What Happened on December 19 in History?
December 19 has been a momentous day in history, marked by the crowning of kings, the publication of literary classics, and significant political milestones.
Major Historical Events
1154: Coronation of Henry II – Henry II was crowned King of England at Westminster Abbey, marking the beginning of the Angevin Empire and the Plantagenet dynasty.
1732: Poor Richard’s Almanack – Benjamin Franklin began publishing his famous almanac under the pseudonym "Richard Saunders," which became known for its proverbs and aphorisms.
1777: Valley Forge – During the American Revolutionary War, General George Washington led the Continental Army to Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, for their famously harsh winter encampment.
1843: "A Christmas Carol" Published – Charles Dickens' classic novella was first published in London and sold out by Christmas Eve, becoming an enduring holiday staple.
1903: The Williamsburg Bridge opened in New York City, connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn.
1917: The NHL (National Hockey League) played its first-ever games.
1929: Purna Swaraj Declaration – The Indian National Congress promulgated the Declaration of the Independence of India, a pivotal moment in the struggle against British rule.
1972: Apollo 17 Returns – The Apollo 17 spacecraft splashed down in the Pacific Ocean, successfully ending the Apollo program and the last manned mission to the Moon to date.
1984: Hong Kong Agreement – Britain and China signed the Sino-British Joint Declaration, agreeing that Hong Kong would be returned to Chinese sovereignty on July 1, 1997.
1997: The blockbuster film Titanic opened in U.S. theaters, eventually becoming one of the highest-grossing movies of all time.
1998: Impeachment of Bill Clinton – The U.S. House of Representatives approved two articles of impeachment against President Bill Clinton for perjury and obstruction of justice.
