December, the last month of the long, twelve month year, hosts some of history’s most memorable and impactful moments around the world. From world-changing moments to massive advancements through both civil and technological revolutions, December acts as a reminder of the world’s will to change and evolve.
One of the most defining moments for American history happened on an infamous date, December 7th, 1941, where the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor by surprise in the early morning hours. 21 ships were destroyed and heavily damaged, and numerous crew, soldiers, and civilians lost their lives. This deadly attack thrust the United States of America into one of the deadliest wars in human history. During the president’s address to the state, Franklin D. Roosevelt infamously stated about Pearl Harbor, “A date which will live in infamy.” This day truly did live in infamy as it has shown America’s resilience and its position as a global superpower, expanding its influence for generations to come.
While America had been united by a common enemy, the country had struggles with unity just a few years after the war. In Montgomery, Alabama, a young seamstress was about to become a civil rights icon for years to come. After a long day of work on December 1st, 1955, Rosa Parks was asked to move from the white section of the bus (in the front) to the back section of the bus due to the fact she was black. She refused and sparked several boycotts, most importantly the Montgomery Bus Boycott, which inspired several other civil rights icons to push for equality in the 1950’s. Her bravery and resilience exemplify the values shared among Americans during the time of peaceful protest in a fight against racism and prejudice that oppressed black people for generations before.
Lastly, America made advancements in the interstellar side of history during this month’s history. On December 11th, 1972, Apollo 17’s Eugene Cernan was the last human to set foot on the lunar surface. The mission resulted from a combination of NASA’s Apollo Program and the pressure from the “Race to Space” to create incredible advancements still being worked on today. None of our more recent successes would be possible without the numerous scientists at NASA, along with the many brave men and women of the United States who volunteer to explore the moon and the stars beyond.
December’s vast and impactful history shows us how important it is to remember humanity’s resilience, bravery, courage, and ingenuity, creating a month during which the world looks back at the challenges faced and the triumphs that have made the world we live in today.
