Here’s a look at some interesting events that took place on this day in history:

1879: Thomas Edison demonstrates incandescent lighting to the public for the first time (more info)

1907: The first New Year's Eve celebration is held in Times Square -- then known as Longacre Square -- in New York City (more info)

1938: The "drunkometer," the precursor to the modern-day breathalyzer, is introduced in Indianapolis (more info)

1946: President Harry Truman officially proclaims the end of hostilities in World War II (more info)

1999: In accordance with the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, the United States officially hands over control of the Panama Canal, putting the strategic waterway into Panamanian hands for the first time (more info)

More From 103.7 The Hawk