Historical Events on December 10: Significant Moments in History

Throughout history, certain dates stand out for the remarkable events that unfolded on them. From turning points in politics to cultural breakthroughs, these days often carry significance that echoes through time. Explore the most important events that occurred on December 10, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on December 10 - Key Moments Throughout History

1901 First Nobel Prize ceremony held: The inaugural Nobel Prize ceremony took place on December 10, 1901, in Stockholm, Sweden. This event honored the first recipients of the prestigious awards established by Alfred Nobel's will. source: en.wikipedia.org
1902 Women's suffrage granted in Tasmania: On December 10, 1902, Tasmania granted women the right to vote, becoming the first Australian state to do so. This was a significant milestone in the women's suffrage movement in Australia. source: en.wikipedia.org
1903 Nobel Prize in Physics Awarded to Pierre and Marie Curie: On December 10, 1903, the Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded jointly to Pierre and Marie Curie for their joint research on radiation phenomena, a groundbreaking contribution to science. source: en.wikipedia.org
1904 First Nobel Prize awards ceremony: The inaugural Nobel Prize awards ceremony was held in Stockholm, Sweden, honoring achievements in physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, and peace. source: en.wikipedia.org
1905 Publication of 'The Gift of the Magi' by O. Henry: On December 10, 1905, O. Henry's short story 'The Gift of the Magi' was published. The story, known for its twist ending, has become a classic tale of love and sacrifice. source: britannica.com
1906 Hay-Pauncefote Treaty signed: The Hay-Pauncefote Treaty was signed on December 10, 1906, between the United States and Great Britain. This treaty facilitated the construction of the Panama Canal and established the rights of the U.S. in the region. source: archives.gov
1907 Birth of Lucien Laurent: Lucien Laurent, a French footballer, was born on December 10, 1907. He is best known for scoring the first goal in the history of the FIFA World Cup during the 1930 tournament. source: en.wikipedia.org
1909 First female Nobel Prize in Literature awarded to Selma Lagerlöf: On December 10, 1909, Swedish author Selma Lagerlöf became the first woman to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature, recognized for her "lofty idealism, vivid imagination and spiritual perception that characterize her writings." source: nobelprize.org
1912 Austria-Hungary military mobilization: On December 10, 1912, Austria-Hungary issued a general mobilization, calling up all military personnel and reservists worldwide in anticipation of potential war. This action was part of escalating tensions in Europe during that period. source: en.wikipedia.org
1915 Nobel Prize Awards Ceremony: On December 10, 1915, the Nobel Prize awards ceremony took place, honoring laureates in Physics, Chemistry, and Literature. The Peace Prize was not awarded that year. source: en.wikipedia.org
1917 Nobel Prizes awarded: On December 10, 1917, the Nobel Prizes were awarded, recognizing outstanding contributions in various fields including literature, peace, and science. The awards are presented annually and are considered among the most prestigious honors globally. This year's ceremony highlighted significant achievements despite the ongoing global conflict of World War I. source: nobelprize.org
1919 Lady Nancy Astor Enters British Parliament: Lady Nancy Astor became the first woman to sit in the British House of Commons in 1919. source: parliament.uk
1922 Nobel Prizes awarded to scientific luminaries: On December 10, 1922, the Nobel Prizes were awarded in Stockholm. The recipients included Niels Bohr of Denmark for Physics, Francis William Aston of the United Kingdom for Chemistry, Archibald Hill of the United Kingdom and Otto Meyerhof of Germany for Physiology or Medicine, Jacinto Benavente of Spain for Literature, and Fridtjof Nansen of Norway for Peace. source: en.wikipedia.org
1925 George Bernard Shaw receives Nobel Prize in Literature: On December 10, 1925, Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his work marked by idealism and humanity, with stimulating satire infused with poetic beauty. Shaw was the second Irish laureate after W.B. Yeats in 1923. Initially declining the prize, he later accepted but refused the prize money, suggesting it be used to fund translations of August Strindberg's works into English. source: nobelprize.org
1927 Grand Ole Opry first radio broadcast: The Grand Ole Opry, a weekly country music stage concert in Nashville, Tennessee, began its first radio broadcast on December 10, 1927. This event marked a significant moment in the history of country music and radio broadcasting. source: en.wikipedia.org
1928 1928 Nobel Prize awards ceremony: The 1928 Nobel Prize awards ceremony took place on December 10, 1928, honoring various laureates for their contributions to science, literature, and peace. This event is a highlight in the annual Nobel celebrations. source: britannica.com
1930 Karl Landsteiner awarded Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine: Karl Landsteiner was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine on December 10, 1930, for his discovery of blood groups, which had a profound impact on transfusion medicine. source: britannica.com
1931 Jane Addams receives Nobel Peace Prize: Jane Addams was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1931 for her contributions to peace and social justice. Her work at Hull House and her advocacy for women's rights and international peace were pivotal in her recognition as a leading figure in social reform. source: nobelprize.org
1932 Thailand becomes a constitutional monarchy: On December 10, 1932, Thailand transitioned to a constitutional monarchy. This significant political change followed a revolution that ended absolute monarchy and established a constitutional framework for governance, marking a new era in Thai history.
1934 Saint-Adelbert cooperation formation: The Saint-Adelbert cooperation was formed on December 10, 1934, aimed at fostering collaboration among various organizations. This initiative was significant in promoting community engagement and support. source: britannica.com
1935 James Chadwick awarded Nobel Prize in Physics for neutron discovery: James Chadwick received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1935 for his discovery of the neutron, a neutral particle within the atomic nucleus. This breakthrough provided a new tool for inducing atomic disintegration, as neutrons could penetrate atomic nuclei without being deflected by electrical charges. source: nobelprize.org
1936 Xi'an Incident: On December 10, 1936, Chinese Nationalist leader Chiang Kai-shek was kidnapped by his own generals in Xi'an. This event led to a temporary halt in the Chinese Civil War and a focus on resisting Japanese invasion. source: en.wikipedia.org
1937 1937 Nobel Prize Awards Ceremony: The 1937 Nobel Prize Awards Ceremony was held in Stockholm, Sweden, on December 10, 1937. The Nobel Prize in Literature was awarded to French author Roger Martin du Gard for his novel-cycle 'Les Thibault', which depicts human conflict and aspects of contemporary life. source: en.wikipedia.org
1939 1939 Nobel Prize awards ceremony: The 1939 Nobel Prize awards ceremony took place on December 10, 1939, honoring individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions in various fields, including Peace, Literature, Chemistry, Physics, and Medicine. source: en.wikipedia.org
1940 British anti-offensive in Libya (Sidi Barrani): On December 10, 1940, British forces conducted operations against Italian positions in Sidi Barrani, Libya, as part of their ongoing campaign in North Africa. This was a response to Italian counter-offensives following initial British successes. source: britannica.com
1941 Sinking of HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse: On December 10, 1941, the British battleships HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse were sunk by Japanese aircraft off the coast of Malaya. This event marked a significant loss for the British Royal Navy and demonstrated the effectiveness of air power against naval vessels. source: en.wikipedia.org
1942 First official Holocaust report sent by Polish government-in-exile: On December 10, 1942, the Polish government-in-exile sent the first official report on the Holocaust to the Allies, detailing the systematic extermination of Jews in occupied Poland. This report aimed to raise awareness and prompt action against the atrocities being committed by the Nazis. source: ushmm.org
1943 Roosevelt honors General Mark Clark: On December 10, 1943, U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt honored General Mark Clark for his leadership during the Allied campaign in Italy. General Clark played a significant role in the liberation of Italian territories from Axis control.
1944 France and Soviet Union mutual assistance pact: On December 10, 1944, France and the Soviet Union signed a mutual assistance pact, strengthening their alliance during World War II. This agreement aimed to bolster military cooperation against the Axis powers. source: britannica.com
1946 Alger Hiss resigns from State Department: Alger Hiss resigned from his position in the U.S. State Department on December 10, 1946, amid allegations of espionage and communist ties. His resignation marked a significant moment in the early Cold War period, leading to a high-profile investigation and trial that captured national attention. source: britannica.com
1947 USSR-Czechoslovakia trade agreement signed: On December 10, 1947, the USSR and Czechoslovakia signed a trade agreement aimed at strengthening economic ties between the two nations. This agreement was part of the broader Soviet strategy to expand influence in Eastern Europe post-World War II. source: britannica.com
1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights Adoption: On December 10, 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, establishing fundamental human rights for all people. source: un.org
1949 Fall of Chengdu during Chinese Civil War: On December 10, 1949, Communist forces captured Chengdu, the last major city held by the Kuomintang (KMT) on mainland China. This marked a significant turning point in the Chinese Civil War, leading to the KMT's retreat to Taiwan. source: britannica.com
1950 Ralph J. Bunche awarded Nobel Peace Prize: On December 10, 1950, Ralph J. Bunche, an American diplomat and scholar, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his mediation efforts in Palestine. source: nobelprize.org
1952 Yitzhak Ben-Zvi elected president of Israel: Yitzhak Ben-Zvi was elected as the second president of Israel on December 10, 1952. His presidency lasted until 1963, during which he played a significant role in the development of the state. source: britannica.com
1953 Albert Schweitzer awarded Nobel Peace Prize: On December 10, 1953, Albert Schweitzer was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his philosophy of "reverence for life" and his humanitarian work in Africa. Schweitzer, a theologian, physician, and musician, dedicated his life to providing medical care in Gabon, where he founded a hospital in Lambaréné. source: nobelprize.org
1955 Australian Federal Election of 1955: The Australian Federal Election took place on December 10, 1955, resulting in a victory for the Liberal-Country Party coalition led by Robert Menzies. This election was significant as it marked the beginning of a long period of conservative governance in Australia. Key issues included economic management and social policies. source: britannica.com
1956 Establishment of MPLA in Angola: The Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) was officially established, marking a significant step in Angola's struggle for independence from colonial rule. The MPLA played a crucial role in the Angolan Civil War and the country's eventual independence. This event is pivotal in understanding Angola's political history. source: britannica.com
1957 US Air Force establishes Astronautics Directorate: On December 10, 1957, the US Air Force established the Astronautics Directorate to oversee its space and missile programs. This move was part of the broader response to the Soviet Union's advancements in space technology, particularly following the launch of Sputnik. The Directorate aimed to coordinate research and development in astronautics and related fields. source: nasa.gov
1958 First domestic jet passenger flight in the United States: On December 10, 1958, National Airlines became the first airline to operate jet service for flights within the United States, as a Boeing 707 plane began flying between Miami and New York City. This marked a significant advancement in domestic air travel. source: en.wikipedia.org
1961 US conducts underground nuclear test: On December 10, 1961, the United States conducted an underground nuclear test as part of its nuclear weapons testing program. source: ctbto.org
1962 Lawrence of Arabia film premiere: David Lean's epic film 'Lawrence of Arabia' premiered at the Odeon Leicester Square in London, attended by Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. source: bfi.org.uk
1963 Zanzibar gains independence from United Kingdom: On December 10, 1963, Zanzibar was granted independence from the United Kingdom, becoming a constitutional monarchy under Sultan Jamshid bin Abdullah. This followed a general election in July 1963, where the Zanzibar Nationalist Party and Zanzibar and Pemba People's Party alliance secured 18 seats, leading to the formation of a new government. The Sultanate's independence was short-lived, as it was overthrown in the Zanzibar Revolution on January 12, 1964. source: en.wikipedia.org
1964 Martin Luther King Jr. receives Nobel Peace Prize: On December 10, 1964, Martin Luther King Jr. was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his nonviolent struggle for civil rights in the United States. source: en.wikipedia.org
1966 Shmuel Yosef Agnon wins Nobel Prize in Literature: Shmuel Yosef Agnon was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature on December 10, 1966, for his profoundly characteristic narrative art with motifs from the life of the Jewish people. source: nobelprize.org
1968 Death of Thomas Merton: Thomas Merton, an American Trappist monk and author, died on December 10, 1968, in Samut Prakan, Thailand, after attending a monastic conference. He was found in his room with a short-circuited floor fan nearby, leading to speculation that he died from heart failure and an electric shock. His body was returned to the United States and he was buried at the Abbey of Gethsemani. source: en.wikipedia.org
1969 Carlos Marighella: Brazilian Political Activist: Carlos Marighella, a Brazilian political activist, was born on December 10, 1969. He was known for his involvement in revolutionary activities and his contributions to political thought in Brazil.
1970 Devastating Peru-Ecuador border earthquake: On December 10, 1970, a powerful earthquake struck the Peru-Ecuador border region, causing significant destruction and loss of life. The quake registered a magnitude of 7.1 and resulted in thousands of casualties and extensive damage to infrastructure. source: usgs.gov
1971 William H. Rehnquist confirmed to Supreme Court: On December 10, 1971, the U.S. Senate confirmed William H. Rehnquist as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court by a vote of 68–26. Nominated by President Richard Nixon, Rehnquist took his seat on January 7, 1972. source: britannica.com
1972 USSR nuclear test in Kazakhstan: On December 10, 1972, the Soviet Union conducted a nuclear test at the Semipalatinsk Test Site in Kazakhstan. This test was part of a series of nuclear detonations that the USSR carried out during the Cold War, contributing to global tensions regarding nuclear proliferation. source: britannica.com
1974 Helios 1 Space Probe Launch: Helios 1, a joint German-American mission to study solar processes, was launched on December 10, 1974, from Cape Canaveral, Florida. The spacecraft was designed to investigate phenomena such as solar wind, magnetic and electric fields, cosmic rays, and cosmic dust in regions between Earth's orbit and approximately 0.3 AU from the Sun. source: science.nasa.gov
1975 Andrei Sakharov's Nobel Peace Prize acceptance: On December 10, 1975, Andrei Sakharov accepted the Nobel Peace Prize, recognizing his efforts in advocating for human rights and nuclear disarmament. His acceptance speech highlighted the importance of freedom and justice in the world. source: britannica.com
1976 UK Secures IMF Loan: On December 15, 1976, the United Kingdom secured a $3.9 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to stabilize the pound sterling amid a currency crisis. The loan was contingent upon implementing significant public expenditure cuts. source: chathamhouse.org
1977 Soviet Union launches Soyuz 26 mission to Salyut 6 space station: On December 10, 1977, the Soviet Union launched Soyuz 26, carrying cosmonauts Valery Ryumin and Leonid Popov to the Salyut 6 space station for a long-duration mission. source: en.wikipedia.org
1978 Nobel Peace Prize Awarded to Begin and Sadat: Anwar Sadat of Egypt and Menachem Begin of Israel were jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1978 for their efforts in the Camp David Accords, which led to the Egypt–Israel Peace Treaty. source: nobelprize.org
1979 Mother Teresa receives Nobel Peace Prize in 1979: Mother Teresa was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on December 10, 1979, for her humanitarian work and dedication to helping the poor and sick in India and around the world. The Nobel Committee recognized her efforts to alleviate suffering and promote peace through her charitable organization, the Missionaries of Charity. source: britannica.com
1980 Soyuz T-3 mission concludes with safe landing: The Soviet Soyuz T-3 mission, launched on November 27, 1980, successfully concluded on December 10, 1980. The crew, consisting of Leonid Kizim, Oleg Makarov, and Gennady Strekalov, spent 12 days aboard the Salyut 6 space station, performing maintenance and repairs. They landed 130 kilometers east of Dzhezkazgan, Kazakhstan. source: britannica.com
1981 Spain officially joins NATO: Spain became a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on December 10, 1981. This marked a significant step in Spain's integration into Western defense structures following the end of Franco's dictatorship. The accession was part of a broader strategy to enhance security and political stability in Europe during the Cold War. source: nato.int
1982 Soyuz T-5 mission completes with safe landing: On December 10, 1982, the Soyuz T-5 spacecraft, carrying cosmonauts Anatoli Berezovoy and Valentin Lebedev, safely landed on Earth after a 211-day mission to the Salyut 7 space station. During their stay, they conducted various scientific and medical experiments and were visited by four uncrewed cargo Progress vehicles and two Soyuz missions. The crew returned aboard the Soyuz T-7 spacecraft. source: spacelaunchnow.me
1983 Democracy restored in Argentina with the inauguration of President Raúl Alfonsín: On December 10, 1983, Raúl Alfonsín was inaugurated as Argentina's first democratically elected president after nearly eight years of military rule. His election marked the end of the National Reorganization Process, a period characterized by human rights abuses and economic turmoil. Alfonsín's presidency focused on restoring democratic institutions and addressing the legacy of the dictatorship. source: washingtonpost.com
1984 Desmond Tutu awarded Nobel Peace Prize: South African Archbishop Desmond Tutu was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on December 10, 1984, for his non-violent opposition to apartheid and his efforts to promote reconciliation in South Africa. source: nobelprize.org
1985 Argentine junta leaders sentenced for human rights abuses: On December 10, 1985, a court in Argentina sentenced several leaders of the military junta that ruled from 1976 to 1983 for human rights violations, including torture and murder. This landmark trial marked a significant moment in Argentina's transition to democracy, holding former officials accountable for the atrocities committed during the 'Dirty War.' The sentences were part of a broader effort to address the legacy of state terrorism in the country. source: bbc.com
1986 Elie Wiesel awarded Nobel Peace Prize for humanitarian efforts: Elie Wiesel, a Holocaust survivor and author, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on December 10, 1986, for his efforts to combat violence, repression, and racism. His work emphasized the importance of remembering the past and advocating for human rights. Wiesel's writings and activism have had a lasting impact on global awareness of human rights issues. source: britannica.com
1987 Jascha Heifetz, renowned violinist, dies at 86: Jascha Heifetz, a Russian-born American violinist celebrated for his technical proficiency and musical interpretation, died on December 10, 1987, at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. He was 86 years old. Heifetz had been hospitalized since October 16 for treatment of injuries sustained from a fall in his home in Beverly Hills. The immediate cause of death was not reported. source: britannica.com
1988 US Billboard number 1 song: On December 10, 1988, the number one song on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart was 'Together Forever' by Rick Astley. This song was part of the pop culture phenomenon of the late 1980s. source: billboard.com
1990 Soyuz TM-10 mission lands: On December 10, 1990, the Soviet space mission Soyuz TM-10 successfully landed, returning cosmonauts from the Mir space station. The mission was part of the ongoing Soviet space program during that period. source: en.wikipedia.org
1991 Howard Spira legal case: The legal case involving Howard Spira, a former private investigator, began on December 10, 1991. Spira was implicated in a high-profile case involving allegations against a prominent figure, drawing significant media attention. source: nytimes.com
1992 International Human Rights Day established: International Human Rights Day is observed on December 10 each year, commemorating the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. The day promotes awareness of human rights issues worldwide. source: un.org
1993 Closure of Wearmouth Colliery: Wearmouth Colliery, a coal mine in Sunderland, England, officially closed on December 10, 1993. The closure marked the end of coal mining in the area, impacting local employment and the economy. source: bbc.com
1994 Heisman Trophy Award: Rashaan Salaam from the University of Colorado won the 60th Heisman Trophy Award as a running back (RB), recognizing him as the most outstanding player in college football.
1995 Israeli forces withdraw from Nablus: On December 10, 1995, Israeli forces completed their withdrawal from the city of Nablus in the West Bank. This move was part of the Oslo Accords and aimed at reducing tensions in the region. source: reuters.com
1996 South Africa adopts new constitution: On December 10, 1996, President Nelson Mandela signed the final draft of South Africa's new constitution into law at Sharpeville, marking a significant step in the country's transition from apartheid to democracy. The constitution, which took effect on February 4, 1997, is renowned for its progressive Bill of Rights and serves as the supreme law of the land. source: gov.za
1997 Kazakhstan relocates capital city: On December 10, 1997, Kazakhstan announced the relocation of its capital city from Almaty to Akmolinsk, later renamed Astana (now Nur-Sultan). The decision was made to promote economic development in the northern regions and to better represent the country's diverse population. source: britannica.com
1998 Amartya Sen Wins Nobel Prize in Economics: On December 10, 1998, Amartya Sen was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences for his contributions to welfare economics, particularly his work on poverty and famine. source: news.harvard.edu
1999 European Union enhances military capabilities: On December 10, 1999, the European Union (EU) approved a catalogue of military forces offered by member countries to meet the Headline Goal established at the Helsinki Council. The overall force included about 100,000 troops, 400 airplanes, and 100 ships, with contributions from Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, and Greece. source: iai.it
2000 Herbert Kroemer wins Nobel Prize in Physics: On December 10, 2000, Herbert Kroemer was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for his work in semiconductor physics, particularly for the development of semiconductor heterostructures used in high-speed- and opto-electronics. source: en.wikipedia.org
2001 Eric Crouch wins 67th Heisman Trophy: On December 10, 2001, Eric Crouch, quarterback for the University of Nebraska, was awarded the Heisman Trophy, recognizing him as the most outstanding player in college football. His performance during the season was pivotal in leading his team to success. source: ncaa.com
2002 Peace agreement in Aceh, Indonesia: On December 10, 2002, a peace agreement was signed in Aceh, Indonesia, aimed at ending decades of conflict between the Indonesian government and the Free Aceh Movement. This agreement was a significant step towards restoring peace in the region. source: bbc.com
2003 Shirin Ebadi Receives Nobel Peace Prize: On December 10, 2003, Iranian human rights lawyer Shirin Ebadi was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to promote democracy and human rights, particularly for women and children, in Iran. She became the first Iranian and the first Muslim woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. source: nobelprize.org
2004 2004 Nobel Prize ceremony: The 2004 Nobel Prize ceremony took place on December 10, 2004, in Stockholm, Sweden, honoring laureates in various fields including literature, peace, and sciences. The event celebrated the contributions of individuals and organizations to humanity and knowledge. source: bbc.com
2005 Sosoliso Airlines Flight 1145 crash in Nigeria: On December 10, 2005, Sosoliso Airlines Flight 1145, a McDonnell Douglas DC-9-32, crashed during its approach to Port Harcourt International Airport in Nigeria, resulting in 108 fatalities and 2 survivors. The accident was attributed to pilot error and windshear conditions. source: en.wikipedia.org
2006 Björn Borg Receives Lifetime Achievement Award: The British Broadcasting Corporation honored Swedish tennis legend Björn Borg with a Lifetime Achievement Award, with the presentation made by fellow tennis icon Boris Becker.
2007 Led Zeppelin reunion concert held: On December 10, 2007, the legendary rock band Led Zeppelin reunited for a special concert in London. The event was a tribute to Atlantic Records founder Ahmet Ertegun and marked the band's first full-length performance since 1980. source: en.wikipedia.org
2008 US automaker bailout agreement: On December 10, 2008, the U.S. government reached an agreement to provide a bailout for major automakers, including General Motors and Chrysler. This decision aimed to stabilize the struggling auto industry amid the financial crisis. source: nytimes.com
2009 Barack Obama receives Nobel Peace Prize: U.S. President Barack Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples. The decision was met with both praise and criticism.
2010 2010 UK Student Protests: On December 10, 2010, students in the UK protested against proposed increases in tuition fees and cuts to education funding. The protests were part of a larger movement against austerity measures and drew significant media attention. source: theguardian.com
2011 Russian protests against election fraud: Massive protests erupted across Russia in response to allegations of widespread fraud in the parliamentary elections. Thousands of citizens gathered in Moscow and other cities, demanding fair elections and political reform, marking a significant moment in Russian civil society. source: nytimes.com
2012 European Union Receives Nobel Peace Prize: On December 10, 2012, the European Union was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for its contributions to the advancement of peace and reconciliation, democracy, and human rights in Europe. source: en.wikipedia.org
2013 Diplomatic interactions at Mandela memorial: On December 10, 2013, world leaders gathered in Johannesburg for the memorial service of Nelson Mandela, leading to significant diplomatic interactions. The event highlighted Mandela's legacy and the global response to his passing. source: bbc.com
2014 Human Rights Day and Nobel Peace Prize ceremony: On December 10, 2014, the Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Kailash Satyarthi and Malala Yousafzai for their efforts against the suppression of children and young people and for the right of all children to education. The award ceremony took place in Oslo, Norway. source: nobelprize.org
2015 U.S. B-52 bombers conduct flight near Chinese-controlled Spratly Islands: On December 10, 2015, two U.S. B-52 bombers flew over international airspace within 15 nautical miles of one of the Spratly Islands, prompting a Chinese radio warning. The Pentagon stated that the mission was routine and conducted in accordance with international law, with no intention to fly within 12 nautical miles of any feature. source: stripes.com
2016 Istanbul Stadium Bombings: On December 10, 2016, twin bombings occurred outside Istanbul's Vodafone Arena, resulting in at least 46 deaths and 136 injuries. The Kurdistan Freedom Hawks (TAK), a PKK-affiliated group, claimed responsibility for the attack, which targeted riot police officers and civilians. source: aljazeera.com
2017 ISIL defeated in Iraq: On December 10, 2017, Iraqi officials confirmed that the Islamic State had been defeated in Iraq, marking a significant milestone in the fight against the militant group. This victory was celebrated across the country as a turning point in the battle against extremism. source: reuters.com
2018 Brexit developments: On December 10, 2018, the UK Parliament was set to vote on Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal, with significant debates and concerns over the proposed agreement's implications for the UK's future relationship with the European Union. source: bbc.com
2019 Iranian military base expansion in Syria: On December 10, 2019, reports emerged regarding the expansion of an Iranian military base in Syria. This development raised concerns among regional powers and highlighted ongoing tensions in the Middle East. source: reuters.com
2020 FDA Panel Recommends Tozinameran Emergency Approval: An expert panel advising the FDA recommended granting emergency approval for Tozinameran (Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine) for usage in the United States, marking a significant milestone in the fight against the pandemic.
2021 Global COVID-19 Pandemic Updates: Multiple COVID-19 developments occurred globally: Laos reported a record 1,645 new cases, bringing its total to 86,148. Singapore approved the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children aged 5-11. Cyprus detected its first Omicron variant case. The Czech government mandated COVID-19 vaccination for people over 60, healthcare workers, police, firefighters, and military personnel.
2022 Russian Forces Devastate Bakhmut in Ukraine: Russian military forces have reportedly 'destroyed' the strategic eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky. The ongoing assault is part of a broader campaign of missile and rocket attacks across multiple Ukrainian regions, intensifying the conflict.
2023 Israel-Hamas Conflict: Intense Fighting in Gaza Strip: A severe military confrontation continues in the Gaza Strip, with Israeli forces advancing into Khan Younis, the primary city in southern Gaza. Israeli tanks have reached the city center, while warplanes conduct ongoing bombing campaigns. The conflict has resulted in massive displacement, with approximately 85% of Gaza's Palestinian population forced to relocate. The United States continues to support Israel militarily, despite growing international calls for a cease-fire. The United Nations has highlighted the critical humanitarian situation, noting a complete lack of safe zones for civilians.

What Is special about December 10?

December 10 is notable for a variety of important historical, cultural, and significant events, including famous birthdays and deaths, holidays and more. Find out everything about December 10.