1. On December 23, 1864, Union troops under the command of General John Newton captured the city of Jacksonville during the Civil War. This victory helped to secure Florida's largest city for the Union and further hindered Confederate efforts in the state.

2. In 1913, the city of Miami was incorporated on December 23. Miami would grow rapidly over the following decades to become a major center of commerce, tourism, and culture in Florida and the United States.

3. On December 23, 1972, Eastern Airlines Flight 401 crashed into the Florida Everglades, killing 103 people on board. The tragedy led to improved safety procedures and training in the airline industry.

4. The first space shuttle launch from Cape Canaveral occurred on December 23, 1981. The shuttle Columbia lifted off on its maiden flight and marked a new era in space exploration.

5. In 2019, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Houston Texans 23-20 in a thrilling NFL game on December 23. This victory helped to improve the Buccaneers' playoff chances and showcased the team's potential as a contender in the league.