November 22 is a date etched with extraordinary moments. From daring voyages and pirate deaths to presidential assassinations, royal restorations, boxing records, and animation breakthroughs—this day has repeatedly changed history in profound and unexpected ways. Here are some of its most defining events.
Vasco da Gama Rounds the Cape of Good Hope – 1497
On November 22, 1497, Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama became the first European to round the Cape of Good Hope, opening the sea route from Europe to India and transforming global trade forever.
Death of Blackbeard the Pirate – 1718
On November 22, 1718, the infamous pirate Edward Teach, better known as Blackbeard, was cornered and killed by British naval forces off the coast of North Carolina after a fierce battle, effectively ending his reign of terror across the Atlantic.
John F. Kennedy Assassinated in Dallas – 1963
On November 22, 1963, U.S. President John F. Kennedy was fatally shot while riding in an open motorcade through Dealey Plaza in Dallas, Texas. The assassination by Lee Harvey Oswald shocked the world and remains one of the most scrutinized events in modern history.
Lyndon B. Johnson Sworn In as U.S. President – 1963
Just two hours after JFK’s death on November 22, 1963, Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson took the oath of office aboard Air Force One at Dallas Love Field, with Jacqueline Kennedy still wearing her blood-stained pink suit beside him, ensuring continuity of government.
Juan Carlos I Proclaimed King of Spain – 1975
On November 22, 1975, two days after the death of dictator Francisco Franco, Juan Carlos I was officially proclaimed King of Spain, beginning the restoration of the monarchy and guiding the country’s swift transition to democracy.
Mike Tyson Becomes Youngest Heavyweight Champion – 1986
On November 22, 1986, 20-year-old Mike Tyson knocked out Trevor Berbick in the second round in Las Vegas to win the WBC heavyweight title, becoming the youngest heavyweight boxing champion in history.
Margaret Thatcher Resigns as British Prime Minister – 1990
On November 22, 1990, Margaret Thatcher formally tendered her resignation to Queen Elizabeth II after 11 1⁄2 years in power, ending the “Iron Lady” era following a leadership challenge within her own Conservative Party.
Toy Story, the World’s First Fully CGI Feature Film, Released – 1995
On November 22, 1995, Pixar’s Toy Story premiered in theaters, becoming the first entirely computer-animated feature film and revolutionizing the animation and film industries.
Angela Merkel Sworn In as Germany’s First Female Chancellor – 2005
On November 22, 2005, Angela Merkel took the oath of office in the Bundestag, becoming Germany’s first woman Chancellor and beginning a 16-year tenure that would make her one of the most influential leaders of the 21st century.
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