On this day:
1898 The Curies announce the existence of Radium
1966 First Kwanzaa celebrations, it is a recognition of African culture and heritage.
2004 Massive tsunami, caused by an earthquake of 9.1 magnitude, causes damage and kills thousands in India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Thailand
Born on this day:
1791 Charles Babbage, English mathematician, engineer, invented the Difference engine
1891 Henry Miller, American author, painter
Gone on this day:
1890 Heinrich Schliemann, German archaeologist