What happened today in history?

What happened
today in history?
[ Apr 12 ]

2024 - Remembering Don Donoher: A Basketball Legend

Don Donoher, the legendary college basketball coach at the University of Dayton, passed away at age 92. With an impressive coaching career from 1964 to 1989, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and influence in the world of college basketball.

2022 - Remembering Gilbert Gottfried: A Comedic Legend

Gilbert Gottfried, the beloved American stand-up comedian and actor, passed away in 2022 at the age of 67. Known for his roles in SNL and as Iago in Aladdin, Gottfried captivated audiences with his unique voice and irreverent humor, leaving behind a rich legacy in the comedy world.

Remembering Gilbert Gottfried: A Comedic Legend

2019 - Remembering Georgia Engel: A Beloved Actress

Georgia Engel, beloved actress known for her roles in 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show' and 'Hot In Cleveland', passed away at 70. Renowned for her unique voice and charming performances, Engel left an unforgettable legacy in television comedy.

2018 - Remembering John Melcher: A Life of Service

John Melcher, a dedicated American politician and member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Montana, passed away at the age of 93 in 2018. His legacy includes significant contributions to healthcare and education, reflecting his commitment to public service.

2017 - The Life and Legacy of Barry “Frosty” Smith

Barry “Frosty” Smith was an influential American drummer known for his work in rock, country, and blues. He collaborated with notable artists like Lee Michaels, Roky Erikson, and Doug Sahm, leaving an enduring legacy before his death in 2017.

2016 - Alan Loveday: A Tribute to a Legendary Violinist

Alan Loveday, the renowned New Zealand and British violinist, passed away in 2016 at the age of 88, leaving behind a rich legacy in classical music characterized by his exquisite talent and commitment to mentoring future generations.

2016 - The Life and Legacy of Anne Jackson

Anne Jackson, an iconic American stage actress known for her role in 'Twice Around the Park', passed away in 2016 at the age of 90. Her legacy in theater continues to inspire, reflecting her passion and talent in bringing characters to life.

2016 - David Gest: A Life Remembered

David Gest, an influential American television producer, passed away on April 12, 2016, at the age of 62. Known for his vibrant personality and significant contributions to the entertainment industry, Gest left a lasting mark on the world of television and music.

2014 - The Legacy of Fred Ho: A Musical and Activist Icon

Fred Ho, a renowned American jazz baritone saxophonist and social activist, passed away in 2014 from colon cancer. His influential work as a composer and playwright made significant contributions to music and social justice, making him an icon of cultural pride.

2013 - Tribute to Marv Harshman: A Basketball Legend

Marv Harshman, a legendary college basketball coach, passed away in 2013 at the age of 95. Known for his leadership at Pacific Lutheran, Washington State, and Washington, he was a two-time Pac-10 Coach of the Year and left a lasting mark on the sport.

2012 - Remembering George Mesterhazy: A Jazz Legacy

George Mesterhazy, a gifted Hungarian-American jazz pianist and arranger, passed away at the age of 56 in 2012. His influential career shaped modern jazz, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire musicians around the world.

2010 - The Legacy of Palito: Remembering Reynaldo Hipolito

Reynaldo Hipolito, fondly known as Palito, was a beloved Filipino slapstick comedian and actor who passed away at the age of 76 in 2010. His unique comedic style and contributions to Philippine entertainment continue to influence generations of comedians today.

2008 - Remembering Danny Davis: A Musical Legacy

2008 Danny Davis [George Nowlan], American session trumpeter, pop-country music bandleader (The Nashville Brass - "I Saw the Light"), singer (Speed Racer theme), and record producer (Connie Francis), dies of a heart attack at 83

2007 - The Life and Legacy of Kevin Crease

Kevin Crease, born in 1936, was a prominent Australian TV anchor known for his impactful broadcasting career that shaped journalism in Australia. He passed away in 2007, leaving a lasting legacy in the media industry.

2006 - Remembering Puggy Pearson: A Poker Legend

Puggy Pearson, a prominent American poker player known for his World Series of Poker victories, died in 2006 from heart failure. His legacy includes four WSOP bracelets and a significant impact on modern poker.

2003 - The Legacy of Cecil H. Green: A Pioneer in Geophysics

Cecil H. Green, the influential English-American geophysicist and co-founder of Texas Instruments, passed away in 2003 at the age of 102. His pioneering work in geophysics and enduring philanthropic efforts have left a lasting legacy in science and education.

1997 - The Legacy of George Wald: A Pioneer in Physiology

George Wald (1906-1997) was a groundbreaking American physiologist and biologist who won the Nobel Prize in 1967 for his research on vitamin A in the retina. His contributions revolutionized our understanding of vision and left a lasting impact on science and environmental advocacy.

The Legacy of George Wald: A Pioneer in Physiology

1995 - The Legacy of Chris Pyne: Remembering a Jazz Icon

Chris Pyne, a celebrated British jazz trombonist known for his work with renowned acts like Mike Gibbs and Ronnie Scott, passed away at the age of 56 in 1995. His remarkable contributions to jazz music continue to inspire musicians today.

1993 - The Death of Isaías Rojas: A Reflection on His Legacy

Isaías Rojas, the former vice president of Argentina from 1955 to 1958, passed away on June 18, 1993. Known for his significant role during a tumultuous period in the nation's history, Rojas left behind a legacy of dedication to political stability and public service.

1993 - Remembering Patience Jarvis: A Life Cut Short by Melanoma

Patience Jarvis, an inspiring community advocate, died in 1993 from melanoma at age 56. Her life and struggles with skin cancer highlight the importance of awareness and prevention. Through her advocacy, she left a lasting impact on many, continuing to inspire efforts against skin cancer today.

1989 - The Life and Legacy of Gerald Flood

Gerald Flood, the British actor known for his roles in Doctor Who and Patton, passed away from a heart attack in 1989 at the age of 61. His remarkable performances left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, making him a beloved figure among fans and colleagues alike.

1988 - The Life and Legacy of Charles Melvin Price

Charles Melvin Price, a prominent American politician from Illinois, served in Congress from 1945 to 1988. His legacy includes significant contributions to healthcare and civil rights. He passed away at the age of 83, leaving behind a remarkable impact on American politics.

1984 - The Legacy of Ruth Taylor: A Life in Film

Ruth Taylor, renowned actress best known for her role in 'Gentlemen Prefer Blondes', passed away in 1984 at 76. Her talent and charm left a significant impact on the film industry, marking her as a Hollywood icon. Explore her legacy and contributions to cinema.

1981 - The Legacy of Hans Chemin-Petit: A Musical Journey

Hans Chemin-Petit, a renowned German composer, passed away in 1981 at the age of 78. His innovative approach to music left a significant impact on contemporary music, blending various styles and inspiring future generations of composers.

1981 - The Legacy of Joe Louis: A Champion Remembered

Joe Louis, the Brown Bomber and famed heavyweight champion from 1937 to 1949, passed away at the age of 66 due to cardiac arrest. His influence on boxing and American culture remains significant, inspiring future generations beyond his achievements in the ring.

The Legacy of Joe Louis: A Champion Remembered

1980 - The Legacy of Clark McConachy: A Billiard Icon

Clark McConachy, renowned New Zealand billiards player and competitor in the 1951 World Professional Championships, passed away at 84. He is remembered for his exceptional skills and significant contributions to the sport, inspiring future generations of players.

1977 - The Legacy of Philip K. Wrigley: A Baseball Icon

Philip K. Wrigley, the influential owner of the Chicago Cubs from 1932 until his death in 1977, made lasting contributions to Major League Baseball and the team's legacy. His passing marked the end of a significant chapter in baseball history.

1975 - The Legacy of Josephine Baker: A Life Cut Short

Josephine Baker, the renowned American-French song and dance artist, actress, and civil rights activist, passed away on April 12, 1975, due to a cerebral hemorrhage. Her remarkable legacy in art and activism continues to inspire generations.

The Legacy of Josephine Baker: A Life Cut Short

1974 - The Legacy of Alfons "Fud" Candrix: A Jazz Icon

Alfons "Fud" Candrix was a celebrated Belgian jazz saxophonist, violinist, and bandleader who significantly influenced the jazz scene until his passing in 1974 at the age of 65. This article explores his life, contributions, and lasting impact on music.

1971 - The Life and Legacy of Wynton Kelly

The life of Wynton Kelly, an influential American jazz pianist, was tragically shortened by an epileptic seizure at the age of 39. Known for his collaborations with legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis, his legacy continues to inspire jazz musicians worldwide.

1963 - The Legacy of Alfred Métraux: A Life of Anthropology

Alfred Métraux, a prominent Swiss anthropologist, passed away on December 12, 1963. Renowned for his scholarly work on Haitian Vodou, Métraux's efforts contributed significantly to understanding and preserving indigenous cultures, leaving a lasting legacy in anthropology.

1963 - The Legacy of Herbie Nichols: An Unsung Jazz Composer

Herbie Nichols, an influential American jazz pianist and composer, died at the age of 43 in 1963 from leukemia. Best known for his piece "Lady Sings the Blues," Nichols' innovative style and contributions to jazz continue to inspire musicians today.

1962 - Tragic Death of Ron Flockhart

Ron Flockhart, a celebrated Scottish auto racer known for his achievements in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, tragically died in a plane accident at the age of 38 in 1962. His legacy as a skilled driver continues to inspire generations in motorsport.

1954 - The Legacy of Pim Mulier: A Pioneer in Dutch Sports

Pim Mulier, a significant figure in Dutch sports, founded key associations like the Dutch Football and Athletics Association. His passing in 1954 marked the end of a pivotal era, yet his legacy as a pioneer in sports continues to inspire many today.

1953 - The Death of Lionel Logue: A Speech Therapist's Legacy

Lionel Logue, the renowned Australian speech therapist who played a vital role in treating King George VI's stutter, passed away in 1953. His innovative techniques and compassionate care greatly impacted the field of speech therapy and the British monarchy.

1951 - The Life and Legacy of Harold Vincent Milligan

Harold Vincent Milligan, an esteemed American musician and composer, passed away at the age of 62 in 1951, leaving an impactful legacy that still resonates in the world of music today. His contributions shaped American music during a transformative era.

1946 - The Death of F. Guicciardi: A Literary Loss in 1946

The passing of F. Guicciardi in 1946 marked a significant loss in literature. Known for his poignant storytelling and deep understanding of the human experience, his works left a lasting impact on readers and writers alike, solidifying his legacy.

1938 - The Legacy of Feodor Chaliapin: A Musical Icon's End

Feodor Chaliapin, the renowned Russian operatic bass-baritone, died at age 65 from leukemia in 1938. His extraordinary voice and emotive performances left an indelible mark on the world of opera, making his loss felt deeply across the artistic community.

1922 - The Legacy of František Ondříček: A Czech Virtuoso

František Ondříček, a renowned Czech violinist and composer, died at the age of 64 on February 5, 1922. His legacy as a musician continues to inspire violinists and music lovers alike, marking a significant end to a pivotal figure in classical music.

1912 - The Life and Legacy of Clara Barton

Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross, passed away on April 12, 1912, at the age of 90, from tuberculosis. Her extraordinary life dedicated to nursing and humanitarian work has left a profound legacy on American society and beyond.

The Life and Legacy of Clara Barton

1896 - The Life and Legacy of Alexander Ritter

Alexander Ritter, a prominent German composer, passed away on March 17, 1896. He was well-known for his innovative contributions to 19th-century music, influencing the landscape of classical music. His death at 62 marked a significant loss in the artistic community.

1881 - The Life and Death of James L. Lardner

Explore the life and legacy of James L. Lardner, an esteemed naval officer during the American Civil War, who passed away in 1881. His contributions to naval history and leadership inspired future generations of sailors.

1878 - The Death of Boss Tweed: A Fall from Power

Boss Tweed, the infamous Tammany Hall leader, fell from grace due to corruption, eventually dying in prison from pneumonia. His life and legal woes highlighted the rampant political corruption in 19th-century New York, prompting significant reforms.

The Death of Boss Tweed: A Fall from Power

1876 - The Life and Legacy of Joseph Dana Webster

Joseph Dana Webster was an influential American civil engineer and Brevet Major General who passed away in 1876. His legacy as a military leader and engineering innovator continues to inspire. Explore his impactful life and contributions to infrastructure and military strategies.

1872 - The Death of Nikolaos Mantzaros: A Musical Legacy

Nikolaos Mantzaros, an Italian-Greek composer, died on April 15, 1872. His contributions to music blended Italian and Greek traditions, leaving a lasting legacy in classical music. He was influential in both his home country and Italy, setting the stage for future composers.

1828 - The Death of Jean Henri Appelius: A Political Legacy

Jean Henri Appelius, a prominent Dutch lawyer and Minister of Finance, passed away in 1828 at the age of 60. His contributions significantly impacted Dutch economic policies during a tumultuous time, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of governance.

1748 - The Life and Legacy of William Kent

William Kent, the influential English sculptor and architect known for his work at Kensington Palace, died in 1748. His innovative designs shaped 18th-century architecture and landscape gardening, leaving a lasting legacy in England.

1690 - The Life and Death of Miguel Gómez Camargo

In 1690, Miguel Gómez Camargo, a noted Spanish composer, passed away at 71. His contributions to baroque and sacred music reflect the creative spirit of his time, influencing generations of musicians that followed.

1125 - The Reign and Death of Vladislaus I of Bohemia

Vladislaus I of Bohemia ruled from 1109 to 1117 and again from 1120 until his death in 1125. His reign marked a significant period of Christianization and political stability for the Duchy, laying the groundwork for future rulers and the continued development of Bohemian society.

434 - The Passing of Archbishop Maximianus of Constantinople

Archbishop Maximianus of Constantinople passed away in 434, leaving a significant legacy in church unity and theological clarity during a turbulent period. His contributions shaped the future leadership and doctrinal developments of the Christian faith.

238 - The Tragic Fate of Emperor Gordian I

The tragic tale of Roman Emperor Gordian I, who after losing a monumental battle and the death of his son Gordian II, took his own life. This event underscores the turmoil of the 3rd century Roman Empire and the profound personal losses faced by its leaders.