Historical Events on November 12: Significant Moments in History

Throughout history, certain dates stand out for the remarkable events that unfolded on them. From turning points in politics to cultural breakthroughs, these days often carry significance that echoes through time. Explore the most important events that occurred on November 12, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on November 12 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 1900 Paris World's Fair Concludes: The Exposition Universelle of 1900, a grand international exhibition held in Paris, officially closed on November 12th. The event's conclusion was dramatically marked by three ceremonial cannon shots fired from the iconic Eiffel Tower, symbolizing the end of a remarkable six-month showcase of global innovation, culture, and technological achievements. Running from April to November, this World's Fair was a spectacular display of human progress at the turn of the 20th century, attracting millions of visitors from around the world and featuring groundbreaking exhibits in art, science, and industry.
1901 Powerful Storm in Southern Ireland and Northern Securities Company Antitrust Case: On November 12, 1901, two significant events occurred. A devastating storm, considered the most powerful recorded in British history up to that point, struck southern Ireland, causing extensive damage and likely significant disruption to local communities. Simultaneously, the Northern Securities Company, a major railroad trust formed by prominent business magnates J.P. Morgan, James J. Hill, and others, was making headlines in the United States. This company was a significant monopolistic enterprise that would soon face antitrust legal challenges, ultimately leading to its dissolution by the Supreme Court in 1904.
1902 Germany and U.S. Refer Chinese Indemnity Payment to Hague Tribunal: In a diplomatic resolution, Germany and the United States agreed to submit the complex financial dispute regarding the Chinese indemnity payment method to the Hague Tribunal. The key point of contention was whether the reparations should be settled in gold or silver currency, reflecting the intricate international monetary dynamics of the early 20th century.
1903 Uneventful Day in 1903: While no major historical events were documented for November 12, 1903, this does not necessarily mean nothing of note occurred. The early 20th century was a period of significant global transformation, with technological innovations, colonial expansions, and emerging social movements happening worldwide. This particular date might represent a quiet moment in the broader tapestry of historical change.
1904 1904 United States Presidential Election: In the 1904 United States presidential election, incumbent Republican President Theodore Roosevelt decisively defeated Democratic candidate Alton B. Parker. Roosevelt, who had initially assumed the presidency after William McKinley's assassination in 1901, won a full term in his own right, securing a significant electoral victory that solidified his political mandate.
1905 Norway's Monarchy Referendum: On November 12-13, 1905, Norway held a historic referendum to decide its form of government, ultimately choosing a monarchy over a republican system. This pivotal democratic process solidified Norway's national identity and governance structure following its independence.
1906 Mount Vesuvius Major Eruption of 1906: On November 12, 1906, Mount Vesuvius, the infamous volcano located near Naples, Italy, began a significant and prolonged eruption that would continue for several months. This catastrophic geological event caused extensive damage to the surrounding landscape and communities, marking one of the most notable volcanic events of the early 20th century. The eruption was characterized by massive lava flows, pyroclastic surges, and substantial ash deposits that dramatically altered the local terrain and threatened nearby settlements.
1907 Uneventful Day in Global History: While no major documented historical events were recorded for November 12, 1907, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. During this period, the world was experiencing significant transformations, including the late stages of the Industrial Revolution, colonial expansions, and emerging geopolitical tensions leading up to World War I.
1908 Uneventful Day in World History: On November 12, 1908, no significant global events were documented. This day appears to have been relatively quiet across political, social, and technological domains, representing a moment of relative calm in the early 20th century.
1909 British Colonial Retreat in Somaliland: In a strategic decision, the British colonial government ordered the complete relocation of its administrative and military personnel from the interior regions of British Somaliland to coastal towns. This withdrawal effectively ceded control of the inland territories to the Darawiish resistance movement, led by the formidable leader Diiriye Guure, after a prolonged seven-year conflict. The move signaled a significant shift in colonial power dynamics and marked a notable moment of indigenous resistance against British imperial control.
1910 Marconi's Transatlantic Wireless Signal Breakthrough: Pioneering inventor Guglielmo Marconi achieved a groundbreaking technological milestone by successfully transmitting wireless signals between Nova Scotia and Italy, demonstrating the potential of long-distance wireless communication.
1911 President Taft's Extended Absence from Washington: President William Howard Taft returned to the White House after an unprecedented 87-day absence from the nation's capital. This extended period away from Washington was unusual for a sitting president during the early 20th century, highlighting the evolving nature of presidential travel and communication during that era.
1912 Discovery of Scott's Antarctic Expedition Remains: The frozen bodies of British explorer Robert Scott and his companions were discovered on the Ross Ice Shelf in Antarctica, revealing the tragic end of their ill-fated polar expedition. This poignant moment highlighted the extreme risks and heroism of early 20th-century polar exploration.
1913 Pancho Villa's Innovative Military Strategy in Ciudad Juárez: During the Mexican Revolution, revolutionary leader Pancho Villa executed a brilliant and unconventional military tactic to capture Ciudad Juárez. After previous unsuccessful attempts to take the city, Villa ingeniously used a coal train as a covert transportation method. By hiding 2,000 of his revolutionary soldiers inside the train, he successfully infiltrated the city's defenses. Once inside, his forces engaged and ultimately battled against 4,000 well-fortified federal troops, demonstrating Villa's tactical creativity and strategic thinking.
1914 First Battle of Ypres Continues: On November 12, 1914, the First Battle of Ypres intensified with fierce combat along the Western Front. German forces launched artillery bombardments and infantry assaults against British and French defensive positions. The battle was characterized by heavy shelling, with German troops attempting to break through Allied lines. In one notable incident, a British trench was mined and abandoned, resulting in a devastating explosion that killed several German soldiers.
1915 Roland Barthes Birth: Roland Barthes, a prominent French literary critic and semiotician, was born. He would later become famous for influential works like 'L'Empire des Signes' and significantly impact literary theory and cultural analysis.
1916 Death of Percival Lowell, Pioneering Astronomer: Percival Lowell, a renowned American amateur astronomer and founder of the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, passed away. Lowell was instrumental in advancing astronomical research and popularizing the study of Mars, hypothesizing about potential Martian civilizations. His observatory would later play a crucial role in astronomical discoveries, including Clyde Tombaugh's identification of Pluto in 1930.
1917 October Revolution: Bolshevik Uprising in Russia: On November 12, 1917 (which was actually October 25 in the old Russian calendar), the Bolshevik Red Guards, led by Vladimir Lenin, seized key government buildings and strategic points in Petrograd (St. Petersburg), effectively overthrowing the Provisional Government. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of the communist revolution in Russia, which would fundamentally transform the country's political, social, and economic landscape.
1918 Dissolution of Austria-Hungary and Establishment of Austrian Republic: On November 12, 1918, Austria officially became a republic following the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. A coup attempt by communist forces was swiftly defeated by the social-democratic Volkswehr (People's Defense), marking a critical moment in the transition of political power.
1919 Ross and Keith Smith's Historic London to Australia Flight: Ross and Keith Smith embarked on a groundbreaking aviation journey from London to Australia, attempting to complete a month-long transcontinental flight. This expedition was a significant milestone in early aviation history, demonstrating the emerging potential of long-distance air travel and pushing the boundaries of technological capabilities in the post-World War I era.
1920 Treaty of Rapallo Between Italy and Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes: Italy and the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes signed the Treaty of Rapallo, a diplomatic agreement that defined their post-World War I territorial boundaries and diplomatic relations. This treaty was crucial in stabilizing the geopolitical landscape of the Adriatic region during a period of significant political reorganization.
1921 Washington Conference for Limitation of Armaments: The Washington Conference for Limitation of Armaments was a pivotal international diplomatic gathering aimed at reducing naval armaments and preventing potential naval arms races among major world powers in the aftermath of World War I. Hosted by U.S. President Warren G. Harding, the conference brought together representatives from nine nations to negotiate naval disarmament and establish a framework for maintaining peace in the Pacific and East Asian regions.
1922 Mussolini Granted Dictatorial Powers: On this pivotal day, the Italian parliament granted Benito Mussolini temporary dictatorial powers, a critical moment in his political ascension that would ultimately transform Italy into a fascist state. This legislative action marked the beginning of Mussolini's authoritarian regime and signaled a dramatic shift in Italian political governance.
1923 Hitler's Failed Coup Attempt in Munich: Adolf Hitler is arrested for his attempted coup d'état known as the Beer Hall Putsch, a pivotal moment in the early history of the Nazi Party and Hitler's political career. The failed uprising in Munich marked a significant setback for Hitler's initial revolutionary ambitions.
1924 Italian Parliament Opposition Boycott: 185 opposition members deliberately absent from a parliamentary session in protest against the Fascist Party, allowing Prime Minister Benito Mussolini to unilaterally enact his restrictive political program. This strategic absence highlighted the growing tension between democratic opposition and Mussolini's authoritarian regime.
1925 Louis Armstrong's First Hot Five Recording: Louis Armstrong and His Hot Five made their inaugural recording session for Okeh Records, a pivotal moment in jazz history that would help define the genre's early sound and Armstrong's legendary musical career.
1926 British Coal Miners' Dispute Resolution: On November 12, 1926, a significant resolution was reached in the prolonged British coal miners' dispute. After months of tension, miners' leaders and the British government negotiated an agreement that effectively ended the labor conflict. The miners were compelled to accept the coal mine owners' terms, which notably included extending the workday from seven to eight hours. By this point, approximately 300,000 miners had already returned to work through localized settlement agreements, signaling the gradual breakdown of the collective resistance.
1927 Stalin Consolidates Power at All-Union Congress: At the All-Union Congress of the Communist Party, Josef Stalin's political faction decisively defeated his rival Leon Trotsky, effectively removing Trotsky from power and establishing Stalin's undisputed leadership of the Soviet Union.
1928 SS Vestris Maritime Disaster: The British steamship SS Vestris sank approximately 200 miles (320 km) off Hampton Roads, Virginia, in a tragic maritime incident. The vessel capsized during a severe storm, resulting in the deaths of at least 110 passengers, predominantly women and children who perished after abandoning the ship.
1929 Jesse Livermore's Market Commentary During Stock Market Crash: On November 12, 1929, renowned financial investor Jesse Lauriston Livermore provided a critical market analysis during the early stages of the Great Depression. He argued that stocks had been driven to unreasonably low levels due to widespread panic, asserting that the economic fundamentals remained sound. Livermore believed investors were irrationally selling high-quality securities without considering their intrinsic value, and suggested that the market's downturn was an overreaction to a typical post-summer economic slowdown.
1930 First Round Table Conference on Indian Independence: The First Round Table Conference was a pivotal diplomatic meeting held in London between the British government and key representatives of the Indian independence movement. This conference was a significant milestone in India's struggle for self-governance, bringing together British colonial administrators and Indian political leaders to discuss potential constitutional reforms and the future of British India. The conference aimed to address the growing demands for Indian self-rule and explore potential pathways to political autonomy.
1931 Maple Leaf Gardens Opens in Toronto: The historic Maple Leaf Gardens, an iconic hockey arena, opened in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. In the inaugural game, the Toronto Maple Leafs faced the Chicago Black Hawks, ultimately losing 2-1 in a memorable match that marked the beginning of a legendary sports venue.
1932 Lancashire Mine Explosion Tragedy: A devastating mining disaster occurred at the Edge Green colliery in Ashton-in-Makerfield, Greater Manchester, England. The explosion resulted in the tragic loss of 24-25 miners' lives, highlighting the dangerous working conditions in coal mines during the early 20th century.
1933 Nazi Party Electoral Dominance in Germany: The National Socialist German Workers' Party (Nazi Party) receives an overwhelming 92 percent of the vote in a national election, demonstrating the rapid consolidation of Adolf Hitler's political power and the erosion of democratic processes in Germany.
1934 Birth of Charles Manson: Charles Manson, a notorious American criminal and cult leader who would later become infamous for leading the Manson Family cult and orchestrating multiple murders in the late 1960s, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio. His life would become a dark chapter in American criminal history, symbolizing the dangerous potential of charismatic manipulation.
1935 Nazi Germany Restricts Export of Critical Resources: Nazi Germany implemented a comprehensive export prohibition on essential food supplies and industrial raw materials, signaling the regime's growing economic isolationism and preparation for potential future conflicts. This strategic economic measure aimed to secure domestic resources and strengthen the nation's self-sufficiency in anticipation of potential international tensions.
1936 Oakland Bay Bridge Opens: The San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge officially opens to traffic in California, marking a significant infrastructure milestone for the San Francisco Bay Area. This engineering marvel connects San Francisco and Oakland, facilitating transportation and economic connectivity between these major cities.
1937 Publication of 'Out of Africa' by Karen Blixen: Danish author Karen Blixen (writing under the pen name Isak Dinesen) published her seminal memoir 'Out of Africa', which recounts her experiences managing a coffee plantation in Kenya from 1914 to 1931. The book provides a vivid and poetic narrative of colonial life in East Africa, offering profound insights into the landscape, indigenous cultures, and Blixen's personal journey of self-discovery.
1938 Nazi Germany Imposes Massive Fine on Jewish Population: Nazi Germany imposed a punitive fine of 1 billion Reichsmarks on the Jewish population, effectively targeting their economic survival and further escalating systematic persecution.
1939 French Diplomatic Response to German Aggression: In response to German territorial expansions, France declared that any peace negotiations would require Germany to first address and rectify the forceful annexations of Austria, Czechoslovakia, and Poland. This statement highlighted the diplomatic tensions and France's principled stance against Nazi territorial aggression in the lead-up to World War II.
1940 Molotov Visits Berlin to Discuss Potential Axis Alignment: Soviet Foreign Minister Vyacheslav Molotov traveled to Berlin to negotiate the potential inclusion of the Soviet Union in the Axis Powers, a diplomatic mission that would have significant geopolitical implications during World War II.
1941 German Moscow Offensive Stalls: The German military's ambitious drive to capture Moscow during Operation Barbarossa came to an unexpected halt, marking a critical turning point in the Eastern Front of World War II.
1942 Naval Battle of Guadalcanal in World War II: The Naval Battle of Guadalcanal was a critical three-day naval engagement between Japanese and American naval forces near Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands. This intense maritime conflict was a pivotal moment in the Pacific Theater of World War II, ultimately resulting in an American victory that significantly weakened Japanese naval capabilities and helped turn the tide of the war in the Pacific.
1943 Formation of Landwacht in Nazi-Occupied Netherlands: On November 12, 1943, during the German occupation of the Netherlands in World War II, the Landwacht was established as a paramilitary organization affiliated with the NSB (Nationaal-Socialistische Beweging), the Dutch Nazi collaborationist political party. This auxiliary police force was primarily composed of Dutch fascist sympathizers who supported the Nazi regime and assisted in maintaining order and suppressing resistance activities.
1944 Sinking of the German Battleship Tirpitz: During World War II, the Royal Air Force launched a precision bombing raid using 29 Avro Lancaster bombers, successfully sinking the German battleship Tirpitz off the coast of Tromsø, Norway. The attack utilized massive 12,000 lb Tallboy bombs, marking a significant strategic victory for the Allies in the naval theater of the war.
1945 Nobel Peace Prize Awarded to Cordell Hull: Cordell Hull, who served as U.S. Secretary of State from 1933 to 1944, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his significant contributions to establishing the United Nations and his efforts in promoting international cooperation during World War II. Hull was recognized for his pivotal role in creating the framework for post-war international relations and multilateral diplomacy.
1946 Indonesian-Dutch Truce: A significant diplomatic moment occurred when a truce was declared between Indonesian nationalist troops and the Dutch army, marking a potential turning point in Indonesia's struggle for independence.
1947 Art Forger Han van Meegeren Sentenced: Han van Meegeren, a notorious Dutch art forger famous for creating and selling fake Vermeer paintings during World War II, is sentenced to one year in prison for his elaborate art forgery schemes.
1948 Tokyo War Crimes Tribunal Sentences Japanese Leaders: In Tokyo, Japan, the International War Crimes Tribunal announced final verdicts for Japanese leaders responsible for World War II atrocities. Former Japanese military and government officials, including General Hideki Tojo, were tried for war crimes. Seven defendants, including Tojo, were sentenced to death by hanging, while sixteen others received life imprisonment. This landmark trial represented a significant moment of post-war international justice, holding high-ranking Japanese officials accountable for their actions during the conflict.
1949 Volkswagen Type 2 Panel Van Debut: On November 12, 1949, Volkswagen unveiled the Type 2 panel van in Germany, a groundbreaking commercial vehicle that would become iconic in transportation and commercial logistics. This versatile van, often referred to as the VW Bus or Microbus, would go on to become a symbol of counterculture in the 1960s and a revolutionary design in automotive history.
1950 Battle of Unsan Concludes: The Battle of Unsan, a significant engagement during the Korean War, ended with a decisive victory for Chinese forces. This battle marked an important turning point in the early stages of the conflict, demonstrating the strategic capabilities of Chinese military forces.
1951 National Ballet of Canada's First Performance: The National Ballet of Canada made its inaugural public performance at the historic Eaton Auditorium, marking a pivotal moment in the development of Canadian performing arts and establishing a new cultural institution.
1952 Bobby Shantz Wins American League MVP Award: Philadelphia Athletics pitcher Bobby Shantz was awarded the American League Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award, recognizing his outstanding performance during the 1952 baseball season. Shantz was known for his exceptional pitching skills and was a key player for the Athletics during this era.
1953 David Ben-Gurion Resigns as Premier of Israel: David Ben-Gurion, a pivotal figure in Israel's early statehood, stepped down from his role as Premier, marking a significant moment in Israeli political leadership. Ben-Gurion, who was instrumental in establishing the State of Israel, temporarily withdrew from the top governmental position.
1954 Ellis Island Immigration Station Closes: Ellis Island, the historic gateway for millions of immigrants entering the United States, officially ceased operations after processing over 12 million newcomers since its establishment in 1892. Located in New York Harbor, this iconic immigration station symbolized hope and new beginnings for generations of immigrants seeking opportunity in America.
1955 First West German Officers Sworn In: On November 12, 1955, the first officers of the newly formed West German military were officially sworn in, marking a significant moment in post-World War II German military reconstruction.
1956 Three African Nations Join the United Nations: Morocco, Sudan, and Tunisia were admitted as new member states to the United Nations, marking a significant moment in post-colonial international diplomacy and expanding global representation.
1958 Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland Elections: Elections were held in the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland for 52 of the 59 seats in the Federal Parliament. The seats were distributed among Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia), and Nyasaland (now Malawi). With only 83,643 white European voters participating out of 88,314 eligible voters, Prime Minister Roy Welensky's United Federal Party secured a decisive victory, winning 46 of the 59 seats, reflecting the complex racial political dynamics of the time.
1959 NASA and Department of Defense Collaboration Agreement: NASA Administrator T. Keith Glennan and Deputy Secretary of Defense Thomas S. Gates Jr. signed a pivotal agreement establishing collaborative principles for cost reimbursement and mutual support in Project Mercury, a critical early U.S. human spaceflight program.
1960 Failed Coup Attempt in South Vietnam: A military coup against South Vietnamese President Ngo Dinh Diem was attempted but ultimately unsuccessful. This event highlighted the political instability in South Vietnam during the early 1960s, preceding the escalation of U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War.
1961 Birth of Nadia Comaneci, Legendary Gymnast: Nadia Comaneci was born in Onesti, Romania, who would later become one of the most iconic gymnasts in Olympic history. She made history at the 1976 Montreal Olympics by scoring the first perfect 10 in Olympic gymnastics and went on to win multiple gold medals in 1976 and 1980.
1963 Kennedy's Pre-Election Political Strategy Meeting: President John F. Kennedy convened a crucial political planning session on November 12, 1963, focusing on strategic preparations for the upcoming election year. The meeting specifically addressed emerging challenges in Texas, including internal party conflicts and growing political tensions stemming from extremist group activities. This session was part of Kennedy's broader efforts to navigate the complex political landscape and maintain party unity.
1964 Televised Execution of Jeune Haiti Rebels: In a stark display of political repression, Haitian President François 'Papa Doc' Duvalier ordered the public, televised execution of two surviving members of the Jeune Haiti rebel group by firing squad. This event underscored the brutal nature of Duvalier's regime and its treatment of political opponents.
1965 Soviet Union Launches Venera 2 to Venus: The Soviet Union launched Venera 2, an unmanned space probe designed to study the planet Venus, continuing the space exploration efforts during the Cold War era's Space Race.
1966 First Solar Eclipse Images from Space: During the Gemini 12 mission, astronaut Buzz Aldrin and his crew captured the first-ever images of a total solar eclipse from space, specifically over South America, marking a significant milestone in space observation and astronomical research.
1967 Terrorist Bombing of American Airlines Flight 455: A terrorist attack targeted American Airlines Flight 455 traveling from Chicago to San Diego when a crudely constructed bomb detonated in the aircraft's baggage compartment, causing significant damage and raising serious security concerns for commercial aviation.
1968 Tinker v. Des Moines Supreme Court Case: Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District is argued before the Supreme Court of the United States, a landmark case concerning student free speech rights.
1969 US Army Investigates My Lai Massacre: The United States Army announced an official investigation into the alleged massacre of Vietnamese civilians by US troops in the village of My Lai, which occurred in March 1968. This investigation would become a pivotal moment in exposing war crimes during the Vietnam War.
1970 Bhola Cyclone Devastates East Pakistan: A catastrophic cyclone with winds reaching 240 km/h strikes East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), causing one of the deadliest natural disasters in modern history. The cyclone results in an estimated 300,000 to 500,000 fatalities, devastating coastal communities and highlighting the region's vulnerability to extreme weather events.
1971 Mariner 9 Enters Mars Orbit: The U.S. spacecraft Mariner 9 made history by becoming the first human-made object to successfully enter and orbit another planet's orbit around Mars. This groundbreaking mission provided unprecedented scientific insights into the Martian landscape, marking a significant milestone in space exploration.
1974 South Africa Suspended from UN General Assembly: On November 12, 1974, the United Nations General Assembly voted to suspend South Africa due to its discriminatory apartheid policies. This significant diplomatic action was a strong international condemnation of the racist system of institutionalized racial segregation and white supremacy that had been enforced in South Africa since 1948. The suspension marked a critical moment in the global struggle against racial discrimination and highlighted the international community's rejection of apartheid.
1975 Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas Retires: William O. Douglas, one of the longest-serving justices in U.S. Supreme Court history, retired after an extraordinary 36-year tenure. His retirement marked the end of a significant judicial career that spanned multiple decades and profoundly influenced American constitutional law.
1976 Renee MacRae Disappearance Case Begins: Britain's most enduring missing persons mystery commenced when Renee MacRae, aged 36, and her three-year-old son Andrew vanished without a trace from Inverness, Scotland. This tragic case would become a long-standing unsolved mystery that captivated public attention and challenged law enforcement for decades.
1977 Ernest N. Morial Elected Mayor of New Orleans: Ernest N. Morial made history by becoming the first African American mayor of New Orleans, Louisiana, marking a significant milestone in the city's political landscape and civil rights progress.
1978 Operation Condor Kidnapping of Lilián Celiberti: As part of the Operation Condor agreement, Uruguayan agents kidnapped activist Lilián Celiberti, her partner Universindo Rodríguez, and their two children from their home in Porto Alegre, Brazil. With Brazilian military government's consent, they were forcibly taken to Uruguay. The children were placed with Celiberti's parents, while she and Rodriguez were imprisoned for five years, representing a severe human rights violation during the region's military dictatorships.
1979 Iran Hostage Crisis: US Oil Import Sanctions: In response to the hostage situation in Tehran, U.S. President Jimmy Carter orders a comprehensive halt to all petroleum imports from Iran, escalating economic pressure on the Iranian government during the diplomatic crisis.
1980 Voyager I's Historic Saturn Flyby: NASA's space probe Voyager I made its groundbreaking closest approach to Saturn, flying within 77,000 miles of the planet's cloud-tops and transmitting the first high-resolution images of the planet and its intricate ring system back to Earth. This mission significantly advanced humanity's understanding of the outer solar system and planetary geology.
1981 Space Shuttle Columbia's Second Launch: The Space Shuttle Columbia became the first spacecraft to be launched into space twice, demonstrating significant technological advancement in reusable space vehicle design.
1982 Yuri Andropov Becomes Soviet Communist Party Leader: In the Soviet Union, former KGB head Yuri Andropov is selected to become the general secretary of the Soviet Communist Party's Central Committee, succeeding the late Leonid I. Brezhnev. This leadership transition marked a significant moment in Cold War-era Soviet politics, with Andropov known for his hardline stance and extensive background in state security.
1983 New Jersey Devils' First Overtime NHL Game: The New Jersey Devils played their inaugural overtime game in NHL history, losing a closely contested match against the Calgary Flames with a final score of 4-3. This game marked a significant milestone in the team's early professional journey.
1984 First Space Satellite Salvage Mission: Astronauts Dale A. Gardner and Joseph P. Allen aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery performed groundbreaking space walks to retrieve and salvage two malfunctioning satellites: Palapa B-2 and Westar 6. This historic mission marked the first successful satellite retrieval operation in space, demonstrating advanced astronaut capabilities and spacecraft maneuverability.
1985 Space Shuttle STS 61-B Launch Preparation: The Space Shuttle STS 61-B vehicle was moved to the launch pad, preparing for an upcoming mission as part of NASA's ongoing space exploration efforts.
1986 Greater Manchester Police Investigate Moors Murders: Greater Manchester Police announce a search for the bodies of two missing children who disappeared over 20 years ago, following confessions from notorious serial killers Ian Brady and Myra Hindley about two additional murders, reopening a dark chapter in British criminal history.
1987 Boris Yeltsin Fired from Moscow Communist Party Leadership: Boris Yeltsin was dismissed from his position as head of Moscow's Communist Party due to his vocal criticism of the slow pace of political and economic reforms. This event marked a significant moment in the late Soviet period, highlighting growing internal tensions and the eventual collapse of the Communist system.
1988 Japan Defeats MLB All-Star Team in Baseball Series: In a thrilling international baseball match, the Japanese national team defeated the Major League Baseball All-Star team 5-4 in Tokyo, marking the sixth game of a seven-game series. This victory highlighted the competitive prowess of Japanese baseball on the international stage.
1989 Brazil's First Free Presidential Election in Nearly Three Decades: Brazil held its first free presidential election since 1960, marking a significant milestone in the country's return to democratic governance after years of military dictatorship.
1990 World Wide Web Proposal: Tim Berners-Lee published a formal proposal for the World Wide Web, a groundbreaking moment in technological history that would fundamentally transform global communication, information sharing, and the way humans interact with technology. This proposal laid the foundational framework for the internet as we know it today.
1991 Vukovar Siege and Massacre: Serb troops capture Vukovar after an 87-day siege, committing the worst massacre in Croatian history during the Croatian War of Independence.
1992 Church of England Votes to Admit Women as Priests: In a historic decision, the Church of England voted to allow women to be ordained as priests, marking a significant milestone in gender equality within the Anglican religious hierarchy. This landmark vote represented a major shift in the church's traditional male-dominated priesthood and signaled growing progressive attitudes within the religious institution.
1993 Kazakhstan Introduces National Currency: President of Kazakhstan issued a decree establishing the national currency of the Republic of Kazakhstan, a significant step in the country's economic independence following the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
1994 Death of Wilma Rudolph, Olympic Champion: Wilma Rudolph, a groundbreaking African American Olympic athlete who overcame childhood polio to become one of the fastest women in the world, passed away. Known as the 'fastest woman in the world' during the 1960 Rome Olympics, she won three gold medals and broke multiple world records. Her remarkable achievements not only transformed women's track and field but also became a powerful symbol of civil rights and personal triumph during the challenging era of racial segregation.
1995 Ongoing Investigation into Rabin Assassination: Israeli authorities continued their investigation into the assassination of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, arresting two more suspects as the nation mourned the loss of its leader.
1996 Deadly Mid-Air Collision Over New Delhi: On November 12, 1996, a catastrophic mid-air collision occurred between a Saudi Arabian Airlines Boeing 747 and a Kazakhstan Airlines Ilyushin Il-76 cargo plane near New Delhi, India. The tragic accident resulted in the immediate death of all 349 people on board both aircraft, making it one of the deadliest aviation disasters in history. The collision happened due to communication and navigation errors, highlighting critical air traffic control and safety challenges of the time.
1997 Ramzi Yousef Convicted for 1993 World Trade Center Bombing: Ramzi Yousef was found guilty of masterminding the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, a significant terrorist attack that marked an early instance of international terrorism targeting the United States. His conviction represented a crucial moment in counter-terrorism efforts.
1998 Al Gore Signs Kyoto Protocol: U.S. Vice President Al Gore signed the Kyoto Protocol, an international environmental treaty aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and addressing global climate change.
1999 Düzce Earthquake in Northwestern Turkey: On November 12, 1999, a devastating magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck northwestern Turkey, causing widespread destruction and significant loss of life. The earthquake resulted in at least 894 fatalities and left 4,948 people injured. The seismic event was particularly destructive, with intense ground shaking that caused extensive damage to infrastructure and communities in the region.
2001 Taliban Abandons Kabul: In a critical moment during the War in Afghanistan, Taliban forces abandoned Kabul, the capital city, as Afghan Northern Alliance troops advanced. This marked a significant turning point in the post-9/11 military operations, with the Northern Alliance taking control of the city on November 14, 2001.
2002 Ethiopian Famine Warning: Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zewi issued a dire warning about a potential famine that could surpass the devastating 1984 Ethiopian famine. He dramatically stated that if the 1984 famine was a 'nightmare', the current situation would be 'too ghastly to contemplate', urgently appealing for international famine relief.
2003 Paul Bremer Addresses Iraqi Insurgency Concerns: Paul Bremer responded to a leaked CIA report, addressing concerns about terrorist efforts to undermine U.S. resolve in Iraq. The report indicated that the insurgency was deeply rooted and rapidly expanding, extending beyond former Baath Party members.
2004 Yasser Arafat Buried in Ramallah: Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat was laid to rest at his Ramallah compound, marking the end of an era for Palestinian politics. He passed away at the age of 75.
2005 Rabin Assassination Memorial: Tens of thousands gathered in Tel Aviv's Rabin Square to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the assassination of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, a pivotal moment in Israeli political history.
2006 Baghdad Police Recruitment Center Suicide Bombing: A devastating suicide bombing at a Baghdad police recruitment center resulted in at least 35 fatalities and 50 injuries, highlighting the ongoing security challenges and sectarian violence in post-invasion Iraq.
2007 Major Banks Collaborate to Restore Credit Markets: Bank of America, Citigroup, and JPMorgan Chase agreed to a massive US$75 billion plan aimed at stabilizing and restoring confidence in credit markets during a period of financial uncertainty.
2008 US Treasury TARP Strategy Shift: The US Treasury announced a strategic change in the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP), deciding to directly inject cash into select banks instead of purchasing mortgage-backed securities, marking a significant intervention in the financial crisis.
2009 Fort Hood Shooting Charges: Major Nidal Malik Hasan of the United States Army was formally charged with 13 counts of murder related to the devastating Fort Hood shooting, a tragic incident that shocked the military and national community.
2010 G20 Summit in Seoul: World leaders convene at the G20 Summit in Seoul, addressing critical global economic challenges, including panic selling of Irish debt and potential trade imbalances. Leaders agree to avoid competitive currency devaluation and establish guidelines for balanced international trade.
2011 Arab League Suspends Syria: The Arab League voted to suspend Syria due to its violent suppression of the ongoing uprising, urging member states to withdraw their ambassadors from Damascus. This diplomatic action signaled growing international condemnation of the Syrian government's brutal response to civilian protests.
2012 Syrian Civil War Border Incident: On November 12, 2012, a second mortar shell was fired from Syria into the Golan Heights, targeting an Israeli military post. This followed a similar incident the previous day. The Israel Defence Forces responded by firing tanks at the source of the bombardment, successfully striking Syrian Army artillery units.
2013 Philippines Faces Humanitarian Crisis After Typhoon Haiyan: The Philippines experienced a devastating humanitarian crisis following Typhoon Haiyan, with official death tolls reaching 1,774 and expected to rise. The typhoon caused massive destruction, displacing thousands and creating urgent needs for emergency relief and reconstruction.
2014 Rosetta Mission: Philae Probe Lands on Comet: The European Space Agency's Rosetta mission successfully landed the Philae probe on the comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko, marking a historic milestone in space exploration. This unprecedented achievement represented the first controlled landing on a comet's surface, providing unprecedented scientific insights into the composition of these celestial bodies.
2015 Kurdish Offensive Against ISIS in Sinjar: Kurdish forces, backed by U.S. airstrikes, launched a strategic offensive to recapture Sinjar, Iraq, from Islamic State militants. The operation aimed to secure the town and disrupt ISIS supply routes, marking a significant moment in the fight against the terrorist organization.
2016 2016 Bagram Airfield Bombing: A deadly explosion at NATO's Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan killed four American service members and injured at least 16 U.S. military personnel and one Polish soldier. The Taliban claimed responsibility for this attack, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region.
2017 #MeToo Movement Protest in Hollywood: Hundreds of sexual abuse victims and their supporters marched in Hollywood, California, as part of the growing #MeToo movement, highlighting widespread issues of sexual harassment and assault.
2018 Camp Fire: California's Deadliest Wildfire: The Camp Fire in Butte County became California's most deadly wildfire in history, with 42 confirmed deaths and 228 people reported missing, highlighting the devastating impact of climate-related disasters.
2019 Historic Spanish Coalition Government Formed: Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez from PSOE and Pablo Iglesias of Podemos announce a groundbreaking first coalition government in Spain's democratic history, marking a significant shift in the country's political landscape.
2020 COVID-19 Surge in Illinois: Illinois experienced a significant COVID-19 outbreak, reporting 12,702 new cases in a 24-hour period—a pandemic record for the state. In response, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot implemented a comprehensive stay-at-home advisory, restricting residents' movements to essential activities like work, school, and critical errands. The advisory was set to take effect on November 16 and remain in place for 30 days, reflecting the escalating public health crisis.
2021 Britney Spears Conservatorship Terminated: The Los Angeles Superior Court formally ended the 14-year conservatorship that had controlled pop singer Britney Spears' personal and financial affairs. This landmark legal decision marked a significant victory for Spears, who had been fighting to regain control of her life and autonomy since 2008.
2022 Nevada Senate Race Determines Congressional Majority: In a closely watched 2022 United States Senate election, incumbent Democrat Catherine Cortez Masto defeated Republican challenger Adam Laxalt in Nevada. Her victory secured the Democratic Party's majority in the upcoming 118th United States Congress, with significant implications for national legislative dynamics.
2023 South African Diplomat Calls for ICC Investigation of Netanyahu: South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor makes a significant diplomatic intervention by urging the International Criminal Court to investigate potential war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide, specifically calling for an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the context of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

What Is special about November 12?

November 12 is notable for a variety of important historical, cultural, and significant events, including famous birthdays and deaths, holidays and more. Find out everything about November 12.