William Watts

Written by William Watts

Modified & Updated: 23 Sep 2024

18-facts-about-december-28th
Source: Ohmyfacts.com

December 28th might seem like just another day, but it's packed with interesting events and fun facts. Did you know that December 28th is celebrated as Holy Innocents' Day in many Christian countries? This day commemorates the massacre of young children in Bethlehem by King Herod. On this day in 1895, the world’s first commercial movie screening took place in Paris, marking the birth of cinema. December 28th also marks the birthday of famous comic book writer Stan Lee, who co-created iconic characters like Spider-Man and the X-Men. From historical milestones to quirky traditions, this date has a lot more to offer than meets the eye. Let's dive into 18 fascinating facts about December 28th!

Key Takeaways:

  • December 28th marks the consecration of Westminster Abbey, birth of influential figures like Woodrow Wilson and Denzel Washington, and the tragic crash of Indonesia AirAsia Flight 8501.
  • On December 28th, Galileo Galilei observed Neptune, the first "Garfield" comic strip was published, and the Baltimore Colts won the NFL Championship Game in 1958.
Table of Contents

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.

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

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

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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!

  1. 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.

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

  3. 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.

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's so special about December 28th?
December 28th stands out for a mix of historical events, cultural significance, and unique occurrences. From being recognized as Innocents' Day, commemorating the biblical story of King Herod's order to kill all young male children in Bethlehem, to hosting notable birthdays and significant historical milestones, this day is packed with intriguing facts that span various aspects of life and history.
Can you name any famous people born on December 28th?
Absolutely! December 28th is the birthday of some well-known personalities. For instance, Denzel Washington, an acclaimed actor and director, and Maggie Smith, a distinguished actress known for her roles in films and the Harry Potter series, both celebrate their birthdays on this day. Their contributions to the entertainment industry have left indelible marks, making their birth date memorable for fans worldwide.
Are there any major historical events that happened on December 28th?
Indeed, December 28th has been a significant day throughout history. One notable event is the establishment of the Endangered Species Act in the United States in 1973, a crucial piece of environmental legislation aimed at protecting critically endangered species from extinction. This act represents a key moment in the environmental movement, highlighting the day's importance in history.
What about December 28th in terms of global traditions or celebrations?
On December 28th, some countries observe Innocents' Day, akin to April Fool's Day, where people play pranks on each other. This tradition is particularly popular in Spanish-speaking countries. It's a day filled with laughter, jokes, and light-hearted mischief, reflecting the diverse ways cultures commemorate this date.
Is December 28th associated with any particular zodiac sign?
Yes, individuals born on December 28th fall under the Capricorn zodiac sign. Capricorns are known for their discipline, practicality, and ambition. This earth sign is symbolized by the goat, representing determination and a drive to reach the top, much like the mountain goat's steady climb to the peak.
What's a lesser-known fact about December 28th?
A lesser-known fact is that on December 28, 1895, the Lumière brothers held the first commercial movie screening, marking a pivotal moment in the history of cinema. This event in Paris, France, is considered the birth of the motion picture industry, showcasing the innovative spirit of the day.
How can someone find more detailed information about events on December 28th?
For those keen on diving deeper into the specifics of December 28th, numerous resources are available. Libraries, online databases, and historical archives offer detailed accounts of events, personalities, and milestones associated with this day. Websites dedicated to daily history and notable birthdays can also provide a wealth of information for curious minds.

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