Big Deals and Big Milestones on December 20!
Get ready, history explorers! December 20th is packed with moments that literally changed maps, fought for fairness, and even marked a major royal record. From massive land deals to the end of a huge protest, this day shows how ordinary people and big decisions can reshape the world. Let's dive into the awesome archives!
Imagine buying a giant piece of land that doubles your country's size—that happened today! And just a few decades later, another group of citizens won a massive victory for equality after a long, brave protest. December 20th is all about dramatic changes!
What Happened on This Day
The Louisiana Purchase: A HUGE Land Deal!
Imagine getting a present that doubles the size of your house—but this was a present for the whole country! On this day, the United States officially took possession of the Louisiana Purchase from France in New Orleans. It was a massive land deal that added over 800,000 square miles to the USA. Think of it: one day you have a certain backyard, and the next day, your backyard stretches all the way to the Rocky Mountains! Talk about a big expansion!
Learn more
South Carolina Decides to Leave the USA
In a very dramatic moment leading up to the American Civil War, South Carolina decided it was time to say, 'See ya later!' to the rest of the United States. They signed the South Carolina Declaration of Secession, becoming the very first state to formally try and leave the Union. This was a huge political earthquake that showed how divided the country had become over big issues like slavery. It set the stage for years of fighting.
Learn more
Wartime London Hit by Heavy Bombing
Imagine it's Christmas time, but instead of decorations, the sky is full of enemy planes! During World War II, on this day, the German air force launched a heavy bombing raid on the British city of Calcutta (now Kolkata) for the first time. Cities across Britain, like London, were enduring terrible bombings known as 'The Blitz.' It was a terrifying time when regular life was interrupted by warplanes, and people had to be super brave just to go about their day.
Learn more
Montgomery Bus Boycott Finally Ends in Victory!
After a whole year of walking, carpooling, and showing amazing courage, the incredible Montgomery Bus Boycott came to an end! This movement started when Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat. Following a Supreme Court ruling, city buses in Montgomery, Alabama, were finally integrated, meaning everyone could sit where they wanted. This was a HUGE win for the Civil Rights Movement, proving that peaceful protest and standing up for what's right really works!
Learn more
Queen Elizabeth II Makes History (Again!)
Queen Elizabeth II is already famous for being the Queen of the UK, but on this day, she broke another record! She officially became the longest-reigning British monarch ever, surpassing Queen Victoria. Think of it like holding a sports record for so long that no one else has even come close. This meant she had served as Queen for a longer time than any other British king or queen before her! What an amazing, long career in public service.
Learn moreFun Facts About December 20
- The Louisiana Purchase cost the US about 3 cents per acre—a super cheap deal for so much land!
- Queen Elizabeth II has met almost every US President since Dwight D. Eisenhower!
- The Montgomery Bus Boycott inspired many other peaceful protests for civil rights.
- The Zodiac Killer sent taunting letters with secret codes to the newspapers!
A Look Back in Time
December 20th often lands right in the middle of the quiet, end-of-year hustle, but history was anything but quiet! In 1803, the U.S. was growing rapidly, like a kid who suddenly shot up three inches over the summer break. Later, in 1956, the end of the Bus Boycott showed the power of non-violence during a time of huge social change in America. From land deals to social justice, this date shows how different kinds of historical action—political, legal, and activist—all shape our world.
Born on This Day
Jonah Hill
This hilarious actor is famous for starring in funny movies like 'Superbad' and '21 Jump Street.' He’s super talented and has even been nominated for big movie awards for his acting skills. You might know him for making people laugh until they cry!
Kylian Mbappé
He’s one of the fastest and most skilled soccer (football) players in the world! This French superstar is famous for scoring amazing goals in major tournaments, often looking like he's flying down the field. He’s already won a World Cup and is considered a modern legend of the beautiful game.
Robert Menzies
He was an Australian politician who served as Prime Minister for a record-breaking 16 years! That’s longer than many people stay in the same school! Menzies was a very important leader who helped guide Australia through challenging times in the mid-20th century.
Uri Geller
This Israeli performer is famous for his amazing stage acts, often involving bending spoons and keys just by staring at them! He claims he has psychic powers, or 'paranormal abilities.' He's been a popular entertainer and speaker around the world for decades.