What happened on December 28 in world history? Here are 4 events worth remembering: See them above in our 57-second video, and below for more details!
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Westminister Abbey is Consecrated
Westminster Abbey in London is one of the most iconic religious sites in the United Kingdom, with a rich history of royal ceremonies and national significance.
- Originally built as a Benedictine monastery, Westminster Abbey became the coronation site for English and later British monarchs. It has been the site of 40 royal coronations.
- The abbey is known for its Gothic architecture, featuring stunning stained glass windows, intricate stonework, and the famous Poets’ Corner, where many literary giants are buried.
- Besides coronations, Westminster Abbey is the site of many significant events in British history, including weddings, funerals, and state ceremonies.
Ethiopian and Somali Forces Capture Mogadishu
In the early 2000s, the military conflict in Somalia reached a crucial turning point with the capture of the capital, Mogadishu, by Ethiopian and Somali government forces.
- Ethiopian troops intervened in support of Somalia’s Transitional Federal Government, which was fighting the Islamic Courts Union (ICU) that had taken control of the capital.
- The capture marked a shift in the control of Somalia, as the ICU had been a powerful faction attempting to impose its own form of governance based on Islamic law.
- Despite the military success, the capture of Mogadishu led to widespread displacement, civilian casualties, and ongoing instability in the country.
Galileo Becomes the First Astronomer to Observe the Planet Neptune
Galileo’s observations of Neptune were groundbreaking in the field of astronomy, although he mistakenly cataloged the planet as a fixed star.
- While using a telescope, Galileo observed Neptune in 1612, but did not recognize it as a planet, instead labeling it as a fixed star due to its lack of apparent motion.
- Galileo’s discoveries laid the foundation for modern astronomy, especially his work on the motion of planets and the development of telescopic technology.
- It wasn’t until later that Neptune’s true nature as a planet was recognized, with Johann Galle officially discovering it in 1846.
Stan Lee is born
Stan Lee was a groundbreaking figure in the comic book industry, known for creating and popularizing numerous iconic superheroes.
- Lee co-created superheroes like Spider-Man, the X-Men, Iron Man, the Hulk, and the Avengers, transforming Marvel Comics into a cultural phenomenon.
- Lee revolutionized the comic book world by creating complex characters with relatable human struggles, making superhero stories more accessible to a broader audience.
- Stan Lee’s impact extended beyond comics, as he played a significant role in the success of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and became a beloved figure in popular culture.