Only a few hours left in 2023! After that, we will step into 2024! Let’s take a sneak peek at 23 unforgettable moments that happened this year.
Highlighting a Year of News: From the Chinese spy balloon to a scorching, insect-filled, and smoke-laden summer, let’s revisit 23 Global Highlights of 2023 that defined this remarkable year.
23 Global Highlights of 2023
Aaron Rodgers Injured Early Jets Drive
In a tough start for the New York Jets, their star quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, faced an unexpected hurdle during the opening drive of the season. Sadly, just four plays in, Rodgers suffered an Achilles tendon injury, posing a challenge for the team right from the get-go.
Spy Balloon Drama in America
A Chinese spy balloon caused a stir, floating above Alaska in January. It lingered for days until President Biden ordered its military takedown.
Armenian-Turkish Border Reopens for Aid Mission
The Armenian-Turkish land border, closed for 35 years, briefly opened to facilitate the passage of a convoy delivering aid to Turkey after the 2023 Turkey-Syria Earthquake. It marked a significant diplomatic move and a rare border opening since 1988.
OpenAI Launches GPT-4
Leading artificial intelligence organization, OpenAI, introduced GPT-4, an upgraded version of its widely acclaimed chatbot, showcasing advancements in AI technology.
Elton John’s Farewell Concert in Stockholm
Music icon Elton John concluded his illustrious touring career with a final concert in Stockholm, Sweden, bidding a memorable farewell to his fans.
America’s Bug-Infested Summer
The U.S. faced a summer plagued by tick, mosquito, and spotted lantern fly outbreaks. Millions grappled with insect invasions, from the Northeast’s lantern flies to mosquitoes in Los Angeles.
Canadian Wildfires Blanket U.S. Cities
Smoke and ash from wildfires in Canada enveloped U.S. cities, causing unhealthy air quality across various states.
Rep. Lauren Boebert’s Theatrics at “Beetlejuice”
Colorado Republican and controversial figure Rep. Lauren Boebert was ejected from a Denver performance of “Beetlejuice” for allegedly vaping during the show, creating a stir.
Gannett’s Taylor Swift Reporter
Leading newspaper chain Gannett hired a full-time reporter dedicated to covering global pop star Taylor Swift for USA Today and its 200 local affiliates.
Submersible Disaster at Titanic Wreck
A tourist submersible went missing while exploring the Titanic shipwreck, triggering an international search and rescue mission in June.
Hottest Day on Earth Since 1979
On July 4, 2023, Earth experienced its hottest day since at least 1979, with a global average temperature of 62.92°F (17.18°C).
Unusual Snake and Hawk Encounter in Texas
A Texas woman reported a snake falling from the sky onto her arm, followed by a hawk swooping in to attack it—an extraordinary and bizarre incident.
Russia’s Luna 25 Lunar Lander Crash
Russia’s Luna 25 lunar lander mission crash-landed on the Moon, marking Roscosmos’ first attempt since the 70s under the Soviet space program.
India’s Chandrayaan-3 Moon Landing
India became the fourth nation to successfully land a spacecraft on the Moon with its Chandrayaan-3 Moon Lander, exploring the uncharted south pole.
Israel Declares War on Hamas
Israel formally declared war on Hamas after a surprise attack by Hamas operatives in Israeli-controlled territory, resulting in a significant death toll.
Recovered Van Gogh Artwork: The stolen painting
The Parsonage Garden at Nuenen in Spring” (1884) by Vincent van Gogh, has been returned to an art detective, neatly packaged in an Ikea bag.
Ronaldo’s Record Salary Move to Al Nassr
Cristiano Ronaldo made a historic move to Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, securing the “biggest salary ever in football” and departing Manchester United after public criticism.
SpaceX’s Starship Rocket Launch Mishap
SpaceX’s Starship rocket, the most powerful ever made, launched in a historic first test flight from Boca Chica, Texas. Unfortunately, it exploded four minutes into the flight, with blame pointing to Elon Musk’s rush to launch on 420.
Editor Fired Over AI Interview Scandal
The editor of German magazine “Die Aktuelle” was dismissed after publishing a so-called AI-generated interview with F1 racing driver Michael Schumacher.
Pelé Added to Dictionary
The Brazilian Portuguese-language Michaelis dictionary added “pelé” as a new adjective in its online edition, signifying “exceptional, incomparable, unique.”
Inauguration of India’s New Parliament House
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the country’s new parliament building amid a boycott by opposition parties, who wanted the President to officiate the opening.
Barbie Film Premiere in Los Angeles
The fantasy comedy film “Barbie,” featuring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling and directed by Greta Gerwig, premiered at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.
Taylor Swift Named Time Magazine’s Person of the Year
Pop sensation Taylor Swift was named Time Magazine’s Person of the Year, breaking tradition by recognizing her achievements in the arts.