By December 5th, the wonder of finally being in December tends to start wearing off. We all have to accept that there are still school and work days to face, today included! But don’t dismiss December 5th as being just another day just yet. For many throughout time, December 5th has been one of their most important days, and here’s why.
On this day
1The Great Smog descended on London.
On 5 December 1952, cold, still weather trapped coal smoke over London, causing a choking smog that lasted five days. It is now thought to have killed around 10,000 people and led to the Clean Air Act of 1956.
2Naples was struck by a natural disaster.
In 1456, Naples was struck by a massive earthquake, during which around 35,000 people died. It remains one of the most devastating natural disasters of its kind on record.
3Jewish people were exiled from Portugal.
In 1496, Jewish people were officially expelled from Portugal. This took place under the order of King Manuel I – and, as we know, it was just one example of persecution they’d face over the centuries.
4President Polk confirmed gold in California.
On 5 December 1848, President James K. Polk confirmed in a message to Congress that gold had been found in California. Hundreds of thousands of people rushed west in 1849, earning the nickname ‘forty-niners’.
5Prohibition ended.
On 5 December 1933, the 21st Amendment was ratified, repealing the 18th Amendment and ending Prohibition in the US. Prohibition had banned the making, sale and transport of alcohol, but not drinking it, and it fuelled the rise of gangsters such as Al Capone.
Special Days Falling on December 5th
We know you probably want to focus on your own upcoming celebrations, but the fact is that there are so many special December events around the world that it would be a shame to miss any! Here are some of the most interesting events taking place today.
Discovery Day in Haiti
On 5 December 1492, Christopher Columbus landed on the island of Hispaniola, now shared by Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Haiti marks the anniversary as Discovery Day.
Krampusnacht
On 5 December, the eve of St Nicholas’s Day, people in Austria, southern Germany and other Alpine regions celebrate Krampusnacht. Krampus, a horned, hairy creature who punishes naughty children, roams the streets in parades of costumed figures.
International Volunteer Day
Every 5 December is the UN’s International Volunteer Day, which recognises the millions of people around the world who give their time to help others.
This month in history
A fire at Chicago’s Iroquois Theatre killed more than 600 people. On 30 December 1903, a fire broke out during a packed matinee. Many of the exits were locked or hidden, and the disaster led to new fire safety rules for theatres around the world.
Famous Birthdays on December 5th
- Francesco Scarlatti, Italian composer, born 1666
- Walt Disney, American animation legend, born 1901
- Little Richard, American rock and roll star, born 1932
- Margaret Cho, American comedian, born 1968
- Frankie Muniz, American actor and racing driver, born 1985
If you were born on December 5th
…you’re a Sagittarius! You’re confident, independent, and mature. You’re also a lot of fun, and very adventurous! Anyone would be lucky to have you in their lives!
Learn more about Sagittarius from our Sagittarius facts page!
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