First Powered Flight by the Wright Brothers
Orville and Wilbur Wright make the first controlled, sustained flight of a powered, heavier-than-air aircraft near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.
science technology
What Happened on
A complete timeline of historical events, famous births, notable deaths, and holidays that occurred on December 17 throughout history.
117
Events
9
Births
Historical Events on December 17
Tamerlane captures and sacks Delhi, defeating Sultan Nasir-ud-Din Mahmud's armies by setting camels loaded with hay alig
Tamerlane captures and sacks Delhi, defeating Sultan Nasir-ud-Din Mahmud's armies by setting camels loaded with hay alight and driving them toward the Sultan's armored war elephants
Pope Clement VII publishes the papal bull "Cum ad nihil magis", authorizing the Inquisition in Portugal at Evora, Coimbr
Pope Clement VII publishes the papal bull "Cum ad nihil magis", authorizing the Inquisition in Portugal at Evora, Coimbra, and Lisbon; it is rescinded in 1535
Russian army led by Grigory Potemkin assaults and captures the fortress of Ochakov in modern-day Ukraine after a five-mo
Russian army led by Grigory Potemkin assaults and captures the fortress of Ochakov in modern-day Ukraine after a five-month siege during a major campaign of the Russo-Turkish War
At 10:35 am, Orville Wright pilots the first sustained, powered, and controlled flight of a heavier-than-air aircraft at
At 10:35 am, Orville Wright pilots the first sustained, powered, and controlled flight of a heavier-than-air aircraft at Kill Devil Hills near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina; the flight lasts 12 seconds and covers 120 feet
Davina Thompson makes medical history by undergoing the first combined heart, lung, and liver transplant at Papworth Hos
Davina Thompson makes medical history by undergoing the first combined heart, lung, and liver transplant at Papworth Hospital in Cambridge, England
"The Simpsons," created by Matt Groening, premieres on Fox TV as a full animated series with the episode "Simpsons Roast
"The Simpsons," created by Matt Groening, premieres on Fox TV as a full animated series with the episode "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire"
Franz Schubert's Symphony No. 8, "Unfinished Symphony", premieres in Vienna with Johann von Herbeck conducting
Franz Schubert's Symphony No. 8, "Unfinished Symphony", premieres in Vienna with Johann von Herbeck conducting
Australian cricket prodigy Don Bradman scores 118 in his first class debut for New South Wales against South Australia a
Australian cricket prodigy Don Bradman scores 118 in his first class debut for New South Wales against South Australia at Adelaide Oval
Religious wedding of Henry IV of France and Marie de' Medici at Lyon Cathedral
Marie de' Medici (French: Marie de Médicis; Italian: Maria de' Medici; 26 April 1575 – 3 July 1642) was Queen of France and Navarre as the second wife of King Henry IV.
Journalist Benito Mussolini marries Rachele Guidi in Treviglio Lombardy
Journalist Benito Mussolini marries Rachele Guidi in Treviglio Lombardy
Philippine Senator (and later 2nd President) Manuel L. Quezon (40) weds first cousin Aurora Aragon (30) in Hong Kong
Philippine Senator (and later 2nd President) Manuel L. Quezon (40) weds first cousin Aurora Aragon (30) in Hong Kong
Actor Dermot Mulroney (44) divorces actress Catherine Keener (48) due to irreconcilable differences after 17 years of ma
Actor Dermot Mulroney (44) divorces actress Catherine Keener (48) due to irreconcilable differences after 17 years of marriage
St. Caius begins his reign as Catholic Pope
St. Caius begins his reign as Catholic Pope
Ostrogoths of King Totila conquer Rome by bribing the Byzantine garrison during the Gothic War
Ostrogoths of King Totila conquer Rome by bribing the Byzantine garrison during the Gothic War
Romanos I is crowned as co-emperor of the underage Emperor Constantine VII
Romanos I is crowned as co-emperor of the underage Emperor Constantine VII
Assassination of William I Longsword, 2nd Duke of Normandy.
Assassination of William I Longsword, 2nd Duke of Normandy.
Crusader Wallon de Sarton presents Bishop of Amiens Richard de Gerberoy with purported skull of John the Baptist, stolen
Crusader Wallon de Sarton presents Bishop of Amiens Richard de Gerberoy with purported skull of John the Baptist, stolen from Constantinople (Amiens cathedral later built to house it)
Ferdinand of Austria chosen as King of Bohemia
Isabella of Austria (Isabel; 18 July 1501 – 19 January 1526), also known as Elizabeth, was born an Archduchess of Austria and Infanta of Castile from the House of Habsburg, and subsequently became...
Spanish army starts fires in Haarlem, Netherlands
Haarlem is a city and municipality in the Netherlands. It is the capital of the province of North Holland.
Go-Yōzei becomes 107th Emperor of Japan
Emperor Go-Yōzei December 31, 1571 – September 25, 1617 was the 107th Emperor of Japan, according to the traditional order of succession.
The Earl of Leicester's army leaves Netherlands
The Earl of Leicester's army leaves Netherlands
Shimabara Rebellion: Japanese peasants led by Amakusa Shiro rise against daimyo Matsukura Shigeharu
Shimabara Rebellion: Japanese peasants led by Amakusa Shiro rise against daimyo Matsukura Shigeharu
French and Swedish troops occupy Breisach on the Rhine
French and Swedish troops occupy Breisach on the Rhine
France, Britain and Austria declare war on Spain (War of the Quadruple Alliance 1718–1720)
France, Britain and Austria declare war on Spain (War of the Quadruple Alliance 1718–1720)
Congregation Shearith Israel of New York purchases a lot on Mill Street in Lower Manhattan to build the city's first syn
Congregation Shearith Israel of New York purchases a lot on Mill Street in Lower Manhattan to build the city's first synagogue
France recognizes the independence of the British colonies in America
France recognizes the independence of the British colonies in America
Aztec calendar stone is discovered in Mexico City
The Aztec sun stone (Spanish: Piedra del Sol) is a late post-classic Mexica sculpture housed in the National Anthropology Museum in Mexico City, and is perhaps the most famous work of Mexica...
A traffic regulation creates the first one-way street in New York City
New York, often called New York City (NYC), is the most populous city in the United States.
Opening of the First Legislative Assembly of Lower Canada in Quebec City
Opening of the First Legislative Assembly of Lower Canada in Quebec City
First impeachment trial against a US senator begins (William Blount, Tennessee)
First impeachment trial against a US senator begins (William Blount, Tennessee)
France issues the Milan Decree, which confirms the Continental System.
France issues the Milan Decree, which confirms the Continental System.
Congress of Angostura establishes Colombia's independence from Spain
The Congress of Angostura was convened by Simón Bolívar and took place in Angostura (today Ciudad Bolívar) during the wars of independence of Colombia and Venezuela, culminating in the proclamation...
Kentucky abolishes debtors' prisons
A debtors' prison is a prison for people who are unable to pay debt. Until the mid-19th century, debtors' prisons (usually similar in form to locked workhouses) were a common way to deal with unpaid...
Real Estate developer Samuel Ruggles deeds Gramercy Park to board of trustees to hold as parkland, he is granted tax exe
Real Estate developer Samuel Ruggles deeds Gramercy Park to board of trustees to hold as parkland, he is granted tax exempt status by New York City for the park, and develops the surrounding lots ensuring private access only to those properties
Colonel William Light chooses the site for the settlement of Adelaide in South Australia
Colonel William Light chooses the site for the settlement of Adelaide in South Australia
Henry Cole, founder of London's V&A Museum, commissions printing of the 1st Christmas card
Henry Cole, founder of London's V&A Museum, commissions printing of the 1st Christmas card
1st Hawaiian Cavalry is organized
1st Hawaiian Cavalry is organized
Anaheim Township created in Los Angeles County
Anaheim Township created in Los Angeles County
Violent bread riots in Montreal
Violent bread riots in Montreal
France declares Madagascar a protectorate
Madagascar, officially the Republic of Madagascar, is an island country in the Indian Ocean that includes the island of Madagascar and numerous smaller peripheral islands.
Georges Feydeau's "Tailleur Pour Dames" premieres in Paris
Georges-Léon-Jules-Marie Feydeau was a French playwright of the Belle Époque era, remembered for his farces, written between 1886 and 1914. Feydeau was born in Paris to middle-class parents and...
Tchaikovski's ballet "Casse-noisette" premieres in St Petersburg
Tchaikovski's ballet "Casse-noisette" premieres in St Petersburg
Russia ratifies Double Alliance with France
Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a country in Eastern Europe and North Asia. It is the largest country in the world, spanning eleven time zones and sharing land borders with fourteen countries.
Day 3 of first cricket test between Australia and England, England 325 all out, 261 behind on 1st innings
Day 3 of first cricket test between Australia and England, England 325 all out, 261 behind on 1st innings
Anti-Saloon League of America formed, Washington, D.C.
Anti-Saloon League of America formed, Washington, D.C.
First prize of 100,000 francs is offered for communication with extraterrestrials, with Martians excluded because they a
First prize of 100,000 francs is offered for communication with extraterrestrials, with Martians excluded because they are considered too easy
Frank Wedekind's play "Der Erdgeist" (Earth Spirit) premieres in Berlin
Frank Wedekind's play "Der Erdgeist" (Earth Spirit) premieres in Berlin
Ugyen Wangchuck became 1st hereditary king of Bhutan
Bhutan, officially the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a landlocked country in South Asia, located in the Eastern Himalayas, bordering China to the north and northwest and India to the south and southeast.
Albania's de facto independence from the Ottoman Empire is recognized at the London Conference of Ambassadors
The Dissolution of the Ottoman Empire (1908–1922) was a period of history of the Ottoman Empire beginning with the Young Turk Revolution and ultimately ending with the empire's dissolution and the...
Austrian troops beat Russians in Limanova Poland
Austrian troops beat Russians in Limanova Poland
A conference of workers' and soldiers' councils take control of German government in Berlin, until elections in January
A conference of workers' and soldiers' councils take control of German government in Berlin, until elections in January selects new national assembly
Austrian parliament approves 8-hour working day
Austria, formally the Republic of Austria, is a landlocked country in Central Europe, lying in the Eastern Alps.
AL votes to let spitball pitchers to continue using it
AL votes to let spitball pitchers to continue using it
Last British troops leave Irish Free State
The Irish War of Independence (Irish: Cogadh na Saoirse), also known as the Anglo-Irish War, was a guerrilla war fought in Ireland from 1919 to 1921 between the Irish Republican Army (IRA, the army...
First US diesel electric locomotive enters service in the Bronx, New York
First US diesel electric locomotive enters service in the Bronx, New York
Colonel William "Billy" Mitchell court-martialed for insubordination
William Lendrum Mitchell (December 29, 1879 – February 19, 1936) was a United States Army officer who had a major role in the creation of the United States Air Force. Mitchell served in France during...
Antanas Smetona assumes power in Lithuania as the 1926 coup d'état is successful
The 1926 Lithuanian coup d'état (Lithuanian: 1926-ųjų perversmas) was a military coup d'état in Lithuania that replaced the democratically elected government with a authoritarian regime led by...
John McGraw backs NL President John Heydler's designated hitter idea
John McGraw backs NL President John Heydler's designated hitter idea
St. Louis Cardinals trade future Baseball Hall of Fame first baseman Jim Bottomley to the Cincinnati Reds for Estel Crab
St. Louis Cardinals trade future Baseball Hall of Fame first baseman Jim Bottomley to the Cincinnati Reds for Estel Crabtree and Ownie Carroll
Bryan Valentine (136) and Lala Amarnath (102no) score centuries on their Test Cricket debut on Day 3 of 1st Test between
Bryan Valentine (136) and Lala Amarnath (102no) score centuries on their Test Cricket debut on Day 3 of 1st Test between England and India at Bombay
Ventriloquist Edgar Bergen and dummy Charlie McCarthy appear on TV
Edgar John Bergen (né Berggren; February 16, 1903 – September 30, 1978) was an American ventriloquist, comedian, actor, vaudevillian and radio performer.
Utrecht Central Station destroyed by fire
Utrecht Central Station destroyed by fire
German pocket battleship Graf Spee scuttled by its crew off Uruguay
Admiral Graf Spee was a Deutschland-class Panzerschiff (armored ship, nicknamed "pocket battleships" by the British) which served with the Kriegsmarine of Nazi Germany during World War II.
British troops occupy Sollum, Egypt
The Italian invasion of Egypt (Operazione E) was an offensive in the Second World War from Italian Libya, against British, Commonwealth and Free French in the neutral Kingdom of Egypt.
Dutch and Australian troops land on Portuguese Timor
Portuguese Timor was a Portuguese colony on the territory of present-day Timor-Leste from 1702 until 1975. During most of this period, Portugal shared the island of Timor with the Dutch East Indies
Allies in London sentence German war criminals
The Eastern Front, also known as the Great Patriotic War, or the German–Soviet War, was a theatre of World War II fought between the European Axis powers and Allies, including the Soviet Union (USSR)...
Transport 63 departs with French Jews to nazi-Germany
Transport 63 departs with French Jews to nazi-Germany
San Francisco M-Ocean View streetcar resumes service & is extended to Market St
San Francisco M-Ocean View streetcar resumes service & is extended to Market St
Bradman & Barnes complete record 405 run 5th wicket stand, score 234 each in 2nd Cricket Test Australia vs. England in S
Bradman & Barnes complete record 405 run 5th wicket stand, score 234 each in 2nd Cricket Test Australia vs. England in Sydney
Burma recognizes People's Republic of China
The time period in China from the founding of the People's Republic in 1949 until Mao's death in 1976 is commonly known as Maoist China and Red China.
Dutch Communist Party members forbidden to be civil servants
Dutch Communist Party members forbidden to be civil servants
1st fully automated railroad freight yard (Gary, Indiana)
1st fully automated railroad freight yard (Gary, Indiana)
"On The Beach" is the first film to premiere simultaneously on both sides of the Iron Curtain
"On The Beach" is the first film to premiere simultaneously on both sides of the Iron Curtain
Pablo Casals' oratorio "El Pesebrio" premieres in Acapulco, Mexico
Pablo Casals' oratorio "El Pesebrio" premieres in Acapulco, Mexico
India seizes Goa & 2 other Portuguese colonies
The State of India, also known as the Portuguese State of India or Portuguese India, was a state of the Portuguese Empire founded seven years after the discovery of the sea route to the Indian...
Beatles 1st British TV appearance on "People & Places"
Beatles 1st British TV appearance on "People & Places"
Ballon d'Or: Dynamo Moscow goalkeeper Lev Yashin wins award for best European football player; beats Milan midfielder Gi
Ballon d'Or: Dynamo Moscow goalkeeper Lev Yashin wins award for best European football player; beats Milan midfielder Gianni Rivera and Tottenham striker Jimmy Greaves; first Russian national to win trophy
British government proclaims ends oil-embargo against Rhodesia
Rhodesia ( roh-DEE-zhə, roh-DEE-shə; Shona: Rodizha), officially the Republic of Rhodesia from 1970, was an unrecognised country in Southern Africa that existed from 1965 to 1979.
Prime Minister of Australia Harold Holt vanishes in mysterious circumstances while swimming near Melbourne
Prime Minister of Australia Harold Holt vanishes in mysterious circumstances while swimming near Melbourne
USAF closes its Project Blue Book, concluding there is no evidence of extraterrestrial spaceships behind thousands of UF
USAF closes its Project Blue Book, concluding there is no evidence of extraterrestrial spaceships behind thousands of UFO sightings
US performs nuclear test at Nevada Test Site
US performs nuclear test at Nevada Test Site
"Diamonds are Forever", 7th James Bond film, last starring Sean Conner, also starring Jill St. John is 1st released in W
"Diamonds are Forever", 7th James Bond film, last starring Sean Conner, also starring Jill St. John is 1st released in West Germany
New line of control agreed to in Kashmir between India & Pakistan
The Line of Control (LoC) is a military control line between the Indian- and Pakistani-controlled parts of the former princely state of Jammu and Kashmir—a line which does not constitute a legally...
Arabs terrorists shoot passengers on Boeing 737 to Kuwait
Arabs terrorists shoot passengers on Boeing 737 to Kuwait
John Paul Stevens appointed to the US Supreme Court
John Paul Stevens (April 20, 1920 – July 16, 2019) was an American lawyer and jurist who served as an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1975 to 2010.
NYC's Grand Central Terminal train station is added to the National Register of Historic Places [1]
Grand Central Terminal (GCT; also referred to as Grand Central Station or simply as Grand Central) is a commuter rail terminal at 42nd Street and Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, New York City.
Bobby Simpson scores 176 Australia v India at the WACA, aged 41
Robert Baddeley Simpson (3 February 1936 – 16 August 2025), known as Simmo, was an Australian cricketer who played for New South Wales, Western Australia and the Australian national team.
OPEC raises oil prices by 18% and agrees on a 14.5% petroleum price increase for 1979, to be implemented quarterly
OPEC raises oil prices by 18% and agrees on a 14.5% petroleum price increase for 1979, to be implemented quarterly
Budweiser rocket car reaches 1190 km/h (739.66 mph) but is widely disputed because the speed is not measured under offic
Budweiser rocket car reaches 1190 km/h (739.66 mph) but is widely disputed because the speed is not measured under official land speed record conditions, and the methodology is questionable
Great Britain performs nuclear test at Nevada Test Site
Great Britain performs nuclear test at Nevada Test Site
Members of Red Brigades kidnap Brigadier General James L Dozier
The Red Brigades were an Italian far-left Marxist–Leninist militant group. It was responsible for numerous violent attacks during Italy's Years of Lead, including the kidnapping and murder of Aldo...
Disco in Madrid catches fire; 83 die
Disco in Madrid catches fire; 83 die
Czechoslovak party leader Gustav Husak resigns
Czechoslovak party leader Gustav Husak resigns
Bryan Murray becomes 17th NHL coach to win 300 games (Washington Capitals)
Bryan Murray becomes 17th NHL coach to win 300 games (Washington Capitals)
KTBN, Salt Lake City Utah, begins shortwave radio transmissions
KTBN, Salt Lake City Utah, begins shortwave radio transmissions
Cleveland Cavaliers beat Miami Heat 148-80, by record 68 pts
Cleveland Cavaliers beat Miami Heat 148-80, by record 68 pts
Japanese paleoanthropologist Gen Suwa discovers a tooth of the 4.4 million year old hominid Ardipithecus ramidus
Ardipithecus ramidus is a species of australopithecine from the Afar region of Early Pliocene Ethiopia 4.4 million years ago (Ma). The species A.
"Northern Exposure" star Barry Corbin falls off his horse
"Northern Exposure" star Barry Corbin falls off his horse
KLM's last DC-10 goes out of service
KLM's last DC-10 goes out of service
"In My Bed" single released by Dru Hill (Billboard Song of the Year 1997)
"In My Bed" is a song by American R&B group Dru Hill. It is the second single from their eponymous debut album.
Ray Bourque becomes just the 3rd player in NHL history to score 1,100 assists, and goaltender Byron Dafoe records his 10
Ray Bourque becomes just the 3rd player in NHL history to score 1,100 assists, and goaltender Byron Dafoe records his 100th NHL victory in Boston Bruin's 3-1 win over the Thrashers in Atlanta
Second Congo War: The Congolese parties of the Inter Congolese Dialogue sign a peace accord which makes provision for tr
Second Congo War: The Congolese parties of the Inter Congolese Dialogue sign a peace accord which makes provision for transitional governance and legislative and presidential elections within two years.
International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers established by SWOP-USA human rights organization
The International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers is observed annually on 17 December by sex workers, their clientele, friends, families and allies.
Anti-WTO protesters riot in Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Anti-WTO protesters riot in Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Republic of Lakotah asserts independence from the United States
Republic of Lakotah asserts independence from the United States
10 girls collecting firewood are killed by a mine blast in east Afghanistan
10 girls collecting firewood are killed by a mine blast in east Afghanistan
-year-old Gus Andreone records the 8th ace of his career on the 113-yard, 14th hole of the Lakes Course, Palm Aire, Sara
-year-old Gus Andreone records the 8th ace of his career on the 113-yard, 14th hole of the Lakes Course, Palm Aire, Sarasota, FL; oldest golfer to record a hole-in-one
José Mourinho is sacked as manager of British Premier football club Chelsea
José Mário dos Santos Mourinho Félix is a Portuguese professional football manager and former player, who is currently the head coach of Primeira Liga club Benfica.
"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" takes more than $450m worldwide in its opening weekend, 2nd largest opening in North America
"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" takes more than $450m worldwide in its opening weekend, 2nd largest opening in North America ($220m)
Astronomers identify furtherest object in the solar system as 2018 VG18 (nicknamed Farout), 120 x further from the Sun t
Astronomers identify furtherest object in the solar system as 2018 VG18 (nicknamed Farout), 120 x further from the Sun than Earth
Australia has its hottest day ever with average temperature of 40.9°C across the country
Australia has its hottest day ever with average temperature of 40.9°C across the country
China's Chang'e-5 mission successfully returns from collecting rock samples from the Moon, landing in Siziwang Banner, M
China's Chang'e-5 mission successfully returns from collecting rock samples from the Moon, landing in Siziwang Banner, Mongolia
Discovery of the first true millipede (Eumillipes persephone) with 1,000 legs found down a drill hole in Western Austral
Discovery of the first true millipede (Eumillipes persephone) with 1,000 legs found down a drill hole in Western Australia is published in "Scientific Reports" [1]
Minnesota Vikings recover from a 33-0 deficit at halftime to beat the Indianapolis Colts 39-36 in overtime at U.S. Bank
Minnesota Vikings recover from a 33-0 deficit at halftime to beat the Indianapolis Colts 39-36 in overtime at U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN; the biggest comeback in NFL history
7.3 magnitude earthquakes strikes close to Port Vila, capital of Vanuatu, causing significant damage [1]
7.3 magnitude earthquakes strikes close to Port Vila, capital of Vanuatu, causing significant damage [1]
26th US military lethal strike in international waters of a suspected drug smuggling vessel kills four
26th US military lethal strike in international waters of a suspected drug smuggling vessel kills four
Famous Births on December 17
birth
Bob Guccione is born
Bob Guccione, American photographer, painter and publisher, known for american photographer, painter and publisher, was born on 1930-12-17.
birth
Muhammadu Buhari is born
Muhammadu Buhari is born
birth
Eugene Levy is born
Eugene Levy, Canadian actor and comedian, known for canadian actor and comedian, was born on 1947-12-17. Eugene Levy is a Canadian actor and comedian.
birth
Bill Pullman is born
Bill Pullman is born
birth
Sarah Paulson is born
Sarah Paulson, American actress, known for american actress, was born on 1975-12-17. Sarah Catharine Paulson is an American actress.
birth
Milla Jovovich is born
Milla Jovovich, American actress, known for american actress, was born on 1976-12-17.
birth
Gerald Patterson is born
Gerald Patterson is born
birth
Manny Pacquiao is born
Manny Pacquiao athlete, known for filipino boxer and politician, was born on 1979-12-17. Emmanuel Dapidran Pacquiao Sr. is a Filipino professional boxer and former politician.
birth
Willard Libby is born
Willard Libby, American physical chemist, known for american physical chemist, was born on 1908-12-17.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happened on December 17, 1903?
- Orville and Wilbur Wright make the first controlled, sustained flight of a powered, heavier-than-air aircraft near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.
- What happened on December 17, 1398?
- Tamerlane captures and sacks Delhi, defeating Sultan Nasir-ud-Din Mahmud's armies by setting camels loaded with hay alight and driving them toward the Sultan's armored war elephants
- What happened on December 17, 1531?
- Pope Clement VII publishes the papal bull "Cum ad nihil magis", authorizing the Inquisition in Portugal at Evora, Coimbra, and Lisbon; it is rescinded in 1535
- What happened on December 17, 1788?
- Russian army led by Grigory Potemkin assaults and captures the fortress of Ochakov in modern-day Ukraine after a five-month siege during a major campaign of the Russo-Turkish War
- What happened on December 17, 1903?
- At 10:35 am, Orville Wright pilots the first sustained, powered, and controlled flight of a heavier-than-air aircraft at Kill Devil Hills near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina; the flight lasts 12 seconds and covers 120 feet
Complete Timeline — December 17 Through the Ages
St. Caius begins his reign as Catholic Pope
St. Caius begins his reign as Catholic Pope
Ostrogoths of King Totila conquer Rome by bribing the Byzantine garrison during the Gothic War
Ostrogoths of King Totila conquer Rome by bribing the Byzantine garrison during the Gothic War
Romanos I is crowned as co-emperor of the underage Emperor Constantine VII
Romanos I is crowned as co-emperor of the underage Emperor Constantine VII
Assassination of William I Longsword, 2nd Duke of Normandy.
Assassination of William I Longsword, 2nd Duke of Normandy.
Crusader Wallon de Sarton presents Bishop of Amiens Richard de Gerberoy with purported skull of John the Baptist, stolen
Crusader Wallon de Sarton presents Bishop of Amiens Richard de Gerberoy with purported skull of John the Baptist, stolen from Constantinople (Amiens cathedral later built to house it)
Tamerlane captures and sacks Delhi, defeating Sultan Nasir-ud-Din Mahmud's armies by setting camels loaded with hay alig
Tamerlane captures and sacks Delhi, defeating Sultan Nasir-ud-Din Mahmud's armies by setting camels loaded with hay alight and driving them toward the Sultan's armored war elephants
Ferdinand of Austria chosen as King of Bohemia
Isabella of Austria (Isabel; 18 July 1501 – 19 January 1526), also known as Elizabeth, was born an Archduchess of Austria and Infanta of Castile from the House of Habsburg, and subsequently became...
Pope Clement VII publishes the papal bull "Cum ad nihil magis", authorizing the Inquisition in Portugal at Evora, Coimbr
Pope Clement VII publishes the papal bull "Cum ad nihil magis", authorizing the Inquisition in Portugal at Evora, Coimbra, and Lisbon; it is rescinded in 1535
Spanish army starts fires in Haarlem, Netherlands
Haarlem is a city and municipality in the Netherlands. It is the capital of the province of North Holland.
Go-Yōzei becomes 107th Emperor of Japan
Emperor Go-Yōzei December 31, 1571 – September 25, 1617 was the 107th Emperor of Japan, according to the traditional order of succession.
The Earl of Leicester's army leaves Netherlands
The Earl of Leicester's army leaves Netherlands
Religious wedding of Henry IV of France and Marie de' Medici at Lyon Cathedral
Marie de' Medici (French: Marie de Médicis; Italian: Maria de' Medici; 26 April 1575 – 3 July 1642) was Queen of France and Navarre as the second wife of King Henry IV.
Shimabara Rebellion: Japanese peasants led by Amakusa Shiro rise against daimyo Matsukura Shigeharu
Shimabara Rebellion: Japanese peasants led by Amakusa Shiro rise against daimyo Matsukura Shigeharu
French and Swedish troops occupy Breisach on the Rhine
French and Swedish troops occupy Breisach on the Rhine
France, Britain and Austria declare war on Spain (War of the Quadruple Alliance 1718–1720)
France, Britain and Austria declare war on Spain (War of the Quadruple Alliance 1718–1720)
Congregation Shearith Israel of New York purchases a lot on Mill Street in Lower Manhattan to build the city's first syn
Congregation Shearith Israel of New York purchases a lot on Mill Street in Lower Manhattan to build the city's first synagogue
France recognizes the independence of the British colonies in America
France recognizes the independence of the British colonies in America
Russian army led by Grigory Potemkin assaults and captures the fortress of Ochakov in modern-day Ukraine after a five-mo
Russian army led by Grigory Potemkin assaults and captures the fortress of Ochakov in modern-day Ukraine after a five-month siege during a major campaign of the Russo-Turkish War
Aztec calendar stone is discovered in Mexico City
The Aztec sun stone (Spanish: Piedra del Sol) is a late post-classic Mexica sculpture housed in the National Anthropology Museum in Mexico City, and is perhaps the most famous work of Mexica...
A traffic regulation creates the first one-way street in New York City
New York, often called New York City (NYC), is the most populous city in the United States.
Opening of the First Legislative Assembly of Lower Canada in Quebec City
Opening of the First Legislative Assembly of Lower Canada in Quebec City
First impeachment trial against a US senator begins (William Blount, Tennessee)
First impeachment trial against a US senator begins (William Blount, Tennessee)
France issues the Milan Decree, which confirms the Continental System.
France issues the Milan Decree, which confirms the Continental System.
Congress of Angostura establishes Colombia's independence from Spain
The Congress of Angostura was convened by Simón Bolívar and took place in Angostura (today Ciudad Bolívar) during the wars of independence of Colombia and Venezuela, culminating in the proclamation...
Kentucky abolishes debtors' prisons
A debtors' prison is a prison for people who are unable to pay debt. Until the mid-19th century, debtors' prisons (usually similar in form to locked workhouses) were a common way to deal with unpaid...
Real Estate developer Samuel Ruggles deeds Gramercy Park to board of trustees to hold as parkland, he is granted tax exe
Real Estate developer Samuel Ruggles deeds Gramercy Park to board of trustees to hold as parkland, he is granted tax exempt status by New York City for the park, and develops the surrounding lots ensuring private access only to those properties
Colonel William Light chooses the site for the settlement of Adelaide in South Australia
Colonel William Light chooses the site for the settlement of Adelaide in South Australia
Henry Cole, founder of London's V&A Museum, commissions printing of the 1st Christmas card
Henry Cole, founder of London's V&A Museum, commissions printing of the 1st Christmas card
1st Hawaiian Cavalry is organized
1st Hawaiian Cavalry is organized
Anaheim Township created in Los Angeles County
Anaheim Township created in Los Angeles County
Franz Schubert's Symphony No. 8, "Unfinished Symphony", premieres in Vienna with Johann von Herbeck conducting
Franz Schubert's Symphony No. 8, "Unfinished Symphony", premieres in Vienna with Johann von Herbeck conducting
Violent bread riots in Montreal
Violent bread riots in Montreal
France declares Madagascar a protectorate
Madagascar, officially the Republic of Madagascar, is an island country in the Indian Ocean that includes the island of Madagascar and numerous smaller peripheral islands.
Georges Feydeau's "Tailleur Pour Dames" premieres in Paris
Georges-Léon-Jules-Marie Feydeau was a French playwright of the Belle Époque era, remembered for his farces, written between 1886 and 1914. Feydeau was born in Paris to middle-class parents and...
Tchaikovski's ballet "Casse-noisette" premieres in St Petersburg
Tchaikovski's ballet "Casse-noisette" premieres in St Petersburg
Russia ratifies Double Alliance with France
Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a country in Eastern Europe and North Asia. It is the largest country in the world, spanning eleven time zones and sharing land borders with fourteen countries.
Day 3 of first cricket test between Australia and England, England 325 all out, 261 behind on 1st innings
Day 3 of first cricket test between Australia and England, England 325 all out, 261 behind on 1st innings
Anti-Saloon League of America formed, Washington, D.C.
Anti-Saloon League of America formed, Washington, D.C.
Gerald Patterson is born
Gerald Patterson is born
First prize of 100,000 francs is offered for communication with extraterrestrials, with Martians excluded because they a
First prize of 100,000 francs is offered for communication with extraterrestrials, with Martians excluded because they are considered too easy
Frank Wedekind's play "Der Erdgeist" (Earth Spirit) premieres in Berlin
Frank Wedekind's play "Der Erdgeist" (Earth Spirit) premieres in Berlin
First Powered Flight by the Wright Brothers
Orville and Wilbur Wright make the first controlled, sustained flight of a powered, heavier-than-air aircraft near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.
At 10:35 am, Orville Wright pilots the first sustained, powered, and controlled flight of a heavier-than-air aircraft at
At 10:35 am, Orville Wright pilots the first sustained, powered, and controlled flight of a heavier-than-air aircraft at Kill Devil Hills near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina; the flight lasts 12 seconds and covers 120 feet
Ugyen Wangchuck became 1st hereditary king of Bhutan
Bhutan, officially the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a landlocked country in South Asia, located in the Eastern Himalayas, bordering China to the north and northwest and India to the south and southeast.
Willard Libby is born
Willard Libby, American physical chemist, known for american physical chemist, was born on 1908-12-17.
Albania's de facto independence from the Ottoman Empire is recognized at the London Conference of Ambassadors
The Dissolution of the Ottoman Empire (1908–1922) was a period of history of the Ottoman Empire beginning with the Young Turk Revolution and ultimately ending with the empire's dissolution and the...
Austrian troops beat Russians in Limanova Poland
Austrian troops beat Russians in Limanova Poland
Journalist Benito Mussolini marries Rachele Guidi in Treviglio Lombardy
Journalist Benito Mussolini marries Rachele Guidi in Treviglio Lombardy
Philippine Senator (and later 2nd President) Manuel L. Quezon (40) weds first cousin Aurora Aragon (30) in Hong Kong
Philippine Senator (and later 2nd President) Manuel L. Quezon (40) weds first cousin Aurora Aragon (30) in Hong Kong
A conference of workers' and soldiers' councils take control of German government in Berlin, until elections in January
A conference of workers' and soldiers' councils take control of German government in Berlin, until elections in January selects new national assembly
Austrian parliament approves 8-hour working day
Austria, formally the Republic of Austria, is a landlocked country in Central Europe, lying in the Eastern Alps.
AL votes to let spitball pitchers to continue using it
AL votes to let spitball pitchers to continue using it
Last British troops leave Irish Free State
The Irish War of Independence (Irish: Cogadh na Saoirse), also known as the Anglo-Irish War, was a guerrilla war fought in Ireland from 1919 to 1921 between the Irish Republican Army (IRA, the army...
First US diesel electric locomotive enters service in the Bronx, New York
First US diesel electric locomotive enters service in the Bronx, New York
Colonel William "Billy" Mitchell court-martialed for insubordination
William Lendrum Mitchell (December 29, 1879 – February 19, 1936) was a United States Army officer who had a major role in the creation of the United States Air Force. Mitchell served in France during...
Antanas Smetona assumes power in Lithuania as the 1926 coup d'état is successful
The 1926 Lithuanian coup d'état (Lithuanian: 1926-ųjų perversmas) was a military coup d'état in Lithuania that replaced the democratically elected government with a authoritarian regime led by...
Australian cricket prodigy Don Bradman scores 118 in his first class debut for New South Wales against South Australia a
Australian cricket prodigy Don Bradman scores 118 in his first class debut for New South Wales against South Australia at Adelaide Oval
John McGraw backs NL President John Heydler's designated hitter idea
John McGraw backs NL President John Heydler's designated hitter idea
Bob Guccione is born
Bob Guccione, American photographer, painter and publisher, known for american photographer, painter and publisher, was born on 1930-12-17.
St. Louis Cardinals trade future Baseball Hall of Fame first baseman Jim Bottomley to the Cincinnati Reds for Estel Crab
St. Louis Cardinals trade future Baseball Hall of Fame first baseman Jim Bottomley to the Cincinnati Reds for Estel Crabtree and Ownie Carroll
Bryan Valentine (136) and Lala Amarnath (102no) score centuries on their Test Cricket debut on Day 3 of 1st Test between
Bryan Valentine (136) and Lala Amarnath (102no) score centuries on their Test Cricket debut on Day 3 of 1st Test between England and India at Bombay
Ventriloquist Edgar Bergen and dummy Charlie McCarthy appear on TV
Edgar John Bergen (né Berggren; February 16, 1903 – September 30, 1978) was an American ventriloquist, comedian, actor, vaudevillian and radio performer.
Utrecht Central Station destroyed by fire
Utrecht Central Station destroyed by fire
German pocket battleship Graf Spee scuttled by its crew off Uruguay
Admiral Graf Spee was a Deutschland-class Panzerschiff (armored ship, nicknamed "pocket battleships" by the British) which served with the Kriegsmarine of Nazi Germany during World War II.
British troops occupy Sollum, Egypt
The Italian invasion of Egypt (Operazione E) was an offensive in the Second World War from Italian Libya, against British, Commonwealth and Free French in the neutral Kingdom of Egypt.
Dutch and Australian troops land on Portuguese Timor
Portuguese Timor was a Portuguese colony on the territory of present-day Timor-Leste from 1702 until 1975. During most of this period, Portugal shared the island of Timor with the Dutch East Indies
Allies in London sentence German war criminals
The Eastern Front, also known as the Great Patriotic War, or the German–Soviet War, was a theatre of World War II fought between the European Axis powers and Allies, including the Soviet Union (USSR)...
Muhammadu Buhari is born
Muhammadu Buhari is born
Transport 63 departs with French Jews to nazi-Germany
Transport 63 departs with French Jews to nazi-Germany
San Francisco M-Ocean View streetcar resumes service & is extended to Market St
San Francisco M-Ocean View streetcar resumes service & is extended to Market St
Bradman & Barnes complete record 405 run 5th wicket stand, score 234 each in 2nd Cricket Test Australia vs. England in S
Bradman & Barnes complete record 405 run 5th wicket stand, score 234 each in 2nd Cricket Test Australia vs. England in Sydney
Eugene Levy is born
Eugene Levy, Canadian actor and comedian, known for canadian actor and comedian, was born on 1947-12-17. Eugene Levy is a Canadian actor and comedian.
Burma recognizes People's Republic of China
The time period in China from the founding of the People's Republic in 1949 until Mao's death in 1976 is commonly known as Maoist China and Red China.
Dutch Communist Party members forbidden to be civil servants
Dutch Communist Party members forbidden to be civil servants
1st fully automated railroad freight yard (Gary, Indiana)
1st fully automated railroad freight yard (Gary, Indiana)
Bill Pullman is born
Bill Pullman is born
"On The Beach" is the first film to premiere simultaneously on both sides of the Iron Curtain
"On The Beach" is the first film to premiere simultaneously on both sides of the Iron Curtain
Pablo Casals' oratorio "El Pesebrio" premieres in Acapulco, Mexico
Pablo Casals' oratorio "El Pesebrio" premieres in Acapulco, Mexico
India seizes Goa & 2 other Portuguese colonies
The State of India, also known as the Portuguese State of India or Portuguese India, was a state of the Portuguese Empire founded seven years after the discovery of the sea route to the Indian...
Beatles 1st British TV appearance on "People & Places"
Beatles 1st British TV appearance on "People & Places"
Ballon d'Or: Dynamo Moscow goalkeeper Lev Yashin wins award for best European football player; beats Milan midfielder Gi
Ballon d'Or: Dynamo Moscow goalkeeper Lev Yashin wins award for best European football player; beats Milan midfielder Gianni Rivera and Tottenham striker Jimmy Greaves; first Russian national to win trophy
British government proclaims ends oil-embargo against Rhodesia
Rhodesia ( roh-DEE-zhə, roh-DEE-shə; Shona: Rodizha), officially the Republic of Rhodesia from 1970, was an unrecognised country in Southern Africa that existed from 1965 to 1979.
Prime Minister of Australia Harold Holt vanishes in mysterious circumstances while swimming near Melbourne
Prime Minister of Australia Harold Holt vanishes in mysterious circumstances while swimming near Melbourne
USAF closes its Project Blue Book, concluding there is no evidence of extraterrestrial spaceships behind thousands of UF
USAF closes its Project Blue Book, concluding there is no evidence of extraterrestrial spaceships behind thousands of UFO sightings
US performs nuclear test at Nevada Test Site
US performs nuclear test at Nevada Test Site
"Diamonds are Forever", 7th James Bond film, last starring Sean Conner, also starring Jill St. John is 1st released in W
"Diamonds are Forever", 7th James Bond film, last starring Sean Conner, also starring Jill St. John is 1st released in West Germany
New line of control agreed to in Kashmir between India & Pakistan
The Line of Control (LoC) is a military control line between the Indian- and Pakistani-controlled parts of the former princely state of Jammu and Kashmir—a line which does not constitute a legally...
Arabs terrorists shoot passengers on Boeing 737 to Kuwait
Arabs terrorists shoot passengers on Boeing 737 to Kuwait
John Paul Stevens appointed to the US Supreme Court
John Paul Stevens (April 20, 1920 – July 16, 2019) was an American lawyer and jurist who served as an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1975 to 2010.
Sarah Paulson is born
Sarah Paulson, American actress, known for american actress, was born on 1975-12-17. Sarah Catharine Paulson is an American actress.
NYC's Grand Central Terminal train station is added to the National Register of Historic Places [1]
Grand Central Terminal (GCT; also referred to as Grand Central Station or simply as Grand Central) is a commuter rail terminal at 42nd Street and Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, New York City.
Milla Jovovich is born
Milla Jovovich, American actress, known for american actress, was born on 1976-12-17.
Bobby Simpson scores 176 Australia v India at the WACA, aged 41
Robert Baddeley Simpson (3 February 1936 – 16 August 2025), known as Simmo, was an Australian cricketer who played for New South Wales, Western Australia and the Australian national team.
OPEC raises oil prices by 18% and agrees on a 14.5% petroleum price increase for 1979, to be implemented quarterly
OPEC raises oil prices by 18% and agrees on a 14.5% petroleum price increase for 1979, to be implemented quarterly
Budweiser rocket car reaches 1190 km/h (739.66 mph) but is widely disputed because the speed is not measured under offic
Budweiser rocket car reaches 1190 km/h (739.66 mph) but is widely disputed because the speed is not measured under official land speed record conditions, and the methodology is questionable
Manny Pacquiao is born
Manny Pacquiao athlete, known for filipino boxer and politician, was born on 1979-12-17. Emmanuel Dapidran Pacquiao Sr. is a Filipino professional boxer and former politician.
Great Britain performs nuclear test at Nevada Test Site
Great Britain performs nuclear test at Nevada Test Site
Members of Red Brigades kidnap Brigadier General James L Dozier
The Red Brigades were an Italian far-left Marxist–Leninist militant group. It was responsible for numerous violent attacks during Italy's Years of Lead, including the kidnapping and murder of Aldo...
Disco in Madrid catches fire; 83 die
Disco in Madrid catches fire; 83 die
Davina Thompson makes medical history by undergoing the first combined heart, lung, and liver transplant at Papworth Hos
Davina Thompson makes medical history by undergoing the first combined heart, lung, and liver transplant at Papworth Hospital in Cambridge, England
Czechoslovak party leader Gustav Husak resigns
Czechoslovak party leader Gustav Husak resigns
Bryan Murray becomes 17th NHL coach to win 300 games (Washington Capitals)
Bryan Murray becomes 17th NHL coach to win 300 games (Washington Capitals)
"The Simpsons," created by Matt Groening, premieres on Fox TV as a full animated series with the episode "Simpsons Roast
"The Simpsons," created by Matt Groening, premieres on Fox TV as a full animated series with the episode "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire"
KTBN, Salt Lake City Utah, begins shortwave radio transmissions
KTBN, Salt Lake City Utah, begins shortwave radio transmissions
Cleveland Cavaliers beat Miami Heat 148-80, by record 68 pts
Cleveland Cavaliers beat Miami Heat 148-80, by record 68 pts
Japanese paleoanthropologist Gen Suwa discovers a tooth of the 4.4 million year old hominid Ardipithecus ramidus
Ardipithecus ramidus is a species of australopithecine from the Afar region of Early Pliocene Ethiopia 4.4 million years ago (Ma). The species A.
"Northern Exposure" star Barry Corbin falls off his horse
"Northern Exposure" star Barry Corbin falls off his horse
KLM's last DC-10 goes out of service
KLM's last DC-10 goes out of service
"In My Bed" single released by Dru Hill (Billboard Song of the Year 1997)
"In My Bed" is a song by American R&B group Dru Hill. It is the second single from their eponymous debut album.
Ray Bourque becomes just the 3rd player in NHL history to score 1,100 assists, and goaltender Byron Dafoe records his 10
Ray Bourque becomes just the 3rd player in NHL history to score 1,100 assists, and goaltender Byron Dafoe records his 100th NHL victory in Boston Bruin's 3-1 win over the Thrashers in Atlanta
Second Congo War: The Congolese parties of the Inter Congolese Dialogue sign a peace accord which makes provision for tr
Second Congo War: The Congolese parties of the Inter Congolese Dialogue sign a peace accord which makes provision for transitional governance and legislative and presidential elections within two years.
International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers established by SWOP-USA human rights organization
The International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers is observed annually on 17 December by sex workers, their clientele, friends, families and allies.
Anti-WTO protesters riot in Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Anti-WTO protesters riot in Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Actor Dermot Mulroney (44) divorces actress Catherine Keener (48) due to irreconcilable differences after 17 years of ma
Actor Dermot Mulroney (44) divorces actress Catherine Keener (48) due to irreconcilable differences after 17 years of marriage
Republic of Lakotah asserts independence from the United States
Republic of Lakotah asserts independence from the United States
10 girls collecting firewood are killed by a mine blast in east Afghanistan
10 girls collecting firewood are killed by a mine blast in east Afghanistan
-year-old Gus Andreone records the 8th ace of his career on the 113-yard, 14th hole of the Lakes Course, Palm Aire, Sara
-year-old Gus Andreone records the 8th ace of his career on the 113-yard, 14th hole of the Lakes Course, Palm Aire, Sarasota, FL; oldest golfer to record a hole-in-one
José Mourinho is sacked as manager of British Premier football club Chelsea
José Mário dos Santos Mourinho Félix is a Portuguese professional football manager and former player, who is currently the head coach of Primeira Liga club Benfica.
"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" takes more than $450m worldwide in its opening weekend, 2nd largest opening in North America
"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" takes more than $450m worldwide in its opening weekend, 2nd largest opening in North America ($220m)
Astronomers identify furtherest object in the solar system as 2018 VG18 (nicknamed Farout), 120 x further from the Sun t
Astronomers identify furtherest object in the solar system as 2018 VG18 (nicknamed Farout), 120 x further from the Sun than Earth
Australia has its hottest day ever with average temperature of 40.9°C across the country
Australia has its hottest day ever with average temperature of 40.9°C across the country
China's Chang'e-5 mission successfully returns from collecting rock samples from the Moon, landing in Siziwang Banner, M
China's Chang'e-5 mission successfully returns from collecting rock samples from the Moon, landing in Siziwang Banner, Mongolia
Discovery of the first true millipede (Eumillipes persephone) with 1,000 legs found down a drill hole in Western Austral
Discovery of the first true millipede (Eumillipes persephone) with 1,000 legs found down a drill hole in Western Australia is published in "Scientific Reports" [1]
Minnesota Vikings recover from a 33-0 deficit at halftime to beat the Indianapolis Colts 39-36 in overtime at U.S. Bank
Minnesota Vikings recover from a 33-0 deficit at halftime to beat the Indianapolis Colts 39-36 in overtime at U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN; the biggest comeback in NFL history
7.3 magnitude earthquakes strikes close to Port Vila, capital of Vanuatu, causing significant damage [1]
7.3 magnitude earthquakes strikes close to Port Vila, capital of Vanuatu, causing significant damage [1]
26th US military lethal strike in international waters of a suspected drug smuggling vessel kills four
26th US military lethal strike in international waters of a suspected drug smuggling vessel kills four