On December 6, important holidays are celebrated in Ukraine – the Day of the Armed Forces and the Day of St. Nicholas, in the world – the birthday of the microwave oven.
Day of the Armed Forces of Ukraine
December 6 is a special date in the Ukrainian calendar, the day when the country celebrates the professional holiday of its defenders – the Day of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This is a holiday not only for the military, but also for everyone who values peace and the independence of the state. Celebrating this holiday, we not only honor the heroes who risk their lives every day for our security, but also remind ourselves of the importance of a strong army for an independent state.
The holiday was introduced in 1993 after the adoption of a relevant decision by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. This date was not chosen by chance, because it was on December 6, 1991 that the parliament adopted the law “On the Armed Forces of Ukraine”, which marked the beginning of the formation of the modern Ukrainian army. Since then, the Armed Forces have become one of the most important institutions of the state, capable of protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.
The Ukrainian army is one of the most gender-balanced in the world. Women make up more than 15% of the total number of the Armed Forces, and this share is growing every year. They take part in combat, command units and receive awards for bravery.
The ZSU is one of the few armies in the world that was able to successfully modernize during an active war. During the full-scale invasion of Russia, Ukraine demonstrated the ability to quickly adapt, use modern technologies and gain the support of international partners.
It is not only a day of professional military personnel, but also a holiday for volunteers, reservists and veterans who defended the country in the most difficult times.
Saint Nicholas Day
This holiday, the roots of which go back to the 4th century, is celebrated in memory of Bishop Nicholas of Myra, known for his good deeds, mercy and selfless help to his neighbors. In the popular imagination, Saint Nicholas became a symbol of charity, a protector of children, sailors and the poor.
Saint Nicholas was born around 270 in the city of Patara (modern Turkey). He gained fame as a person who always came to the aid of those in need. The most famous legend tells how Nicholas secretly helped three sisters by leaving bags of gold in their house so that they could marry and not be sold into slavery. This act became an example of the tradition of giving gifts. Saint Nicholas died on December 6, 343. Already in the 5th century, the day of his death became a holiday that spread throughout the Christian world.
Saint Nicholas is honored in different countries in their own way. For example, in Europe, on December 6, children expect Saint Nicholas to leave gifts in their shoes or socks left by the door or fireplace. On this day, it is also customary to help the poor, do good deeds and remember the importance of charity.
In Ukraine, the holiday of St. Nicholas has acquired special significance. In folk tradition, Nicholas became the patron saint of children, travelers and warriors. He is depicted as a wise old man in robes, bringing gifts to obedient children. And for those who behaved impolitely, Nicholas could leave a razor as a reminder of the need for correction.
Saint Nicholas’ Day remains a symbol of generosity and concern for others. In many countries, its celebration has become part of pre-Christmas preparations. The tradition of giving gifts to children spread thanks to this holiday and inspired the creation of the image of Santa Claus.
Ukrainians especially honor Saint Nicholas during the war. He has become a symbol of hope and support for children and families who have experienced difficulties. Volunteers and charitable organizations organize actions on this day to give joy to those who need it most.
Microwave birthday
Every year on December 6, the world celebrates the birthday of the microwave oven – one of the most famous and convenient household devices. This day commemorates the official registration of the patent for the microwave oven in 1945, which changed the way mankind approached cooking.
The microwave appeared by accident. American engineer Percy Spencer, while working for Raytheon on radar development during World War II, noticed that the magnetron, a component for generating microwaves, melted a chocolate bar in his pocket. This discovery inspired Spencer to experiment. The first product intentionally cooked with microwaves was popcorn, and the second was an egg, which, however, exploded during the experiment.
Already in 1947, the Raytheon company released the first commercial microwave oven called Radarange. It was huge—almost two meters tall—and cost about $5,000. Only in the 1960s did microwave ovens become compact and available to the general public.
The microwave revolutionized the approach to cooking. With its help, it was possible to quickly heat up food, prepare meals and even defrost products. It has become indispensable in offices, kitchens and fast food places.
Interesting facts
Popcorn is still the most popular microwave product.
Microwaves interact only with water molecules, so the food heats up and the device itself remains cold.
Microwave ovens are actively used in space missions to cook food in zero gravity.
Modern microwaves can not only heat, but also bake, grill and even ferment.
Historical events on this day
1240: the fall of Kyiv
The troops of the Mongol khan Batya captured and destroyed Kyiv. This became one of the most devastating blows for Kyivan Rus, leading to the decline of the capital and changes in the geopolitical map of the region. The event symbolizes the beginning of a long period of Mongol rule.
1492: Discovery of Haiti
The first expedition of Christopher Columbus discovered the island of Haiti. This discovery became an important stage in the colonization of America, which changed the course of history, although it led to the tragedy of the indigenous peoples.
1741: coup d’état in Russia
Elizaveta Petrovna, daughter of Peter I, became empress of the Russian Empire as a result of a coup. Her reign is associated with cultural uplift and stability, although the coup itself was one of many examples of the political struggle of the era.
1768: First edition of Britannica
The first edition of the famous encyclopedia Britannica was published in Scotland. This was a milestone in the development of education and scientific knowledge, turning Britannica into one of the most influential reference books in the world.
1869: discovery of diamond deposits
Diamond-rich kimberlite pipes have been found in South Africa. This discovery marked the beginning of the global diamond industry, and now the region provides half of the world’s production of this valuable mineral.
1877: first voice recording
Thomas Edison recorded the words of the children’s song “Mary Had a Little Lamb” on his phonograph. This marked the beginning of an era of sound recordings that fundamentally changed culture and the entertainment industry.
1877: The Washington Post is launched
The first issue of the newspaper “Washington Post” was published, which later became one of the leading publications in the world, known for its analytics and journalistic investigations.
1917: Halifax harbor explosion
The French ship “Mont Blanc”, loaded with ammunition, exploded in Halifax, Canada. It became one of the biggest man-made disasters of the 20th century, taking the lives of about 2,000 people.
1921: Irish independence
An Anglo-Irish treaty was signed, which laid the foundation for Irish independence a year later. This event was the culmination of many years of struggle of the Irish for freedom.
1941: retreat of Soviet troops from Debaltseve
During the Second World War, the Soviet troops left Debaltseve district. It became part of the heavy fighting on the Eastern Front.
1943: the liberation of Alexandria
During the Second World War, the troops of the 2nd Ukrainian Front liberated the city of Oleksandria, which became an important stage in the expulsion of Nazi troops from Ukraine.
1991: diplomatic recognition of Ukraine
Estonia and Cuba were the first countries in the world to recognize the independence of Ukraine after the collapse of the Soviet Union. This became an important stage in the international recognition of the young state.
1991: the new constitution of Bulgaria
Bulgaria adopted a new constitution, which established democratic principles and the foundations of the country’s modern political system.
1997: plane crash in Irkutsk
An An-124 military transport plane of the Russian Air Force crashed into a residential building in Irkutsk, killing 72 people. This tragedy became one of the loudest plane crashes of the 1990s.
2000: discovery of livermore
A new chemical element, livermorium (atomic number 116), was synthesized in Dubna (Russia). The discovery was the result of cooperation between Russian and American scientists.
2008: Riots in Greece
Mass protests rocked Greece after the tragic police killing of a 15-year-old boy in Athens. This event caused a wave of civil discontent and made society think about the problems of policing and human rights.
Mykola Amosov’s birthday
On December 6, 1913, Mykola Mykhailovych Amosov was born – an outstanding cardiac surgeon, scientist, writer and public figure. His name is inscribed in the history of medicine thanks to revolutionary achievements in cardiac surgery and a unique perspective on human health and society.
During World War II, Mykola Amosov worked as a military surgeon, performing more than four thousand operations on wounded soldiers. After the war, he devoted his life to the development of medicine, in particular cardiac surgery, becoming one of the pioneers in the treatment of heart defects. In 1962, Amosov was the first in Ukraine to perform an operation to install an artificial heart valve. This event became an important breakthrough in the development of cardiac surgery.
However, his contribution goes beyond medicine. Amosov researched issues of gerontology, developed concepts of artificial intelligence and rational planning of public life, which he called “social engineering.” His works in these fields demonstrate a deep understanding not only of the human body, but also of the nature of human society.
For his enormous contribution to the development of medicine and science, Amosov was recognized as the “Man of the Century in Ukraine”. His health system has become a true philosophy that inspires millions of people.
Basic health rules from Mykola Amosov:
- Diseases are the result of human behavior. They are more often caused by laziness, greed or recklessness than by nature or society.
- Medicine does not make a person healthy. It can cure diseases, but health depends only on one’s own efforts.
- Health requires constant and significant efforts. The human body is perfect, and with the right approach health can be restored, but with age it requires more effort.
- Health is determined by motives. The motivation to achieve health must be strong, otherwise even the threat of death cannot always make a person act.
- The four components of health: exercise, dietary restrictions, tempering, time and the ability to rest. But all this is worth nothing without a happy life.
- Physical activity is the basis of health. 20–30 minutes of physical exercise per day with a doubling of heart rate is the minimum to maintain shape.
- Weight control. Weight should not be more than height in centimeters minus 100.
- The ability to relax. It is also an important skill that requires strength of character.
- Happiness and health. Health is not equal to happiness, but it is the basis that helps to achieve harmony in family, work and life.
Mykola Amosov left behind not only unique achievements in medicine, but also a whole system of views on life, health and happiness. His works and advice inspire not only doctors, but also everyone who seeks to improve their lives. Amosov reminds us that health is everyone’s personal responsibility, and it can only be achieved through one’s own efforts.
Finland’s Independence Day
On December 6, 1917, the Parliament of Finland adopted a historic decision to withdraw from Russia and declare independence. 100 deputies voted for this decision, 88 spoke against it, and 12 abstained. This event was a turning point in the history of Finland, which until then had been part of the Russian Empire as the Grand Duchy of Finland, having received this status in accordance with the Friedrichsham Peace Treaty of 1809 after its separation from Sweden.
Already on December 31, 1917, the Soviet government headed by Vladimir Lenin officially recognized the independence of Finland. This decision was based on the principles of the right of nations to self-determination. The corresponding decree stated the creation of a joint commission of representatives of both sides to resolve practical issues related to the separation of Finland from Russia.
However, after the declaration of independence, the country plunged into the maelstrom of its own civil war, which lasted from January to May 1918. The conflict flared up between the “reds” (socialists and labor organizations) and the “whites” (shutkors – self-defense forces that supported the conservative system). Carl Gustav Mannerheim, a Russian officer who became a national hero and leader of independent Finland after the war, distinguished himself on the side of the “whites”.
The help of Germany, which provided military support, played a significant role in the struggle of the “whites”. Thanks to this, on May 15, 1918, the Shyutskors won the final victory, capturing Fort Ino, the last stronghold of the “Reds”. The victory of the “whites” established a conservative order in the country, but put an end to friendly relations with Soviet Russia. The border between the two countries became a focus of constant armed clashes until the signing of a peace treaty in 1920, which fixed the official borders.
December 6 was first recognized as a national holiday in 1919, when the State Council of Finland declared this day closed for public institutions, schools and courts. The tradition of celebrating Independence Day began just then. In 1929, December 6 became a national paid holiday.
One of the most interesting traditions of this day is the lighting of two blue and white candles in the windows of houses from 6 to 8 p.m. The exact origin of this tradition is not known for sure. According to one version, it originates from the time of the Swedish rule, when candles were lit on commemorative dates of the royal family or during the monarch’s visit to Finland. Later, this tradition was reinterpreted and became a symbol of national independence.
December 6, 1991 is a day that entered the history of Ukraine as one of the key dates in the formation of its modern statehood and defense capability.
It was on this day that the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted extremely important laws for the country: “On the Defense of Ukraine” and “On the Armed Forces of Ukraine”. On the same day, the text of the Military Oath was approved, which was solemnly taken by the Minister of Defense of Ukraine, Colonel-General Kostiantyn Morozov, for the first time in the parliament hall.
At the time of independence, Ukraine inherited one of the most powerful armies in the world. The number of the Armed Forces of Ukraine was about 700,000. It was armed with 176 intercontinental ballistic missiles and about 2,600 units of tactical nuclear weapons. The ground forces included 14 motorized rifle, 4 tank, 3 artillery divisions, 8 artillery brigades, 4 special purpose brigades, 2 airborne brigades, 9 air defense brigades, and 7 combat helicopter regiments. The Air Force of Ukraine consisted of three air armies, which numbered about 1,100 combat aircraft, as well as a separate air defense army with huge reserves of military property.
Of particular importance was the Black Sea Fleet stationed in Crimea, which at that time was one of the most powerful naval groups in the world. The fleet consisted of 833 warships of almost all classes, 400 naval aircraft and helicopters, and more than 100,000 personnel, including 60,000 civilian workers. The marines numbered about 2,000 servicemen.
These scales made the Armed Forces of Ukraine fourth in the world in terms of numbers and combat capabilities. At the same time, along with a powerful military potential, Ukraine also inherited a huge responsibility. The adoption of laws on defense and the armed forces was the first step in the formation of an independent Ukrainian army, which was supposed to ensure the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the state.
In these days, when Ukrainian soldiers are once again defending their land, we remember these historical decisions that laid the foundation for the modern Ukrainian army – a symbol of courage, strength and indomitability.
