October 12th can be a very boring work or school day for many of us, but for others, it is one of the most enjoyable days of the year! Those of us living in the upper hemisphere are likely enjoying the falling leaves and the longer nights – and if you’re already marking today with someone special, here are some of the most fascinating things to know about October 12th to help mark the occasion!
On this day
1The Dai-Gohonzon was inscribed.
According to the Nichiren Shōshū school of Buddhism, the Dai-Gohonzon, a sacred mandala inscribed on a camphor-wood plank, was created by the Japanese monk Nichiren on 12 October 1279. It is kept at Taiseki-ji temple at the foot of Mount Fuji.
2Brazil invaded Uruguay.
On 12 October 1864, Brazilian troops invaded Uruguay. The invasion drew in Paraguay and led to the War of the Triple Alliance, in which Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay fought Paraguay until 1870. Paraguay is thought to have lost more than half its population.
3The US Navy commissioned its first submarine.
On 12 October 1900, the US Navy commissioned USS Holland, its first submarine, named after its Irish-born designer John Philip Holland. Powered by a petrol engine on the surface and an electric motor underwater, it set the pattern for submarines for decades.
4Columbus reached the Americas.
On 12 October 1492, Christopher Columbus’s expedition sighted land and went ashore on an island in the Bahamas, which he named San Salvador. It was the start of lasting contact between Europe and the Americas, with huge consequences for the people already living there.
5Inejiro Asanuma was assassinated.
Inejiro Asanuma, a Japanese politician, was killed with a sword during a TV debate in 1960 – a live televised event. He was murdered by Otoya Yamaguchi, a 17-year old nationalist.
Special Days Falling on October 12th
For cultures around the world, October 12th is one of the most important dates of the year. Why? Read on and find out!
Día de la Raza
Día de la Raza is a day to honor the cultural fusion of Spanish heritage with indigenous America. Generally speaking, it is Spanish-speaking countries and communities around the world that celebrate the day. However, it is important to note that there is a controversial element to the day due to the violent history leading to its creation. But, to many, it remains a festive day to celebrate every year.
Equatorial Guinea Independence Day
For the people of Equatorial Guinea, October 12th is always Independence Day! The day celebrates the moment the nation gained its independence from Spain back in 1968. The national language in the country remains Spanish; however, it has remained an independent country since 1968, and long may it continue!
Indigenous Resistance Day
As much as people celebrate the fusion of Spanish and indigenous American cultures on this day, the people of Venezuela also honor Indigenous Resistance Day. The day is there to honor the accurate history of the nation and shine a light on the atrocities that occurred to make the country what it is today. We must never forget about the people who came before, and their struggle to maintain their lives, and culture.
This month in history
The world passed six billion people. On 12 October 1999, the United Nations marked the ‘Day of Six Billion’. The world’s population has kept growing since, passing seven billion in 2011 and eight billion in November 2022.
Famous Birthdays on October 12th
- Edward VI, King of England, born 1537
- Amintore Galli, Italian composer, born 1845
- Luciano Pavarotti, legendary Italian tenor, born 1935
- Hugh Jackman, Australian actor, born 1968
- Josh Hutcherson, American actor, born 1992
If you were born on October 12th
…you’re a Libra! You’re very fair-minded, and justice means everything to you. When things aren’t right, you simply have to deal with it! That can make you a little stubborn to deal with sometimes, but people call on you to help keep the peace when things turn rough. You really are the epitome of the scales as per your Zodiac sign.
Take a look at our complete guide to Libra in our fact file and learn more about what makes your sign so special.
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