Throughout history, August 12 has been the setting for remarkable events.
Historical Events
1099 – First Crusade
First Crusade: Battle of Ascalon: Crusaders under the command of Godfrey of Bouillon defeat Fatimid forces led by Al-Afdal Shahanshah. This is considered the last engagement of the First Crusade.
1376 – Andronikos IV Palaiologos
Andronikos IV Palaiologos enters Constantinople by force and captures his father, emperor John V Palaiologos, and his younger brothers during the Byzantine civil war of 1373–1379.
1898 – Flag of Hawaii
The Hawaiian flag is lowered from ʻIolani Palace in an elaborate annexation ceremony and replaced with the flag of the United States to signify the transfer of sovereignty from the Republic of Hawaii to the United States where it is formally recognized as Hawaii.
1977 – 1977 anti-Tamil pogrom
The Sri Lanka Riots, targeting the minority Sri Lankan Tamils, begin, less than a month after the United National Party came to power. Over 300 Tamils are killed.
Born on This Day
1925 – Norris McWhirter
Norris McWhirter, Scottish publisher and activist co-founded the Guinness World Records (died 2004)
1940 – John Waller (fight director)
John Waller, English historical European martial arts (HEMA) revival pioneer and fight director (died 2018)
Also on This Day
1985 – Japan Air Lines Flight 123
Japan Air Lines Flight 123 crashed into Mount Takamagahara in Japan, killing 520 of 524 people on board, including singer Kyu Sakamoto, in the world’s deadliest single-aircraft aviation disaster.
