On This Day - December 31st
We’ve made it. It’s the last day of the year, and a time for reminiscing, planning, celebration, and lots of champagne! But, it is important to know that December 31st is about more than just an end to a year. Here are some of the most interesting things to have ever taken place on December 31st.
On this day
Commodus was nearly killed
Back in 192 AD, then-Roman Emperor Commodus faced a pretty nasty attempt on his life – history tells us that it was new year’s eve when the Emperor risked a poisoning attempt from his mistress – he survived it, so was then strangled while in the bath! That’s a new year’s party we’ll be passing up…
Gallia was invaded
In 406, 80,000 Vandals, Alans, and Suebians crossed the Rhine at Mainz. In doing so, they began the invasion of Gallia. It's often referred to by historians and students as the "barbarian invasion," which helped to start the toppling of Constantine III.
James Bradley found the wobble
In 1744, English astronomer James Bradley announced his discovery of Earth's nutation motion. It is also known as Earth’s wobble – he didn’t just find a rogue plate of jello in the fridge!
The Battle of Quebec took place
In 1775, the Battle of Quebec unfolded – during which, Richard Montgomery’s American Continental Army was defeated trying to take the British stronghold of Quebec City during the American Revolutionary War. General Montgomery was killed as a result – and it’s a story many of us will have learned in history class.
Batista fled
In 1958, Cuban dictator Fulgencio Batista told his Cabinet he planned to flee the country. He’d escape the country on new year’s day, taking with him 40 supporters and family members, eventually landing in the Dominican Republic.
Special Days Falling on December 31st
So we all know why December 31st is so special, but did you know that there are other big events today that are honored around the world? Here are some of the ones to consider today.
Hogmanay
Hogmanay is a Scottish word which means "the last day of the year." It is celebrated in Scotland on new year's eve, and typically involves parties and the exchange of gifts! Hogmanay has roots in Norse and Gaelic traditions.
World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day
World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day is celebrated every year in the Republic of Azerbaijan on December 31st. It is a public holiday that honors the solidarity of the people of Azerbaijan, also known as Azerbaijanis. The day dates back to 1989 when the border fences that once separated Soviet Azerbaijan and Iran were dismantled, so it is only right we celebrate it!
National Champagne Day
Considering how much champagne is consumed all over the world to mark the end of the year and the beginning of a new one, it is no surprise that today is National Champagne Day! So, grab a glass and your loved ones close and toast the new year with something bubbly!
This page was last modified on August 4, 2024. Suggest an edit
This month in history
In 1972, East and West Germany formally – and finally – established diplomatic ties. In so doing, they brought an end to nearly two decades of Cold War separation, and hostilities. They also paved the way for the international recognition of East Germany. The Berlin Wall, however, wouldn’t fall until 1989.
Famous Birthdays on December 31st
Henri Matisse, French impressionist painter, born 1869
Anthony Hopkins, Welsh actors, born 1937
John Denver, American musician, born 1943
Ben Kingsley, English actor, born 1943
Donna Summer, American musician, born 1948
If you were born on December 31st
…you’re a Capricorn! You are pretty relentless! You’re practical, grounded, and help other people see the bigger picture at pivotal moments. You have long-term plans and nothing will stop you. Sometimes, that means overlooking other things that matter to you, but, in the end, you know it’ll be worth it.
Do you know what else is worth it? Heading over to our Capricorn facts page to learn more! We’ve put together lots more facts about your sign and what it means for you – so take a look through before you get started with any of those magazine horoscopes in the new year.
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