1608CE
Birth
John Milton Born
English poet and intellectual John Milton is born in London. He would later author the epic poem 'Paradise Lost'.
Daily Chronicle
December 9
3 Historical Records
1979CE
Science
Smallpox Eradicated
The World Health Organization officially certifies the global eradication of smallpox, marking the first time a human infectious disease has been completely eliminated.
1990CE
Politics
Lech Walesa Elected
Lech Walesa, founder of the Solidarity trade union and a leading dissident, is elected President of Poland in the country's first popular direct election.