12 BC
Ancient
Augustus Named Pontifex Maximus
Roman Emperor Augustus assumed the title of Pontifex Maximus, or chief priest of the Roman state religion. This consolidated religious and political authority in the emperor.
On This Day in History
1475
Culture
Michelangelo Is Born
Michelangelo Buonarroti was born in Caprese, Italy. He would become one of the greatest artists in history, creating the Sistine Chapel ceiling and the sculpture David.
1836
War & Conflict
Battle of the Alamo
Mexican forces under General Santa Anna stormed the Alamo, killing all of the roughly 200 Texan defenders. The battle became a symbol of heroic resistance and rallied support for Texas independence.
1857
Civil Rights
Dred Scott Decision
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Dred Scott v. Sandford that African Americans were not citizens and had no standing to sue. The decision inflamed sectional tensions and brought the nation closer to civil war.
1899
Science
Aspirin Trademarked by Bayer
The German pharmaceutical company Bayer registered aspirin as a trademark. The drug, derived from salicylic acid, became the world's most widely used medication.
1946
Politics
Ho Chi Minh Agrees to French Terms
Ho Chi Minh and France signed an agreement recognizing Vietnam as a free state within the French Union. The agreement ultimately failed, leading to the First Indochina War.
1981
Culture
Walter Cronkite Signs Off for Last Time
CBS Evening News anchor Walter Cronkite delivered his final broadcast, ending 19 years as 'the most trusted man in America.' His retirement marked the end of an era in television journalism.