What happened today in history?

What happened
today in history?
[ Sep 12 ]

2023 - The Legacy of Gordon Kennett: Remembering a Speedway Legend

Gordon Kennett, an iconic English motorcycle speedway rider, passed away at 70 in 2023. Best known for winning the 1978 World Pairs Championship alongside Malcolm Simmons and being a runner-up in the World Championship, his legacy in speedway racing is celebrated by fans and the racing community alike.

2014 - The Life and Legacy of Donald Sinden

Donald Sinden, the esteemed English actor, passed away at the age of 90 in 2014 due to prostate cancer. Celebrated for his dynamic roles on stage and television, Sinden's legacy continues to inspire future generations in the world of entertainment.

2014 - The Life and Legacy of Joe Sample: A Jazz Legend

Joe Sample, a renowned jazz keyboardist and composer, passed away in 2014 at the age of 75 due to mesothelioma. Celebrated for his work with The Jazz Crusaders, his legacy in jazz music persists through his innovative compositions and collaborations.

2014 - The Legacy of Salah El Mahdi: A Musical Journey

Salah El Mahdi, a legendary Tunisian composer and conductor, passed away at the age of 89 in 2014, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that blended tradition with modernity. His contributions to music continue to inspire future generations of artists in Tunisia and beyond.

2011 - The Life and Legacy of Frits Castricum

Frits Castricum, a respected Dutch journalist and PvdA politician, passed away in 2011 at the age of 64, leaving a legacy of advocacy for social justice and the interplay of media and governance.

2008 - The Life and Legacy of David Foster Wallace

David Foster Wallace, the influential American author and essayist, passed away in 2008. His works, including 'Infinite Jest', reflect deep insights into society and profound struggles with mental health, leaving a lasting legacy in literature.

2000 - Remembering Gary Olsen: A Talented Actor Taken Too Soon

Gary Olsen, a talented British actor known for his role as Ben in the sitcom '2point4 Children', passed away at 42 from cancer. His contributions to the acting world are cherished, and he is remembered for his humor, charm, and resilience during his illness.

1999 - The Legacy of Bill Quackenbush: A Life Remembered

Bill Quackenbush, a renowned Canadian hockey defenceman and coach, passed away in 1999 after battling Alzheimer's disease. An 8-time NHL All-Star, he made significant contributions to both the Boston Bruins and the Detroit Red Wings, leaving a lasting legacy in the hockey community.

1996 - The Death of Ernesto Geisel: Brazil's 29th President

Ernesto Geisel, the 29th President of Brazil, died on September 12, 1996. He served from 1974-1979, guiding Brazil through a critical transition from military rule to democracy while facing economic challenges. His complex legacy continues to shape discuss on Brazilian politics.

1996 - The Legacy of Geoffrey Bryan Bentley: A Life in Theology

Geoffrey Bryan Bentley, a respected British Canon of Windsor and moral theologian, passed away in 1996 at the age of 87. His contributions to moral theology and the Anglican faith left a profound legacy that continues to influence discussions in ethics today.

1996 - The Life and Legacy of James Gulliver

James Gulliver, a prominent Scottish businessman and founder of Argyll Foods, passed away in 1996 at the age of 66. His contributions to the food industry and commitment to community development left an enduring legacy in Scotland.

1995 - Tragic Death of Balloonist John Stuart-Jervis

In 1995, balloonist John Stuart-Jervis tragically died at 68 when his balloon was mistakenly shot down over Belarus. Known for his adventurous spirit, Jervis's loss impacted the ballooning community and raised critical safety discussions.

1993 - The Life and Legacy of Harold Innocent

Harold Innocent was an esteemed English actor known for his role in 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves'. His career spanned across film, television, and theater. Tragically, he passed away at the age of 60 in 1993, leaving behind a rich legacy in the arts.

1992 - The Life and Final Days of Anthony Perkins

This article explores the life and career of Anthony Perkins, a prominent actor known for his roles in 'Psycho' and 'Friendly Persuasion', who tragically died from AIDS-related pneumonia in 1992 at the age of 60.

The Life and Final Days of Anthony Perkins

1991 - The Life and Legacy of Regis Toomey

Regis Toomey, a beloved American actor known for his roles in classic TV shows like Burke's Law and Petticoat Junction, passed away at the age of 93 in 1991. His remarkable career spanned over six decades, marking him as a significant figure in both film and television history.

1990 - The Life and Legacy of Athene Seyler

Athene Seyler, a prominent English actress known for her role in 'Make Mine Mink,' passed away in 1990 at the age of 101, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the theater and film industry.

1989 - The Tragic Death of Anton Lubowski

Anton Lubowski, a dedicated Namibian attorney and activist for SWAPO, was tragically murdered at the age of 37 in 1989. His death highlighted the dangers faced by those fighting for justice and left a lasting legacy in Namibia's struggle for independence.

1983 - Tribute to Sabin Carr: Olympic Pole Vault Champion

In 1983, Sabin Carr, an iconic American pole vaulter and Olympic gold medalist from the 1928 Games, passed away at the age of 79. Known for setting a world record in 1927, Carr's legacy continues to inspire future generations in athletics.

1980 - Remembering André Chéron: The End of a Chess Era

André Chéron, a noted French chess champion and endgame theorist, passed away at 84 in 1980. He was known for his remarkable skill, winning the French Championship three times in the late 1920s, and his contributions to endgame theory, influencing future generations of chess players.

1978 - The Life and Legacy of Frank Ferguson

Frank Ferguson was a beloved American character actor known for his roles in 'My Friend Flicka' and 'Peyton Place'. He passed away in 1978 from cancer, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances that continue to resonate with audiences.

1975 - In Memory of Doc Alexander: A Football Legend

Doc Alexander, a celebrated American football guard from Syracuse, passed away in 1975. As an All-Pro player and NFL champion, he left a lasting legacy in the sport and is remembered for his remarkable contributions on and off the field.

1973 - The Legacy of Marjorie Merriweather Post

Marjorie Merriweather Post, a pioneering American businesswoman and philanthropist known for elevating General Foods Corp and establishing Mar-a-Lago, died at the age of 86 in 1973, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the food industry and charitable initiatives.

1962 - The Life and Legacy of William Frederick Archdall Ellison

William Frederick Archdall Ellison was a prominent Irish clergyman and astronomer who served as the director of the Armagh Observatory until his untimely death in 1962 at age 53. He was known for merging his faith with his passion for astronomy, leaving a lasting legacy in both fields.

1956 - The Life and Legacy of Sándor Graf Festetics

Sándor Graf Festetics, a notable Hungarian nobleman and Minister of War, passed away on September 16, 1956. His political journey was marked by efforts to stabilize Hungary during a challenging post-war era. His death represented the decline of a significant generation.

1955 - The Life and Legacy of Gustave Vanzype

Gustave Vanzype, a notable Belgian literary figure and editor of La Gazette, passed away at the age of 86 in 1955, leaving behind a rich legacy in Belgian literature and journalism. His influence continues to inspire writers today.

1936 - The Life and Death of Hermann Hirt

Hermann Hirt, a prominent German linguist known for his work on Indo-European grammar, passed away in 1936, leaving a profound legacy in the field of linguistics. His contributions continue to influence modern language studies.

1927 - The Life and Legacy of Sarah Frances Whiting

Sarah Frances Whiting, an influential American physicist and astronomer, passed away on this day in 1927 at the age of 80. She was a pioneer in advocating for women's education in science, leaving behind a legacy that inspires future generations of scientists.

1926 - The Life and Legacy of Edmund Jenkins

Edmund Jenkins, a talented American clarinetist and composer, passed away at the age of 32 in 1926. Known for pieces like 'Charlestonia' and 'Afram,' Jenkins left a lasting legacy in jazz, inspiring future musicians with his innovative style.

1912 - The Death of Cardinal-Pierre Hector Coullie in 1912

Cardinal-Pierre Hector Coullie, a significant leader within the Catholic Church and the Archbishop of Lyon, passed away on April 4, 1912. His impact on the church and community echoed through social reforms and modernization efforts during a transformative era in France.

1879 - The Death of Peter Arnold Heise

The death of Peter Arnold Heise in 1879 marked a significant loss for Danish music. A celebrated composer and teacher, Heise's works, like 'Drot og Marsk', left an enduring legacy in the musical landscape of Denmark.

1876 - The Death of Henry A. Wise: A Political Legacy

Henry A. Wise, the 33rd Governor of Virginia and a prominent political figure during the Civil War, passed away on September 12, 1876. His career reflects a complex legacy shaped by his staunch support for the Confederacy and his impact on Virginia's political landscape.

1870 - The Life and Death of Fitz Hugh Ludlow

Fitz Hugh Ludlow, a significant figure in 19th-century literature, best known for 'The Hasheesh Eater', passed away in 1870 at the age of 34. His influential writings explored the effects of drug use, shaping conversations around substance and consciousness.

1869 - The Legacy of Peter Mark Roget: A Life Well-Lived

Peter Mark Roget, the influential British lexicographer known for Roget's Thesaurus, passed away in 1869 at the age of 90. His contributions to language and invention, such as the slide rule and pocket chessboard, left a lasting legacy.

The Legacy of Peter Mark Roget: A Life Well-Lived

1861 - The Life and Legacy of George N. Briggs

George N. Briggs, the 19th Governor of Massachusetts, died on this day in 1861 at the age of 65. A dedicated lawyer and politician, his legacy included efforts in education and support for the Union during the Civil War.

1860 - The Death of John Winebrenner: A Legacy Remembered

John Winebrenner, a prominent American clergyman and founder of the Church of God General Conference, passed away in 1860 at the age of 63. His legacy continues through the church he established, emphasizing inclusivity and community involvement. His death marked a significant chapter in the history of American Christianity.

1836 - The Tragic Death of Christian Dietrich Grabbe

Christian Dietrich Grabbe, a significant German writer and dramatist, passed away in 1836 at the young age of 34 due to syphilis. His contributions to the literary world, though overshadowed by his health battles, continue to inspire playwrights today.

1815 - The Legacy of José Maurício: A Musical Pioneer

The death of José Maurício in 1815 marked a significant moment in Portuguese music history. As a renowned organist and composer, his contributions to sacred music and modinhas left an enduring impact on the cultural landscape of his time.

1807 - The Death of Edward Miller: An Influential English Musician

Edward Miller, a renowned English organist and composer, passed away in 1807, leaving a legacy of musical compositions and theoretical insights that continue to influence musicians today. His work in the Treatise of Thorough Bass and Composition remains significant in music education.

1806 - The Legacy of Christian Gottfried Thomas

Christian Gottfried Thomas, a notable German composer, publisher, and musicologist, passed away in 1806 at the age of 58. His contributions to music and music publishing had a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of the time.

1789 - The Legacy of Franz Xaver Richter: A Musical Pioneer

Franz Xaver Richter, an influential Austro-Moravian musician, passed away in 1789 at the age of 79. Celebrated for his contributions as a singer, composer, and theorist, Richter's legacy continues to shape classical music through his innovative works and teachings.

1764 - The Life and Death of Jean Philippe Rameau

Jean Philippe Rameau, the influential French composer known for works like Castor et Pollux, passed away in 1764. His contributions to opera and music theory left a profound legacy that shaped the future of Western classical music.

1674 - The Life and Legacy of Nicolaas Tulp

Nicolaas Tulp, the influential Mayor of Amsterdam from 1654 to 1671, passed away in 1674 at the age of 80, leaving a lasting legacy in politics and medicine during the Dutch Golden Age.

1647 - The Death of Joos Banckert: A Maritime Legend

In 1647, Swiss Dutch navy admiral Joos Banckert, known as the "Scourge of the Marranos" and "Terror of the Portuguese," died at sea while returning from Brazil. His legacy as a formidable naval commander shapes the narrative of maritime warfare during his time.

1604 - The Death of Louis Gunther, Count of Nassau

In 1604, Louis Gunther, Count of Nassau, tragically died in battle at the age of just 29. His story reflects not only his valor but also the harsh realities of wartime sacrifice during a tumultuous period in European history.

1591 - The Final Stand of Richard Grenville

Richard Grenville, the English privateer and explorer known for establishing the Roanoke colony, died heroically during the Battle of Flores in 1591, showcasing his unwavering bravery as a vice-admiral fighting against overwhelming odds.

1500 - The Death of Albert III, Duke of Saxony

The death of Albert III, Duke of Saxony, on December 12, 1500, at age 57 marked a pivotal moment in history, altering the political landscape and cultural direction of the region, impacting succession, and leaving a lasting legacy.

1362 - The Death of Pope Innocent VI: A Historic Transition

Pope Innocent VI, born Etienne Aubert, passed away on September 12, 1362, marking a significant transition for the Catholic Church during a tumultuous era. His leadership and achievements left a lasting impact, while his death prompted urgent succession discussions.

1213 - The Life and Death of Peter II of Aragon

Peter II, the King of Aragon, met a tragic fate at the age of 35 during the Battle of Muret in 1213, a conflict that marked a turning point in medieval Catalonian history. His ambition to unify Catalonia is remembered alongside his valor and tragic demise.

1185 - The Lynching of Andronicus I Comnenus

In 1185, Andronicus I Comnenus, the Byzantine Emperor, met a violent end through lynching as civil unrest against his harsh rule escalated. His death signified a critical turning point in Byzantine politics, showcasing the volatile relationship between leaders and the populace.

346 - The Death of Maximin of Trier: A Stand Against Arianism

Maximin of Trier, a staunch opponent of Arianism, died in 346 AD. His legacy as a defender of orthodox Christianity continues to inspire. Though little is known of his early life, he remains a revered saint in both the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions.