December 06

Construction of the Washington Monument began in 1848 to honor the first U.S. president but was halted in 1854 due to funding shortages and the Civil War. Work resumed two decades later under architect Edward Clark's revised plans, and on December 6, 1884, the 555-foot marble obelisk was officially completed. At that time, it was the tallest man-made structure in the world, symbolizing national unity and pride. Its gleaming white marble has since been a central feature of the National Mall, attracting millions of visitors each year. The monument's simple yet monumental design continues to inspire awe and stands as a testament to American perseverance.

In 1912, a German archaeological team led by Ludwig Borchardt uncovered the exquisite painted limestone bust of Queen Nefertiti in the workshop of sculptor Thutmose at Amarna. Renowned for its realistic beauty and intricate craftsmanship, the bust dates to around 1345 BC and depicts the Egyptian queen with an elegant elongated neck and elaborate headdress. Its discovery captivated scholars and the public, providing invaluable insights into Amarna art and the reign of Akhenaten. Positioned in the Egyptian Museum of Berlin, the bust has since become one of the most iconic symbols of ancient Egypt and a subject of repatriation debates.

James Joyce’s Ulysses, first published in 1922, faced legal challenges over its frank portrayal of human experience. In United States v. One Book Called Ulysses, Judge John M. Woolsey examined the text’s literary merit. He concluded that coarse language and sexual content alone did not constitute obscenity. This ruling overturned bans on the novel and set a new standard for evaluating artistic works. The decision paved the way for modernist literature to flourish under the protection of the First Amendment. Today, the case is celebrated as a cornerstone of free speech jurisprudence in America.

The Altamont Free Concert was billed as the West Coast’s answer to Woodstock, featuring the Rolling Stones. Organizers enlisted the Hells Angels motorcycle club as unpaid security, leading to a volatile atmosphere. Tensions peaked during the Stones’ performance when Meredith Hunter brandished a firearm. Hells Angels members responded by fatally stabbing the eighteen-year-old audience member. The incident was captured in the documentary 'Gimme Shelter,' exposing rock culture’s darker side. Altamont became emblematic of the end of the 1960s’ idealistic spirit and the dangers of inadequate planning.