1807CE
Politics
Embargo Act Passed
The US Congress passes the Embargo Act, prohibiting American ships from trading in foreign ports in an attempt to avoid involvement in the Napoleonic Wars.
Daily Chronicle
December 22
3 Historical Records
1858CE
Birth
Giacomo Puccini Born
Italian opera composer celebrated for works such as La Bohème, Tosca, and Madama Butterfly. He is considered one of the greatest composers of Italian opera, succeeding Verdi as the leading figure of the genre.
1989CE
Politics
Brandenburg Gate Reopens
The Brandenburg Gate in Berlin is officially reopened, symbolizing the end of the Cold War division of East and West Germany.