Historical Milestones and Birthdays Notable on November 24

November 24 marks significant historical events that shaped modern society, from groundbreaking scientific theories to pivotal moments in social justice.

Notable Events Through the Years

On this day in **1859**, British naturalist **Charles Darwin** published his influential work, “On the Origin of Species,” introducing his theory of evolution through natural selection. This groundbreaking publication profoundly impacted the fields of biology and anthropology, igniting debates that continue today.

In **1865**, **Mississippi** became the first Southern state to enact laws known as the “Black Codes.” These laws aimed to restrict the rights of newly freed African Americans, paving the way for similar legislation in other states of the former Confederacy. This marked a crucial moment in the struggle for civil rights in the United States.

Fast forward to **1947**, when a group of writers, producers, and directors, known as the **Hollywood Ten**, faced contempt charges in Congress for refusing to testify about alleged communist influences in the film industry. Their defiance highlighted the tension between artistic freedom and political scrutiny during the era.

The day took a dramatic turn in **1963** when **Jack Ruby** shot and fatally wounded **Lee Harvey Oswald**, the man accused of assassinating President **John F. Kennedy**. This shocking event unfolded live on television, forever altering the public’s perception of the assassination and its aftermath.

Another notable incident occurred in **1971**, when a hijacker identifying himself as **Dan Cooper**—later known as **D.B. Cooper**—parachuted from a Northwest Orient Airlines 727 over the Pacific Northwest after receiving **$200,000** in ransom. His fate remains a mystery and continues to capture the public imagination.

In **1974**, scientists made a remarkable discovery in **Ethiopia** when they found the bone fragments of a hominid estimated to be **3.2 million years old**. The remains were nicknamed **Lucy**, and her discovery provided crucial insights into human evolution.

The world mourned the loss of renowned rock singer **Freddie Mercury** on **November 24, 1991**, when he died at the age of **45** from AIDS-related pneumonia in **London**. Mercury, the frontman of the band **Queen**, left an indelible mark on music and culture.

In **2012**, a tragic fire engulfed a garment factory in **Bangladesh**, resulting in the deaths of **112** people. Many victims were trapped inside due to the building’s lack of emergency exits, raising awareness about unsafe working conditions in the garment industry.

The day also witnessed social unrest in **2014** when a grand jury in **St. Louis County, Missouri**, decided not to indict police officer **Darren Wilson** in the shooting death of **Michael Brown**. The decision sparked protests and violence in Ferguson, highlighting ongoing racial tensions in America.

In **2017**, a terrorist attack on a mosque in **Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula** claimed the lives of at least **235** people. Authorities linked the attack to a local affiliate of the **Islamic State**, marking one of the deadliest assaults in the region.

More recently, in **2021**, three white men were convicted of murder in the killing of **Ahmaud Arbery**, a Black man who was chased and shot while running in a Georgia subdivision. This verdict was seen as a significant step forward in addressing racial violence in the United States.

On **November 24, 2023**, **Derek Chauvin**, the former Minneapolis police officer convicted of murdering **George Floyd**, was injured in a stabbing incident at a federal prison in **Arizona**. He was subsequently transferred to another facility for safety.

Celebrating Birthdays

This date is also significant for numerous notable birthdays. Basketball Hall of Famer **Oscar Robertson** turns **87** today, while former NFL Commissioner **Paul Tagliabue** celebrates his **85th** birthday.

Other notable figures include rock drummer **Pete Best**, who is **84**, actor-comedian **Billy Connolly** at **83**, and former Detroit mayor and basketball Hall of Famer **Dave Bing**, who is **82**.

Celebrated filmmaker **Emir Kusturica** turns **71**, while actors **Conleth Hill** and **Danielle Nicolet** celebrate their **61** and **52** years respectively. Author **Arundhati Roy** marks her **64th** birthday, while actors **Colin Hanks** and **Katherine Heigl** are **48** and **47** today, respectively. Finally, **Sarah Hyland** celebrates her **35th** birthday.

As the world reflects on these historical milestones and celebrates the lives of influential figures, November 24 serves as a reminder of the complex tapestry of human history and the ongoing journey toward progress and understanding.