December 1979

Monday 03:

In Cincinnati, Ohio, a stampede for seats at Riverfront Coliseum during a Who concert kills eleven fans.

Wednesday 05:

Sonia Johnson is formally excommunicated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for her outspoken criticism of the church concerning the proposed Equal Rights Amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

Wednesday 12:

Rhodesia changes its name to Zimbabwe

Friday 14:

Punk rock band The Clash release the influential double album London Calling.

Friday 21:

The Lancaster House Agreement was signed, effectively ending the white rule in Rhodesia under Ian Smith.

Sunday 23:

Soviet invasion of Afghanistan: Soviet military units occupy Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan

Monday 24:

1979 - The first European Ariane rocket is launched.

Wednesday 26:

Soviet Special forces troops take over presidential palace in Kabul, Afghanistan

Thursday 27:

The Soviet Union seizes control of Afghanistan and Babrak Karmal replaces overthrown and executed President Hafizullah Amin.