UPDATE: Today, December 20, marks the 39th anniversary of the tragic racial murder of Michael Griffith in Howard Beach, Queens, New York. In a brutal attack on this day in 1986, three Black men were targeted by a group of white youths, leading to Griffith’s death. This incident remains a poignant reminder of racial violence in America.
Griffith, along with his friends, attempted to escape an assault when he was struck by a car while fleeing onto a busy highway. The subsequent trial and community outrage ignited significant discussions about race relations in the United States, making this an important date in the ongoing fight against racism.
In addition to this somber event, December 20 is notable for several significant historical milestones:
On this day in 1803, the Louisiana Purchase was finalized, transferring vast territories from France to the United States. This acquisition has had lasting impacts on U.S. expansion and history.
In 1860, South Carolina became the first state to secede from the Union, an action that ultimately fueled the flames of the American Civil War.
Fast forward to 1946, the classic holiday film “It’s a Wonderful Life” premiered at the Globe Theater in New York City, becoming a beloved staple of American cinema.
Tragedy struck again on December 20 when, in 1987, the passenger ship Doña Paz collided with the tanker Vector, resulting in the deaths of over 4,300 people in one of the deadliest maritime disasters.
In 1989, the United States initiated Operation Just Cause, deploying troops to Panama to oust dictator Gen. Manuel Noriega.
More recently, in 2019, President Donald Trump established the United States Space Force, marking a new era in U.S. military operations in space.
Tragically, December 20, 2024, witnessed a horrific incident in Magdeburg, Germany, where a car plowed into a Christmas market, killing six and injuring over 200 people. The suspect, a doctor with anti-Muslim sentiments, has since been arrested.
Today also marks the birthdays of several notable figures, including rock drummer Peter Criss (80), producer Dick Wolf (79), and soccer star Kylian Mbappé (27), reminding us of the vibrant tapestry of human achievement and legacy.
As we reflect on these events, it is crucial to recognize their lasting impacts on society. The memory of Michael Griffith’s tragic death continues to resonate, underscoring the importance of addressing and combating racism in all forms.
Stay tuned for ongoing coverage and analysis of these historic events and their implications. Share this story to keep the conversation alive.
