This Day In History : April 12

1961 Russian Federation

Yuri Gagarin Becomes First Human in Space

On April 12, 1961, Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin becomes the first human to travel into space and orbit Earth aboard the Vostok 1 spacecraft. This historic flight marks a significant milestone in space exploration and the space race.

Also on This Day in History April 12

Discover what happened on April 12 with HISTORY's summaries of major events, anniversaries,
famous births and notable deaths.

Births on This Day, April 12
  • 1926 James Hillman

    American psychologist, and educator

  • 1924 Peter Safar

    Austrian physician who pioneered in CPR

  • 1916 Benjamin Libet

    American scientist who was a pioneered in the field of human consciousness

  • 1925 Evelyn Berezin

    American computer pioneer who invented first word processor

  • 1884 Otto Meyerhof

    German psychologist and biochemist, Nobel 1922

Deaths on This Day, April 12
  • 1912 Clara Barton

    American nurse who founded of the American Red Cross

  • 1997 George Wald

    American physiologist and biologist, Nobel Prize 1967

  • 1817 Charles Messier

    French astronomer, comet hunter who catalogued of nebulae and star clusters

  • 1964 Evert Willem Beth

    Dutch mathematician and philosopher

  • 1968 Heinrich Nordhoff

    German engineer who led the rebuilding of Volkswagen after World War II

1937

First Aircraft Jet Engine Successfully Tested

On April 12, 1937, the first aircraft jet engine is successfully tested, marking a pivotal moment in aviation history. This groundbreaking development paves the way for the future of jet propulsion and modern aviation technology.
1776

Halifax Resolution for Independence Adopted by North Carolina

On April 12, 1776, North Carolina adopts the Halifax Resolution, formally declaring its intention to seek independence from British rule. This resolution is a crucial step towards the broader movement for American independence.
1981

Space Shuttle Columbia Launched on Maiden Voyage

On April 12, 1981, the Space Shuttle Columbia embarks on its maiden voyage, marking the beginning of the Space Shuttle program. This mission demonstrates the capabilities of reusable spacecraft and sets the stage for future space exploration missions.
1606

England Adopts the Union Flag

On April 12, 1606, England adopts the Union Flag, the precursor to the modern Union Jack. This flag, combining elements of the crosses of St. George and St. Andrew, is later replaced in 1801 by the current version, which also includes the cross of St. Patrick.
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