1916 - Gregory Rasputin, a monk with considerable influence over the Russian court, is murdered by noblemen.
1773 - The Boston Tea Party: Disguised members of the Sons of Liberty dump crates of tea into Boston harbor to protest the Tea Act.
1707 - Mount Fuji's last recorded volcanic eruption in Japan
1653 - Oliver Cromwell is named lord protector of England, Scotland and Ireland.
1497 - Vasco da Gama travels around the Cape of Good Hope.
This Day In Business
1978 - Cleveland, Ohio defaults on $14,000,000 in loans, making it the first post-depression era city to do so.
1971 - Don McLean releases his over 8 minute long rendition of "American Pie," which tops charts.
1903 - 5 star hotel, Taj Mahal Palace opens up to the public.
1972 - The Miami Dolphins become the first ever NFL team to go undefeated with a 14 - 0 record.
December 16th Holiday
Day of Reconciliation (South Africa) - Celebrated after the end of apartheid, the holiday promotes a sense of reconciliation and national unity.
Today's Birthday Trivia
Hercules was her love interest in the show Xena: Warrior Princess. Who is she?
Today's Birthday Horoscope
Learn about people born on this day by reading the December 16 Birthday Horoscope.
Famous Birthdays iPhone App
Are you an iPhone user? Get the fun and free Famous Birthdays iPhone app.