What Is 23 Dec

Content on WhatAnswers is provided "as is" for informational purposes. While we strive for accuracy, we make no guarantees. Content is AI-assisted and should not be used as professional advice.

Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: 23 Dec refers to December 23, a date notable for historical events such as the 1982 release of the Apple Lisa computer and the 2004 sentencing of Saddam Hussein. It is the 357th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar, with 8 days remaining until year-end.

Key Facts

December 23 is the 357th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar, with 8 days remaining.
Apple released the Lisa computer on December 23, 1982, a pioneering but commercially unsuccessful system.
Saddam Hussein was sentenced to death on December 23, 2006, following a trial for crimes against humanity.
The 1984 Winter Olympics officially began on December 23, 1983, with the opening ceremony in Sarajevo.
December 23 is recognized as National Roots Day in the United States, celebrating cultural heritage.

Overview

December 23 is a date embedded in global history, marking significant technological, political, and cultural milestones. As the 357th day of the year, it falls late in December, just before Christmas, and often sees a mix of news cycles, historical anniversaries, and seasonal celebrations.

This date has seen pivotal events across different centuries, from political judgments to tech innovations. Its placement near the end of the calendar year makes it a symbolic threshold between reflection and anticipation.

Apple Lisa Launch (1982): On December 23, 1982, Apple introduced the Lisa computer, a system featuring a graphical user interface and mouse, years before the Macintosh.
Saddam Hussein Sentencing: In 2006, former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein was sentenced to death by hanging on December 23 after being convicted of crimes against humanity.
Winter Olympics Kickoff: The 1984 Winter Olympics officially opened on December 23, 1983, in Sarajevo, Yugoslavia, drawing athletes from 49 nations.
National Roots Day: The U.S. observes December 23 as National Roots Day, encouraging individuals to explore their ancestry and cultural heritage.
Space Milestone: On December 23, 1972, Apollo 17 astronauts Gene Cernan and Harrison Schmitt lifted off from the Moon, marking the last human departure from its surface.

Historical Events & Significance

December 23 has hosted turning points in politics, science, and culture, shaping modern narratives across decades. The convergence of technological ambition and geopolitical shifts defines its legacy.

Apple Lisa: The Lisa computer cost $9,995 in 1982, equivalent to over $28,000 today, and only sold about 10,000 units due to high price and limited software.
Saddam Trial: The Dujail massacre trial concluded on December 23, 2006, with Saddam found guilty of killing 148 Shiite men in retaliation for a failed assassination.
Apollo 17: The lunar liftoff on December 23, 1972 ended the last Apollo mission, with astronauts returning safely on December 19.
Winter Olympics: The 1984 Sarajevo Games began on December 23, 1983, and featured 1,272 athletes competing in 39 events across 6 sports.
Music History: On December 23, 1964, The Rolling Stones released their second studio album, 12 X 5, which reached No. 11 on the Billboard charts.
Aviation: In 1941, Pan American Airways launched the first transatlantic passenger flight using the Boeing 314 Clipper, departing on December 23.

Comparison at a Glance

Key events on December 23 across different domains illustrate its diverse historical footprint.

Year	Event	Significance	Impact
1941	Pan Am Clipper Flight	First scheduled transatlantic passenger flight	Revolutionized global air travel
1972	Apollo 17 Lunar Liftoff	Last human departure from the Moon	Ended the Apollo program era
1982	Apple Lisa Release	First commercial GUI-based computer	Influenced future Mac development
1983	1984 Winter Olympics Opening	First Winter Games in a communist country	Boosted international participation
2006	Saddam Hussein Sentenced	End of a 30-year dictatorship	Marked a turning point in Iraqi history

The table highlights how December 23 spans technological breakthroughs, geopolitical shifts, and cultural milestones. Each event, though distinct in nature, contributed to broader historical arcs, from space exploration to digital innovation and global justice.

Why It Matters

Understanding December 23 offers insight into how single dates can encapsulate transformative moments across human endeavors. Its legacy is not defined by one event, but by a convergence of progress, conflict, and reflection.

Technological Legacy: The Apple Lisa laid groundwork for modern computing, influencing the Macintosh and future GUI-based systems.
Space Exploration: Apollo 17's departure on December 23, 1972 remains the last time humans left the Moon, a milestone yet to be surpassed.
Political Justice: Saddam Hussein’s sentencing underscored the global push for accountability in post-conflict societies.
Cultural Recognition:National Roots Day promotes awareness of genealogy and heritage, fostering personal and communal identity.
Aviation History: The 1941 Pan Am flight marked the dawn of commercial intercontinental air travel, shrinking global distances.
Olympic Legacy: The 1984 Winter Games in Sarajevo showcased athletic excellence and Cold War-era diplomacy through sports.

December 23, though often overshadowed by year-end holidays, holds a quiet significance in the timeline of human achievement and reckoning. Its events remind us that history unfolds not only in grand declarations but in precise, often overlooked moments.