15 December Facts

Introduction:

December 15th is a day filled with historical events, interesting facts, and significant milestones. From cultural celebrations to scientific breakthroughs, this date has been marked by a variety of notable occurrences throughout history. In this article, we will explore 15 fascinating facts about December 15th that will pique your curiosity and expand your knowledge about this special day.

Fact 1: The Bill of Rights was ratified on December 15, 1791.

On this day, the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution, known as the Bill of Rights, were officially ratified. These amendments guarantee fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and the right to a fair trial.

Fact 2: The Washington Monument in Washington D.C. was completed on December 15, 1884.

Standing at over 555 feet tall, the Washington Monument is an iconic landmark in the United States capital. Its construction began in 1848 and was completed on December 15, 1884, making it one of the tallest obelisks in the world.

Fact 3: The movie “Gone with the Wind” premiered on December 15, 1939.

This classic film, based on the novel by Margaret Mitchell, first graced the silver screen on December 15, 1939. Starring Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh, “Gone with the Wind” remains a timeless piece of cinematic history.

Fact 4: The European Space Agency’s Mars Express spacecraft was launched on December 15, 2003.

On this day, the Mars Express spacecraft embarked on its mission to study the Red Planet. This successful mission has provided valuable data and insights into Mars’ atmosphere, surface, and geology.

Fact 5: The Boston Tea Party took place on December 15, 1773.

A pivotal moment in American history, the Boston Tea Party was a protest against British taxation without representation. On December 15, 1773, colonists disguised as Mohawk Indians boarded British ships and dumped chests of tea into Boston Harbor.

Fact 6: Ludwig van Beethoven was born on December 15, 1770.

One of the most celebrated composers in history, Ludwig van Beethoven was born on this day in 1770. His compositions, such as the Ninth Symphony and “Moonlight Sonata,” continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

Fact 7: The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) was established on December 11, 1946.

UNICEF, an organization dedicated to providing humanitarian aid to children in need around the world, was founded on December 11, 1946. Since its inception, UNICEF has made a significant impact on the lives of millions of children.

Fact 8: The game “Monopoly” first went on sale on December 15, 1935.

Originally created to illustrate the negative aspects of monopolies, the board game “Monopoly” has become a household favorite since its release on December 15, 1935. Players compete to buy, sell, and trade properties in a quest for financial dominance.

Fact 9: The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in the landmark case of Brown v. Board of Education on December 14, 1954.

In a historic decision, the U.S. Supreme Court declared that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional in the case of Brown v. Board of Education. This ruling paved the way for desegregation and equality in the education system.

Fact 10: The first successful human heart transplant was performed by Dr. Christiaan Barnard on December 3, 1967.

South African surgeon Dr. Christiaan Barnard made medical history on December 3, 1967, by successfully performing the world’s first human heart transplant. This groundbreaking surgery revolutionized the field of organ transplantation.

Fact 11: “The Sound of Music” premiered on Broadway on December 15, 1959.

This beloved musical by Rodgers and Hammerstein first hit the Broadway stage on December 15, 1959. Based on the real-life story of the von Trapp family, “The Sound of Music” continues to enchant audiences with its timeless songs and heartwarming tale.

Fact 12: The United States established the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on July 29, 1958.

In response to the Soviet Union’s launch of Sputnik, the United States government created NASA on July 29, 1958. This organization has been instrumental in advancing space exploration, conducting groundbreaking missions, and expanding our understanding of the universe.

Fact 13: The United States declared war on Japan following the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

In response to the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, the United States declared war on Japan on December 7, 1941. This event marked the country’s entry into World War II and shaped the course of history for years to come.

Fact 14: The World Health Organization (WHO) was established on April 7, 1948.

The World Health Organization, a specialized agency of the United Nations, was founded on April 7, 1948, with the goal of promoting global health and preventing disease outbreaks. WHO plays a crucial role in coordinating international efforts to combat health crises.

Fact 15: The first successful test flight of the Wright brothers’ airplane took place on December 17, 1903.

On December 17, 1903, Orville and Wilbur Wright achieved a major milestone in aviation history by conducting the first successful powered flight of their aircraft at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. This event marked the beginning of modern aviation and paved the way for future advancements in air travel.

Conclusion

December 15th is a date that has seen a wide range of significant events and milestones that have left a lasting impact on history. From the ratification of the Bill of Rights to the completion of the Washington Monument, each fact highlights the diverse array of achievements and developments that have occurred on this day. These 15 facts serve as a reminder of the rich tapestry of history and culture that December 15th represents.