What happened on December 5th?

London trapped by a layer of dense smog.

Author

Matthew Jones
December 05, 2024

1952 The Great Smog of London Begins

On December 5, 1952, a lethal smog began to envelop London, causing widespread health crises and resulting in thousands of deaths over several days. The smog was caused by a combination of cold weather, industrial pollution, and coal burning, which trapped smoke and other pollutants in the city’s atmosphere. It became one of the deadliest environmental disasters in the city’s history, highlighting the dangers of air pollution. The tragedy led to significant changes in environmental policy, including the Clean Air Act of 1956, which aimed to reduce urban pollution and improve air quality.

The photo shows the Great Smog of London in 1954. A police officer can be seen helping people cross the street while Big Ben is in the background.

🗞️Today’s Headlines

Everything important that’s ever happened on December 5:

2017 ─ The International Olympic Committee banned Russia from competing in the 2018 Winter Olympics in P'yŏngch'ang, South Korea, following a major doping scandal.

1933 ─ Utah became the 36th state to ratify the Twenty-first Amendment, effectively repealing Prohibition and ending America’s nationwide ban on alcohol.

1848 ─ US President James K. Polk confirmed the discovery of gold in California. This set the stage for the California Gold Rush and transformed the American West.

1757 ─ Prussian King Frederick II, known as Frederick the Great, secured a decisive victory over the Austrians at Leuthen during the Seven Years’ War.

1484 ─ Pope Innocent VIII issued a papal decree condemning witchcraft, a move that fueled widespread witch hunts across Europe.

🎂 Today’s Birthdays

On December 5, we’re singing to:

Martin Van Buren (1782) ─ 8th president of the United States, known for his role in shaping the Democratic Party and modern American politics.

Walt Disney (1901) ─ Visionary US film producer and animator who revolutionized entertainment with creations like Mickey Mouse and Disneyland.

 🪦Who Died Today?

On December 5, we’re saying goodbye to:

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1791) ─ Austrian composer and musical prodigy who left an enduring legacy with masterpieces like The Magic Flute and Requiem.

Claude Monet (1926) ─ French impressionist painter renowned for his innovative use of light and color in works such as Water Lilies.

Nelson Mandela (2013) ─ Nelson Mandela was a former South African president and anti-apartheid leader who inspired the world with his dedication to justice and reconciliation.

Kirstie Alley (2022) ─ Acclaimed actress remembered for her iconic roles in Cheers and other television and film classics.

How Am I Doing?

What do you think of the History of Today?

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