2025 Mar 14, 16:58
Dec. 28 (UPI) -- On this day in history, several significant events took place. In 1065, Westminster Abbey was consecrated, a site that has been crucial for British monarchy throughout the years. Many monarchs, including the recent King Charles III, have been crowned there in grand ceremonies. In 1832, John Calhoun made history as the first U.S. vice president to resign
He clashed with President Andrew Jackson, leading to his decision. In 1846, Iowa officially became the 29th state of the United States, joining the nation and contributing to its growth. In 1869, Philadelphia's tailors organized the first Labor Day ceremonies in the United States, marking a significant step in recognizing the importance of labor and workers' rights. In 1895, French film pioneers Auguste and Louis Lumiere showcased the first commercial motion pictures in a Paris cafe, revolutionizing the entertainment industry. In 1908, a devastating earthquake struck southern Italy's Messina area, resulting in the loss of tens of thousands of lives and leaving a lasting impact on the region. In 1950, Chinese troops crossed the 38th Parallel, the dividing line between North and South Korea, joining forces with the North Koreans against U.S.-led U.N. forces. In 1981, Elizabeth Jordan Carr became the first test-tube baby born in the United States, marking a major milestone in reproductive medicine. In 1985, Lebanese Muslim and Christian leaders signed a peace agreement in an effort to end the long-standing conflict, bringing hope for stability in the region. In 1991, Time magazine recognized CNN founder Ted Turner as the man of the year, acknowledging his significant contributions to the media industry. In 2007, Nepal's interim parliament voted to abolish its monarchy, transforming the country into a federal democratic republic and removing King Gyanendra from power. In 2012, the brutal gang rape and subsequent death of a young woman in New Delhi sparked outrage and protests throughout India, highlighting the urgent need for addressing issues of gender violence and inequality. In the same year, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a controversial law banning American parents from adopting Russian children, creating tension between the two nations. In 2014, Indonesia AirAsia Flight QZ8501 tragically crashed into the Java Sea, leading to the loss of hundreds of lives and a thorough search and recovery operation. In 2015, Japan and South Korea reached an agreement to settle the long-standing issue of "comfort women," providing compensation and a formal apology to the victims who were forced into sexual slavery during World War II. In 2019, a devastating car bomb attack struck Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, resulting in the loss of many lives and injuries, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by the country.