What Happened on December 7?

A quiet Sunday morning in Hawaii changed history. Learn what happened at Pearl Harbor, why it matters, and how we honor the people who served that day.

• 1787 — Delaware becomes the first state to ratify the Constitution

  Delaware's convention unanimously approved the brand-new U.S. Constitution, making it 'The First State' five days before any other. Read the full story →

• 1842 — The New York Philharmonic plays its very first concert

  America's oldest symphony orchestra performed its debut concert in New York City, beginning a musical tradition that continues more than 180 years later. Read the full story →

• 1941 — Attack on Pearl Harbor brings the United States into World War II

  Japan launched a surprise attack on the U.S. Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and the next day the United States declared war on Japan, entering World War II. Read the full story →

• 1972 — Apollo 17 launches on the last crewed Moon mission

  Apollo 17 lifted off from Kennedy Space Center carrying astronauts Eugene Cernan, Ronald Evans, and Harrison Schmitt — the final Apollo crew to travel to the Moon. Read the full story →

• 1972 — Apollo 17 launches — the last crewed Moon mission

  On December 7, 1972, Apollo 17 lifted off at night, carrying the last astronauts to walk on the Moon. Read the full story →

Famous birthdays

Willa Cather (1873–1947) · Ted Koppel (1940) · Larry Bird (1956) · Ellen Burstyn (1932)

Days & observances

National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day · Letter Writing Day · National Cotton Candy Day · Delaware Day