What happened on December 15th?

The Iraq War ended

Author

Matthew Jones
December 15, 2024

2011 The Iraq War Officially Ends After Nearly Nine Years of Conflict

On December 15th, 2011, the United States declared the war over and began withdrawing troops, marking the conclusion of one of the most significant military engagements of the early 21st century. The withdrawal symbolized a shift in US foreign policy and left a complex legacy in Iraq, including ongoing political challenges, regional instability, and debates about the war’s impact on global geopolitics.

This photo shows President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama during their visit to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, on December 14, 2011, where President Obama delivered a speech to troops and their families to honor their service and officially commemorate the end of the war in Iraq.

🗞️Today’s Headlines

Everything important that’s ever happened on December 15:

2001 ─ After more than a decade of structural work, the Leaning Tower of Pisa reopened in Pisa, Italy, with the iconic tower stabilized and made safe for visitors.

1997 ─ The US Department of Defense ordered anthrax inoculations, mandating vaccinations for approximately 2.5 million service members against the potential biological weapon. 

1989 ─ Antigovernment demonstrations began in Timișoara, Romania, marking the start of the Romanian Revolution as protests grew against Nicolae Ceaușescu’s regime.

1948 ─ Former US State Department official Alger Hiss faced indictment for perjury due to his alleged dealings with Whittaker Chambers, a self-confessed former Soviet spy.

1791 ─ The Bill of Rights, the first 10 amendments to the US Constitution, entered into force as a single unit to ensure fundamental civil liberties.

🎂 Today’s Birthdays

On December 15, we’re singing to:

Nero (37) ─ Nero was a Roman emperor known for his controversial and dramatic reign, marked by extravagance, political intrigue, and the Great Fire of Rome.

Lucius Verus (130) ─ Lucius Verus was a Roman emperor who co-ruled with Marcus Aurelius and led military campaigns in the East, including one against the Parthian Empire.

Gustave Eiffel (1832) ─ French engineer celebrated for designing the Eiffel Tower and contributing to the construction of the Statue of Liberty.

J. Paul Getty (1892) ─ American industrialist and founder of the Getty Oil Company, remembered as one of the wealthiest individuals of his time.

Freeman Dyson (1923) ─ Renowned physicist and mathematician whose work spanned quantum mechanics, astrophysics, and visionary concepts like the Dyson Sphere.

 🪦Who Died Today?

On December 15, we’re saying goodbye to:

Afonso de Albuquerque (1515) ─ Portuguese conqueror and admiral who played a key role in establishing Portuguese colonial rule in India and securing trade routes.

Walt Disney (1966) ─ Legendary film producer and founder of the Disney empire, whose creations continue to shape global entertainment and culture.

Christopher Hitchens (2011) ─ British-American writer and critic known for his sharp wit, provocative opinions, and influential works on religion, politics, and culture.

Bell Hooks (2021) ─ Trailblazing scholar and author whose work on race, feminism, and social justice continues to inspire and provoke critical thought.

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