What happened today in history?

What happened
today in history?
[ Nov 12 ]

2023 - Canada Wins First Billie Jean King Cup Title in 2023

In the 2023 Billie Jean King Cup held in Seville, Spain, Canada celebrated its first title as Leylah Fernandez and Marina Stakusic pulled off impressive straight sets victories against Italy, showcasing their exceptional talent in women's tennis.

2022 - 2022 Wings Over Dallas Airshow Tragedy

The tragic midair collision of two vintage aircraft at the 2022 Wings Over Dallas WWII Airshow resulted in the deaths of six individuals, prompting investigations into airshow safety protocols and aviation regulations.

2018 - 2018 Israeli Operation in Gaza: Tensions Erupt After Fatalities

The 2018 Israeli operation in Gaza resulted in the deaths of eight, including one Israeli soldier and a Hamas commander. This operation ignited further tensions, leading to retaliatory rocket attacks from Gaza, showcasing the fragile and volatile nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

2017 - The Devastating 2017 Halabja Earthquake

The 2017 Halabja earthquake, registering a magnitude of 7.3, struck on November 12, leading to over 500 casualties and extensive injuries across Iraq and Iran. The disaster triggered immense local and international humanitarian efforts for recovery and support.

2006 - South Ossetia's 2006 Independence Referendum

In 2006, South Ossetia held a controversial referendum in which nearly all participants voted for independence from Georgia, heightening tensions in the region and resulting in a lack of international recognition.

2004 - The Rosetta Mission: A New Era in Space Exploration

The ESA's Rosetta mission successfully landed the Philae probe on comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko on November 12, 2014. This historic event marked the first time a human-made object landed on a comet, paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries regarding the origins of life.

1998 - 1998 NY Islanders Break Losing Streak

On January 29, 1998, the New York Islanders ended a grueling ten-game losing streak after tying the Detroit Red Wings 1-1. This moment was crucial for team morale and marked a turning point in their challenging season.

1996 - The Tragic Collision Over Charkhi Dadri

On November 12, 1996, a tragic collision between Saudi Arabian Flight 763 and Kazakhstan Airlines Flight 1907 over Charkhi Dadri resulted in the death of 349 people, marking it as the third deadliest aviation disaster in history.

1996 - Fall of Kabul: The Taliban's Retreat in 2001

In November 2001, the Taliban forces retreated from Afghanistan's capital Kabul as Northern Alliance troops advanced, marking a significant turning point in Afghan history and the beginning of the end for the Taliban's rule.

1992 - The Launch of 'Absolutely Fabulous' in 1992

In 1992, 'Absolutely Fabulous', a groundbreaking British comedy created by Jennifer Saunders and starring her alongside Joanna Lumley, premiered on the BBC. The show satirized the excesses of the 90s, becoming a cultural phenomenon and leaving a lasting legacy in television comedy.

1990 - The Birth of the World Wide Web

In 1990, Tim Berners-Lee and Robert Cailliau proposed the World Wide Web at CERN, revolutionizing information sharing and laying the groundwork for the modern Internet. This article covers their vision and contributions that changed the digital landscape.

Computer Scientist Tim Berners-Lee

1989 - Taylor Swift's Directorial Debut: 'All Too Well'

On November 12, 2021, Taylor Swift released 'All Too Well,' her directorial debut accompanying her re-recorded album 'Red (Taylor's Version,'. The short film captivates with its emotional storytelling, showcasing Swift's evolution as an artist.

Singer-Songwriter Taylor Swift

1985 - The 1985 Package Bomb Incident in Ann Arbor, Michigan

In 1985, a secretary in Ann Arbor, Michigan, was gravely wounded by a package bomb that exploded in her office. The incident raised significant concerns over safety in educational institutions and triggered investigations into the motives behind this violent act.

1985 - The Houston Astros Sign-Stealing Scandal

In 2019, Mike Fiers exposed the Houston Astros for secretly stealing signs via a camera system during games from 2015-2017, leading to widespread controversy and consequences within Major League Baseball.

1982 - Aaron Pryor vs. Alexis Argüello: The Fight of the Decade

On November 12, 1982, Aaron Pryor delivered a stunning 14th round KO against Alexis Argüello in Miami, retaining his WBA super lightweight title. This thrilling bout, celebrated as 'Fight of the Decade', showcased the extraordinary talents of both Hall of Famers.

1982 - The 1982 Nuclear Test at the Nevada Test Site

In 1982, the United States conducted a nuclear test codenamed "Daisy" at the Nevada Test Site, continuing its nuclear testing program amid Cold War tensions. This event underscored the complexities of nuclear arms control and the increasing scrutiny from the international community.

1982 - Justine Hénin-Hardenne Wins 2006 WTA Championship

In 2006, Justine Hénin-Hardenne triumphed at the WTA Championship in Madrid, defeating defending champion Amélie Mauresmo with a 6-4, 6-3 score. This victory highlighted her exceptional skills and established her as a front-runner in women's tennis.

Tennis Player Justine Henin
Tennis Player Amélie Mauresmo

1981 - NASA's 2nd Shuttle Mission: Columbia 2

NASA's 2nd Shuttle mission, STS-2, was executed by Space Shuttle Columbia on November 12, 1981, marking the first time a spacecraft was launched twice, showcasing NASA's advancements in reusable space technology.

1981 - Britney Spears' Conservatorship Ends: A Landmark Decision

In a landmark ruling on November 12, 2021, a LA judge ended Britney Spears' 14-year conservatorship, allowing her to regain control over her personal and financial decisions. This moment marked a significant victory for Spears and her supporters, illuminating issues around mental health and legal conservatorships.

Pop Star Britney Spears

1977 - Voyager I's Historic Encounter with Saturn

In November 1980, Voyager I made its closest approach to Saturn, traveling 77,000 miles to deliver breathtaking images and data of the planet and its complex ring system, marking a significant milestone in planetary exploration.

1974 - Salmon Return to the River Thames

In 1974, a salmon was rediscovered in the River Thames, marking a historic ecological milestone after its absence since 1833. This event showcased the successful conservation efforts undertaken to revive the river's health and biodiversity, inspiring ongoing initiatives to protect its ecosystems.

1972 - The Premiere of 'Silent Night' at the Ordway Theater

In 2011, Kevin Puts' opera 'Silent Night' premiered at the Ordway Theater in St. Paul, MN. Sung in multiple languages, this poignant piece earned the 2012 Pulitzer Prize for Music. A blend of history and heartfelt storytelling, it highlights themes of peace during wartime.

1969 - Pat Hentgen's Remarkable Cy Young Victory

In 1996, Pat Hentgen made history by becoming the first Toronto Blue Jays pitcher to win the AL Cy Young Award, showcasing his outstanding performance with a record of 20 wins. His success marked a significant milestone for the team and his career in baseball.

1968 - KSEL TV Channel 28 Begins Broadcasting

In January 1968, KSEL TV Channel 28, now known as KAMC, commenced broadcasting in Lubbock, Texas, marking a pivotal moment in local media with its dedication to community news and entertainment.

1966 - 1966 Dodgers' Historic Tour of Japan

In 1966, the Los Angeles Dodgers completed an 18-game tour of Japan, finishing with a 9-8-1 record. This journey was a landmark event that promoted baseball's global reach and allowed American players to engage with Japanese culture.

1961 - Marino Breaks Tarkenton's Passing Record

On November 10, 1995, Dan Marino broke Fran Tarkenton's long-standing NFL passing yardage record of 47,003 yards, marking a significant moment in football history and solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.

1960 - 1960 Mercury-Redstone 1 Test Launch Overview

The Mercury-Redstone 1 test launch in 1960 was a significant but failed step in early American space exploration. The rocket only ascended to 10 cm before a catastrophic failure, highlighting the challenges NASA faced in sending humans to space.

1955 - Back to the Future: The Lightning Strike

1955 Doc and Marty McFly are sent "Back to the Future" when lightning strikes the Hill Valley clock tower, at exactly 10:04 p.m. generating the power to send the DeLorean and Marty back to 1985 [fictional]

1954 - Formation of the People's Action Party in 1954

In 1954, Lee Kuan Yew and others founded the People's Action Party (PAP) aiming for self-rule in Singapore. The party united various factions to drive for independence from British colonial rule, ultimately playing a pivotal role in shaping modern Singapore.

Founder of Modern Singapore Lee Kuan Yew

1948 - The Birth of Mobile Particle Accelerators

In 1948, the first mobile betatron began its operation at the U.S. Naval Ordnance Laboratory, marking a significant innovation in particle acceleration technology, impacting both military and medical fields.

1947 - The Transformation of KPO-AM to KNBC in 1947

In 1947, KPO-AM, a prominent radio station in San Francisco, changed its call letters to KNBC, marking a significant transformation in the station's identity and role in local broadcasting. This change paved the way for a legacy that continues today.

1946 - The Birth of Drive-Up Banking in Chicago

In 1946, Exchange National Bank in Chicago opened the first ten drive-up teller windows, revolutionizing customer service in banking by allowing clients to complete transactions from their vehicles, paving the way for modern banking convenience.

1946 - The Release of Walt Disney's 'Song of the South' in 1946

In 1946, Walt Disney's 'Song of the South' premiered, blending live-action and animation to tell the story of a young boy discovering life's lessons through the tales of Uncle Remus. Despite initial success, the film faced backlash for its portrayal of race and plantation life.

1943 - The My Lai Massacre Investigation

In 1969, the U.S. Army announced an investigation into Lieutenant William Calley for his role in the My Lai Massacre, where hundreds of Vietnamese civilians were killed. This investigation highlighted the moral complexities of military actions during the Vietnam War.

1943 - The Premiere of 'Mass Appeal' in 1981

In 1981, Bill C. Davis debuted his thought-provoking play 'Mass Appeal' in New York City, exploring themes of faith and doubt through the dynamic relationship between a young seminarian and an older priest. The play's popularity and critical acclaim solidified its place in American theatre history.

1940 - Paula Murphy Sets Female Land Speed Record in 1964

In 1964, Paula Murphy achieved a groundbreaking female land speed record of 226.37 MPH at the Bonneville Salt Flats, driving her custom car, Tornado II. Her achievement paved the way for women's participation in motorsports, inspiring future generations.

1939 - Historic 1967 Packers Victory Over the Browns

In a stunning 1967 game, Travis Williams returned two kickoffs for touchdowns, leading the Green Bay Packers to a 55-7 victory over the Cleveland Browns. This victory marked the largest margin of defeat for the Browns at that time, showcasing Williams' explosive talent and the Packers’ dominance.

1939 - Dick Vitale's Landmark ESPN Contract

In 1997, Dick Vitale signed a landmark contract with ESPN, which would last until 2004. Known for his enthusiastic commentary, Vitale transformed college basketball broadcasting, becoming a household name to fans across the nation.

1936 - Harmon Killebrew's 1969 MVP Triumph

In 1969, Harmon Killebrew of the Minnesota Twins was awarded the American League MVP for his outstanding performance, hitting .332 with 49 home runs. This recognition marked a significant achievement in his illustrious baseball career, showcasing his power and skill.

Baseball Player Harmon Killebrew

1936 - The Opening of the Oakland Bay Bridge in 1936

The Oakland Bay Bridge, a significant engineering marvel, opened to the public on November 12, 1936. Connecting San Francisco and Oakland, it transformed transportation and economic growth in the region, showcasing exceptional design and construction techniques.

1933 - The Ascension of Emperor Akihito

On June 9, 1990, Crown Prince Akihito was officially installed as Emperor Akihito of Japan. His ascension marked a pivotal moment as the 125th monarch, symbolizing a new era and a deeper commitment to connecting with the Japanese people.

Emperor of Japan Akihito

1933 - Historic Sunday NFL Game in 1933

In 1933, the Philadelphia Eagles made history by playing in the first Sunday NFL game against the Chicago Bears, ending in a score of 3-3. This game marked a pivotal change in sports policies and attitudes towards Sunday sporting events.

1933 - The Historic 1933 NFL Sunday Game

The first NFL game on a Sunday was played on October 15, 1933, at Pittsburgh's Forbes Field, marking a significant change in sporting traditions. The Pirates lost to the Dodgers 32-0, but this game set the stage for future Sunday NFL matchups.

1932 - Tragic Lancashire Mine Explosion of 1932

The 1932 Lancashire mine explosion at Ewood Colliery killed 24 miners, highlighting the dangers of mining and leading to improved safety regulations. Memorials honoring the victims became central to the community's healing process.

1931 - The Body Bag Game: A Legendary Clash

The Body Bag Game on November 12, 1990, saw Eagles coach Buddy Ryan's bold prediction come true as his team's defense overwhelmed the Redskins, scoring three defensive touchdowns and knocking eight players out of the game, sealing a 28-14 victory.

1931 - Ballet Lady of Shalott: A 1931 Premiere

In 1931, Jean Sibelius's score and Frederick Ashton's choreography brought the enchanting ballet 'Lady of Shalott' to life in London, blending melodic beauty with evocative dance, inspired by Tennyson's poetry.

Composer Jean Sibelius

1930 - Bob Turley's Cy Young Award Win in 1958

In 1958, Bob Turley of the New York Yankees won the Cy Young Award, showcasing an exceptional season with remarkable statistics. His legacy as a dominant pitcher remains influential in baseball history.

1929 - The Rise of Dick The Bruiser: NWA Champion

In 1966, Dick The Bruiser clinched the NWA championship by defeating Mad Dog Vachon in Omaha. This victory marked a transformative moment for professional wrestling, showcasing Bruiser's legacy and impact on the sport.

1928 - The Tragic Sinking of the British Steamer Vestris

In 1928, the British steamer Vestris capsized off Hampton Roads, Virginia, during its voyage to Uruguay, leading to the tragic loss of 111 lives, including many women and children. This disaster highlighted crucial maritime safety issues.

1926 - The First Aerial Bombing on US Soil in 1926

In 1926, Williamson County, Illinois, witnessed the first recorded aerial bombing in the US, as rival liquor gangs, the Sheltons and the Birgers, clashed in a dramatic feud. This shocking event reshaped gang warfare and highlighted the ferocity of organized crime during Prohibition.

1925 - Gene Roberts Sets Rushing Record for NY Giants

In a remarkable 1950 game against the Chicago Cardinals, Gene Roberts achieved a legendary milestone by rushing for 218 yards, setting a record for the New York Giants that showcased his extraordinary skill and determination on the field.

1925 - Bobby Shantz: The 1952 AL MVP Pitcher

In 1952, pitcher Bobby Shantz of the Philadelphia Athletics was awarded the AL MVP, becoming a pioneering figure in baseball for his achievements on the mound, including a remarkable 24-7 record and 149 strikeouts, celebrating an unforgettable season in baseball history.

1924 - Carter Halts Iranian Oil Imports in 1979

In 1979, President Jimmy Carter announced a halt to Iranian oil imports and froze Iranian assets amid the Iran Hostage Crisis, marking a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy and impacting the global oil market.

1924 - The Controversial Case of Jim Rivera and the 1952 White Sox

In 1952, Chicago White Sox player Jim Rivera was accused of rape but was acquitted. Despite being cleared, the team placed him on a one-year probation, showcasing the challenges athletes face under public scrutiny. Rivera's legacy persists as a skilled player overshadowed by controversy.

1923 - The Launch of Disney+ Streaming Service

In November 2019, Disney launched Disney+, a streaming service that revolutionized how audiences access entertainment, offering a vast library of films and shows, including iconic Disney classics and original content.

1922 - The Founding of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority

In 1922, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority was founded at Butler University, setting a precedent for African American women's empowerment through education and community service. The legacy of its founders continues to inspire women today.

1921 - Jean Becomes Grand Duke of Luxembourg

In 1964, Jean became the Grand Duke of Luxembourg, leading the nation with dedication and warmth. His reign marked significant economic growth and a commitment to European cooperation, profoundly impacting Luxembourg's identity.

1917 - The Failed 1960 Coup Against President Ngô Đình Diệm

In 1960, an attempted military coup against President Ngô Đình Diệm of South Vietnam failed, showcasing the tensions between the military and Diệm's administration. This event marked a significant moment in the tumultuous history of Vietnam during the early Cold War. It led to increased repression and foreshadowed further conflicts in the region.

President of South Vietnam Ngô Đình Diệm

1906 - The Premiere of Shostakovich's 14th String Quartet

Dmitri Shostakovich's 14th String Quartet premiered in Leningrad in 1973, encapsulating the struggles of mortality and human expression under the Soviet regime. This poignant work remains a critical part of classical music's repertoire, reflecting deep emotional themes.

Composer Dmitri Shostakovich

1899 - British Troops Reach Durban in 1899

In 1899, British troops arrived in Durban, Natal, marking the beginning of the Second Boer War. This deployment was significant as it highlighted the escalating tensions between the British Empire and the Boer Republics over land and rights.<|vq_3851|>

1898 - Retirement of Justice William O. Douglas

In 1975, Justice William O. Douglas retired after 36 impactful years on the U.S. Supreme Court, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy for civil liberties and environmental protection. His retirement was a significant moment in judicial history.

1893 - The Durand Line Treaty of 1893

The Durand Line Treaty signed in 1893 established the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan. It was crucial in shaping geopolitical relations in South Asia, creating a contentious issue that influences both nations today.

1892 - Closure of Ellis Island Immigration Station in 1954

In 1954, Ellis Island, the famous immigration station in New York Harbor, closed after processing millions of immigrants. This marked a significant turn in the American immigration story, transitioning towards modern policies and changes in immigrant patterns.

1889 - The Declaration of Holy War by Sultan Jamal Pasja in 1914

In 1914, Sultan Jamal Pasja declared a holy war aiming to unite Muslims against Allied powers during WWI, leveraging religious sentiments to bolster the Ottoman military. This declaration had a significant impact on Muslim recruitment and global political dynamics.

1889 - The Beer Hall Putsch: Hitler's Arrest in 1923

In 1923, Adolf Hitler was arrested following the Beer Hall Putsch, a failed coup to seize power in Munich. This pivotal moment set the stage for his future rise as Germany's Führer and shaped his extremist ideologies, famously detailed in his book Mein Kampf.

Dictator of Nazi Germany Adolf Hitler
German WWI General Erich Ludendorff

1889 - The Trial of Han van Meegeren: Art Forgery in 1947

In 1947, Dutch painter Han van Meegeren was sentenced to one year in prison for his notorious art forgeries, including works falsely attributed to the master Vermeer. His trial spotlighted the complexities of authenticity in art and the impact of deception.

1879 - The Expulsion of Leon Trotsky in 1927

In 1927, Leon Trotsky was expelled from the Soviet Communist Party, marking a pivotal moment in Soviet history that allowed Joseph Stalin to consolidate his power, leading to significant changes in the political landscape of the USSR.

Marxist Revolutionary Leon Trotsky
Soviet General Secretary Joseph Stalin

1877 - The Resurgence of the German Currency in 1924

In 1923, Dr. Hjalmar Schacht was appointed to resolve Germany's currency crisis. By November 1924, his innovative monetary policies led to the successful restoration of the Reichsmark and stabilized the economy, paving the way for economic recovery.

1871 - 1945 Nobel Peace Prize Awarded to Cordell Hull

In 1945, Cordell Hull, the American politician and architect of the United Nations, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his pivotal role in establishing a framework for global peace and cooperation after World War II.

1868 - The Historic Nobel Prize Win of Theodore W. Richards

Theodore W. Richards made history in 1915 as the first American to win the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, recognized for his groundbreaking work on atomic weights. His contributions not only advanced chemistry but also inspired future generations of scientists.

1833 - The Awe-Inspiring Leonid Meteor Shower of 1833

The Leonid Meteor Shower of 1833 dazzled spectators with thousands of shooting stars, inspiring awe and scientific curiosity. This historic event prompted reflections on celestial phenomena and advanced the study of meteor showers, marking a significant moment in astronomical history.

1823 - The Opening of the Great North Holland Canal in 1823

The Great North Holland Canal opened in 1823, transforming trade and transportation in the Netherlands. This engineering marvel connected Amsterdam to northern provinces, significantly boosting the region's economy by enhancing shipping efficiency.

1813 - The Occupation of Zwolle by Allied Troops in 1813

In 1813, Allied troops occupied Zwolle in the Netherlands, marking a pivotal moment against French control during the Napoleonic Wars. This event rallied local resistance and showcased Zwolle's strategic significance in the conflict.

1736 - The Tragic Demise of Jean Sylvain Bailly

Jean Sylvain Bailly, the first Mayor of Paris and an accomplished astronomer, met a tragic end during the Reign of Terror in 1793 when he was guillotined for his political beliefs. His dual legacy as a scientist and civic leader continues to be remembered.

1732 - General Washington's Recruitment Policy of 1775

In 1775, General George Washington implemented a controversial recruitment policy forbidding the enlistment of black troops in the Continental Army, reflecting the complex social dynamics of the Revolutionary War. This decision, influenced by concerns of rebellion and loyalty, was later reversed as the contributions of black soldiers became clear.

1727 - The 1727 Secret Treaty: A Franco-Bavarian Alliance

In 1727, France and Bavaria renewed a crucial secret treaty aimed at countering Habsburg influence in Europe. This strategic alliance laid the groundwork for military cooperation and shifted the balance of power in the region, highlighting the importance of clandestine diplomacy.

1650 - The 1673 Occupation of Bonn by Dutch Troops

In 1673, Dutch troops under William of Orange occupied Bonn during the Franco-Dutch War. This strategic siege marked a significant military campaign, showcasing William's leadership and influencing the region's political landscape.

1469 - Celebrating 550 Years of Guru Nanak's Legacy

In 2019, the 550th anniversary of Guru Nanak's birth was celebrated across India and Pakistan, highlighting his teachings of equality and unity among all people. His legacy continues to inspire millions worldwide.

Founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak

941 - Lotharius Becomes King of France in 954

In 954, Lotharius ascended to the throne as King of France, facing considerable challenges in a fragmented political landscape. His reign aimed to unite the kingdom amidst the growing power of local nobles and invasions, leaving a significant mark on French history.

764 - Tibetan Troops Occupy Chang'an: A Significant Historical Event

In 764, Tibetan troops occupied Chang'an, the capital of the Tang Dynasty, for 15 days, marking a significant event in the power dynamics between Tibet and China during the 8th century. This occupation demonstrated Tibetan military strength and impacted future relations with the Tang Dynasty.

295 - The Origin of the Era of Ascension in 295

The year 295 marks the beginning of the Era of Ascension, a significant period of transformation marked by cultural, political, and technological advancements led by various influential figures, paving the way for a progressive future.