December 20th: Today in History–15 Major Events
December 20 is an important day in history for a variety of reasons. It is a day that has seen significant political and economic changes, as well as cultural and scientific achievements.
One reason that December 20 is significant is that it marks the end of an era in some cases and the beginning of a new one in others. For example, the transfer of sovereignty of Macau from Portugal to China in 1999 marked the end of over four centuries of Portuguese colonial rule in the region and the beginning of a new chapter in its history as a special administrative region of China. The Louisiana Purchase in 1803 similarly marked the beginning of a new era in the history of the United States, as the country doubled in size and gained control over a vast and diverse territory that would play a significant role in its future development.
In addition to these political and economic changes, December 20 has also seen significant cultural and scientific achievements. It has been the birth or death day of numerous notable figures in the fields of sports, entertainment, and science, including Bill O’Reilly, Uri Geller, Matt Neal, Aubrey Huff, Carl Sagan, John Steinbeck, and others. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have had a lasting impact on society.
