Historical Events on September 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 September 12, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on September 12 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Taft Commission Establishes First Laws in the Philippines: On September 12, 1900, the five-member Taft Commission, acting as the legislative body for the Philippines under U.S. colonial administration, passed its inaugural set of laws. These first four legislative acts focused on practical governance, including appropriations for critical infrastructure development such as road construction, geographical surveys, and funding for two new government positions. This marked a significant moment in the early American colonial administration of the Philippines, establishing the framework for systematic governance and infrastructure development.
1901 Assassination of President William McKinley: U.S. President William McKinley was shot and fatally wounded at 4:12 in the afternoon by Leon Czolgosz, an American anarchist, at the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York. McKinley would succumb to complications from his abdominal injury eight days later, marking a significant moment in American political history.
1902 Yacolt Burn Forest Fire Controlled: The devastating Yacolt Burn forest fire, which had been raging through the forests of southwestern Washington state, was finally brought under control on September 12, 1902. This massive wildfire was one of the most significant environmental disasters in the Pacific Northwest during the early 20th century, burning approximately 238,000 acres of timberland and causing extensive damage to the region's landscape and local communities.
1903 USS Maryland Launched: The U.S. armored cruiser USS Maryland was launched at Newport News Shipbuilding in Virginia, marking an important milestone in the early 20th-century naval expansion of the United States.
1904 Uneventful Day in 1904: While no significant historical events were documented for September 12, 1904, this does not necessarily mean nothing of importance occurred. Many days in history pass without major recorded incidents, yet they remain part of the broader historical tapestry.
1905 Zambezi River Railway Bridge Opened: The railway bridge over the Zambezi River was formally opened in southern Africa, significantly reducing travel time for trains on the ambitious Capetown to Cairo Railway project. This engineering feat represented a crucial milestone in connecting transportation networks across colonial Africa.
1906 Newport Transporter Bridge Inauguration: On September 12, 1906, the innovative Newport Transporter Bridge was officially opened in Newport, South Wales, with Viscount Tredegar presiding over the ceremony. This remarkable piece of industrial engineering represented a significant advancement in transportation infrastructure, allowing pedestrians and vehicles to cross the River Usk via a suspended gondola mechanism. The bridge, designed by French engineer Ferdinand Arnodin, was a testament to the technological prowess of the early 20th century and played a crucial role in facilitating industrial and commercial connectivity in the region.
1907 Lusitania Sets Atlantic Crossing Record: The RMS Lusitania completed a record-breaking transatlantic crossing, arriving in New York City after a swift five-day journey. This was a significant achievement in maritime transportation, highlighting the technological advancements in steamship travel during the early 20th century. The Lusitania would later become infamous for its tragic sinking during World War I in 1915.
1908 Winston Churchill's Marriage to Clementine Hozier: On September 12, 1908, Winston Churchill, the future British Prime Minister, married Clementine Hozier in a significant personal milestone. The wedding took place at St. Margaret's Church in Westminster, London, marking the beginning of a remarkable partnership that would span over 56 years. Clementine would become a crucial support system for Churchill throughout his tumultuous political career, offering emotional support and strategic advice during both World Wars and his time as Prime Minister.
1909 First Racing Event at Indianapolis Motor Speedway: On September 12, 1909, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway hosted its first official racing event, marking a pivotal moment in American motorsports history. The track, which had been completed earlier that year, represented a groundbreaking development in automotive racing infrastructure. This inaugural event signaled the beginning of what would become one of the most iconic racing venues in the world, setting the stage for future motorsport competitions and technological innovations.
1910 First Female Police Officer in the United States: Alice Stebbins Wells, a pioneering former social worker, became the first woman police officer with full arrest powers in the United States. She made history by joining the Los Angeles Police Department, breaking significant gender barriers in law enforcement and paving the way for future female officers.
1911 Japan Withdraws from Port Arthur Naval Base: Japan officially abandoned its strategic naval station at Port Arthur (Lüshunkou) in Manchuria, marking a significant shift in its regional military positioning following the Russo-Japanese War. This withdrawal represented a notable geopolitical recalibration in Northeast Asia's complex territorial dynamics.
1912 Franco-Russian Convention Ratified: French Prime Minister Raymond Poincaré signed a critical diplomatic agreement in Moscow with the Russian Empire, ratifying the Franco-Russian Convention. This strategic alliance stipulated that if the German Empire mobilized its troops, both France and Russia would respond in kind, further solidifying the geopolitical tensions leading up to World War I.
1913 Jesse Owens: Olympic Legend Who Challenged Nazi Ideology: James Cleveland 'Jesse' Owens, an African American track and field athlete, was born on September 12, 1913. He would become one of the most iconic athletes in Olympic history, dramatically challenging racial prejudices by winning four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. His extraordinary performance in front of Adolf Hitler, who had hoped to showcase Aryan racial superiority, instead became a powerful statement against Nazi racial theories. Owens won gold medals in the 100-meter dash, 200-meter dash, long jump, and 4x100-meter relay, setting multiple world records and becoming a symbol of athletic excellence and human dignity.
1914 First Battle of the Marne Concludes: The First Battle of the Marne, a pivotal engagement in World War I, ended on September 12, 1914, with the German forces beginning a strategic retreat north of the Aisne River. This battle marked a critical turning point in the war, effectively halting the German advance into France and transitioning the conflict into a prolonged period of trench warfare on the Western Front. The Allied forces, primarily French and British troops, successfully counterattacked and prevented the German army from capturing Paris, fundamentally altering the war's trajectory.
1915 French Soldiers Rescue Armenian Genocide Survivors at Musa Dagh: During the Armenian Genocide, French soldiers conducted a heroic rescue operation, saving over 4,000 Armenian survivors stranded on Musa Dagh, a critical humanitarian intervention during World War I.
1916 Battle of Kaymakchalan: Serbian Army's Strategic Mountain Assault: On September 12, 1916, during World War I, the Serbian First Army launched a significant offensive against Bulgarian forces positioned at Kajmakčalan, a strategically crucial mountain located in Macedonia. This battle was part of the broader Macedonian campaign, where Allied forces sought to challenge Bulgarian territorial control and strategic positions.
1917 Saint-Mihiel Offensive of World War I: On September 12, 1918, the American Expeditionary Forces under Commander-in-Chief General John J. Pershing launched its first major independent offensive in Europe during World War I. The U.S.-led attack targeted the strategically critical Saint-Mihiel salient, a triangular area of land between Verdun and Nancy that had been occupied by German forces since 1914. This salient was crucial as it disrupted rail communications between Paris and the eastern front sections. The offensive began with an early morning artillery bombardment, followed by U.S. infantry and tank advances. Despite potential resistance, the operation was relatively swift, and by September 16, the area was liberated from German occupation, marking a significant milestone in American military involvement in World War I.
1918 Saint-Mihiel Offensive: A Pivotal American Operation in World War I: The American Expeditionary Forces under commander in chief General John J. Pershing launched its first major independent offensive in Europe during World War I. The U.S.-led attack targeted the strategically critical Saint-Mihiel salient, a triangular area of land between Verdun and Nancy that had been occupied by German forces since 1914. This salient was crucial as it disrupted rail communications between Paris and the eastern front sections. The offensive began with an early morning artillery bombardment, followed by infantry and tank attacks on September 12. Despite potential challenges, resistance was relatively light, and by September 16, the Americans had successfully liberated this area of France from German occupation.
1919 Adolf Hitler Joins the German Workers' Party: On September 12, 1919, Adolf Hitler joined the German Workers' Party (Deutsche Arbeiterpartei or DAP), a small nationalist political group in Munich. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of Hitler's political career, where he would eventually transform the party into the Nazi Party (NSDAP) and rise to become the dictator of Germany. Hitler was attracted to the party's extreme nationalist and antisemitic ideology, becoming its 7th member and setting the stage for one of the most destructive political movements in human history.
1920 Serbian Orthodox Church Restoration: The Serbian Orthodox Church was officially unified and restored after 164 years of suppression by the Ottoman Empire. Under the leadership of Dimitrije Pavlović, the Metropolitan of Belgrade, this event marked a significant moment of religious and cultural revival for Serbian national identity.
1921 Soviet-Romanian Territorial Conflict: The Soviet Union officially declared war on the Kingdom of Romania, seeking to reclaim the territory of Bessarabia, a disputed region spanning approximately 18,000 square miles (47,000 square kilometers). This conflict represented a significant geopolitical tension in Eastern Europe during the early post-World War I period.
1922 Paavo Nurmi Breaks World Record in 5000 Meters: Finnish athlete Paavo Nurmi, known as the 'Flying Finn', set a new world record in the men's 5000 meters running event with an impressive time of 14 minutes 35.4 seconds. This achievement further solidified Nurmi's reputation as one of the most dominant long-distance runners of the early 20th century.
1923 British Annexation of Southern Rhodesia: On September 12, 1923, the United Kingdom officially annexed Southern Rhodesia (now known as Zimbabwe), transitioning the territory from the administration of the British South Africa Company to direct British colonial control. This marked a significant moment in the colonial history of the region, establishing formal British governance and setting the stage for decades of colonial rule.
1924 Political Assassination in Fascist Italy: Armando Casalili, a Fascist Party member of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, was assassinated by Communist activist Giovanni Corvi. This murder was a retaliatory act intended to avenge the earlier assassination of Socialist Party deputy Giacomo Matteotti on June 12, reflecting the intense political violence and ideological conflicts in 1920s Italy.
1925 USA Triumphs in 20th Davis Cup Tennis Tournament: The United States national tennis team secured victory in the 20th Davis Cup competition, defeating France in a decisive match held in Philadelphia. This international tennis tournament showcased the exceptional skill and competitive spirit of American tennis players during the mid-1920s.
1926 Subway Sadie Film Premiere: The silent film *Subway Sadie* was released in theaters, marking another entry in the early cinema landscape of the 1920s. This film represents the evolving entertainment culture of the era, showcasing the growing popularity of motion pictures during the silent film period.
1927 Kellogg's Stance on Panama Canal Sovereignty: U.S. Secretary of State Frank B. Kellogg delivered a strong diplomatic message to the League of Nations, asserting unequivocal American sovereignty over the Panama Canal. He explicitly warned that the United States would not recognize or comply with any World Court ruling regarding Canal Zone ownership, emphasizing the nation's absolute control over this strategic international waterway.
1928 Deadly Okeechobee Hurricane Strikes Guadeloupe: On September 12, 1928, the devastating Okeechobee hurricane made landfall in Guadeloupe, causing catastrophic damage and resulting in the tragic loss of over 1,200 lives. This powerful Category 4 hurricane was one of the deadliest tropical cyclones in the Caribbean's recorded history, leaving widespread destruction in its wake and highlighting the vulnerability of island communities to extreme weather events.
1929 Mussolini Consolidates Power by Reducing Cabinet Roles: On September 12, 1929, Italian dictator Benito Mussolini strategically relinquished seven of his eight cabinet posts, retaining only the Ministry of Interior. This political maneuver allowed him to streamline his government and appoint trusted allies to key positions. New appointees included Dino Grandi as Foreign Affairs Minister and Italo Balbo as Minister of Aviation, signaling a potential shift in Italy's political and diplomatic strategy during the early years of Mussolini's fascist regime.
1930 Political Violence in Berlin: On the eve of the Reichstag elections, violent clashes erupted in Berlin between communist and Nazi supporters, resulting in one fatality and eight wounded. This incident exemplified the escalating political tensions and street violence that characterized the political landscape of Germany during the late Weimar Republic period.
1931 George Jones: Country Music Legend Born: George Jones, a pivotal figure in American country music, was born on this date. He would become renowned for iconic songs like "White Lightning", "He Stopped Loving Her Today", and "I Don't Need Your Rockin' Chair", significantly influencing the country music genre.
1932 Fall of Papen Government in Germany: The German government led by Chancellor Franz von Papen was dissolved after losing political support, marking a significant moment of political instability in the Weimar Republic during the tumultuous early 1930s.
1933 Leo Szilard Conceives Nuclear Chain Reaction: While waiting at a red light on Southampton Row in Bloomsbury, London, physicist Leo Szilard had a groundbreaking scientific insight: the concept of a nuclear chain reaction, which would later become fundamental to nuclear physics and atomic energy development.
1934 Baltic Entente Established: On September 12, 1934, Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia signed a significant mutual defense and cooperation treaty, forming the Baltic Entente. This diplomatic agreement was strategically designed to provide collective security and political solidarity among the three Baltic states, primarily in response to potential threats from the Soviet Union during the increasingly tense interwar period.
1935 Baltic States Sign Mutual Defense Treaty: Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania signed the Treaty of Understanding and Cooperation, forming a strategic alliance primarily aimed at protecting themselves against potential threats from Nazi Germany.
1936 Nationalist Capture of San Sebastián: During the Spanish Civil War, Nationalist forces captured San Sebastián, securing complete control of the strategically important Basque region, which was a significant turning point in the conflict.
1937 Battle of Vienna: Decisive Christian Victory over Ottoman Empire: On September 12, 1637, a pivotal battle took place outside Vienna where a combined Christian alliance led by Polish King John III Sobieski decisively defeated the Ottoman Turkish forces. This battle was a critical turning point in European history, effectively halting the Ottoman Empire's expansion into Central Europe and marking the beginning of the decline of Ottoman military power in the region.
1938 Hitler's Inflammatory Nuremberg Speech on Sudetenland: Adolf Hitler delivered a provocative closing address at the Nuremberg Rally, vehemently attacking Czechoslovakian leadership and the Czech people. The speech focused on the alleged oppression of ethnic Germans in the Sudetenland region. American news commentator Hans von Kaltenborn provided a comprehensive broadcast summary of Hitler's address over the CBS Radio Network, marking a significant moment in international media coverage of pre-World War II tensions.
1939 Anglo-French War Council Delays Military Action: The Anglo-French Supreme War Council strategically decided to postpone military operations against Germany on September 12, 1939, likely to assess military readiness and coordinate allied strategies in the early days of World War II.
1940 Discovery of Lascaux Cave Paintings: Four teenagers, while following their dog, accidentally discovered a remarkable prehistoric site near Lascaux, France. Their exploration revealed extraordinary cave paintings estimated to be approximately 17,000 years old, representing a significant archaeological find that would provide unprecedented insights into Paleolithic art and human cultural expression.
1941 First Snowfall on the Eastern Front: During Operation Barbarossa, the first snowfall was reported on the Russian front, signaling the approaching harsh winter that would significantly impact German military operations against the Soviet Union.
1942 Battle of Edson's Ridge Begins: The first day of the Battle of Edson's Ridge during the Guadalcanal campaign commenced, with U.S. Marines defending Henderson Field against Imperial Japanese Army forces in a critical Pacific theater engagement.
1943 Mussolini Rescue Operation at Campo Imperiale Hotel: At 1400 hours, eight German gliders landed at Campo Imperiale Hotel in the Abruzzi region of Italy. Seventy parachutists and Waffen-SS commandos swiftly executed a daring rescue operation, freeing Benito Mussolini from house arrest within twenty minutes.
1944 US Army Enters Germany: US Army troops crossed into Germany for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the European Theater of World War II.
1945 Japanese Army Surrenders in Singapore: On September 12, 1945, the Japanese Army formally surrendered to the British forces in Singapore, marking a significant moment in the conclusion of World War II in the Pacific theater. The surrender ceremony symbolized the end of Japanese military occupation in the region and represented a pivotal point in the restoration of British colonial control.
1946 Henry Wallace Criticizes U.S. Foreign Policy: Henry Wallace, then U.S. Secretary of Commerce, delivered a significant speech in New York City critically examining and challenging the current U.S. foreign policy stance, potentially highlighting tensions in post-World War II diplomatic approaches.
1947 Screen Actors Guild Implements Anti-Communist Loyalty Oath: During the early stages of the Cold War, the U.S. Screen Actors Guild enacted an anti-Communist loyalty oath, reflecting the intense political tensions and ideological scrutiny prevalent in the entertainment industry during the late 1940s.
1948 Liaoshen Campaign Launched by Communist Forces: During the Chinese Civil War, Marshal Lin Biao, commander-in-chief of the Chinese Communist Northeast Field Army, initiated a significant military offensive targeting Jinzhou, marking the beginning of the strategically important Liaoshen Campaign.
1949 Foundation of West German Democracy: Theodor Heuss was elected as the first President of the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany), while Konrad Adenauer became the first Chancellor, marking a pivotal moment in post-World War II German political reconstruction and democratic restoration.
1950 UN Forces Triumph in Battle of Kyongju during Korean War: United Nations forces achieved a significant victory in the Battle of Kyongju, marking a strategic milestone in the ongoing Korean War and demonstrating the UN's military capabilities.
1951 George C. Marshall Retires from Secretary of Defense: General George C. Marshall concluded his distinguished public service career by retiring from his position as Secretary of Defense on September 12, 1951. A pivotal figure in post-World War II American foreign policy, Marshall was renowned for the Marshall Plan, which helped rebuild Europe after the war. His exceptional diplomatic and strategic contributions were recognized internationally when he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in promoting collective security and global reconstruction.
1952 The Flatwoods Monster Incident: On September 12, 1952, a group of schoolboys in Flatwoods, West Virginia, reported an extraordinary encounter with an unidentified flying object (UFO) and a mysterious creature. According to their account, they witnessed a bright object streaking across the sky and landing on a nearby hilltop. Upon investigating, they encountered a nauseating mist, a shiny red light, and a large, intimidating creature with glowing eyes that seemed to hiss and glide menacingly. Terrified, the boys fled the scene. The following day, investigators found physical evidence including skid marks and an oil-like substance at the landing site, which fueled speculation about extraterrestrial visitation and cryptozoological phenomena.
1953 Khrushchev Becomes Communist Party Leader: Nikita Khrushchev is elected as the first secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, a pivotal moment in Cold War-era Soviet leadership that would significantly impact global geopolitics in the coming years.
1954 Ted Kluszewski Sets Consecutive Run Record: Cincinnati Reds player Ted Kluszewski set a remarkable record by scoring a run in 17 consecutive games, demonstrating exceptional batting consistency.
1955 Martial Law Declared in Turkey: Following the violent demonstrations of September 6-7, the Turkish government declares martial law, signaling significant political instability and social unrest in the country during this period of Cold War tensions.
1956 Racial Segregation in Kentucky Elementary School: On September 12, 1956, Black students attempted to enter Clay, Kentucky elementary school but were prevented from doing so, highlighting the ongoing racial tensions and segregation in American public education during the mid-1950s.
1957 NORAD Established: The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), a joint United States and Canadian organization responsible for aerospace warning and control, began its operations, marking a significant milestone in continental defense during the Cold War era.
1958 First Working Integrated Circuit Demonstrated: Jack Kilby demonstrates the first working integrated circuit while working at Texas Instruments, marking a pivotal moment in the history of electronics. This breakthrough invention would revolutionize technology by allowing multiple electronic components to be fabricated on a single semiconductor chip, paving the way for modern computing and digital technology.
1959 Luna 2: First Spacecraft to Impact the Moon: The Soviet Union successfully launched Luna 2, a pioneering spacecraft that became the first human-made object to reach the lunar surface. This groundbreaking mission marked a significant milestone in the early Space Race, demonstrating the Soviet Union's advanced space exploration capabilities.
1960 Kennedy's Historic Speech on Religious Tolerance: On September 12, 1960, Senator John F. Kennedy delivered a landmark speech at the Greater Houston Ministerial Association, addressing critical concerns about his Catholic faith and its potential impact on his potential presidency. In this pivotal moment of the 1960 presidential campaign, Kennedy directly confronted widespread Protestant suspicions about a Catholic candidate by eloquently affirming his commitment to religious freedom and the constitutional principle of separation of church and state. He emphatically stated that his religious beliefs would not interfere with his duties as a potential president, emphasizing that he would serve all Americans regardless of their faith.
1961 Mercury-Atlas 4 Orbital Mission: NASA successfully launched the uncrewed Mercury-Atlas 4 spacecraft, marking a significant milestone in the early American space program. The mission completed one complete orbit around Earth, lasting one hour and 49 minutes, and splashed down in the Atlantic Ocean 161 miles east of Bermuda, where it was recovered by the USS recovery vessel.
1962 Kennedy's Moon Landing Commitment: President John F. Kennedy boldly declares the United States' ambitious goal to land a human on the moon and return them safely to Earth by the end of the 1960s, marking a pivotal moment in the Space Race and technological aspiration.
1963 Tragic Swissair Flight 306 Disaster: On September 12, 1963, Swissair Flight 306, a Sud Aviation Caravelle jet airliner en route to Rome, suffered a catastrophic crash shortly after takeoff from Zurich Airport. The aircraft caught fire and plummeted near the town of Dürrenäsch, resulting in the tragic loss of all 80 people aboard. This devastating accident highlighted the critical importance of aircraft safety and investigation protocols in the early jet age.
1964 Typhoon Gloria Devastates Taiwan: Devastating Typhoon Gloria strikes Taiwan, resulting in a tragic loss of 330 lives and causing extensive damage estimated at $17.5 million, highlighting the destructive power of natural disasters and their profound human impact.
1965 Hurricane Betsy Devastates Gulf Coast: Hurricane Betsy made landfall in Florida and Louisiana, causing significant destruction and resulting in 75 fatalities. This hurricane was particularly notable for its severe impact on New Orleans, causing extensive flooding and widespread damage.
1966 Racial Violence in Grenada, Mississippi School Integration: A significant moment in the Civil Rights Movement where 250 Black students attempted to integrate Grenada schools, facing violent white mob resistance. Despite the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education ruling, local white leaders used intimidation tactics. When students arrived, they were attacked with chains, pipes, and clubs, with some hospitalized. Federal intervention eventually occurred, with the FBI arresting 13 mob members.
1967 Death of Ilse Koch, Nazi War Criminal: Ilse Koch, the 60-year-old German war criminal infamously known as 'The Bitch of Buchenwald', committed suicide by hanging herself in the Bavarian prison of Aichach. Koch was notorious for her sadistic cruelty in Nazi concentration camps, particularly Buchenwald, where she was known for her horrific treatment of prisoners.
1968 Albania Withdraws from Warsaw Pact: On September 12, 1968, Albania officially announced its withdrawal from the Warsaw Pact, a collective defense treaty between the Soviet Union and other Eastern European communist states. This decision marked a significant diplomatic break from Soviet influence and demonstrated Albania's increasing political independence during the Cold War era.
1969 Philippine Air Lines Flight 158 Crash: On September 12, 1969, Philippine Air Lines Flight 158 crashed in Antipolo, near Manila International Airport, resulting in a tragic loss of 45 lives. The aircraft accident occurred under circumstances that highlighted the aviation safety challenges of the late 1960s, marking a significant moment in Philippine aviation history.
1970 Concorde's First Heathrow Landing: The revolutionary supersonic airliner Concorde made its inaugural landing at London's Heathrow Airport, marking a significant milestone in commercial aviation technology and international transportation.
1971 Stan Smith Wins First Grand Slam at US Open: American tennis player Stan Smith secured his first Grand Slam title at the US Open, defeating Czech star Jan Kodeš in a thrilling four-set match with scores of 3-6, 6-3, 6-2, 7-6. This victory marked a significant milestone in Smith's professional tennis career.
1972 Federal Revenue Sharing Plan Approved: The United States Senate passed a significant federal revenue sharing plan with a 64-20 vote, authorizing the transfer of $5.3 billion from federal government revenues to state and local governments. This landmark legislation aimed to provide financial support and flexibility to local jurisdictions, representing a major shift in intergovernmental fiscal policy.
1973 USSR Nuclear Test at Novaya Zemlya: On September 12, 1973, the Soviet Union conducted a nuclear test at the Novaya Zemlya archipelago, a remote Arctic testing site. This test was part of the ongoing nuclear arms race during the Cold War period, demonstrating the USSR's continued nuclear weapons development and strategic capabilities.
1974 Ethiopian Imperial Regime Overthrown: Emperor Haile Selassie, a pivotal figure in Ethiopian history and revered as the 'Messiah' of the Rastafari movement, was deposed by a military coup led by the Derg (Provisional Military Administrative Council). This event dramatically ended his 58-year reign, marking a significant political transformation in Ethiopia and signaling the conclusion of the imperial era.
1976 Seattle Seahawks Debut in NFL: The Seattle Seahawks played their first regular-season game in franchise history, losing to the Saint Louis Cardinals 30-24, marking the beginning of a new NFL team's journey.
1977 Death of Steve Biko in Police Custody: Steve Biko, a prominent South African anti-apartheid activist, died from severe injuries sustained during police interrogation and torture. His death became a pivotal moment in the struggle against apartheid, drawing international condemnation of the racist South African regime's brutal tactics and highlighting the human rights violations of the apartheid system.
1978 Greek Warships Traverse Bosporus: In a significant diplomatic milestone, Greek warships were permitted by Turkey to pass through the Dardanelles and Bosporus straits for the first time since World War I. Two Greek Navy destroyers visited the Black Sea port of Odessa in the Soviet Union, symbolizing improving relations between Greece, Turkey, and the Soviet Union.
1979 Hurricane Frederick Devastates Alabama Coast: Hurricane Frederick made a destructive landfall on Alabama's Gulf Coast, causing significant damage estimated at $23 million and resulting in five fatalities. The hurricane's powerful winds and storm surge created widespread devastation.
1980 Turkish Military Coup of 1980: On September 12, 1980, General Kenan Evren led a significant military coup in Turkey, overthrowing the government and establishing military control. The National Security Council (MGK) dissolved the Parliament, suspended the Constitution, and imposed martial law. This event resulted in widespread political repression, with over 650,000 people detained and 230,000 put on trial, marking a dark period in Turkish democratic history.
1981 Devastating Kashmir Earthquake: A powerful magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck the Gilgit area in Kashmir, causing massive destruction. The catastrophic event resulted in at least 220 fatalities, over 2,500 injuries, and extensive damage, including numerous landslides that reshaped the region's landscape.
1982 102nd US Men's Tennis Championship: Jimmy Connors defeats Ivan Lendl in a thrilling four-set match with scores of 6-3, 6-2, 4-6, 6-4, showcasing his exceptional tennis skills and competitive spirit.
1983 USSR Blocks UN Resolution on Korean Air Lines Flight 007: In a controversial diplomatic move, the Soviet Union vetoed a United Nations Security Council Resolution that sought to condemn the Soviet destruction of Korean Air Lines Flight 007, escalating Cold War tensions.
1984 Ethiopia Establishes Socialist Republic: Ethiopia underwent a significant political transformation by officially forming the Socialist Republic, marking a pivotal moment in the country's post-revolutionary governance and geopolitical alignment.
1985 Lotto 6/49 Expands to Twice-Weekly Draws in Canada: On September 12, 1985, the Canadian national lottery Lotto 6/49 significantly expanded its operations by introducing a second weekly draw, adding a Wednesday evening drawing to its existing format. This change provided more opportunities for Canadians to participate in the popular lottery, increasing excitement and potential jackpot opportunities for players across the country.
1986 Michael Jackson's Captain EO Debuts at Disney: The groundbreaking 3-D film Captain EO, starring Michael Jackson and produced by Lucasfilm, premiered at the Magic Eye Theater in EPCOT Center at Walt Disney World. With over 150 special effects and a production cost of US$17 million (approximately US$1 million per minute), it was the most expensive film of its time, representing a significant milestone in entertainment technology and pop culture.
1987 Ethiopia Adopts New Constitution: Ethiopia officially adopted a new constitution, marking a significant political transition and potentially reshaping the country's governance structure and legal framework.
1988 Hurricane Gilbert Devastates Jamaica: Hurricane Gilbert, the strongest hurricane ever recorded in the Western Hemisphere at the time, devastates Jamaica, causing an estimated $5 billion in damage. The hurricane later turned towards Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, leaving widespread destruction in its wake.
1989 Poland's Economic Transformation Announcement: Polish Prime Minister Tadeusz Mazowiecki delivered a landmark speech to parliament, outlining a comprehensive economic reform strategy known as 'shock therapy'. The bold plan included privatization of state-owned industries, establishing a stock exchange, transitioning from heavy industrial production to consumer goods manufacturing, and implementing significant budget cuts. This marked a critical moment in Poland's transition from a communist planned economy to a market-driven system.
1990 Treaty on the Final Settlement with Respect to Germany: The two German states and the Four Powers (United States, United Kingdom, France, and the Soviet Union) signed a historic treaty in Moscow, officially paving the way for German reunification after decades of division following World War II.
1991 NASA Space Shuttle Discovery STS-48 Mission Launch: NASA launched Space Shuttle Discovery on the STS-48 mission to deploy the Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite (UARS), a significant scientific spacecraft designed to study Earth's ozone layer, atmospheric chemistry, and climate dynamics. The mission represented an important milestone in understanding global atmospheric processes and environmental monitoring.
1992 Historic Space Shuttle Mission STS-47: NASA launched Space Shuttle Endeavour on mission STS-47, marking the 50th shuttle mission. This groundbreaking flight included several historic firsts: Mae Carol Jemison became the first African-American woman in space, Mamoru Mohri was the first Japanese citizen to fly in a US spaceship, and Mark Lee and Jan Davis were the first married couple to fly together in space.
1993 NASA Space Shuttle Discovery STS-51 Mission: NASA successfully launched Space Shuttle Discovery on its 4th launch attempt for mission STS-51, marking the 57th Space Shuttle mission. The mission inserted the ACTS satellite and SPAS into orbit, and provided crucial practice for the upcoming Hubble Space Telescope repair mission through extravehicular activity (EVA). The mission concluded with the 6th night landing at Kennedy Space Centre.
1994 Cessna Crash at the White House: Frank Eugene Corder fatally crashed a single-engine Cessna 150 into the White House's south lawn, specifically striking the West Wing. The incident resulted in no other casualties besides Corder himself.
1995 Death of Jeremy Brett, Iconic Sherlock Holmes Actor: Jeremy Brett, widely regarded as one of the most definitive and memorable actors to portray Sherlock Holmes, passed away on September 12, 1995. Known for his intense and nuanced performances in the Granada Television series, Brett's interpretation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's detective is considered by many to be the most authentic and faithful to the original literary character.
1996 Stalker's Attempted Attack on Björk Thwarted: Ricardo López, an obsessive fan, attempted to send an acid bomb to Icelandic singer Björk with the intent to kill or severely disfigure her. The dangerous package was successfully intercepted by Scotland Yard four days after its dispatch, preventing potential tragedy. Following his failed plot, López committed suicide, highlighting the extreme psychological risks of celebrity stalking.
1997 Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie Deposed: Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia, revered as the 'Messiah' of the Rastafari movement, is overthrown by a military coup led by the Derg, concluding his historic 58-year reign. This pivotal moment marked a dramatic end to Ethiopia's imperial era and significantly transformed the country's political landscape.
1998 Arrest of the Cuban Five Intelligence Agents: Five Cuban intelligence agents were arrested in Miami, Florida, on charges of espionage. The agents, later known as the Cuban Five, claimed their surveillance was targeted at Cuban exile groups in Miami rather than the U.S. government. Their arrest and subsequent trial became a significant point of tension between the United States and Cuba, highlighting the complex geopolitical relationship between the two countries.
1999 Indonesia Allows International Peacekeepers in East Timor: In a significant diplomatic development, Indonesia announced its willingness to allow international peacekeeping forces into East Timor, responding to mounting international pressure regarding the escalating humanitarian crisis in the region.
2000 Historic Mayoral Election in Selma, Alabama: In a landmark moment for racial politics in the American South, James Perkins Jr., a former computer consultant, was elected as the first Black mayor of Selma, Alabama. His victory marked the end of Joseph J. Smitherman's 35-year tenure, a period characterized by the city's complex racial dynamics during the Civil Rights era. Smitherman, a former segregationist, was defeated in an election that symbolized significant social progress and changing political landscapes.
2001 NATO Invokes Article V for First Time in History: In a historic moment, NATO invoked Article V of its collective defense agreement for the first time in response to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks against the United States of America. This unprecedented action signaled global solidarity against terrorism.
2002 Bush Challenges UN on Iraq Threat: U.S. President George W. Bush addressed the United Nations General Assembly, challenging member states to confront the 'grave and growing danger' posed by Iraq. He urged the international community to take decisive action against potential threats, suggesting that if the UN did not act, the United States and its allies would be prepared to intervene.
2003 Death of Johnny Cash: Legendary American singer and guitarist Johnny Cash passed away at the age of 71 due to complications from diabetes at Baptist Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee. He was buried next to his wife at Hendersonville Memory Gardens, near his home.
2004 Intense Violence in Iraq: A day of significant conflict in Iraq marked by extreme violence, with at least 110 Iraqis killed. The U.S. military launched offensive operations to reclaim insurgent-held territories before the upcoming January elections. Notable incidents included an attack on journalists and military engagements in multiple cities including Baghdad, Ramadi, Tal Afar, and Hilla.
2005 Israeli Disengagement from Gaza Strip: Israel completed its unilateral withdrawal of all troops and settlers from the Gaza Strip, marking a significant moment in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The withdrawal involved the demolition of approximately 2,530 homes and represented a major strategic shift in the region.
2006 Apple Launches iTunes Movie Store: Apple Computer announced the iTunes movie store, marking a significant milestone in digital media distribution. The initial offering included 75 Disney company movies available for download, with film prices ranging from US$10 to $16, revolutionizing how consumers access and purchase digital film content.
2007 Petraeus Iraq War Testimony: General David Petraeus testifies before Congress about the Iraq War, notably stating he is unsure if the war has made the United States safer. He proposes a potential troop withdrawal by July 2008.
2008 Lehman Brothers Bankruptcy: Lehman Brothers filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, a pivotal moment that triggered the Global Financial Crisis. This event marked the beginning of a severe economic downturn with worldwide repercussions.
2009 Norman Borlaug, Nobel Laureate, Dies: Norman Borlaug, renowned American agronomist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, known for his groundbreaking work in agricultural science that saved millions from starvation, passed away.
2010 China-Taiwan Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement: China and Taiwan signed a significant trade pact (ECFA), despite widespread protests in Taiwan, signaling a potential shift in cross-strait economic relations.
2011 9/11 Memorial Opens in New York City: The National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City officially opens to the public, commemorating the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
2012 Large-Scale Organized Crime Crackdown in Bosnia and Herzegovina: In a significant law enforcement operation, 25 suspects were arrested on suspicion of multiple murders and drug-trafficking. This represents the largest crackdown on organized crime since the conclusion of the Bosnian War.
2013 Voyager 1 Enters Interstellar Space: NASA confirms that its Voyager 1 probe has become the first human-made object to enter interstellar space, marking a historic milestone in space exploration.
2014 NASA's Mars Curiosity Rover Reaches Destination: NASA's Mars Curiosity rover successfully reached its final destination, Aeolis Mons, a 5.5 km mountain located in the Gale Crater, advancing scientific exploration of the Martian landscape.
2015 Jeremy Corbyn Elected Labour Party Leader: In a significant political shift, Jeremy Corbyn was elected as the leader of the United Kingdom's Labour Party, defeating candidates Liz Kendall, Andy Burnham, and Yvette Cooper. Tom Watson was simultaneously elected as the party's deputy leader.
2016 Hillary Clinton's Health Concerns: Hillary Clinton was diagnosed with pneumonia and was forced to cancel a trip to California after feeling 'overheated and dehydrated', raising questions about her health during the presidential campaign.
2017 UN Approves New North Korea Sanctions: The United Nations Security Council approved additional sanctions against North Korea in response to the country's continued nuclear and missile tests, escalating international pressure.
2018 Suicide Bombing in Afghanistan: A devastating suicide attack in eastern Afghanistan targeted protesters, resulting in 68 fatalities and over 120 injuries. The attack occurred amid escalating violence, with authorities warning of potential intensification as parliamentary elections approach.
2019 Third Democratic Party Presidential Debate: The third major Democratic Party televised debate was held at the Health and Physical Education Arena in Houston, Texas, with a primary focus on health care policy in the United States. The event was crucial in shaping the 2020 presidential primary landscape.
2020 Global COVID-19 Pandemic Reaches Peak Daily Infection Rate: On September 12, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported an unprecedented daily global COVID-19 infection rate of 307,930 cases, marking a significant milestone in the pandemic's progression. The surge was predominantly concentrated in three countries: the United States, India, and Brazil. In response to the escalating health crisis, Israel became the second nation to reimpose comprehensive lockdown measures, signaling the severity of the pandemic's impact on global public health and social dynamics.
2021 United States Commemorates 20th Anniversary of 9/11: Memorial events were held at Ground Zero in New York, the Pentagon, and the Flight 93 memorial to honor the victims and remember the tragic terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001, marking two decades since the devastating day.
2022 Queen Elizabeth II's Final Journey in Edinburgh: Following her passing, Queen Elizabeth II's coffin made a solemn procession down the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, moving from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St Giles' Cathedral. Approximately 20,000 people queued to pay their final respects to the United Kingdom's longest-reigning monarch.
2023 Devastating Cyclone Causes Mass Casualties in Libya: A powerful Mediterranean cyclone triggered catastrophic flooding in the eastern Libyan port city of Derna, with thousands of people feared dead. The extreme weather event caused unprecedented destruction, leading to potential massive loss of life and significant infrastructure damage.

What Is special about September 12?

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