Skip to main content
Old clock in sand with the words: It Happend in December

Browse Historical Events by Day: What Happened on December 24th?

Discover major events and cultural milestones that happened on this day — organized by year. Dates for earlier events may be approximate.

820 CE, December 24

The Byzantine Empire defeats the forces of the Abbasid Caliphate at the Battle of Mehmetçik, marking a significant victory in the Byzantine-Arab Wars.

1025 CE, December 24

The Byzantine Emperor Basil II dies, marking the end of the Macedonian Dynasty

1147 CE, December 24

The start of the Second Crusade, as European forces begin their journey to the Holy Land.

1271 CE, December 24

Kublai Khan issues a decree that allows Marco Polo to become an emissary of the Mongol Empire.

1524 CE, December 24

Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama passes away in India during his second voyage to the East.

1814 CE, December 24

The Treaty of Ghent is signed, officially ending the War of 1812 between the United States and the United Kingdom. More

1851 CE, December 24

An accidental fire in the Library on Christmas Eve destroys approximately 35,000 volumes, including nearly two-thirds of Jefferson's library. More

1865 CE, December 24

The KKK is founded in Pulaski, Tennessee, More

1979 CE, December 24

The Soviet Union invades Afghanistan, beginning the Soviet-Afghan War. More

2020 CE, December 24

The United Kingdom and the European Union reach a post-Brexit trade deal, averting a no-deal scenario.

Read more from Pepe's Painting LLC

Click the Image to learn more about us

Snohomish, Skagit and Island County

Hunger impacts all of us | 360-435-1631

Powered by Volunteers | 360-794-7959

Giving Kids in Need the Chance to Read
  Non-profit organization - Seattle, WA