Queen Elizabeth II became the oldest British monarch in history
At 81 years and 244 days old, she surpassed Queen Victoria's record for longevity. Elizabeth II had already become the longest-reigning British monarc...
Historical Events
2007
1999
Portugal handed over Macau to China, ending 442 years of Portuguese rule
MajorAt midnight, the Portuguese flag was lowered for the last time in Macau, ending Europe's oldest colonial presence in Asia. The handover ceremony was a...
1989
The United States invaded Panama in Operation Just Cause to depose Manuel Noriega
MajorOver 27,000 American troops launched a massive military operation to remove Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega from power. Noriega, once a CIA asset,...
1984
A man dressed as Santa Claus in Nottingham, England, was arrested after children reported him to police
The would-be St. Nick was detained for allegedly behaving suspiciously while handing out candy to children at a shopping center. Police later released...
1971
Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières) was founded in Paris
A group of French doctors and journalists created the humanitarian organization after witnessing the Nigerian Civil War and lack of medical aid during...
1963
The Berlin Wall was officially opened for the first time since its construction for limited Christmas visits
East Germany agreed to allow West Berliners to visit relatives in East Berlin for the first time in over two years. The temporary pass system allowed...
1957
Elvis Presley received his draft notice for the U.S. Army
The King of Rock 'n' Roll was ordered to report for military service, shocking fans worldwide. Despite his manager's attempts to get him assigned to S...
1946
The film 'It's a Wonderful Life' premiered in New York City
Frank Capra's beloved Christmas classic starring James Stewart initially flopped at the box office and lost money for the studio. It wasn't until the...
1860
South Carolina became the first state to secede from the United States
MajorMeeting in Charleston, delegates unanimously voted to dissolve their union with the United States, triggering the events that led to the Civil War. Wi...
1803
The United States officially took possession of the Louisiana Territory from France
MajorThe Louisiana Purchase was formally completed in New Orleans, doubling the size of the United States overnight. For just $15 million, America acquired...