On this day

20 December in history.

5 moments from 1803 to 1955: discovery, creativity and courage, each with a source to read more.

5 moments

Theatrical poster for the release of the 1946 film It's a Wonderful Life , starring James Stewart and Donna Reed

1946

It's a Wonderful Life premieres. It's a Wonderful Life opened in New York to mixed reviews. Over the years it became one of the most loved films of all time.

Wikipedia: It's a Wonderful Life

Photo: "Copyright 1946 RKO Radio Pictures Inc. " / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

More from 20 December

  1. Louisiana Purchase

    1803

    The Louisiana Purchase is completed

    The Louisiana Purchase was completed at a ceremony in New Orleans.

    Wikipedia: Louisiana Purchase

    Photo: William Morris / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  2. 1940

    Captain America first appears

    The superhero Captain America made his first appearance, in Captain America Comics #1.

    Wikipedia: Captain AmericaWikipedia: Captain America Comics

  3. The EBR-1 reactor with its National Historic Landmark plaque attached

    1951

    Nuclear power lights four bulbs

    The Experimental Breeder Reactor I in Idaho became the first nuclear power plant to generate electricity. It powered four light bulbs.

    Wikipedia: Experimental Breeder Reactor I

    Photo: Orange Suede Sofa / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

  4. The Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff, Wales

    1955

    Cardiff becomes the capital of Wales

    Cardiff was proclaimed the capital city of Wales.

    Wikipedia: Cardiff

    Photo: grahamwell / Graham profile at Flickr website / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Moments chosen for discovery, creativity and courage. Each one links to a source where you can read more; photos are credited to their owners.