What happened on December 9th?

We defeated smallpox

Author

Matthew Jones
December 09, 2024

1979 Smallpox Is Officially Eradicated

On December 9, 1979, smallpox was officially declared eradicated by the World Health Organization. This monumental achievement followed a decade-long global vaccination campaign that mobilized health workers across the world. Considered one of the greatest triumphs in public health history, the eradication of smallpox marked the first time a disease had been completely eliminated through human effort, setting a precedent for future global health initiatives.

This photo was taken during Smallpox Eradication and Measles Control Program in Niger, W. Africa, in February 1969. In 1979, when the World Health Organization declared the global eradication of smallpox, they recommended that all countries cease vaccination.

🗞️Today’s Headlines

Everything important that’s ever happened on December 9:

1998 ─ The United Nations General Assembly declared anti-Semitism a form of racism.

1990 ─ Slobodan Milošević was reelected president of Serbia at the head of the Socialist Party. On the same day, Lech Wałęsa was elected president of Poland.

1958 ─ The John Birch Society was founded, sparking controversy over its anti-communist and conspiracy-driven agenda.

1868 ─ The world’s first traffic light was installed near Westminster Bridge in London and marked the beginning of modern traffic management.

1824 ─ Revolutionary forces led by Venezuelan Antonio José de Sucre defeated the Spanish royal army at the Battle of Ayacucho and secured Peru’s independence.

🎂 Today’s Birthdays

On December 9, we’re singing to:

John Milton (1608) ─ English poet celebrated for works such as Paradise Lost, which had a profound influence on English literature.

Kirk Douglas (1916) ─ Iconic actor and producer known for his performances in Spartacus and Paths of Glory.

Judi Dench (1934) ─ Renowned British actress acclaimed for her roles in film and theater, including Shakespeare in Love and the James Bond series.

John Malkovich (1953) ─ Actor recognized for his distinctive performances in films such as Being John Malkovich and Dangerous Liaisons.

 🪦Who Died Today?

On December 9, we’re saying goodbye to:

Anthony van Dyck (1641) ─ Flemish painter known for his elegant portraits and as a leading court artist of his time.

Nucky Johnson (1968) ─ US politician and racketeer infamous for his role in Atlantic City’s organized crime scene.

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