Name: Oliver Cromwell becomes Lord Protector of the Commonwealth
Start: 1653-12-16
Location: London, UK

Holidays on December 16, 2026:

Boston Tea Party Day

Boston Tea Party Day, 12/16/2026, Commemorating a pivotal moment in American history with reenactments, museums, and historic sites. more >>

Igniting nostalgia and playfulness, this holiday is all about dusting off those beloved childhood toys and remembering the joy they brought. It's a day to reconnect with the simple pleasures in life, share laughable memories with friends and family, ... more >>

Barbie and Barney Backlash Day

Barbie and Barney Backlash Day on 12/16/2026: Is this fictional holiday real or a misunderstanding? more >>

Day of Reconciliation (South Africa)

Day of Reconciliation (South Africa) - 12/16/2026: A public holiday promoting unity, healing, and understanding among South Africa's diverse population. more >>

Day Of Reconciliation

Day Of Reconciliation, 12/16/2026: A public holiday in South Africa promoting unity, forgiveness, and healing, marking the country's journey towards reconciliation and nation-building. more >>

Birthdays on December 16:

Benny Andersson

79 Years Old

A Swedish singer-songwriter, pianist, and producer, best known for co-founding ABBA, one of the most successful and iconic pop groups of all time, and creating timeless hits like "...

Jane Austen

Died in 1817, aged 41

A celebrated author of witty, romantic novels of manners that offer insightful commentary on 19th-century English society, particularly the lives of women. Her works remain beloved...

Ludwig van Beethoven

Died in 1827, aged 56

A musical genius who expanded the possibilities of classical music, creating iconic symphonies and piano sonatas that continue to inspire and influence generations of artists.

Shane Black

64 Years Old

A talented filmmaker behind iconic action-comedies like Iron Man 3 and Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, known for his witty dialogue and clever plot twists.

Lesley Stahl

84 Years Old

A renowned television journalist and correspondent, best known for her in-depth reporting and interviews on 60 Minutes, providing insightful coverage of major news stories and even...

NoÃ«l Coward

Died in 1973, aged 73

A renowned English actor, playwright, and composer, known for his witty humor, sophisticated style, and iconic works like "Private Lives" and "Blithe Spirit".

Billy Gibbons

76 Years Old

Lead vocalist and guitarist of the iconic rock band ZZ Top, known for his signature beard and bluesy guitar riffs that defined the band's unique sound.

Bill Hicks

Died in 1994, aged 32

A groundbreaking comedian and musician who challenged social norms and conventions through his irreverent and incisive humor, leaving a lasting impact on the comedy world.

Theo James

41 Years Old

A talented English actor known for his dashing good looks and versatility in playing complex characters, particularly in the Divergent series and romantic dramas.

Philip K. Dick

Died in 1982, aged 53

Pioneering science fiction author and philosopher who explored the nature of reality, identity, and humanity through thought-provoking novels and short stories. His works often del...

Krysten Ritter

44 Years Old

An American actress, musician, and model, starring in popular TV shows like Jessica Jones and Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23, and known for her edgy, quirky roles.

Quentin Blake

93 Years Old

Beloved illustrator of whimsical and fantastical children's books, bringing Roald Dahl's stories to life with his iconic, expressive drawings. His work has become synonymous with B...

Events from History on December 16:

82 years ago

German forces launch surprise attack in Ardennes forest (Ardennes forest, Belgium) 1944

In the snow-covered Ardennes forest, a seemingly quiet sector of the Western Front, German forces, led by Adolf Hitler, unleashed a massive surprise attack, code-named Operation Wacht am Rhein, on the unsuspecting American forces. Under the cover of fog, three German armies, comprising over 200,000 troops, burst forth from the forest, catching the Allies off guard. As the Germans pushed forward, they created a bulge in the American lines, hence the name "The Battle of the Bulge." The ensuing battle would become the bloodiest and most decisive of the war, with over a million men clashing in the harsh winter conditions.

55 years ago

Pakistan Army surrenders, ending Bangladesh Liberation War (Dhaka, Bangladesh) 1971

The day of reckoning had finally arrived for the Pakistan Army. After a brutal and bloody conflict, the Bangladesh Liberation War and Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 came to a close with the Pakistan Army's unconditional surrender. The Bangladesh Forces, aided by the Indian military, had been fighting for independence and justice against the oppressive Pakistani regime. As the last remnants of the Pakistan Army laid down their arms, the people of Bangladesh rejoiced, knowing their long and arduous struggle for freedom had finally paid off.

337 years ago

English monarchy's power is redefined by Parliament (London, UK) 1689

The tables turned on December 16, 1689, when the Convention Parliament forced King William III and Queen Mary II to accept the Declaration of Right, a document that would reshape the British monarchy. This bold move marked a significant shift in power, limiting the monarch's authority and establishing Parliament as a crucial player in the government. The Declaration of Right, which would eventually become the Bill of Rights, protected certain rights of individuals, like freedom from cruel and unusual punishment, and prohibited the monarch from suspending laws without consent. This revolutionary act paved the way for a more democratic England, where the sovereignty of the people reigned supreme.

162 years ago

Union Army Crushes Confederate Forces at Nashville (Nashville, Tennessee, 37201, USA) 1864

George Thomas's Army of the Cumberland was on the move, determined to put an end to the Confederacy's Army of Tennessee once and for all. On a brutally cold winter day, Union forces launched a decisive assault, exploiting the Rebel army's weak flanks and sending them into a chaotic retreat. As the Confederates panicked, Union cavalry pursued relentlessly, cutting down any who dared resist. By day's end, the Confederacy's once-proud Army of Tennessee lay shattered, its remnants fleeing in disarray.

106 years ago

Devastating Haiyuan Earthquake Rocks China (Gansu province, China) 1920

In the heart of rural China, the ground trembled violently as the Haiyuan earthquake struck, leveling entire towns and villages, and leaving a trail of destruction and despair. The massive 8.5Mw quake, one of the most powerful on record, shook the Gansu province to its core, claiming an estimated 200,000 lives and leaving countless others homeless and injured.

373 years ago

Oliver Cromwell becomes Lord Protector of the Commonwealth (London, UK) 1653

Oliver Cromwell, the Puritan leader, reached the pinnacle of power as he was declared Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland. This monumental event marked the beginning of a new era in British history, where Cromwell's authoritarian rule would shape the nation's politics, religion, and culture. With his sword-swinging enthusiasm and zealous passion for Protestantism, Cromwell would go on to reshape the British Isles, imposing his strict regime on the population. His regime would be marked by controversies, conflicts, and execution of King Charles I, but this day, December 16, 1653, would forever change the course of British history.

Notable Deaths on December 16:

1980Colonel Sanders Investigative journalist and author who uncovered secrets and scandals

1989Lee Van Cleef American actor who left a lasting impact with his unique on-screen presence and memorable roles

2005John Spencer Award-winning actor with a wide range of roles

2007Dan Fogelberg Folk music icon known for his soaring vocals and acoustic guitar work

1993Moses Gunn African-American actor who electrified audiences with his powerful performances and memorable roles

2009Roy E. Disney Disney executive who played a key role in Disney's global expansion

1965W. Somerset Maugham Veteran author who wrote timeless stories of love and loss

1921Camille Saint-SaÃ«ns French musical genius who composed timeless melodies

2011Robert Easton American actor and screenwriter with a long, distinguished career

1985Paul Castellano Infamous mob boss who rose to power through ruthlessness and intimidation

2013Ray Price Country music legend known for his smooth vocals and guitar playing

2017Keely Smith Razzle-dazzling singer who crooned her way into the hearts of many

1982Colin Chapman Estonian scholar who studied ancient cultures and languages

1935Thelma Todd Comedic actress and performer who brought laughter to generations

2003Gary Stewart Country music legend with a twang and a twirl

2004Ted Abernathy Hall of Fame baseball player with a storied career

1983Debs Garms Baseball coach and player who left a lasting impact on the diamond

2001Stuart Adamson Guitar-driven visionary and songwriter with a unique Scottish flair

1993Kakuei Tanaka Controversial Japanese politician who served as Prime Minister during a tumultuous period in Japan's history

1989Aileen Pringle American actress who delighted audiences with her versatile performances and charming screen presence

National Chocolate Covered Anything Day