1. A famous Christmas story was first published on 19 December 1843 and had sold out its first printing by Christmas Eve. Name the book, and its London publisher.

2. On 19 December 1776, during the darkest days of the American Revolution, a pamphlet appeared that began "These are the times that try men's souls". What was the series called, and who wrote it?

3. On 19 December 1777, George Washington's exhausted Continental Army marched into its winter camp in Pennsylvania. What was the camp called?

4. Which English novelist died on 19 December 1848, aged 30, only a year after her one and only novel was published? Name the novel, and the male pen name she wrote under.

5. Which English painter, known as "the painter of light", died on 19 December 1851? One of his paintings, of an old warship being towed to the breakers, appears on the Bank of England's current £20 note. Name the painting.

6. On 19 December 1972, the crew of Apollo 17 splashed down in the Pacific, the last people so far to return from the Moon. Which aircraft carrier recovered them?

7. On 19 December 1984, the British and Chinese governments signed the agreement for Hong Kong's return to China. Which two leaders signed it, and in which year did the handover take place?

8. On 19 December 1998, the US House of Representatives impeached Bill Clinton. Who was the only president impeached before him?

9. On 19 December 1932, the BBC began broadcasting its "Empire Service" on shortwave. By what name is it known today?

10. Which French singer, born in Paris on 19 December 1915, was nicknamed "the little sparrow" and is famous for "La Vie en rose" and "Non, je ne regrette rien"?