Nobel Prize Day
Nobel Prize Day, observed on December 10th, commemorates the anniversary of Alfred Nobel’s death in 1896 and honors the legacy of his prestigious awards. The day is marked by the annual Nobel Prize ceremonies, where laureates in various fields are formally recognized for their significant contributions to humanity.
Here’s a look at some significant events, birthdays, and deaths that occurred on December 19th throughout history:
Historical Events
1777: George Washington Leads Troops to Valley Forge
The Continental Army, led by General George Washington, entered its winter camp at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, during the American Revolutionary War. Despite harsh conditions, the army underwent critical training and emerged stronger.
1843: “A Christmas Carol” Published
Charles Dickens’ iconic novella A Christmas Carol was first published in London, bringing the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and Tiny Tim to life and shaping modern Christmas traditions.
1941: Hitler Declares Total War Against the United States
Following the U.S. entry into World War II after Pearl Harbor, Adolf Hitler announced a total war effort against the United States.
1972: Last Manned Mission to the Moon Ends
Apollo 17, the final mission of NASA’s Apollo program, returned to Earth after a successful exploration of the Moon.
1984: Sino-British Joint Declaration Signed
The United Kingdom and China signed an agreement to return Hong Kong to Chinese sovereignty in 1997, under the “one country, two systems” framework.
Famous Birthdays
1683: Philip V of Spain
First Bourbon king of Spain, whose reign marked the beginning of the Bourbon dynasty in Spain.
1906: Leonid Brezhnev
Soviet politician and General Secretary of the Communist Party, leading the Soviet Union from 1964 to 1982.
1915: Édith Piaf
Iconic French singer, known for songs like La Vie en rose and Non, je ne regrette rien.
1924: Cicely Tyson
Celebrated American actress and activist, renowned for her powerful performances in film and television.
1980: Jake Gyllenhaal
American actor known for roles in Donnie Darko, Brokeback Mountain, and Nightcrawler.
Notable Deaths
1848: Emily Brontë
English novelist and poet, best known for her novel Wuthering Heights.
1930: Nineteen Martyrs of Libya
A group of Coptic Christians martyred in Libya by Italian fascists during the Italo-Turkish War.
1996: Marcello Mastroianni
Acclaimed Italian actor, known for his work in Federico Fellini’s films, including La Dolce Vita.
