2004
Disaster
Indian Ocean Tsunami
A massive 9.1 magnitude earthquake off Sumatra triggered tsunamis that killed over 230,000 people across 14 countries. It was one of the deadliest natural disasters in recorded history.
On This Day in History
1776
War & Conflict
Battle of Trenton
Washington's Continental Army defeated the Hessian garrison at Trenton, New Jersey, after crossing the Delaware on Christmas night. The victory captured nearly 1,000 prisoners and reinvigorated the Revolution.
1898
Science
Marie Curie Announces Radium Discovery
Marie and Pierre Curie presented their discovery of radium to the French Academy of Sciences. Their work on radioactivity earned them the Nobel Prize and transformed physics.
1620
Exploration
Mayflower Pilgrims Begin Building
The Mayflower Pilgrims began constructing their settlement at Plymouth, Massachusetts. The first winter would claim half their number, but the colony survived to become a foundation of American history.
1966
Culture
Kwanzaa First Celebrated
Maulana Karenga established Kwanzaa, a week-long celebration of African American culture and heritage. The holiday, based on African harvest traditions, is observed by millions annually.
1943
War & Conflict
Battle of the North Cape
The Royal Navy sank the German battlecruiser Scharnhorst in the last major naval engagement between capital ships. The victory secured Allied convoys to the Soviet Union.
1893
Politics
Mao Zedong Born
The future founder of the People's Republic of China was born in Shaoshan, Hunan Province. Mao's revolutionary leadership transformed China but his policies caused the deaths of millions.