Columbus reaches the Americas
Christopher Columbus's expedition makes landfall in the Bahamas, marking the beginning of sustained European contact with the Americas.
Discover 19 historical moments on October 12 — 7 events, 6 birthdays, and 6 notable deaths spanning centuries of human history.
Hero image inspired by: Christopher Columbus
Christopher Columbus's expedition makes landfall in the Bahamas, marking the beginning of sustained European contact with the Americas.
While in prison for murder, boxer James Scott defeated Eddie "The Flame" Gregory. Gregory was a leading light heavyweight.
Typhoon Tip, the largest and most intense tropical cyclone ever recorded, reached a worldwide record-low sea-level pressure. It occurred in the western Pacific Ocean.
The Provisional Irish Republican Army detonated a bomb at the Grand Hotel in Brighton, England. The attack was a failed attempt to assassinate British prime minister Margaret Thatcher and her cabinet.
An earthquake with a magnitude of 5.8 or 5.9 struck south of Cairo, Egypt. The disaster killed 545 people.
The United Nations designates October 12, 1999 as the day the world population reaches six billion people.
Twelve people were killed in an apartment-building collapse in Medellín. This event led to new construction laws being passed in Colombia.
Italian operatic tenor Luciano Pavarotti is born in Modena. He becomes one of the most celebrated tenors of the 20th century.
Ferdia Walsh-Peelo, an Irish actor and musician, was born on this date.
Confederate General Robert E. Lee dies in Lexington, Virginia, five years after the end of the American Civil War.
October 12 is home to 19 recorded historical entries in our collection, including 7 notable events, 6 famous birthdays, and 6 deaths. This date has witnessed momentous occasions spanning from 1492 to the present day.
Among the most notable events on October 12: Columbus reaches the Americas (1492), James Scott boxing match (1978), Typhoon Tip (1979). View all events →
Notable figures born on October 12 include Luciano Pavarotti, Curtis Scott, Ferdia Walsh-Peelo. View all birthdays →
Remembered figures who died on October 12 include Robert E. Lee, Jackmaster, Ka. View all →
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