish officer, on charges of treason. Dreyfus was accused of passing military secrets to Germany, a charge based on flimsy and fabricated evidence.

His conviction and subsequent imprisonment on Devil’s Island sparked a major political scandal and deepened divisions within French society. The case exposed widespread anti-Semitism and miscarriages of justice within the French military and government.

Dreyfus’s plight gained international attention and led to a vigorous campaign for his exoneration, famously supported by writer Émile Zola in his open letter “J’accuse.” In 1906, Dreyfus was finally exonerated and reinstated into the army. The Dreyfus affair had lasting impacts on French politics, society, and the broader struggle for human rights and justice.

1937 – The Lincoln Tunnel Opens to Traffic in New York City

On December 22, 1937, the Lincoln Tunnel, a critical infrastructure project connecting Midtown Manhattan to Weehawken, New Jersey, opened to traffic. Named after President Abraham Lincoln, the tunnel was constructed to alleviate congestion on the existing Hudson River crossings and to provide a more direct route for commuters and travelers.

The engineering marvel involved digging through the silt and clay beneath the Hudson River, using innovative techniques to ensure the tunnel’s stability and safety. The tunnel’s opening marked a significant milestone in New York City’s transportation history, enhancing the connectivity and economic integration of the region.

Over the years, the Lincoln Tunnel has become one of the busiest vehicular tunnels in the world, facilitating millions of vehicle passages annually and playing a crucial role in the daily commute of countless residents.

1940 – World War II: Himarë is Captured by the Greek Army

On December 22, 1940, during World War II, the Greek army captured the town of Himarë, located on the Albanian coast.

1940 – World War II: Himarë is Captured by the Greek Army

This victory was part of the Greco-Italian War, which began in October 1940 when Fascist Italy, under Mussolini, invaded Greece from Albania. The Greeks mounted a successful counteroffensive, pushing the Italian forces back into Albania.

The capture of Himarë was a significant strategic win for Greece, boosting national morale and demonstrating the effectiveness of their military tactics. Despite being outnumbered and facing harsh winter conditions, the Greek army’s resilience and determination led to a series of victories against the Italian forces, contributing to the broader Allied efforts in the early stages of World War II.

1942 – World War II: Hitler Signs the Order to Develop the V-2 Rocket

On December 22, 1942, Adolf Hitler signed the order to develop the V-2 rocket, marking a pivotal moment in the history of rocket technology and warfare. The V-2, or Vergeltungswaffe 2 (“Vengeance Weapon 2”), was the world’s first long-range guided ballistic missile.

Developed by German engineer Wernher von Braun and his team, the V-2 rocket represented a significant advancement in rocket science. It was powered by a liquid-fuel engine and capable of delivering a one-ton warhead over a distance of 320 kilometers (200 miles).

The V-2 rockets were used by Nazi Germany to bomb Allied cities, causing significant destruction and loss of life. Although they did not alter the outcome of the war, the development of the V-2 laid the foundation for post-war space exploration and missile technology, influencing both the American and Soviet space programs.

1944 – World War II: The Battle of Bastogne Ends

On December 22, 1944, the Battle of Bastogne, a key engagement during the Battle of the Bulge, ended as the besieged American forces were relieved by General George S. Patton’s Third Army.

The Battle of the Bulge was the last major German offensive on the Western Front during World War II, aimed at splitting the Allied forces and capturing the vital Belgian port of Antwerp.

Bastogne, a strategic town in the Ardennes region, was surrounded by German forces, and the American 101st Airborne Division, along with other units, held out despite being outnumbered and short on supplies.

The successful defense of Bastogne and the subsequent relief by Patton’s forces marked a turning point in the battle, thwarting the German offensive and leading to the eventual Allied victory in the region. The heroism and determination displayed by the American troops during the siege became legendary, symbolizing the resilience and resolve of the Allied forces.

1956 – Colo, the First Gorilla Born in Captivity

On December 22, 1956, Colo, the first gorilla born in captivity, was born at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio. Colo’s birth was a significant milestone in the field of zoological science and animal husbandry, demonstrating the ability of zoos to successfully breed and care for endangered species.

Named after Columbus, Ohio, Colo quickly became a beloved figure and a symbol of hope for the conservation of gorillas. Her birth spurred interest in gorilla behavior, reproduction, and care, leading to advancements in the understanding and management of primates in captivity.

Colo lived a long and healthy life, surpassing the average lifespan of gorillas in the wild, and became the oldest known gorilla until her death in 2017. Her legacy continues to inspire efforts in wildlife conservation and the preservation of endangered species.

1964 – The Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird Makes its First Flight

SR-71

On December 22, 1964, the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, an advanced, long-range, Mach 3+ strategic reconnaissance aircraft, made its first flight. Developed by the Lockheed Skunk Works, led by legendary engineer Clarence “Kelly” Johnson, the SR-71 was designed to operate at high speeds and altitudes to avoid enemy defenses and gather critical intelligence.

The aircraft featured cutting-edge technology, including radar-absorbing materials, a streamlined design, and powerful engines capable of sustained supersonic flight. The SR-71 quickly became a key asset for the United States during the Cold War, providing invaluable reconnaissance data over hostile territories.

Its ability to fly faster and higher than any other aircraft of its time made it nearly invulnerable to interception. The SR-71 remained in service until 1998, leaving a legacy as one of the most iconic and innovative aircraft in aviation history.

1984 – Bernhard Goetz Shoots Four Would-Be Muggers on a New York City Subway

On December 22, 1984, Bernhard Goetz, a New York City resident, shot four African American teenagers on a subway train after they allegedly attempted to mug him. The incident quickly became a national sensation, sparking a heated debate on issues of crime, self-defense, and vigilantism.

Goetz, who had previously been a victim of violent crime, claimed he acted in self-defense, while critics argued that his actions were racially motivated and excessive. The case highlighted the growing frustration and fear among New Yorkers regarding the high crime rates during the 1980s.

Goetz was initially charged with attempted murder, but a jury later acquitted him of all charges except for illegal possession of a firearm. The case had a lasting impact on public opinion and legal perspectives on self-defense and gun ownership in urban America.

1989 – Ion Iliescu Takes Over as President of Romania, Ending Ceaușescu’s Dictatorship

On December 22, 1989, following a week of intense and bloody protests, Ion Iliescu took over as president of Romania, marking the end of Nicolae Ceaușescu’s brutal Communist dictatorship. The Romanian Revolution was one of the most violent uprisings against a Communist regime in Eastern Europe.

Ceaușescu’s oppressive rule had led to widespread poverty, repression, and human rights abuses. The uprising began in the city of Timișoara and quickly spread to the capital, Bucharest. The military eventually turned against Ceaușescu, leading to his arrest and execution on December 25, 1989.

Iliescu, a former Communist official who had become disillusioned with Ceaușescu’s regime, emerged as the leader of the provisional government. His rise to power marked the beginning of Romania’s transition to democracy and market economy, though his leadership faced criticism and controversy in the subsequent years.

1990 – Lech Wałęsa is Sworn in as President of Poland

On December 22, 1990, Lech Wałęsa, the leader of the Solidarity movement, was sworn in as the first democratically elected president of Poland since the end of World War II. Wałęsa, an electrician at the Gdańsk Shipyard, had risen to prominence as a champion of workers’ rights and a vocal opponent of the Communist government.

His leadership of the Solidarity trade union played a crucial role in the peaceful negotiations that led to the fall of Communism in Poland. Wałęsa’s election marked a significant turning point in Polish history, symbolizing the triumph of democratic ideals and the end of decades of Soviet influence.

As president, Wałęsa faced the challenging task of guiding Poland through its political and economic transformation, laying the groundwork for its eventual integration into the European Union and NATO.

2001 – Richard Reid Attempts to Destroy a Passenger Airliner with a Shoe Bomb

On December 22, 2001, Richard Reid, a British citizen, attempted to destroy American Airlines Flight 63 from Paris to Miami by detonating explosives hidden in his shoes. Reid, later known as the “Shoe Bomber,” was subdued by passengers and crew members after they noticed him attempting to light a fuse protruding from his shoe.

The plane made an emergency landing in Boston, where Reid was arrested. The incident highlighted the ongoing threat of terrorism in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks and led to significant changes in airline security procedures worldwide.

Airport security agencies implemented stricter screening measures, including mandatory shoe removal for passengers during security checks. Reid was convicted on charges of terrorism and sentenced to life imprisonment without parole. His failed attack underscored the importance of vigilance and the need for continuous improvements in aviation security.