This Day in History

Every day on the calendar has seen its share of plot twists—battles won, discoveries made, revolutions sparked, and records shattered. Today might feel ordinary, but history says otherwise. Somewhere, sometime, this very date changed the world.

Social Movements & Civil Rights

San Francisco Issues Same-Sex Marriage Licenses

February 12th, 2004 22 years ago

In a landmark move, the city of San Francisco began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples, spurred by a directive from Mayor Gavin Newsom. This decision was largely influenced by the growing national conversation around same-sex marriage and civil rights. The City Hall became a hub for couples wishing to marry, with emotional scenes as partners exchanged vows and licenses, emphasizing the need for legal recognition of their relationships. The move marked a significant challenge to state laws, which at the time did not recognize same-sex marriages.

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Religion & Philosophy

Edict of Conversion for Muslims in Castile

February 12th, 1502 524 years ago

Isabella I of Castile issued an edict that mandated the conversion of Muslims to Christianity, effectively outlawing Islam in the Crown of Castile. This marked a significant moment in the religious landscape of Spain, forcing many Muslims to either convert or face expulsion. The edict was a culmination of the Reconquista, where Catholic Monarchs sought to unify Spain under Christianity. The edict affected large populations in the region, leading to widespread fear and resistance among Muslim communities.

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Politics & Government

Ecuador's Annexation of the Galápagos Islands

February 12th, 1832 194 years ago

In February 1832, Ecuador formally annexed the Galápagos Islands, declaring sovereignty over the archipelago. This action was influenced by the islands' strategic importance and ecological uniqueness. Following Spanish colonial rule, the nascent Ecuadorian government recognized the need to assert control over the islands, which were previously uninhabited and sparsely explored. The annexation marked a pivotal moment in Ecuador's national identity and territorial claims.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Women Protest Against Zia-ul-Haq's Law of Evidence

February 12th, 1983 43 years ago

A hundred women gathered in Lahore to protest against the proposed Law of Evidence by military dictator Zia-ul-Haq. They faced violent police repression, including tear gas and baton charges, before being locked up. The rally was organized to challenge the oppressive legal framework and assert women's rights in Pakistan. Ultimately, their efforts led to the repeal of the controversial law, marking a significant moment for women's activism in the country.

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Crime & Law

Émile Henry Bombs Cafe Terminus in Paris

February 12th, 1894 132 years ago

Anarchist Émile Henry detonated a bomb at the Cafe Terminus in Paris, resulting in the death of one individual and injuring twenty others. This act was part of a broader anarchist movement's violent campaign against the government. Henry, motivated by his beliefs against state repression, chose the busy café as a target to maximize attention. Authorities quickly pursued Henry, who was captured shortly thereafter.

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Accidents & Tragedies

SS Penguin Sinks in Wellington Harbour

February 12th, 1909 117 years ago

The SS Penguin, an inter-island ferry, sank after hitting a reef at the entrance to Wellington Harbour, leading to an explosion. This disaster resulted in the loss of over 70 lives. The accident occurred during a routine journey, with the vessel encountering thick fog, which contributed to the captain's inability to navigate safely. The wreck is remembered as New Zealand's worst maritime disaster of the 20th century.

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Military & Warfare

Bolsheviks Stage Revolt in Georgia

February 12th, 1921 105 years ago

The Bolsheviks initiated a revolt in Georgia as part of their strategy to extend control over the region. This insurrection aimed to destabilize the Georgian government and set the stage for the impending invasion by the Red Army. Amid political turmoil, Bolshevik forces sought to assert power and influence in the Southern Caucasus, a region considered strategically important. The ultimate goal was to integrate Georgia into the Soviet sphere and suppress nationalist movements.

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Politics & Government

Gustav III Ascends the Throne of Sweden

February 12th, 1771 255 years ago

Gustav III became the King of Sweden following the death of his father, King Adolf Frederick. The ceremony took place in Stockholm, where he was crowned as the monarch. Known for his ambitions to strengthen the Swedish monarchy and enhance the arts, Gustav III's reign was marked by significant cultural advancements. His coronation symbolized a new era for Sweden that sought to revitalize the country following a period of turmoil.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 705 Crash

February 12th, 1963 63 years ago

Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 705, a Lockheed L-188 Electra, crashed shortly after departing from Miami International Airport, resulting in the loss of all 45 passengers and crew on board. The aircraft was en route to Dallas/Fort Worth when it encountered difficulties shortly after takeoff. Despite the crew's attempts to regain control, the plane descended rapidly and struck the Everglades, leading to a catastrophic impact.

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Space Exploration

NEAR Shoemaker Becomes First Asteroid Lander

February 12th, 2001 25 years ago

The NEAR Shoemaker spacecraft successfully landed on the asteroid 433 Eros in the saddle region, marking the first time a spacecraft has made a physical landing on an asteroid. The achievement capped a mission lasting over a year and a half, during which NEAR conducted detailed studies of Eros, a potentially hazardous asteroid located about 16 million kilometers from Earth. The rich scientific data gathered during this mission provided valuable insights into the composition and structure of asteroids, aiding scientists in understanding the early solar system.

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Exploration & Discovery

Iron Meteorite Creates Sikhote-Alin Crater

February 12th, 1947 79 years ago

A significant meteorite impact occurred in the Sikhote-Alin mountain range of the Soviet Union, where one of the largest iron meteorites was found. It blasted into the earth, creating a large crater and ejecting numerous fragments. The impact event, characterized by its scale and ferocity, was witnessed by local residents and subsequently studied by scientists. This extraordinary occurrence highlighted the natural phenomena involved with meteorite impacts.

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Politics & Government

Convention Parliament Declares James II Abdicated

February 12th, 1689 337 years ago

In a significant political resolution, the Convention Parliament declared that King James II's decision to flee to France marked his abdication of the English throne. This declaration was rooted in the perception that James abandoned his responsibilities as monarch, leading to a power vacuum that demanded clarity regarding royal succession. The announcement reinforced the tension between Parliament and the monarchy, culminating in a formal statement intended to assert parliamentary authority over the monarchy.

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Accidents & Tragedies

USS Macon Airship Crashes into Pacific Ocean

February 12th, 1935 91 years ago

The USS Macon, a helium-filled airship operated by the United States Navy, crashed into the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California after a structural failure. Known for its size and innovative design, the Macon was capable of carrying a fleet of fighter planes. The incident occurred while it was on a test flight. Despite rescue efforts, the airship sank quickly, resulting in the loss of two crew members.

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Politics & Government

Xuantong Emperor Abdicates the Throne of China

February 12th, 1912 114 years ago

Puyi, the Xuantong Emperor, officially abdicated the Chinese throne, marking the end of over two millennia of imperial rule in China. Faced with the 1911 Revolution, which had resulted in widespread anti-monarchist sentiment, Puyi's abdication symbolized the collapse of the Qing Dynasty. The abdication was facilitated by the new republican leaders, who allowed the young emperor to retain a ceremonial title while effectively ending his reign. This momentous shift was celebrated by revolutionaries and reshaped the future of China's governance and politics.

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Politics & Government

Bill Clinton Acquitted in Senate Impeachment Trial

February 12th, 1999 27 years ago

The United States Senate acquitted President Bill Clinton, following a historic impeachment trial that began in late 1998. The charges were related to perjury and obstruction of justice stemming from a sexual harassment lawsuit filed by Monica Lewinsky. In a dramatic setting, the Senate voted on two articles of impeachment, which ultimately failed to secure the necessary two-thirds majority for conviction. This outcome allowed Clinton to continue his presidency, despite the controversy surrounding his actions.

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Military & Warfare

Operation Deadlight concludes with U-boat scuttling

February 12th, 1946 80 years ago

Operation Deadlight concluded with the scuttling of 121 out of 154 captured German U-boats. This operation took place in the waters off the coast of Scotland and was executed by the Royal Navy. The decision to scuttle the U-boats was made to prevent them from being used again and to eliminate the threat they posed. The U-boats had been captured following Germany's surrender, marking the end of a significant chapter in naval warfare.

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This Day's Birthdays

Today's the day history welcomed some of its brightest stars—proof that greatness can start with cake and a first breath.

Giovanni II Bentivoglio

Italian noble and lord of Bologna
Born
February 12th, 1443 583 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1508 517 years ago — 65 years old

Born in Bologna, held control over the city during the Renaissance period. Ascended to power as the head of the Bentivoglio family, which governed Bologna. Played a critical role in the political landscape of the region. Introduced various administrative and urban improvements in Bologna, transforming it into a significant cultural center. His rule witnessed the flourishing of arts and architecture. The Bentivoglio family became synonymous with the era's civic leadership.

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Ivan Anikeyev

Soviet cosmonaut with space missions
Born
February 12th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
1992 34 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1933, a Soviet cosmonaut traveled aboard Vostok 6 and Soyuz 9, contributing to early human space exploration. Participated in the Soviet space program during its pivotal years, engaging in significant missions that advanced the understanding of spaceflight. Worked on various projects focusing on both manned and unmanned space missions, demonstrating technical skills and expertise in aerospace technology.

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13th Dalai Lama

Tibetan spiritual leader and reformer
Born
February 12th, 1876 150 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1933 92 years ago — 57 years old

The 13th Dalai Lama served as the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism and the political leader of Tibet from 1895 until 1933. In 1904, faced with British military intervention, he fled to India, returning to Tibet in 1909. His reign was marked by significant reforms in Tibetan society, including modernization efforts and the establishment of a centralized administration. Advocated for Tibetan autonomy amidst growing tensions with China and sought international support for Tibetan independence. He also emphasized education and health reforms.

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Joan Mitchell

American-French abstract expressionist painter
Born
February 12th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1992 33 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1925, a significant figure in the abstract expressionism movement, Mitchell moved to Paris in the 1950s and became a prominent artist within the American expatriate community. The artist's works characterized by vibrant colors and dynamic brushwork reflect influences from the natural landscape, particularly from her time spent in the rural Midwest and Provence. Mitchell's paintings often evoke emotional landscapes and have been described as powerful and expressive. She participated in numerous exhibitions, gaining recognition for her contributions to modern art. In addition to painting, the artist also created prints and drawings, showcasing a versatile approach to her craft. Mitchell's legacy continues to influence contemporary artists and is celebrated in art history discussions.

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Died This Day

Today marks the day we said goodbye to some of history's greats—reminding us that while their time ended, their impact never did.

Herman Dooyeweerd

Dutch philosopher known for legal philosophy
Born
1894 132 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1977 49 years ago — 83 years old

A philosopher emphasized the significance of the religious ground motive in philosophy and social science. Developed the concept of modal aspects, which explore the different ways in which reality can be understood. Authored works including 'A New Critique of Theoretical Thought' and contributed significantly to the discourse on ethics and philosophy of law. His ideas shaped the framework of reformational philosophy and influenced scholars in various disciplines.

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Eubie Blake

Pianist and composer of 'Shuffle Along'
Born
February 7th, 1887 139 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1983 43 years ago — 96 years old

Born in 1887, a pioneering figure in American music, particularly in the genres of ragtime and jazz. Collaborated with numerous artists and composers throughout a lengthy career, often focusing on creating music that reflected the African American experience. The musical 'Shuffle Along' debuted in 1921, becoming one of the first Broadway shows to be written, produced, and performed by African Americans, significantly influencing American musical theater. Continued to perform and compose well into the latter half of the 20th century, contributing to the cultural landscape and inspiring future generations of musicians.

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Movita Castaneda

Actress and singer in early cinema
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2015 11 years ago — 99 years old

An actress and singer, gained recognition for performances in films during the early 20th century. Featured in notable works including 'The Hurricane' and 'The One and Only, Genuine, Original Family Band'. Also contributed to soundtracks, merging singing with acting. Spent significant time in the entertainment industry, showcasing talents both on screen and in music. Active through the 1940s to 1960s, left a legacy of performances that resonated with audiences.

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Hennadiy Udovenko

Ukrainian diplomat and politician
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2013 13 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the second Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine from 1994 to 1998. Held important positions in Ukrainian politics and diplomacy following Ukraine's independence in 1991. Played a role in shaping Ukraine's foreign policy and promoting international relations during a transformative period for the country. Engaged in various diplomatic missions and participated in international organizations, contributing to Ukraine's visibility on the global stage.

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