What happened today in history?

What happened
today in history?
[ Dec 12 ]

2021 - In Memoriam: Yury Sharov, Olympic Fencer Gone at 82

Yury Sharov, the legendary Russian fencer who won Olympic gold in 1964 and silver in 1968, has passed away at the age of 82. His contributions to fencing and sports are celebrated, marking the end of an influential era in competitive fencing.

2020 - The Legacy of Charley Pride: A Musical Icon's Final Days

Charley Pride, the legendary country singer, passed away at the age of 86 due to complications from COVID-19. Known for breaking racial barriers in the music industry, his legacy continues to inspire. His impactful music and contributions will never be forgotten.

2020 - Tragic Death of Motjeka Madisha

Motjeka Madisha, a talented South African soccer defender known for his time with Mamelodi Sundowns, tragically died in a car accident at just 25. His sudden passing left a profound impact on his team and the broader football community.

2019 - Remembering Danny Aiello: A Life in Cinema

Danny Aiello, an acclaimed American actor and singer known for iconic roles in films like 'Moonstruck' and 'Do The Right Thing', passed away at 86 in December 2019. His legacy in cinema continues to inspire and resonate with audiences.

2019 - Remembering Jack Scott: A Legacy in Rock and Roll

Jack Scott, the Canadian rock and roll singer-songwriter known for his hit "My True Love," passed away on September 12, 2019, at the age of 83 due to congestive heart failure. His musical legacy continues to resonate with fans worldwide.

2019 - Remembering Vaughan Johnson: A Pro Bowl Linebacker

Vaughan Johnson, a celebrated NFL linebacker known for his Pro Bowl appearances, died at 57 due to kidney disease. Remembered for his impact on the game, he played for the New Orleans Saints and Philadelphia Eagles, inspiring future generations of athletes.

2016 - The Untimely Passing of Walter Swinburn

Walter Swinburn, a celebrated English jockey known for his Epsom Derby wins, tragically died in 2016 after falling from a window. His legacy in horse racing and his unique personality as 'The Singing Jockey' continue to inspire fans and fellow riders alike.

2008 - The Life and Legacy of Charles Van Johnson

Charles Van Johnson, a beloved American actor known for films like A Guy Named Joe and Brigadoon, passed away at the age of 92. Renowned for his quirky style, he famously donned red socks. His legacy in the entertainment industry continues to inspire future generations.

2008 - Tassos Papadopoulos: A Remembered Leader

Tassos Papadopoulos, the former President of Cyprus, passed away from cancer on December 12, 2008, at 74. Known for his significant political contributions, his death marked a poignant moment in Cypriot history, leaving behind a complex legacy and memories of his commitment to the nation.

2007 - The Life and Legacy of Ike Turner

This article explores the life and legacy of Ike Turner, a pioneering musician known for hits like "Rocket 88" and his collaborations with Tina Turner. It delves into his struggles, death by cocaine overdose in 2007, and lasting influence on music.

2006 - The Life and Legacy of Annette Strøyberg

Annette Strøyberg, a renowned Danish actress famed for her role in 'Les Liaisons dangereuses,' tragically passed away from cancer in 2006 at age 69. Her contributions to film continue to resonate, showcasing her vibrant spirit and talent.

2006 - Remembering Paul Arizin: Basketball Legend Passes Away

Paul Arizin, a Basketball Hall of Fame player, passed away at age 78 in his sleep. Known for his incredible skills as a small forward for the Philadelphia Warriors, Arizin was a 10-time NBA All Star and a two-time NBA scoring champion, deeply influencing the sport.

Remembering Paul Arizin: Basketball Legend Passes Away

2004 - In Memory of Frank Isola: A Jazz Legend

Frank Isola, an American jazz drummer renowned for his work with Stan Getz, Gerry Mulligan, and Mose Allison, passed away in 2004. His impactful style and contributions to the music world left a lasting legacy in the jazz community.

2002 - Remembering Dee Brown: A Life of Storytelling

Dee Brown, born in 1908 in Louisiana, was a renowned American author best known for his work 'Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee.' He passed away in 2002, leaving a significant impact on American literature and the portrayal of Native American history.

2002 - The Life and Death of Jay Wesley Neill

Jay Wesley Neill, an American convicted mass murderer, died at the age of 37 in 2002. His heinous crimes in the 1990s shocked the nation and left a lasting impact on the community. Neill's conviction and life sentence served as a grim reminder of the effects of violence.

1999 - Remembering Leo Smit: A Legacy in Music and Art

Leo Smit, a prominent American classical pianist and composer, died at 78 due to congestive heart failure in 1999. Renowned for his work 'The Alchemy of Love', Smit also inspired many as a teacher and captured his artistic vision through photography.

1997 - The Life and Legacy of Mouse Randolph

Irving "Mouse" Randolph, a renowned American swing jazz trumpeter, passed away in 1997 at the age of 88. His remarkable contributions with the Cab Calloway Orchestra left a lasting impact on the music world, forever celebrated in the annals of jazz history.

1997 - The Life and Legacy of Evgenii Landis

Evgenii Landis, a notable Soviet Russian mathematician, passed away in 1997 at the age of 77. His contributions to the field of mathematics, particularly in differential equations, leave a lasting legacy in the academic world.

1996 - The Life and Legacy of Vance Packard

Vance Packard, the influential American journalist known for 'The Hidden Persuaders', died at the age of 82 in 1996. His works critically examined consumerism and the psychological tactics used in advertising, leaving a lasting impact on journalism and marketing ethics.

1993 - Remembering Jeremiah Sullivan: A Life Cut Short

Jeremiah Sullivan, acclaimed actor known for roles in 'Soldier' and 'Double-Stop', died of AIDS in 1993 at 58. His career highlighted the challenges faced within the industry and left a lasting impact on the LGBTQ+ community.

1993 - The Legacy of Mary Jarred: A Life in Music

Mary Jarred, a celebrated British mezzo-soprano and contralto, known for her role in The Rake's Progress, passed away in 1993 at the age of 94. Her unparalleled contributions to music and her inspiring performances left a lasting legacy in the world of opera.

1992 - The Life and Death of Bernard CJ Lievegoed

Bernard CJ Lievegoed, a Dutch anthroposopher known for his work in education and his role in the Free College, passed away at the age of 87 in 1992. His legacy in anthroposophy continues to inspire educators and spiritual seekers alike.

1992 - The Legacy of Jasu Patel: Remembering the Spin Bowler

Jasu Patel, a prominent Indian cricket spin bowler, passed away in 1992 at the age of 68. Renowned for his remarkable performance, he achieved 29 wickets in 7 Tests, highlighting an illustrious career in Indian cricket history, particularly impressive was his best bowling figure of 9-69 against Australia.

1992 - Commemorating the Life of Suzanne Lilar

This article reflects upon the influential life of Suzanne Lilar, a Belgian essayist, novelist, and playwright, who passed away in 1992. Known for her contribution to literature, Lilar's works explored complex themes of identity and feminism.

1991 - The Life and Legacy of Ken Keltner

Ken Keltner, a renowned MLB third baseman known for his tenure with the Cleveland Indians and Boston Red Sox, died of a heart attack in 1991 at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy of talent and dedication to the sport.

1985 - The Untimely Death of Ian Stewart

Ian Stewart, the Scottish keyboardist and co-founder of The Rolling Stones, tragically passed away from a heart attack in 1985 at the age of 47, leaving a lasting impact on rock music and its history.

1977 - The Life and Legacy of Clementine Churchill

Clementine Churchill, the influential wife of Winston Churchill and a significant figure in her own right, passed away in 1977 at the age of 92. Her life was marked by strength, support, and numerous contributions to society.

1977 - A Tribute to Frank Boucher: A Hockey Legend

Frank Boucher, a distinguished figure in Canadian hockey, passed away in 1977 at the age of 76. Known for his successful playing career, coaching stint with the New York Rangers, and as a Hockey Hall of Fame inductee, Boucher's legacy continues to inspire future generations of players and fans.

1971 - The Tragic Death of Frank Wolff

Frank Wolff, an actor known for films like 'Erotic Illusion', tragically committed suicide at the young age of 43 in 1971. His death shocked many and brought attention to the mental health struggles faced by actors in Hollywood.

1971 - Assassination of Senator Jack Barnhill

Jack Barnhill, a Northern Ireland senator, was tragically assassinated in 1971 during a violent conflict known as The Troubles. His commitment to peace and dialogue left a significant legacy and highlighted the dangers faced by those advocating for unity amid division.

1971 - The Life and Legacy of John A. Emmens

John A. Emmens, a celebrated Dutch art historian and poet known for his work "Dog of Pavlov," passed away in 1971 at the age of 47. His contributions to art history and poetry continue to inspire future generations, bridging the worlds of visual art and literary expression.

1963 - The Death of Yasujiro Ozu: A Quiet Reflection

Yasujiro Ozu, the renowned Japanese film director famous for his enduring works like 'Tokyo Story,' passed away on December 12, 1963. His unique cinematic style and exploration of family life continue to inspire filmmakers and cinephiles globally.

1959 - The Life and Legacy of Russell Simpson

Russell Simpson, a celebrated American actor from San Francisco, known for his roles in films like 'Abraham Lincoln,' passed away in 1959 at the age of 82. His legacy continues to influence the film industry today.

1952 - The Legacy of Bedřich Hrozný: Pioneer of Hittitology

Bedřich Hrozný, a renowned Czech orientalist and linguist, passed away in 1952 at the age of 73. He was a pioneer in Hittitology, significantly advancing our understanding of the Hittite civilization and language, with his work continuing to impact the field today.

1946 - The Life and Legacy of Ben Carter

Ben Carter was an influential American actor and civil rights activist who died from diphtheria at the young age of 36. Renowned for his roles in 'Crash Dive' and 'Dark Alibi', he left a lasting legacy both on screen and in the fight for equality.

1939 - The End of an Era: The Death of Douglas Fairbanks

Douglas Fairbanks, a legendary American actor known for iconic roles in 'The Mark of Zorro' and 'Robin Hood', passed away from a heart attack in 1939 at the age of 56, marking the end of a significant chapter in Hollywood's Golden Age.

The End of an Era: The Death of Douglas Fairbanks

1927 - The Legacy of Heinrich Reitsch: Composer Extraordinaire

Heinrich Reitsch, a celebrated composer born in 1860, passed away in 1927 at the age of 67. His influential works left an indelible mark on classical music, inspiring future generations. This article delves into his life, contributions, and the legacy he left behind.

1923 - The Untimely Death of Raymond Radiguet

Raymond Radiguet, a talented French journalist and writer, tragically died of typhoid fever at the young age of 20 in 1923. Known for his novel 'Ball du Comte', Radiguet left a lasting impression on literature despite his brief life.

1922 - The Legacy of John Wanamaker: A Merchant Innovator

John Wanamaker, an influential American merchant and pioneer in marketing, passed away in 1922 at the age of 84. He is best known for founding Wanamaker's Department Store and serving as Postmaster General, leaving a significant legacy in retail and philanthropy.

1921 - The Life and Legacy of Henrietta Swan Leavitt

Henrietta Swan Leavitt, an influential American astronomer known for her work on variable stars and the period-luminosity relation, died on December 12, 1921. Her contributions transformed astronomical measurements and continue to influence the field today.

1920 - The Impact of Olive Schreiner's Legacy

Olive Schreiner, a renowned South African writer known for her contributions to literature and feminism, died at the age of 75 on September 10, 1920. Her legacy continues to inspire discussions on social justice and equality.

1914 - The Tragic Lynching of Watkins Lewis in Shreveport, 1914

In 1914, Watkins Lewis, an African American laborer, was lynched in Shreveport, Louisiana, after being falsely accused. This brutal event highlighted the rampant racial violence of the era and sparked nationwide outrage, proving to be a catalyst for the civil rights movement.

1889 - The Life and Legacy of Viktor Bunyakovsky

Viktor Bunyakovsky (1804-1889) was a prominent Russian mathematician known for his contributions to number theory and mathematical inequalities, leaving a lasting impact on future research in mathematics.

1847 - The Legacy of James Kent: American Legal Scholar

James Kent, an esteemed American legal scholar and former Chancellor of New York, passed away in 1847 at the age of 84. His influential works, particularly 'Commentaries on American Law,' greatly shaped the American legal landscape and education.

1843 - The Death of William I of the Netherlands

William I, the King of the Netherlands, passed away in 1843 at the age of 71. His reign was noted for modernization efforts and diplomatic contributions, marking significant milestones in Dutch history before his abdication in 1840.

1821 - The Extraordinary Life and Death of Phoebe Hessel

Phoebe Hessel was an English woman who disguised herself as a man to serve in the British Army, motivated by her love for Samuel Golding. She lived an extraordinary life and died at the age of 108 in 1821, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of courage and resilience.

1817 - The Death of Emperor Tekle Giyorgis I of Ethiopia

Emperor Tekle Giyorgis I of Ethiopia died in 1817, having led the nation through a tumultuous period of reform and conflict. His reign is remembered for its efforts in modernization and cultural patronage, influencing Ethiopia for generations.

1790 - The Death of Mikhail Shcherbatov

Mikhail Shcherbatov, a key figure in the Russian Enlightenment, died in 1790 at the age of 57. His contributions as a writer, diplomat, and philosopher significantly influenced Russian thought and literature, marking the end of an era.

1777 - The Execution of Reverend Benjamin Russen

In 1777, Reverend Benjamin Russen was executed at Tyburn for the crime of rape, a case that shocked society and raised questions about morality in the clergy. His execution highlighted the severe consequences of such heinous acts and became a significant event in the discussion of legal reforms in England.

1754 - The Death of Wu Jingzi: A Legacy in Chinese Literature

Wu Jingzi, a renowned Chinese writer, known for his influential work 'Rulinwaishi', passed away in 1754. His satirical commentary on society and education left a lasting legacy in Chinese literature, making him a pivotal figure whose impact is felt to this day.

1751 - The Death of Henry St John, 1st Viscount Bolingbroke

Henry St John, 1st Viscount Bolingbroke, an influential English statesman and philosopher, died in 1751 at the age of 73. His contributions to both politics and philosophy left an indelible mark on British history, influencing future generations and shaping the ideals of the Enlightenment.

1677 - The Death of Admiral Jacob Binckes in 1677

Jacob Binckes, a notable Dutch admiral, died in 1677 during a naval battle in Chatham. His leadership and courage significantly impacted Dutch maritime history, and his death marked a tragic loss for the navy.

1600 - The Death of John Craig: A Scottish Church Reformer

John Craig, a Scottish church reformer and vicar at James VI's court, died in 1600, marking a significant moment in Scottish religious history. His advocacy for reform and scriptures dramatically influenced the Church of Scotland and its direction after his passing.

1212 - The Death of Geoffrey, Archbishop of York

The death of Geoffrey, Archbishop of York and the illegitimate son of King Henry II, marks a significant moment in English history. Geoffrey navigated the complexities of church and state, leaving a lasting impact despite facing challenges due to his illegitimate status.

1112 - The Death of Tancred: A Turning Point in Crusader History

The death of Tancred in 1112 marked a pivotal moment in the history of the Crusader states, resulting in a power vacuum that would alter the political landscape of the Holy Land. As a prominent leader during the Crusades, his legacy and military achievements remain significant to this day.