On This Day - December 22nd
Christmas is coming, the geese are getting fat! Although it’s easy to get swept up in the rush towards Christmas, it’s important to take time for yourself, and appreciate every single day in December! Here are some of the reasons why December 22nd is so important.
On this day
The Moroccan army began its months-long trail
In 1590, the Moroccan army of Pasha Ahmad al-Mansur began its epic 135 day crossing of the Saharan desert. They were on their way to defeat the Songhai Empire – and given their incredible efforts, they deserved to make some serious progress!
The fortress of Izmail was captured
In 1790, Izmail fortress in Turkey – which was supposedly impenetrable – was stormed and captured. It was captured by Suvorov and his Russian armies during the Russo-Turkish conflicts, which unfolded from 1787 to 1792.
Nicolae Ceausescu was removed from power
In 1989, having spent 23 years under dictatorial rule, Romania removed Communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu. In his stead, the country’s people elected Ion Iliescu, who was President of the country twice.
Poland gained its first elected President
In similar news elsewhere in Europe in 1990, Lech Wałęsa was sworn in as Poland's President. He was the country's first-ever popularly elected President – meaning there were plenty of democratic revolutions taking place in the late 80s and early 90s!
The Don’t Ask Don’t Tell Policy was repealed
In 2010, the "Don't Ask Don't Tell policy" was repealed. The policy banned homosexuals from serving openly in the US military. The repeal was signed into law by then-US President Barack Obama. It’s been the subject of many controversial moments and discussions at the head of government.
Special Days Falling on December 22nd
In December, it can be easy to focus on our own traditions, and let other big events around the world slip between our fingers. This December 22nd, we encourage you to look out of your world, and into others. For example, here are some of the other biggest events taking place around the world today.
Forefathers’ Day
While US citizens typically celebrate Thanksgiving, December 22nd is also an important day for remembering the initial landing of the pilgrim fathers. This occasion celebrates their landing which actually took place on December 21st – meaning it’s more a day to celebrate their first full 24 hours on American soil. That said, the date was actually marked by accident the first time around! In any case, Americans have plenty to celebrate today.
Zimbabwe Unity Day
Zimbabwe Unity Day has been commemorated on December 22nd every year since 1987. The day commemorates the union of the parties of ZANU and ZAPU as ZANU-P.F. The merger of the two parties ended a countrywide conflict, so, we recognize December 22nd as a day for the citizens of Zimbabwe to celebrate their togetherness.
Mathematics Day
For the people of India, December 22nd is Mathematics Day. The day celebrates the birth anniversary of India’s famous mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan. People from all over the world who enjoy or at least appreciate mathematics are encouraged to join in the celebrations!
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This month in history
Back on Christmas Eve in 1990, St. Basil’s Cathedral, over in Moscow, rang its bells for the very first time since Vladimir Lenin died. Again – it’s another example of some major political moments occurring in the very early 1990s!
Famous Birthdays on December 22nd
Diocletian, Roman Emperor, born c. 242-245
Roger II, King of Sicily, born 1095
Srinivasa Ramanujan, Indian mathematician, born 1887
Ralph Fiennes, English actor, born 1962
Maurice and Robin Gibb, Manx Bee Gee twins, born 1949
If you were born on December 22nd
…you’re a Capricorn! You’re very hardworking, ambitious, and loyal. All traits that should take you far as long as you remain determined! You’re also very grounded as an Earth sign, meaning people often turn to you for advice, guidance, and for your fantastic work ethic.
But, how determined are you to head over to our Capricorn facts page to learn more? If you’re keen to start reading horoscopes in the new year, our fact file is a fantastic place to get started. Give it a go!
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