Ford Ends Edsel Production: A Look Back at Historic Events Today

UPDATE: On this day, November 19, 2025, we remember a pivotal moment in automotive history as Ford Motor Company officially announced the end of production for the Edsel, a vehicle that became synonymous with failure upon its launch in 1957. The decision, made on November 19, 1959, marked a significant shift in the American automotive landscape.

KEY HISTORICAL MOMENTS: Today also marks the anniversary of several monumental events. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln delivered the iconic Gettysburg Address, a speech that is still celebrated for its profound impact on American history. This address was given during the dedication of a national cemetery at the site of the bloody Civil War battlefield in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

In 1969, astronauts Charles Conrad and Alan Bean of the Apollo 12 mission made their second successful crewed landing on the moon, paving the way for future space exploration. Fast forward to 1977, when Egyptian President Anwar Sadat became the first Arab leader to visit Israel, an event that marked a significant step towards peace in the region.

The political landscape also saw significant developments in 1985 when U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail S. Gorbachev met for their first summit in Geneva, an initial step towards easing Cold War tensions.

In more recent history, on November 19, 2017, notorious cult leader Charles Manson passed away at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy tied to one of the most infamous murder cases in American history.

It is also a day of remembrance for the tragic event that occurred in 2022, when a shooter opened fire at an LGBTQ+ nightclub in Colorado Springs, resulting in the loss of five lives and injuring 25 others. This incident highlighted ongoing issues surrounding gun violence and safety in communities across the United States.

TODAY’S BIRTHDAYS: Notable figures celebrating their birthdays today include talk show host Dick Cavett, who turns 89, media mogul Ted Turner at 87, and fashion designer Calvin Klein at 83. The day also marks the birthdays of other prominent personalities, such as actress Jodie Foster (63) and entrepreneur Jack Dorsey (49).

As we reflect on these historical milestones, today’s events remind us of the profound impact individuals and decisions can have on our world. Stay tuned for updates on how these historical anniversaries resonate with current developments and public sentiment.