On This Day - December 23rd
Christmas is coming (even closer), and the geese are getting fatter! As such, December 23rd often gets looked over. Most people are just eager to reach December 24th, and the all-important 25th. However, December 23rd is a fascinating and rich day, and here are some of the reasons why.
On this day
The Byzantine-Arab Wars took place
In 962, the historically fascinating Byzantine-Arab Wars officially started. Under Nikephoros II Phokas, the rampaging Byzantine troops stormed the city of Aleppo. In doing so, they recovered John the Baptist’s tattered tunic.
King James II fled
In 1688, King James II, the last Roman Catholic British monarch, fled to France. He was fleeing William of Orange.
George Washington resigned
In 1783, US General George Washington officially resigned his military commission as Commander-in-Chief of the US Army. As we all should know by now, Washington would go on to become US President – only a few years later, in fact, as he was inaugurated back in 1789, and would stay in power until 1797.
Van Gogh cut off his ear
Yes – one of the most popular urban legends of all time was actually true! In 1888, Vincent van Gogh infamously sliced away his left ear with a razor. He did so following an argument with fellow painter Paul Gauguin. He then sent it to a prostitute for safekeeping. I'm sure you've had stranger gifts!
Ireland was partitioned
In 1920, the Government of Ireland Act / Home Rule Act was passed. The act partitioned Ireland – which, in turn, would cause conflicts for decades to come, during the brutal period known as The Troubles. To this day, Northern Ireland officially remains part of the UK, but there are pro and con arguments on either side.
Special Days Falling on December 23rd
As it is the day before everything really kicks off, we know that you’ll be busy. But, we hope that you are not so busy you will miss out on some of the other major events taking place around the world today.
Birthday of Emperor Akihito
In Japan, the Birthday of Emperor Akihito is celebrated on December 23rd every year. The day celebrates the life and reign of Emperor Akihito, the 125th emperor of Japan. His reign lasted from January 7th, 1989, to April 30th, 2019. His reign is known to many historians as the 'Heisei' era, which translates to 'become peace'.
HumanLight
HumanLight is a secular Humanist holiday. It is celebrated every year on December 23rd. The day celebrates human values, compassion, reason, hope, and humanity. Those who celebrate it do so by sharing food with friends and family, lighting a candle, and doing charity work.
Kisan Diwas
Every year, India observes Kisan Diwas on December 23rd. It is also known as Farmers' Day and is a day to honor the farmers who are the backbone of the country. The day also celebrates the birth of the fifth Prime Minister of India, Chaudhary Charan Singh. He began working as a farmer before earning his seat in the government!
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This page was last modified on December 18, 2023. Suggest an edit
This month in history
In December 1943, General Dwight D. Eisenhower was officially appointed Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force. This was in preparation for D-Day. He, of course, was another future US President – his military prowess would help him ascend to the office of the US Presidency in 1953, leading the country until 1961.
Famous Birthdays on December 23rd
Zenobia, Queen of Palmyra, born c. 245
Jacques Cartier, French explorer, born 1491
Madame C.J. Walker, African American entrepreneur, first American self-made female millionaire, born 1867
Chet Baker, American jazz musician, born 1929
Finn Wolfhard, Canadian actor, born 2002
If you were born on December 23rd
…you’re a Capricorn! You’re a very thoughtful person, and you like to keep the peace. But, in order to see everyone’s side, you tend to play devil’s advocate and sometimes can’t understand why everyone can’t see everyone’s perspective!
Well, the only perspective we have right now is on you at our Capricorn facts page! Over there, you’ll find out even more about your personality and why people love you so much. Why wouldn’t you want to take a look at that? It’s well worth reading up on your star sign if you’re looking at horoscopes in the new year ahead.
