18 Facts About December 28th

Historical Events on December 28th

December 28th has witnessed several significant historical events. Let's explore some of these intriguing moments.

1. In 1065, Westminster Abbey was consecrated. This iconic Gothic church in London has been the site of many royal ceremonies, including coronations and weddings.

2. In 1832, John C. Calhoun became the first Vice President of the United States to resign. He stepped down due to political differences with President Andrew Jackson.

3. In 1895, the world's first commercial movie screening took place in Paris. The Lumière brothers showcased their short films at the Grand Café, marking the birth of cinema.

4. In 1945, Congress officially recognized the Pledge of Allegiance. This patriotic oath became a staple in American schools and public events.

Birthdays of Notable Figures

Several influential people were born on December 28th. Here are a few who have made their mark on history.

5. In 1856, Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, was born. He led the country through World War I and was a key figure in establishing the League of Nations.

6. In 1932, Nichelle Nichols, an American actress, was born. She is best known for her role as Lieutenant Uhura in the original Star Trek series, breaking racial barriers on television.

7. In 1954, Denzel Washington, an acclaimed actor and director, was born. He has won multiple Academy Awards and is known for his powerful performances in films like "Training Day" and "Glory."

Cultural and Social Milestones

December 28th has also been a day of cultural and social milestones. These events have left a lasting impact on society.

8. In 1973, the Endangered Species Act was signed into law in the United States. This legislation aimed to protect critically endangered species from extinction.

9. In 2000, Montgomery Ward announced it was going out of business. This marked the end of one of America's oldest retail companies, which had been in operation since 1872.

10. In 2014, Indonesia AirAsia Flight 8501 crashed into the Java Sea. The tragic accident resulted in the loss of all 162 passengers and crew on board.

Scientific and Technological Advances

Advancements in science and technology have also been part of December 28th's history. These breakthroughs have shaped our understanding of the world.

11. In 1612, Galileo Galilei observed Neptune, although he did not recognize it as a planet. His sketches and notes were later identified as the first recorded observations of the distant planet.

12. In 1908, an earthquake struck Messina, Italy, and the surrounding region. This devastating event resulted in the deaths of approximately 75,000 people and led to significant advancements in earthquake research and preparedness.

13. In 1973, the Soyuz 13 mission returned to Earth. This Soviet space mission conducted important astronomical observations and experiments in space.

Fun and Quirky Facts

Not all facts about December 28th are serious. Some are just plain fun or quirky!

14. In Spain and Latin America, December 28th is celebrated as "Día de los Santos Inocentes." Similar to April Fool's Day, people play pranks and jokes on each other.

15. In 1978, the first "Garfield" comic strip was published. This lazy, lasagna-loving cat has since become a beloved character worldwide.

16. In 2005, "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" was released in theaters. This film adaptation of C.S. Lewis's classic novel became a box office hit.

Sports Achievements

Sports history also has its share of memorable moments on December 28th.

17. In 1958, the Baltimore Colts defeated the New York Giants in the NFL Championship Game. Often referred to as "The Greatest Game Ever Played," this match helped popularize professional football in the United States.

18. In 1983, Dennis Wilson of the Beach Boys drowned. A talented musician and drummer, his death was a significant loss to the music world.

December 28th: A Day Full of Surprises

December 28th packs a punch with its mix of historical events, cultural celebrations, and notable birthdays. From the Feast of the Holy Innocents to the birth of Stan Lee, this day has left its mark in various ways. Whether you're fascinated by space exploration or enjoy quirky traditions like Spain's Día de los Santos Inocentes, there's something for everyone.

Knowing these facts can make you appreciate the richness of this date even more. It’s not just another day on the calendar; it’s a day that has seen significant moments and interesting traditions. Next time December 28th rolls around, you’ll have plenty of trivia to share. So, keep these facts in mind and enjoy the unique blend of history and culture that this day offers.