On this day in history: 2 December

flat, 2D greyscale sketch of John Quincy Adams, the sixth President of the United States, with thin, abundant lines and fine detail

Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone ~ John Quincy Adams

1461: Battle of Wakefield Ends in England

On December 2, 1461, the Battle of Wakefield, a critical conflict during the Wars of the Roses, ended with a decisive victory for the House of Lancaster. This victory solidified their temporary hold on power in England.

Power is fleeting when built on conflict; only unity can truly endure.
~ English chronicler


1804: Napoleon Bonaparte Crowned Emperor

On December 2, 1804, Napoleon Bonaparte crowned himself Emperor of France at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. His act of self-crowning demonstrated his independence from the Church and solidified his authority.

The strong man is the one who is able to intercept at will the communication between the senses and the mind.
~ Napoleon Bonaparte


1816: Indiana Becomes the 19th State of the United States

On December 2, 1816, Indiana was admitted as the 19th state of the Union. Known as the “Crossroads of America,” Indiana played a vital role in the nation’s westward expansion.

A state’s greatness is measured not by its borders but by the spirit and unity of its people.
~ Early Indiana legislator


1824: Presidential Election Heads to the House of Representatives

On December 2, 1824, after no candidate secured a majority in the Electoral College, the U.S. presidential election between John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson, William Crawford, and Henry Clay was sent to the House of Representatives for resolution.

Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone.
~ John Quincy Adams


1901: Birth of Walt Disney, Featured Person

On December 2, 1901, Walt Disney, the legendary animator and creator of Mickey Mouse, was born in Chicago. Disney’s innovations in animation and theme park design revolutionized the entertainment industry.

All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.
~ Walt Disney

Disney’s belief in persistence inspired countless creators.

Laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, and dreams are forever.
~ Walt Disney

He celebrated the joy and creativity that transcends generations.

The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.
~ Walt Disney

Disney’s practical advice reflects his action-oriented philosophy.

It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.
~ Walt Disney

This encapsulates his lifelong pursuit of groundbreaking innovations.

The greatest moments in life come from doing what others said couldn’t be done.
~ Walt Disney

Disney often thrived on challenging conventions.

Unusual Facts:

  1. Walt Disney was the voice of Mickey Mouse for several years.
  2. He holds the record for the most Academy Awards won by an individual, with 22 wins.
  3. His first studio went bankrupt, but he persevered to create The Walt Disney Company.
  4. Disneyland was inspired by his love for creating immersive experiences.
  5. Disney’s parents were of Irish and Canadian descent, influencing his values of storytelling and family.

1927: First Laurel and Hardy Film Released

On December 2, 1927, Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy released their first official comedy film as a duo, Putting Pants on Philip. They became one of the most beloved comedy pairs in cinematic history.

Comedy is a gentle art, crafted not to offend but to bring joy.
~ Stan Laurel


1942: First Controlled Nuclear Chain Reaction Achieved

On December 2, 1942, scientists led by Enrico Fermi achieved the first controlled nuclear chain reaction under the University of Chicago’s stadium, marking the dawn of the nuclear age.

What was done today will change the course of history forever.
~ Enrico Fermi


1959: Antarctica Treaty Signed

On December 2, 1959, the Antarctica Treaty was signed by 12 nations, establishing Antarctica as a scientific preserve and banning military activity on the continent.

Antarctica belongs to no one, and its preservation is a testament to what nations can achieve together.
~ Treaty signatory


1982: First Permanent Artificial Heart Transplant

On December 2, 1982, Dr. William DeVries implanted the Jarvik-7 artificial heart into patient Barney Clark in a groundbreaking surgery that paved the way for modern cardiac innovations.

Innovation is not just about extending life but about improving its quality.
~ Dr. William DeVries


2015: SpaceX Falcon 9 Makes Historic Landing

On December 2, 2015, SpaceX successfully landed its Falcon 9 rocket for the first time, marking a major milestone in reusable rocket technology and making space exploration more cost-effective.

To explore the cosmos is to explore the endless possibilities of humanity’s future.
~ Elon Musk