On This Day - December 1st
For many of us, December 1st marks the beginning of the jolliest month of the year! It’s all about twinkling lights, presents, family time, and great meals. But, for many others throughout history, December 1st has had a very different and all too important meaning. Here are some of the most important things to know about December 1st.
On this day
Sergey Kirov was killed during the reign of Stalin.
In 1934, Leningrad mayor Sergey Kirov was assassinated. Joseph Stalin used the assassination as an excuse to begin his Great Purge of 1934-38.
Rosa Parks was arrested.
In 1955, in Montgomery, Alabama, Rosa Parks refused to move to the back of a bus and give her seat to a white passenger. This was during a time of segregation in the US, and her brave stance helped pave the way to a fairer and more equal society.
Tunnel diggers met under the Channel.
In 1990, British and French workers first met in the center of the Channel Tunnel under the English Channel. Decades later, the tunnel remains an essential route of travel for holidaymakers and commuters alike across the continent.
Gambia waved goodbye to Jammeh.
In 2016, a Gambian presidential election took place. The incumbent dictator Yahya Jammeh was defeated by Adama Barrow, after having spent 22 years in power.
Special Days Falling on December 1st
December is known for being a month of celebration, and the 1st is no exception! Here are some of the biggest celebrations taking place around the world today.
Central African Republic Republic Day
Every December 1st is Central African Republic Republic Day. The day commemorates the anniversary of the Central African Republic becoming its own autonomous territory within the French Community, in 1958! It is a public holiday, so businesses and schools are closed to allow everyone to fully celebrate the nation breaking away from France. While its French history is still honored to an extent, its liberty is all the more important.
Freedom and Democracy Day
For the people of Chad, every December 1st is Freedom and Democracy Day. The day commemorates the overthrow of Hissèné Habré, who oversaw a devastating and torturous rule. He was overthrown by Idriss Déby in 1990 – and, following the overthrow, Déby rose to power and became the President of Chad. So, to celebrate this change in power, the people of Chad take the day off as schools and businesses are closed.
Indigenous Faith Day
And, in India, specifically in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, December 1st celebrates Indigenous Faith Day. This occasion exists to protect and encourage all indigenous faiths across the area! The day also honors all of the unique identities of the area's people.
This page was last modified on August 4, 2024. Suggest an edit
This month in history
In 1879, Thomas Edison provided the first public demonstration of his electric incandescent lamp! The presentation took place at his laboratory in Menlo Park, New Jersey. It’s hard to believe this technology has been a part of our lives for so long!
Famous Birthdays on December 1st
If you were born on December 1st…
…you’re a Sagittarius! That makes you a centaur – half human, half horse! You’re a naturally curious person, and you love a bit of adventure. Honesty is key when it comes to you, and quite frankly you don’t have the patience for anything else! However, that does mean that you yourself can be a little too honest at times!
If you’re just getting into your star signs recently, we have tons more facts about your special sign. Learn more about Sagittarius from our Sagittarius facts page!
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