Marshall Plan Comes to an End
On December 31, 1951, the Marshall Plan expired after providing aid to millions of people in Western Europe. The Plan was seen as a way to contain the spread of communism and increase US exports.
International History
Birth of Johannes Kepler
Johannes Kepler was born December 27, 1571 in Weil der Stadt, Germany. Kepler was one of the leading figures in an era that has been called the “Scientific Revolution.”
Word War I Christmas Truce
On December 24, 1914, soldiers from both sides engaged in a truce for the Christmas holiday. For a short time, German and British troops laid down their arms and became friends instead of enemies.
Death of Simón Bolivar
Military and political leader Simón Bolívar died on December 17, 1830, in Santa Marta, Gran Colombia. Freeing Venezuela from Spanish control, he became known as The Liberator and has also been called the “George Washington of South America.”
Armistice Ends World War I Fighting
On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month (November 11, 1918), the world’s warring nations agreed to cease fighting, bringing about the end of the Great War.
Grover Cleveland Dedicates Statue of Liberty
On October 28, 1886, the Statue of Liberty was dedicated in New York harbor. It’s stood as a symbol of the United States ever since and has been featured on dozens of stamps over the years.
Birth of Alfred Nobel
Alfred Bernhard Nobel was born on October 21, 1833, in Stockholm, Sweden.
Birth Of Marquis de Lafayette
On September 6, 1757, Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier de Lafayette, better known as the Marquis de Lafayette was born in Chavaniac, in Haute Loire, France to a wealthy family. He became known as the “Hero to two worlds” after joining in the American Revolution.
Allied Invasion of Italy
On September 3, 1943, the Allies launched their invasion of Italy during World War II. Part of Operation Husky, it ultimately led to the liberation of Rome in June 1944.