December 19: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
In 1606, the ships Susan Constant, Godspeed, and Discovery set sail from England to establish the Jamestown settlement, the very first permanent colony in what would become the United States.
Quick Facts for December 19
- Zodiac sign: Sagittarius
- Day of year: 353
About December 19
December 19 serves as a profound marker of shifting global powers and human resilience. In India, it is celebrated as Goa Liberation Day, marking a significant chapter in the region's history. Meanwhile, in Anguilla, the day is dedicated to honoring National Heroes and Heroines. These observances remind us of the enduring legacies left by those who fought for identity and sovereignty.
From the depths of space to the corridors of political power, this date has witnessed monumental shifts. We remember the triumphant return of the Apollo 17 astronauts, the final crewed lunar mission, and the momentous signing of the Sino-British Joint Declaration, which reshaped the future of Hong Kong. Whether through the lens of scientific exploration or international diplomacy, December 19 remains a cornerstone of modern history.
Holidays & Observances on December 19
- Goa Liberation Day (Goa, India)
- National Heroes and Heroines Day (Anguilla)
Fun & National Days on December 19
- National Hard Candy Day — Treat yourself to your favorite colorful and sugary sweet today!
- National Emo Day — Lean into your feelings and listen to some soulful music.
- National Oatmeal Muffin Day — Enjoy a hearty and delicious muffin to start your morning right.
- Look for an Evergreen Day — Take a stroll and appreciate the beauty of year-round greenery.
- Holly Day
- National Wreaths Across America Day
- Super Saturday
On This Day in History
- 1154 — Henry II assumed the English throne following his coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey.
- 1606 — English vessels departed for the New World to establish the Jamestown colony in Virginia.
- 1688 — The Battle of Reading saw Williamite forces triumph over the Jacobites, sparking the Glorious Revolution.
- 1776 — Thomas Paine released a stirring installment of 'The American Crisis' through the Pennsylvania Journal.
- 1777 — George Washington led the Continental Army into their winter encampment at Valley Forge.
- 1793 — Napoleon's artillery successfully defended Toulon, forcing British forces to retreat from the city.
- 1929 — The Indian National Congress officially introduced the Purna Swaraj declaration for total independence.
- 1972 — The crew of Apollo 17, including Eugene Cernan, completed the final human lunar mission.
- 1984 — British and Chinese leaders signed the Joint Declaration regarding the future of Hong Kong sovereignty.
- 1986 — Mikhail Gorbachev ended the exile of Andrei Sakharov and his wife in Gorky.
- 1998 — The United States House of Representatives impeached President Bill Clinton, making him the second impeached president.
- 2012 — Park Geun-hye achieved a historic milestone by being elected South Korea's first female president.
Famous Birthdays on December 19
- 1875 — Mileva Marić, A Serbian physicist who made significant contributions to the early development of science.
- 1875 — Carter G. Woodson, An influential American historian known for establishing Black History Month.
- 1915 — Édith Piaf, The legendary French singer and actress who became a global cultural icon.
- 1924 — Cicely Tyson, A highly acclaimed American actress known for her powerful and transformative performances.
- 1972 — Alyssa Milano, An American actress and activist known for her many television roles.
- 1975 — Brandon Sanderson, A prominent American author recognized for his expansive and imaginative fantasy worlds.
- 1980 — Jake Gyllenhaal, A celebrated American actor known for his diverse and compelling film roles.