The 12th of September stands as a significant date in global history. Numerous events on this day have shaped the socio-political and cultural landscapes of nations. From military coups and discoveries to groundbreaking innovations, 12th September has witnessed a variety of impactful events.
Today in History: 12 September
1. 490 BC: Battle of Marathon
The Battle of Marathon, fought between the city-state of Athens and the Persian Empire, is one of the most decisive battles in ancient history. The Athenians, aided by a small contingent from Plataea, managed to fend off the much larger Persian force, marking a pivotal point in the Greco-Persian Wars. The battle is also the source of the famous marathon running event. Legend has it that a messenger, Pheidippides, ran from the battlefield to Athens (a distance of about 26 miles) to announce the victory, only to collapse and die after delivering his message.
2. 1609: Henry Hudson Begins His Exploration of the Hudson River
On this day, English explorer Henry Hudson, under the Dutch East India Company’s patronage, began his exploration of the river, which would eventually bear his name. This exploration paved the way for Dutch colonization in what would become New York.
3. 1846: Elizabeth Barrett Elope
Elizabeth Barrett and Robert Browning, two of the 19th century’s most renowned poets, eloped on this day, defying Barrett’s overprotective father. Their love story is amongst the most legendary in literary history, and their correspondence of love letters remains iconic.
4. 1940: Lascaux Cave Paintings Discovered
Near Montignac, France, a collection of prehistoric cave paintings, dating back to around 15,000–17,000 years ago, was discovered by four teenagers. These paintings depict various animals and patterns and offer a glimpse into the life and culture of prehistoric humans. The site, later declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, is hailed as “the Sistine Chapel of Prehistory.”
5. 1953: Nikita Khrushchev Appointed Soviet Party Secretary
Following Joseph Stalin’s death, a power struggle ensued in the Soviet Union, culminating in Nikita Khrushchev’s appointment as the first secretary of the Communist Party. Khrushchev’s leadership saw de-Stalinization efforts and the famous “Secret Speech” in which he denounced Stalin’s policies.
6. 1959: Luna 2, a Soviet Spacecraft, Hits the Moon
The Soviet Union’s Luna 2 mission became the first human-made object to reach the Moon when it crash-landed on its surface. This achievement marked a significant advancement in the space race between the United States and the USSR.
7. 1962: President Kennedy’s “We choose to go to the Moon” Speech
U.S. President John F. Kennedy delivered a historic speech at Rice University in Houston, Texas, reiterating America’s commitment to landing a man on the Moon before the decade’s end. This speech galvanized efforts leading up to the Apollo 11 mission in 1969.
8. 1974: Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia is Deposed
After ruling Ethiopia for nearly 44 years, Emperor Haile Selassie was deposed in a military coup, marking the end of the 3,000-year-old Ethiopian monarchy. This event led to the establishment of a pro-Soviet Marxist-Leninist government in Ethiopia.
9. 1977: Steven Biko’s Death
South African anti-apartheid activist Steven Biko died while in police custody. His death garnered international attention, shedding light on South Africa’s oppressive racial policies and galvanizing efforts against apartheid.
10. 1980: Military Coup in Turkey
The Turkish military, citing internal instability, enacted a coup d’état. This coup, the third in Turkish history, saw the dissolution of the parliament, suspension of the constitution, and widespread arrests of political activists.
11. 1992: Dr. Mae Jemison Goes to Space
Dr. Mae Jemison became the first African-American woman to travel in space aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour. Her journey is a landmark moment in the annals of space exploration and serves as an inspiration to many.
12. 2005: Hong Kong Disneyland Opens
Disneyland, the globally recognized theme park, expanded its reach by opening its doors in Hong Kong. This event marked Disney’s efforts to tap into the burgeoning Chinese market.
Notable Births on 12 September:
- 1880: H. L. Mencken, American journalist and satirist.
- 1944: Barry White, American soul singer.
Conclusion:
The 12th of September is a testament to the intricate tapestry of global history. From the realms of space exploration to the depths of human artistic expression, this date underscores the breadth and depth of human experiences and achievements. It reminds us of the resilience and determination of the human spirit, the consequences of power and ambition, and the enduring legacy of culture and innovation.
Understanding these events fosters a sense of global camaraderie and a deeper appreciation for the milestones that have shaped our world. The 12th of September serves as a beacon, illuminating the myriad ways in which individual actions, decisions, and innovations influence the broader currents of history.