12 February - The USS Macon crashed into the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California in 1935

 

The USS Macon (ZRS-5) was a rigid airship built for the United States Navy during the 1930s. It was one of the largest helium-filled airships ever created, along with its sister ship, the USS Akron. Unfortunately, the USS Macon met a tragic end when it crashed into the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California.

Key details about the USS Macon crash:

1. Construction: The USS Macon was constructed by the Goodyear-Zeppelin Corporation and was commissioned into the U.S. Navy in 1933.

2. Helium-Filled Airship: Unlike the highly flammable hydrogen used in earlier airships, the USS Macon, along with the USS Akron, was filled with non-flammable helium, which enhanced safety.

3. Purpose: The USS Macon was designed for long-range scouting missions and served as a flying aircraft carrier, capable of carrying biplanes in an internal hangar.

4. Crash Date: On February 12, 1935, during a storm off the coast of California, the USS Macon experienced structural failure in its tailfin. The ship ultimately crashed into the Pacific Ocean.

5. Loss of Life: While the USS Macon's crash resulted in the loss of the airship, most of the crew members survived. Unlike some earlier airship disasters, the use of helium contributed to the relatively low loss of life in this incident.

6. Legacy: The loss of the USS Macon marked the end of the U.S. Navy's rigid airship program. The era of rigid airships saw significant advancements in aviation technology, but after the crash of the USS Macon, the focus shifted more towards non-rigid airships, blimps, and other types of aircraft.

The USS Macon crash remains a notable event in the history of airships and aviation, and it played a role in the decline of rigid airship operations in the U.S. Navy.

12 February - International Day Against Child Soldiers

 

The International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers, also known as the International Day Against Child Soldiers, is observed annually on February 12. This day aims to raise awareness about the recruitment and use of children in armed conflicts and to advocate for the rights and well-being of child soldiers.

Here are some key points related to the International Day Against Child Soldiers:

1. Date: The International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers is observed on February 12 each year.

2. Purpose: The day is dedicated to highlighting the issues faced by children who are recruited or used as soldiers in conflicts around the world. It aims to generate global attention and support for efforts to end the use of child soldiers and to promote the rehabilitation and reintegration of former child soldiers into society.

3. Background: The day was established by the Paris Principles on the Involvement of Children in Armed Conflict, which were developed during a conference in Paris in 2007. The principles call for increased protection of children from recruitment and use in armed forces.

4. Advocacy: Organizations, governments, and activists use the International Day Against Child Soldiers to advocate for the enforcement of international laws and standards aimed at preventing the recruitment and use of children in armed conflicts.

5. Children's Rights: The observance emphasizes the importance of upholding children's rights, as enshrined in international agreements such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

6. Awareness Campaigns: Various events, campaigns, and activities take place on this day to raise awareness about the impact of armed conflict on children, the importance of preventing child recruitment, and the need for the rehabilitation of child soldiers.

It's important to note that efforts to address the issue of child soldiers are ongoing throughout the year, and the International Day Against Child Soldiers serves as a focal point to renew and strengthen the commitment to protecting the rights of children affected by armed conflict

 

12 February - Hug Day

 

"Hug Day" is often associated with Valentine's Week, a series of days leading up to Valentine's Day on February 14th. Each day in Valentine's Week is dedicated to a specific expression of love or affection, and "Hug Day" typically falls on February 12th.

On Hug Day, people express their feelings through warm and affectionate hugs. The day encourages individuals to share physical embraces with their loved ones, friends, or anyone they wish to express affection towards. Hugging is considered a gesture of comfort, love, and support.

While the concept of Hug Day is more informal and not universally observed, some people may choose to participate in this celebration by giving and receiving hugs. It is a day to promote the idea of expressing emotions and fostering connections through physical touch.

It's important to note that cultural practices and celebrations can vary, and the observance of Hug Day may be more prevalent in certain regions or communities. Whether celebrated as part of Valentine's Week or independently, Hug Day serves as a reminder of the power of human connection and the positive impact of physical affection on relationships.

 

12 February - Republic of Macedonia renames itself the Republic of North Macedonia

 

The Republic of North Macedonia had officially changed its name from the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) to the Republic of North Macedonia. This change was part of a resolution to a longstanding dispute with Greece over the use of the name "Macedonia," which Greece argued implied a territorial claim to the northern Greek region of the same name.

The Prespa Agreement, signed on June 17, 2018, between Macedonia and Greece, paved the way for the name change. According to the agreement, Macedonia would be renamed the Republic of North Macedonia, and Greece would lift its objections to Macedonia's NATO and EU membership.

If the name change officially took effect on 12, 2019, as you mentioned, it would align with the period following the ratification of the Prespa Agreement and the subsequent constitutional changes in North Macedonia. The agreement marked a significant step in improving relations between the two neighboring countries.

 

12 February - Union Day (Myanmar)

 

Union Day in Myanmar is observed on February 12th annually. It commemorates the historic Panglong Agreement, which was signed on February 12, 1947. This agreement played a crucial role in the formation of the Union of Burma.

Key points about Union Day in Myanmar:

1. Panglong Agreement: The Panglong Agreement was signed by General Aung San, the leader of the interim Burmese government, and leaders of the Shan, Kachin, and Chin ethnic groups. The agreement aimed to establish a unified and federal Union of Burma that would grant autonomy to various ethnic regions.

2. Unity of Ethnic Groups: The Panglong Agreement was a significant step toward achieving national unity by bringing together different ethnic groups in the country. It emphasized cooperation and mutual understanding among the diverse communities in Myanmar.

3. Independence from British Rule: Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, gained independence from British rule on January 4, 1948. Union Day is a celebration of the unity and cooperation among the various ethnic groups in the newly formed nation.

4. Ethnic Diversity: Myanmar is home to a rich tapestry of ethnicities, each with its own distinct culture, language, and traditions. Union Day symbolizes the commitment to maintaining the unity and diversity of the nation.

5. Celebrations: Union Day is marked by various events and celebrations across Myanmar. These may include parades, cultural performances, flag hoisting ceremonies, and speeches by government officials.

6. National Symbolism: Union Day is a reminder of the importance of national unity and the need to work together to address challenges and build a prosperous and harmonious nation.

 

12 February - Louis Renault birth anniversary

 

Louis Renault (1877–1944) was a French industrialist and one of the founders of the Renault automobile manufacturing company. Here are some key points about Louis Renault:

1. Early Life: Louis Renault was born on 12 February 1877, in Paris, France, into a family of industrialists. His brothers Marcel and Fernand also played roles in the early development of the Renault company.

2. Renault Company: Louis Renault co-founded Renault in 1899 with his brothers Marcel and Fernand. The company initially focused on producing innovative and successful automobiles. Renault became a prominent figure in the French automotive industry.

3. Innovations: Louis Renault was known for his engineering skills and the incorporation of innovative technologies in Renault vehicles. The company gained a reputation for producing reliable and efficient automobiles.

4. World War I: During World War I, Renault played a significant role in the French war effort by contributing to the production of military vehicles and tanks. The Renault FT tank, developed during this period, became a crucial component of the French military.

5. Between the Wars: In the interwar period, Renault continued to expand its production and sales. Louis Renault maintained an active role in the company's management and innovations.

6. World War II and Accusations: During World War II, the Renault factories were seized by the German forces. After the war, Louis Renault faced accusations of collaboration with the Nazi occupiers. In 1944, he was arrested by the French provisional government under charges of collaboration and economic collaboration with the enemy.

7. Death: Louis Renault died in prison on October 24, 1944, under controversial circumstances. His death occurred before the conclusion of legal proceedings against him.

8. Posthumous Rehabilitation: In the decades following his death, there were debates and discussions about the circumstances of Renault's arrest and imprisonment. In the 1950s, a French court officially annulled the charges against Louis Renault, recognizing that he had not collaborated willingly with the Nazis.

While Louis Renault's contributions to the automotive industry were notable, the controversy surrounding his arrest and the subsequent annulment of charges have left a complex legacy.

 

12 February - Chile's National Day

 

Chile declared its independence from Spain on 18 September  1810. The events leading to Chilean independence were part of a broader movement across Latin America known as the Spanish American wars of independence. The struggle for independence in Chile was characterized by a series of political and military developments that unfolded over several years.

The initial move towards independence in Chile began with the Napoleonic invasion of Spain in 1808, which led to political instability and the establishment of local juntas in various Spanish American territories. In Chile, this process culminated in the formation of the First Government Junta on 18 September 1810. This marked the beginning of the Chilean War of Independence.

The war continued for several years, with significant events such as the Battle of Chacabuco in 1817 and the Battle of Maipú in 1818. The decisive victory at Maipú under the leadership of figures like José de San Martín and Bernardo O'Higgins played a crucial role in securing Chilean independence.

Chile formally proclaimed its independence on 12 February 1818, and the country's first national flag was raised. 12 February is celebrated as Chile's National Day, commemorating the day of the formal declaration of independence.

The process of fully establishing and securing Chilean independence involved further military campaigns and diplomatic efforts. The complete independence of Chile was recognized by Spain in the Treaty of Lircay in 1818, solidifying Chile's status as a sovereign nation.

12 February - Darwin Day

 

Darwin Day is an annual celebration that commemorates the birthday of Charles Darwin, the renowned English naturalist and biologist. Charles Darwin was born on 12 February 1809, and is best known for his groundbreaking contributions to the theory of evolution by natural selection.

Darwin Day is observed to honor Darwin's life and work and to promote science, education, and critical thinking. The day serves as an opportunity to celebrate the scientific advancements and discoveries that have stemmed from Darwin's ideas and to emphasize the importance of scientific inquiry, evidence-based reasoning, and the understanding of evolutionary biology.

Activities associated with Darwin Day often include lectures, discussions, educational programs, and events hosted by scientific institutions, universities, museums, and various secular organizations. These events focus on topics related to evolutionary biology, natural selection, and the broader implications of Darwin's contributions to the understanding of life on Earth.

Darwin Day is not a universally recognized public holiday but is rather an occasion for educational and scientific outreach, encouraging public engagement with the principles of evolutionary biology and the scientific method. The celebration has grown in popularity over the years, with individuals, educational institutions, and scientific communities around the world participating in various ways to honor Charles Darwin's significant impact on the field of biology.

12 February - Gustav III became King of Sweden in 1771

 

Gustav III became King of Sweden on February 12, 1771. He was born on January 24, 1746, and succeeded his father, Adolf Frederick, to the throne. Gustav III played a significant role in Swedish history and is known for his efforts to strengthen the monarchy and centralize power.

During his reign, Gustav III implemented a series of political and social reforms, including efforts to modernize the Swedish economy and administration. He also sought to enhance the influence of the monarchy over the Swedish Parliament.

Gustav III's reign was marked by both domestic and international challenges. He was a supporter of the arts and culture, contributing to the development of literature, theater, and the arts in Sweden. However, he faced opposition from various political factions, and his rule ended tragically when he was assassinated during a masquerade ball in Stockholm in 1792.

Despite the controversies surrounding his reign, Gustav III is remembered as an influential monarch in Swedish history, and his reign had a lasting impact on the country's political and cultural landscape.

12 February - National Productivity Day

 

India celebrates National Productivity Day every year on February 12 to mark the foundation day of the National Productivity Council (NPC). The NPC’s mission is to promote awareness towards increasing the productivity of the country.The day is celebrated as part of National Productivity Week, which is observed from February 12 to 18.

The National Productivity Day marks the formation of the National Productivity Council (NPC), and it was registered on February 12, 2022, under the Societies Registration Act, 1960.

The NPC is an autonomous organisation which was established in 1958 under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.The day aims to raise productivity awareness which is an imperative aspect of maximising production with optimal resource utilisation.

 

The celebrations are important to raise awareness of productivity, efficiency, and innovation. National Productivity Day draws attention to the power of productivity in improving the overall quality of life and it serves as an opportunity for citizens to start building good habits that will help increase productivity.

 

12 February - Dayanand Saraswati birth anniversary

 

Dayanand Saraswati(born Mula Shankar Tiwari; 12 February 1824 – 30 October 1883), also known as Maharshi Dayanand, was an Indian philosopher, social leader and founder of the Arya Samaj, a reform movement of the Vedic dharma. His magnum opus is the book Satyarth Prakash, which has remained a highly influential text on the philosophy of the Vedas and clarifications of various ideas and duties of human beings. He was the first to give the call for Swaraj as "India for Indians" in 1876, a call later taken up by Lokmanya Tilak.Denouncing the idolatry and ritualistic worship, he worked towards reviving Vedic ideologies. Subsequently, the philosopher and President of India, S. Radhakrishnan, called him one of the "makers of Modern India", as did Sri Aurobindo.

Those who were influenced by and followed Dayananda included Rai Sahib Pooran Chand, Madam Cama, Pandit Lekh Ram, Swami Shraddhanand,Shyamji Krishna Varma, Kishan Singh, Bhagat Singh, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, Bhai Parmanand, Lala Hardayal, Madan Lal Dhingra, Ram Prasad Bismil, Mahadev Govind Ranade, Ashfaq Ullah Khan,Mahatma Hansraj, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Yogmaya Neupane.

He was a sanyasi (ascetic) from boyhood and a scholar. He believed in the infallible authority of the Vedas. Dayananda advocated the doctrine of Karma and Reincarnation. He emphasized the Vedic ideals of brahmacharya, including celibacy and devotion to God.

Among Dayananda's contributions were his promoting of the equal rights for women, such as the right to education and reading of Indian scriptures, and his commentary on the Vedas from Vedic Sanskrit in Sanskrit as well as in Hindi.