1. On December 19, 1777, George Washington and his troops went into winter quarters at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, a crucial moment in the American Revolutionary War. Many soldiers suffered from the harsh winter conditions, but it also gave them an opportunity to rest and regroup for the coming year.

2. The first episode of "The Simpsons" was broadcast on December 19, 1989. Created by Matt Groening, the show has become an iconic part of American pop culture, and is the longest-running American sitcom and animated program.

3. The New York Islanders played their first NHL game on December 19, 1972, against the Atlanta Flames. The Islanders would go on to win four consecutive Stanley Cups in the early 1980s, cementing their place as one of the greatest NHL teams of all time.

4. On December 19, 1843, "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens was published in London, England. It quickly became a holiday classic, telling the story of Ebenezer Scrooge's redemption and inspiring countless adaptations and retellings over the years.

5. The New York City Ballet premiered "The Nutcracker" at Lincoln Center on December 19, 1954. Choreographed by George Balanchine and featuring Tchaikovsky's beloved score, the ballet has become a holiday tradition around the world, with countless productions staged every year.