July 12

Scott Winters July 12, 2025 0 Comments

A quick look at Today in History, check out some Celebrity Birthdays, and find out what Days of the Year to celebrate.

TODAY IN HISTORY:

1804 – Former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton died, a day after being shot in a duel.

1862 – The Medal of Honor was authorized by the U.S. Congress.

1870 – William W. Lyman patented the first rotary can opener with a cutting wheel.

1912 – The foreign film “Queen Elizabeth” became the first foreign-made film to premiere in America.

1933 – A minimum wage of 40 cents per hour was established for U.S. workers.

1954 – The Major League Baseball Players Association was organized in Cleveland, OH.

1954 – Elvis Presley signed his first recording contract with Sun Records. He then quit his job as a truck driver.

1957 – Leroy E. Burney, the U.S. surgeon general, reported on a direct link between smoking and lung cancer.

1960 – The children’s drawing toy Etch-A-Sketch went on sale.

1962 – The Rolling Stones performed their first concert, at the Marquee Club in London, England.

1973 – A fire destroyed the entire sixth floor of the National Personal Records Center of the United States.

1976 – The game show “Family Feud” made its TV debut. Most famously hosted by the late Richard Dawson, the series continues today, with Steve Harvey as the emcee.

1979 – At Comiskey Park in Chicago, IL, an anti-disco radio promotion turned into a riot. The disturbance caused the White Sox to forfeit the second game of their double-header against the Detroit Tigers.

1982 – “E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial” earned over $100 million in ticket sales to break all box-office records. The movie did so within a month of it’s release.

1982 – After 59 years, the last Checker taxicab rolled off the assembly line in Kalamazoo, MI.

1984 – Democrat Geraldine Ferraro became the first woman to run for Vice President on a major-party ticket as she is named Walter Mondale’s running mate.

1991 – The movie “Boyz in the Hood”, starring Cuba Gooding Jr., was released in theaters.

1991 – The movie “Point Break”, starring Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze, premiered in theaters.

1996 – Prince Charles and Princess Diana agreed to divorce.

1997 – HBO’s first one hour drama, “Oz”, debuted.

2000 – The movie “X-Men” premiered in New York.

2013 – The movie “Pacific Rim” was released in theaters.

BIRTHDAYS:

Bill Cosby – 88 years old (1937) – Actor, comedian

Walter Egan – 77 years old (1948) – Singer (“Magnet and Steel”)

Cheryl Ladd – 74 years old (1951) – Actress (TV’s “Charlie’s Angels”)

Sandi Patty – 69 years old (1956) – Christian Music Singer

Dan Murphy – 63 years old (1962) – Guitarist (Soul Asylum)

Robin Wilson – 60 years old (1965) – Lead vocalist (Gin Blossoms). Born in Detroit, MI.

Lisa Nicole Carson – 56 years old (1969) – Actress (TV’s “Ally McBeal”)

Kristi Yamaguchi – 54 years old (1971) – Olympic figure skater

Erik Per Sullivan – 34 years old (1991) – Actor (played Dewey on TV’s “Malcolm in the Middle”)

TODAY IS:

World Rum Day: Exploring the rich history and diverse craftsmanship of a spirited beverage, revealing its cultural significance and unique flavors.
National Simplicity Day: From taxes to technology, life gets complicated and stressful. Declutter your life and mind by stepping away from it all and settling in with a book or cup of tea.
Etch A Sketch Day: Dig out your old childhood toys and find that bright red device you probably spent hours on. Get creative and try your hand at Etch a Sketching as an adult.
National Pecan Pie Day: Make your own gooey, tasty pecan pie. Start from scratch or buy a frozen crust, then cook up the filling out of pecans, butter, sugar, eggs, and some spices.
National Eat Your Jello Day: Delight in the wobbly joy of a gelatinous marvel that brings smiles and culinary creativity to gatherings and desserts.
Paper Bag Day: Unleashing practical versatility, these folded carriers hold life's essentials, reliable companions in the rhythm of daily existence.
International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms: Defending against nature's turbulent dance, where winds showcase Earth's dynamic forces through swirling sands and atmospheric drama.
Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen’s Day): The Battle of the Boyne, also known as Orangemen’s Day, is a significant event in Irish history that holds deep meaning for many, particularly within the Protestant community. It symbolizes a moment of triumph and is remembered with vibrant parades, music, and celebration. The day itself stirs feelings of pride and...
Malala Day: Malala Day shines a light on the power of one voice to spark change. It honors Malala Yousafzai, a young girl who stood up for her right to learn when others tried to silence her. Her story is about bravery and refusing to accept a world where education is denied based...
National Different Colored Eyes Day: Appreciate the striking beauty of heterochromia, or having two different colored eyes, a common phenomenon among dogs, cats, and humans alike.
Cancel Culture Awareness Day: Cancel Culture Awareness Day calls attention to a growing issue—how quickly people can turn against someone online. One comment, one clip, one old post can spark a flood of anger. Often, the full story gets lost in the rush. This day reminds us that behind every headline or trending hashtag...
Night of Nights: Night of Nights is an annual tribute to the final commercial Morse code message ever sent in the United States. It honors the art of radio telegraphy and the people who once tapped out messages using dots and dashes. Enthusiasts gather to listen as Morse signals echo through the airwaves again...
National Hair Creator’s Day: National Hair Creator’s Day celebrates the artists behind every stylish cut and daring color. It honors hair professionals who turn strands into works of art. On this day, creativity takes center stage. It praises those who use scissors, brushes, and imagination to shape looks. It brings attention to an often...
International Skinny Dip Day: Picture a wide stretch of water, quiet and still, with nothing but laughter echoing from the shore. That’s the spirit of International Skinny Dip Day—a light-hearted, cheeky dive into freedom. People all over the world take a joyful leap, choosing to swim without clothes, not for shock, but for fun...
New Conversations Day: Stop being content with boring chitchat about the weather and sports, and dig into real, meaningful conversations with people on New Conversations Day.
Fiesta de la Tirana: Fiesta de la Tirana is a vibrant celebration held in northern Chile. It transforms the small town of La Tirana into a bustling center of energy, color, and sound. Thousands of people come together, filling the streets with traditional costumes, lively dances, and rhythmic music. It's a festival where faith...
Wimbledon: Wimbledon stands out as one of the most iconic and prestigious tennis tournaments in the world. The event draws attention not only for the high level of competition but also for its rich traditions. Players, fans, and even members of the British Royal Family come together to celebrate the sport...
Running of the Bulls: The Running of the Bulls draws people from around the world. This thrilling spectacle involves a group of bulls charging through narrow streets, guided by daring runners. The excitement is electric, and thousands watch and participate. It's a day filled with anticipation, adrenaline, and community spirit. Whether you're a participant...
National Transplant Week: National Transplant Week highlights the vital role organ donation plays in saving lives. It's a time to consider the impact of giving and receiving transplants. The week aims to raise awareness and encourage more people to consider becoming donors. It's a reminder of the life-changing potential within us all. Celebrating this...