December 21
69. Vespasian is crowned Roman Emperor, ending the Roman Civil War that had erupted after the suicide of Nero a year earlier. He is the last of four men to have worn the crown of Emperor during the year, which has since been known as "The Year of Four Emperors". The death of Nero brought an end to the Judio-Claudian line and Vespasian's ascension begins the Flavian line which will only last for three Emperors, but will greatly strengthen an empire that had been brought to its knees by the last few rulers of the last dynasty.
1620. The Mayflower lands at Plymouth Rock.
1913. The first crossword puzzle is published in the New York World.
If you want to see the clues, etc.:
http://www.crosswordtournament.com/more/wynne.html
1937. Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, the world's first feature length animated film, premiers.