December 18

What happened on December 18 in history

5 events fall on December 18, from 1271 to 1966. Read them below, then try to place a historical scene yourself — guess where in the world it happened and in what year.

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Events on December 18

  1. 1271

    Kublai Khan names his dynasty

    The Mongol ruler proclaims the Yuan.

    Play the Medieval & Renaissance round

  2. 1865

    Slavery is abolished in the US

    The thirteenth amendment is declared ratified.

    Play the 19th century round

  3. 1892

    The Nutcracker premieres

    Tchaikovsky's ballet is first performed in Saint Petersburg.

    Play the 19th century round

  4. 1958

    The first communications satellite

    A satellite broadcasts Eisenhower's recorded Christmas message.

    Play the 20th century round

  5. 1966

    Epimetheus is discovered

    A new moon of Saturn is spotted from Earth.

    Play the 20th century round