Hamid Karzai takes office. The Afghan politician took office as the President of the Islamic Republic in Afghanistan's first direct democratic elections in history.

December Murders in Suriname. Fifteen prominent Surinamese men were kidnapped and subsequently murdered over 3 days by the military government. The men were known to have criticized the military dictatorship.

Attack on Pearl Harbor. The Imperial Japanese Navy attacked the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The attack was the impetus for the U.S.'s entry into World War II.

First state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. Delaware became the first state to ratify the United States Constitution. Because of this, it is sometimes called the First State.

Royal Opera House opens its doors. The popular performing arts venue in Covent Garden, London houses the Royal Opera and the Royal Ballet.