November 26 carries its own echoes of history, defining moments that have shaped culture, politics, and society at large. Across centuries, this date has witnessed humble beginnings, declarations of gratitude, and creative insights. These events are not just collecting dust in archives but have left significant marks on society.
In today’s edition of Today in History, News Round The Clock (NRTC) has carefully selected defining moments on November 26 that will leave you enlightened and inspired.
- 1607- Birth of Harvard College’s Patron
Today, we remember John Harvard, the patron of the popular Harvard College or University. John was born in Southwark, Surrey, England. Before John died, he gave a large sum of money and a library of around 400 volumes to the then New College (now Harvard College). In honour of his death and endowment, the college was renamed after him in 1639.
- 1789- George Washington declares ‘Thanksgiving Day.’
The well-known American holiday, ‘Thanksgiving Day’ was proclaimed by Former President George Washington on November 26, 1789. This national day of thanksgiving was meant to acknowledge Almighty God and express gratitude for the successful establishment of the United States and the new federal Constitution. This declaration marked the first official observance of a national holiday, recognizing the blessings received in establishing the American republic.
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- 1864- Dawn of “Alice in Wonderland.”
Who would have thought that the beloved children’s story, ‘Alice in Wonderland,’ started off as an early Christmas present to a sweet little girl? On November 26, 1864, Charles Lutwidge Dodgson gifted the manuscript of ‘Alice in Wonderland’ (formerly ‘Alice’s Adventures Under Ground) to Alice Liddell. The story was based on the story he had told Alice and her sisters at a summer picnic. This marked a significant moment in literary history, giving rise to one of the most beloved children’s stories of all time.
- 1939- The Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll is born
Anna Mae Bullock (professionally known as Tina Turner) was born on November 26, 1939. She was a renowned singer, songwriter, and actress. The world hailed her as the ‘Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll. Some of her famous songs include: ‘Proud Mary’, ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’, ‘Private Dancer’, and ‘We Don’t Need Another Hero’. Audiences will always remember Turner for her vocal prowess, dynamic voice, and electrifying stage presence. All these were the factors that helped to break racial and gender barriers in rock music.
- 2007- Keys’ single “Like You’ll Never See Me Again.”
On November 26, 2007, Alicia Keys released her second single, ‘Like You’ll Never See Me Again’ under her third studio album, “As I Am”. The R&B single went on and peaked at number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 (U.S.). In 2008, the NAACP Image Awards honoured it with the Outstanding Song award.
- 2009- Painful announcement of President Yar’Adua’s diagnosis
On November 26, 2009, prominent journalist Segun Adeniyi officially announced that doctors had diagnosed the president with acute pericarditis. This condition is an inflammation of the pericardium, which is the sac surrounding the heart. The news came after growing speculation about the president’s health. The announcement also followed that Yar’Adua was receiving treatment and was in stable condition. This aimed to comfort the citizens and erase the fear that the people had no leader.
- 2011- Odumegwu Ojukwu dies
This day marks the 14th death anniversary of the Nigerian military officer, politician and leader of the Republic of Biafra, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu. He was appointed the Military Governor of the Eastern Region by the then military head of state, Aguiyi Ironsi. In 1967, Ojukwu declared the separation of Eastern Nigeria as the Republic of Biafra. This was what led to the three-year civil war. In his honour, he was built a mausoleum at his residence in Nnewi.
- 2018- Aquaman holds its premiere
Today marks seven years since the premiere of the DC superhero film ‘Aquaman‘. On November 26, 2018, the world premiere happened in Cineworld Leicester, London. The event featured the cast and crew, including the stars Jason Momoa and Amber Heard.
