On this day in history - December 7

What Happened On This Day – December 7

• 2004 Hamid Karzai takes office

  The Afghan politician took office as the President of the Islamic Republic in Afghanistan's first direct democratic elections in history.

• 1982 December Murders in Suriname

  Fifteen prominent Surinamese men were kidnapped and subsequently murdered over 3 days by the military government. The men were known to have criticized the military dictatorship.

• 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor

  The Imperial Japanese Navy attacked the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The attack was the impetus for the U.S.'s entry into World War II.

• 1787 First state to ratify the U.S. Constitution

  Delaware became the first state to ratify the United States Constitution. Because of this, it is sometimes called the First State.

• 1732 Royal Opera House opens its doors

  The popular performing arts venue in Covent Garden, London houses the Royal Opera and the Royal Ballet.