What happened on October 12th?

Columbus reaches America

Author

Matthew Jones
October 12, 2024

1492 Columbus Reaches the New World

On October 12, 1492, Christopher Columbus made landfall in what would later be known as the Americas, initiating European exploration and contact with the continent. This moment set the stage for significant cultural exchanges, as well as eventual colonization and profound changes to indigenous civilizations across the New World.

This painting, completed by John Vanderlyn in 1846, is titled Landing of Columbus. It depicts Christopher Columbus and his crew on a beach in the West Indies, the first landfall of their expedition to find a westward route from Europe to China, Japan, and perhaps unknown lands. The painting is currently in the US Capitol Rotunda in Washington, DC.

🗞️Today’s Headlines

Everything important that’s ever happened on October 12:

2001 ─ The Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to the United Nations and Secretary-General Kofi Annan, recognizing their work for a more organized and peaceful world.

2000 ─ The USS Cole was attacked by al-Qaeda suicide bombers in a significant act of terrorism against the US Navy.

1968 ─ Equatorial Guinea gained independence from Spain, which marked the end of colonial rule and the birth of a new nation.

1915 ─ English nurse Edith Cavell was executed by German forces during World War I for helping Allied soldiers escape from occupied Belgium.

1901 ─ President Theodore Roosevelt officially renamed the Executive Mansion to the White House, giving the iconic residence its lasting identity.

1898 ─ A violent coal-mine riot erupted in Virden, Illinois, highlighting the intense labor disputes of the era.

🎂 Today’s Birthdays

On October 12, we’re singing to:

Luciano Pavarotti (1935) ─ An iconic Italian tenor known for his powerful voice and captivating performances who became one of the most celebrated opera singers of all time.

Hugh Jackman (1968) ─ Australian actor and performer acclaimed for his versatility on stage and screen, from musicals like Les Misérables to action roles such as Wolverine in the X-Men franchise.

 🪦Who Died Today?

On October 12, we’re saying goodbye to:

Elizabeth Fry (1845) ─ A British philanthropist and prison reformer whose efforts greatly improved conditions for inmates, earning her the title of the “Angel of Prisons.”

Robert E. Lee (1870) ─ Confederate general who commanded the Southern forces during the American Civil War and played a prominent role in American history.

Wilt Chamberlain (1999) ─ A towering basketball legend renowned for his scoring prowess and numerous records, including his 100-point game, one of the greatest feats in sports history.

How Am I Doing?

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