Historical Events on November 26: 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 November 26, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on November 26 - Key Moments Throughout History

1909 Founding of Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity: On November 26, 1909, eight sophomores from the College of the City of New York founded Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity. The founders were Lester Cole, Hyman I. Jacobson, Adolph I. Fabis, Samuel Gaines, Abram N. Kerner, Jacob Kaplan, Ira N. Lind, and David D. Levinson. source: sigmatau.sam.org
1913 Russian Empire suppresses Polish assembly rights: On November 26, 1913, the Russian Empire enacted measures to suppress the rights of the Polish assembly, limiting political expression and autonomy in Poland. This action was part of broader efforts to control nationalist movements. source: loc.gov
1914 Battle of Łódź: The Battle of Łódź, fought from November 11 to December 6, 1914, was a significant engagement between German and Russian forces during World War I, resulting in a German victory. source: en.wikipedia.org
1915 Gallipoli Campaign: Severe Weather Impact: On November 26, 1915, severe weather conditions significantly impacted the Gallipoli Campaign during World War I. The harsh weather affected both Allied and Ottoman forces, leading to logistical challenges and increased casualties. The adverse conditions underscored the difficulties of conducting military operations in the region. source: en.wikipedia.org
1917 Sykes-Picot Agreement revealed: On November 26, 1917, the Sykes-Picot Agreement, a secret treaty between Britain and France, was revealed. The agreement outlined the division of Ottoman territories in the Middle East after World War I, leading to significant geopolitical changes in the region. source: en.wikipedia.org
1922 Discovery of King Tutankhamun's Tomb Treasures: On November 26, 1922, archaeologist Howard Carter, accompanied by Lord Carnarvon, breached the sealed doorway of King Tutankhamun's tomb in the Valley of the Kings. Peering inside, Carter observed a wealth of gold and artifacts, remarking, "Yes, wonderful things!" This discovery unveiled a nearly intact royal burial, providing unprecedented insights into ancient Egyptian burial practices. source: history.com
1926 Boston Mayor's Unusual Marriage: Boston Mayor Malcolm E. Nichols married the twin sister of his late first wife, an unusual personal event that garnered public attention.
1928 Philip Barry's 'Holiday' premieres on Broadway: On November 26, 1928, Philip Barry's play 'Holiday' premiered at the Plymouth Theatre in New York City. The comedy ran for 229 performances, closing in June 1929. The production was directed by Arthur Hopkins, with set design by Robert Edmond Jones and costume design by Margaret Pemberton. source: en.wikipedia.org
1931 Discovery of deuterium by Harold C. Urey: On November 26, 1931, American chemist Harold C. Urey discovered deuterium, a stable isotope of hydrogen, for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1934. source: britannica.com
1934 Assassination of Sergei Kirov in Soviet Union: Sergei Kirov, a prominent Soviet leader, was assassinated on November 26, 1934, in Leningrad. His death marked a pivotal moment in Soviet history, leading to a series of purges under Joseph Stalin. source: britannica.com
1935 China Clipper Reaches Wake Island: On November 26, 1935, the China Clipper, a Pan American Airways flying boat, landed at Wake Island, marking a significant milestone in transpacific aviation. This event was part of the China Clipper's inaugural transpacific airmail flight. source: en.wikipedia.org
1936 Daily Mirror features Wallis Simpson: On November 26, 1936, the Daily Mirror became the first British newspaper to feature Wallis Simpson on its front page, highlighting the death threats she was receiving and the precautions being taken. source: en.wikipedia.org
1938 French government requisitions railways to suppress general strike: On November 26, 1938, French Prime Minister Édouard Daladier decreed the military requisition of all principal railroad lines to prevent a general strike planned for November 30. This action aimed to maintain control over transportation and essential services amid escalating labor unrest. source: digital.bentley.umich.edu
1940 Warsaw Jewish ghetto establishment: On November 26, 1940, the establishment of the Warsaw Jewish Ghetto was officially announced by the Nazi authorities. This marked a significant step in the persecution of Jews in Poland during the Holocaust. source: britannica.com
1941 US delivers ultimatum to Japan: The United States delivered an ultimatum to Japan, demanding the withdrawal of Japanese troops from China and the cessation of hostilities in the region. This ultimatum was a critical step leading up to the events of Pearl Harbor. source: archives.gov
1942 Casablanca film premiere: The film 'Casablanca' premiered in New York City on November 26, 1942. It became one of the most iconic films in cinema history, known for its memorable lines and performances. The film's release during World War II contributed to its popularity and cultural significance. source: loc.gov
1943 Red Army Recaptures Kiev: On November 26, 1943, during World War II, the Soviet Red Army recaptured the city of Kiev from German forces. This marked a significant turning point on the Eastern Front, as the Soviets continued their advance westward. source: en.wikipedia.org
1944 Himmler orders destruction of Auschwitz crematoriums: Heinrich Himmler ordered the destruction of the crematoriums at Auschwitz to eliminate evidence of the atrocities committed there. This order was part of a broader effort to cover up the Holocaust as Allied forces advanced into German-occupied territories. source: ushmm.org
1945 Dynamo Moscow's UK Football Tour Finale: Dynamo Moscow concluded its UK goodwill football tour with a dramatic 2-2 draw against Rangers, symbolizing post-war cultural exchange.
1946 Uneventful day in post-World War II era: November 26, 1946, is also recognized as an uneventful day in the post-World War II context. The aftermath of the war saw many nations grappling with reconstruction and the establishment of new political orders. Specific notable events from this day are not recorded. source: archives.gov
1948 Krešimir Ćosić birth: Krešimir Ćosić, a Croatian professional basketball player and coach, was born in Zagreb, PR Croatia, Yugoslavia. source: en.wikipedia.org
1949 India adopts constitution as a republic: India adopted its constitution, officially becoming a republic. The constitution established India as a sovereign, secular, and democratic republic, with a parliamentary system of government. source: en.wikipedia.org
1950 Chinese Communist forces launch major Korean War counterattack: On November 26, 1950, Chinese Communist forces launched a significant counteroffensive against United Nations troops in North Korea during the Korean War. This marked a turning point in the conflict, leading to a prolonged stalemate. source: britannica.com
1951 Birth of Sulejman Tihić: Bosnian Political Leader: Sulejman Tihić, a Bosnian politician who served as the 4th Bosniak member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina from 2002 to 2006, was born in Bosanski Šamac, Bosnia and Herzegovina. source: en.wikipedia.org
1953 KBOI Television Channel Launch in Boise: KBOI-TV, Boise's second television station, began broadcasting on November 26, 1953. It aired an analog signal on VHF channel 2, primarily affiliated with CBS, and was owned by Boise Valley Broadcasters alongside KBOI radio. source: en.wikipedia.org
1954 Dutch Coaster Tarpo Sinks off Cornwall Coast: On November 26, 1954, the Dutch coaster Tarpo sank off The Lizard, Cornwall, United Kingdom, resulting in the loss of all twelve crew members. source: en.wikipedia.org
1955 British Governor declares emergency in Cyprus: On November 26, 1955, the British Governor of Cyprus declared a state of emergency in response to rising tensions and violence related to the island's independence movement. This declaration marked a significant escalation in the conflict between British authorities and Greek Cypriots seeking union with Greece. source: bbc.com
1956 The Price Is Right television debut: The American television game show 'The Price Is Right' premiered on November 26, 1956, marking the beginning of its long-running presence in American television history. source: en.wikipedia.org
1957 WCVB TV Channel 5 Launches in Boston: WCVB-TV, originally known as WHDH-TV, began broadcasting on November 26, 1957, in Boston, Massachusetts. source: wcvb.com
1960 New Zealand National Party Wins Parliamentary Majority: The National Party of New Zealand won a decisive victory in the parliamentary elections, securing a majority. This victory led to the formation of a new government under Prime Minister Keith Holyoake. The election results were significant in shaping New Zealand's political landscape during the 1960s. source: parliament.nz
1962 Kennedy inspects HAWK missile sites: On November 26, 1962, President John F. Kennedy visited HAWK missile sites in the United States. This inspection was part of the ongoing Cold War efforts to bolster U.S. missile defense capabilities against potential threats. source: jfklibrary.org
1963 Roger Staubach wins Heisman Trophy: Roger Staubach won the Heisman Trophy on November 26, 1963, while playing for the United States Naval Academy. His performance during the season was instrumental in earning him this prestigious award, recognizing him as the best player in college football. source: britannica.com
1965 France launches first satellite Astérix: On November 26, 1965, France successfully launched its first satellite, Astérix, into orbit. This marked a significant milestone in France's space program, establishing it as a key player in the global space race during the Cold War era. source: britannica.com
1966 First Major Tidal Power Plant in France: On November 26, 1966, France inaugurated the first major tidal power plant at La Rance. This facility harnesses tidal energy to generate electricity, marking a significant advancement in renewable energy technology. It has been a model for future tidal energy projects worldwide. source: britannica.com
1968 The Beatles release White Album: The Beatles released their self-titled double album, commonly known as the 'White Album', on November 26, 1968. This album showcased a diverse range of musical styles and is considered one of the band's most influential works. source: britannica.com
1970 Benjamin O. Davis Sr. dies at age 93: Benjamin O. Davis Sr., the first African American general in the U.S. Army, passed away at Great Lakes Naval Hospital in Chicago on November 26, 1970, at the age of 93. source: sova.si.edu
1971 Czechoslovak Federal Assembly elections: On November 26, 1971, Czechoslovakia held elections for the Federal Assembly. These elections were part of the country's political process during a time of significant change and were closely monitored by the government. source: britannica.com
1973 Rose Mary Woods testifies in Watergate tape gap controversy: Rose Mary Woods, President Nixon's personal secretary, testified regarding the 18½-minute gap in a June 20, 1972, tape. She claimed to have inadvertently erased part of the recording while answering a phone call. source: washingtonpost.com
1974 Suspension bridge collapse in Nepal: On November 26, 1974, a suspension bridge in Nepal collapsed, resulting in numerous casualties. The incident highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and safety regulations in the region. source: reuters.com
1975 French nuclear test at Fangataufa Island: On November 26, 1975, France conducted a nuclear test named Hector at Fangataufa Atoll in the Pacific Ocean. The test was part of a series of 29 nuclear tests conducted by France between 1975 and 1978. source: ipfs.io
1976 Wolf Biermann stripped of citizenship: East German dissident Wolf Biermann was stripped of his citizenship on November 26, 1976, after a concert in West Germany. This act was seen as a significant political move by the East German government, reflecting the tensions between dissidents and the state. Biermann's situation garnered international attention and support. source: britannica.com
1977 Southern Television alien broadcast hijacking: On November 26, 1977, a television broadcast in Southern England was interrupted by a mysterious transmission from an unknown source. The hijacker claimed to be an extraterrestrial being, warning humanity about the dangers of nuclear weapons and urging peace. This incident remains one of the most famous broadcast interruptions in history. source: bbc.com
1978 Deadly Holiday Inn Fire in Rochester, New York: On November 26, 1978, a fire erupted at the Holiday Inn in Greece, New York, resulting in the deaths of ten people and injuries to thirty-four others. The blaze, suspected to be arson, led to the deaths of eight women and two men, including seven Canadian nationals. The fire's rapid spread was facilitated by open stairwells acting as chimneys, and the absence of a sprinkler system and malfunctioning alarms contributed to the high casualty count. source: apnews.com
1979 China readmitted to International Olympic Committee: On November 26, 1979, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) formally approved the People's Republic of China's (PRC) return to the Olympic Games, ending a 28-year absence since the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. This decision allowed Chinese athletes to compete under their national flag and anthem, marking a significant moment in Olympic history. source: washingtonpost.com
1980 Space Shuttle Columbia mated with external tank and solid rocket boosters at Kennedy Space Center: On November 26, 1980, NASA's Space Shuttle Columbia was mated with its external tank and solid rocket boosters at the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This assembly marked a significant milestone in preparations for the shuttle's first mission, STS-1, scheduled for April 1981. The integration of these components was a critical step toward the shuttle's inaugural flight. source: nasa.gov
1981 Spain officially joins NATO: Spain became a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on November 26, 1981. This accession marked a significant step in Spain's integration into Western defense structures following the end of Franco's regime. Spain's membership was aimed at enhancing collective security in Europe during the Cold War. source: nato.int
1982 Howard Cosell's final boxing commentary: On November 26, 1982, during the WBC heavyweight championship bout between Larry Holmes and Randall "Tex" Cobb at the Astrodome in Houston, Howard Cosell, the renowned sports commentator, expressed his disgust over the one-sided nature of the fight. He questioned the referee's decision to allow the bout to continue, stating, "I wonder if that referee is constructing an advertisement for the abolition of the very sport that he is a part of?" This event led Cosell to announce his retirement from professional boxing commentary, marking the end of his association with the sport. source: washingtonpost.com
1983 Brink's-Mat robbery: £26 million gold heist at Heathrow: On November 26, 1983, six armed robbers infiltrated the Brink's-Mat warehouse near Heathrow Airport, London, expecting to steal £1 million in cash. Instead, they discovered three tonnes of gold bullion, 1,000 carats of diamonds, and $250,000 in traveler's cheques, totaling £26 million. The gang disabled security systems, overpowered six guards, and threatened them with gasoline to obtain vault combinations. Despite extensive investigations, most of the gold remains unaccounted for. source: bbc.co.uk
1984 US and Iraq restore diplomatic relations: On November 26, 1984, the United States and Iraq announced the restoration of diplomatic relations, which had been severed since 1967. This move was part of a broader strategy by the US to strengthen ties with Iraq amid regional tensions. source: reuters.com
1985 Space Shuttle Atlantis Mission STS-61B: On November 26, 1985, Space Shuttle Atlantis launched on mission STS-61B, deploying three communications satellites: MORELOS-B for Mexico, AUSSAT-2 for Australia, and SATCOM KU-2 for RCA Americom. The mission also conducted two spacewalks to test assembling structures in space, marking the 50th and 51st extravehicular activities for the U.S. The mission lasted 6 days, 21 hours, 4 minutes, and 49 seconds, landing at Edwards Air Force Base, California, on December 3, 1985. source: nasa.gov
1986 Reagan announces Tower Commission for Iran-Contra investigation: On November 26, 1986, President Ronald Reagan announced the establishment of a Special Review Board, known as the Tower Commission, to investigate the Iran-Contra affair. The commission was chaired by former Senator John Tower and included former Secretary of State Edmund Muskie and former National Security Advisor Brent Scowcroft. It began its work on December 1, 1986, and released its report on February 26, 1987. source: reaganlibrary.gov
1987 Tokyo Disneyland welcomes its 50-millionth guest: On November 26, 1987, Tokyo Disneyland celebrated a significant milestone by welcoming its 50-millionth guest. This achievement underscored the park's rapid growth and popularity since its opening in 1983. source: islandnet.com
1989 Comoros coup: President Ahmed Abdallah overthrown and assassinated: On November 26, 1989, President Ahmed Abdallah of the Comoros was overthrown and assassinated during a coup led by Said Mohamed Djohar and mercenary Bob Denard. Abdallah had survived previous coup attempts but was killed during this fourth attempt. Following the coup, Denard and other mercenaries left the country under French pressure. source: blackpast.org
1990 US proposes UN resolution on Kuwait: The United States proposed a resolution to the United Nations aimed at addressing the situation in Kuwait following Iraq's invasion. This resolution sought to strengthen international support for the coalition against Iraq. source: un.org
1991 Azerbaijan abolishes Nagorno-Karabakh autonomous status: Azerbaijan's Supreme Soviet voted to abolish the autonomous status of Nagorno-Karabakh, a region with a significant ethnic Armenian population, leading to increased tensions in the area. source: en.wikipedia.org
1992 Queen Elizabeth II agrees to pay personal income tax: On November 26, 1992, Queen Elizabeth II announced her agreement to pay income tax on her personal income. This decision marked a significant shift in the royal family's financial transparency and accountability. source: bbc.com
1993 Riddick Bowe vs. Evander Holyfield II boxing match: On November 26, 1993, boxers Riddick Bowe and Evander Holyfield faced off in a highly anticipated rematch. The bout was a significant event in the boxing world, drawing considerable attention from fans and media alike. source: boxingnews24.com
1995 Ireland legalizes divorce: On November 26, 1995, Ireland held a referendum in which the majority voted in favor of legalizing divorce. This marked a significant change in Irish law and societal norms, reflecting evolving attitudes towards marriage and family in the country. source: bbc.com
1996 Pro-democracy protests suppressed in Burma: On November 26, 1996, pro-democracy protests in Burma were suppressed by the military government, leading to arrests and increased political repression. source: takemeback.to
1997 US technician arrested for espionage in Russia: On November 26, 1997, a US technician was arrested in Russia on charges of espionage. The individual was accused of attempting to gather sensitive information related to military technology. source: washingtonpost.com
1998 Death of Jonathan Kwitny: Jonathan Kwitny, an American journalist and author known for his investigative reporting, passed away on November 26, 1998. His work focused on political and social issues, and he was recognized for his contributions to journalism. source: nytimes.com
2000 2000 US Presidential Election - Florida Electoral Vote Certification: On November 26, 2000, the Florida electoral votes were certified, officially awarding Florida's 25 electoral votes to George W. Bush, contributing to his victory in the 2000 U.S. Presidential Election. source: en.wikipedia.org
2002 Terrorism Risk Insurance Act signed into law: The Terrorism Risk Insurance Act was signed into law on November 26, 2002, providing a federal backstop for insurance claims related to acts of terrorism. This legislation aimed to stabilize the insurance market following the September 11 attacks. source: congress.gov
2003 India-Pakistan Kashmir Ceasefire: On November 26, 2003, India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir, as well as on the Siachen Glacier. This agreement aimed to reduce cross-border violence and marked a significant step in the peace process between the two nations. source: washingtonpost.com
2004 Chile's compensation for Pinochet victims: On November 26, 2004, the Chilean government announced a compensation plan for victims of human rights abuses during Augusto Pinochet's dictatorship. The initiative aimed to provide financial support to individuals who suffered under the regime, acknowledging the state's responsibility for past violations. source: aljazeera.com
2005 Palestinian control of Rafah crossing: On November 26, 2005, Palestinian authorities took control of the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt, marking a significant development in the region's governance and border management. This event was part of broader efforts to establish Palestinian autonomy. source: aljazeera.com
2006 Assassination of Pierre Gemayel: On November 26, 2006, Pierre Gemayel, a Lebanese politician, was assassinated in Beirut. His death sparked protests and heightened tensions in Lebanon, reflecting the ongoing political instability in the country. source: nytimes.com
2007 France and China sign Airbus deal: On November 26, 2007, France and China signed a significant deal for the purchase of Airbus aircraft. The agreement was seen as a boost for the European aerospace industry and a strengthening of economic ties between the two nations. source: reuters.com
2008 2008 Mumbai terror attacks: On November 26, 2008, a series of coordinated terrorist attacks occurred in Mumbai, India, resulting in significant casualties and international concern. source: bbc.com
2009 Dublin Catholic Church abuse scandal: In November 2009, the Dublin Archdiocese in Ireland was implicated in a significant child abuse scandal. A report revealed that church officials had covered up decades of sexual abuse by priests, leading to widespread public outrage and calls for accountability within the church. source: theguardian.com
2010 Irish Financial Crisis Deepens: On November 24, 2010, Ireland announced a €15 billion four-year austerity plan, including €10 billion in spending cuts and €5 billion in tax increases, to address its financial crisis. source: irishtimes.com
2011 Mars Science Laboratory Launch: The Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) mission, carrying the Curiosity rover, was launched aboard an Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on November 26, 2011. The mission aimed to explore Mars' climate and geology, assess its habitability, and collect data for future human missions. source: mars.nasa.gov
2012 First year-long space station mission announced: On November 26, 2012, NASA announced plans for a year-long mission aboard the International Space Station. This mission aimed to study the effects of long-duration spaceflight on the human body, contributing to future exploration efforts. source: nasa.gov
2013 Supreme Court agrees to hear cases on religious objections to healthcare mandate: On November 26, 2013, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear two cases challenging the Affordable Care Act's contraceptive mandate, which requires employers to provide insurance coverage for birth control. The cases involve Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc. and Conestoga Wood Specialties Corp. source: cnbc.com
2014 Ferguson protests and National Day of Action: On November 26, 2014, protests continued in Ferguson, Missouri, following the shooting of Michael Brown. Activists organized a National Day of Action to demand justice and address issues of police violence and racial inequality. source: nytimes.com
2015 UK considers military action against ISIL: On November 26, 2015, the UK government began discussions regarding potential military action against ISIL in Syria. This consideration followed the Paris attacks and was part of a broader strategy to combat terrorism. source: bbc.com
2016 Clinton campaign joins Wisconsin election recount: On November 26, 2016, the Clinton campaign announced its participation in the Wisconsin election recount initiated by the Green Party, aiming to ensure a fair process. The recount confirmed Trump's victory in Wisconsin, with a net gain of 131 votes. source: en.wikipedia.org
2017 Michael Fallon resigns as UK Defence Secretary: Michael Fallon resigned from his position as the UK Defence Secretary on November 26, 2017, amid allegations of inappropriate behavior. His resignation was part of a broader wave of resignations in the UK government related to sexual harassment claims. source: bbc.com
2018 Kerch Strait Incident: On November 26, 2018, the Kerch Strait incident continued to draw international attention, with diplomatic efforts underway to resolve the standoff between Russia and Ukraine over the seized naval vessels. source: bbc.com
2019 Devastating earthquake in western Albania: On November 26, 2019, a powerful earthquake struck western Albania, causing widespread damage and loss of life. Rescue operations were launched to search for survivors. source: bbc.com
2020 Argentina Mourns Diego Maradona: Argentines bid a final farewell to soccer legend Diego Maradona as the nation entered a period of national mourning, celebrating the life of their flawed but beloved sports hero.
2021 WHO Identifies Omicron COVID-19 Variant: The World Health Organization (WHO) officially identifies the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant, marking a significant moment in the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic. This new variant raised immediate international health concerns due to its potentially increased transmissibility and potential vaccine resistance. source: Wikipedia (day-month pages)
2022 Rare Public Protests Against COVID-19 Lockdowns in China: Unprecedented public demonstrations erupted across China, challenging the government's strict zero-COVID policies. Protesters in major cities like Beijing and in the Xinjiang region openly defied authorities, marking a significant moment of public dissent against the government's pandemic control measures. These protests represented a rare display of collective resistance in a country known for tight social control.
2023 US and China Trade Accusations Over South China Sea Tensions: Diplomatic tensions escalated between the United States and China on November 26, 2023, with both nations accusing each other of violations in the disputed South China Sea. The U.S. claimed China illegally forced an American ship from the region using naval and air forces, while the ship was reportedly conducting a routine peacekeeping mission.

What Is special about November 26?

November 26 is notable for a variety of important historical, cultural, and significant events, including famous birthdays and deaths, holidays and more. Find out everything about November 26.