Historical Events
- Ballon d'Or: Hamburg's English forward Kevin Keegan wins his 1st of 2 consecutive trophies as best football player in Europe; beats Barcelona striker Hans Krankl and Anderlecht winger Rob Rensenbrink
Television Premiere
CBS Television's premiere of its version of "Les Miserables", starring Richard Jordan and Anthony Perkins

Anthony Perkins
- Spain becomes a democracy after 40 years of dictatorship as King Juan Carlos ratifies Spain's 1st democratic constitution
Famous Deaths
- Bob de Lange [Jacob Bernard de Lange], Dutch actor and director (Daniel), dies at 62
- Chris Bell, American rock guitarist (Big Star), dies in a car crash at 27
- Houari Boumédiènne, President of Algeria (1965-78), dies at 51
1978 Highlights
About December 27, 1978
Day of the Week: Wednesday
How Long Ago? 42 years, 2 months and 13 days
Leap Year: No
Generation Generation X
Chinese Zodiac: Horse
Star Sign: Capricorn