Beijing, China. Several major political, cultural and historical events have occurred on March 12 across different years, spanning leadership changes, international alliances, and significant incidents. The date also marks notable deaths and developments in finance, nuclear safety and art research.
Death of Sun Yat-sen
In 1925, Chinese revolutionary leader Sun Yat-sen died. Known as the father of modern China, he became its first provisional president from 1911-1912.
NATO expansion in Central Europe
In 1999, Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic became the first former members of the Soviet bloc to join NATO.
Death of Yehudi Menuhin
In 1999, Yehudi Menuhin, the American-born violinist and music teacher, died in Berlin.
Assassination of Zoran Djindjic
In 2003, Serbian Prime Minister Zoran Djindjic was assassinated in front of the main government building in Belgrade.
Attempted cold-water endurance record
In 2005, a Russian sportsman attempted a record of staying in cold water for 60 minutes.
Resignation of Hong Kong chief executive
In 2005, China accepted the resignation of Hong Kong’s unpopular chief executive, Tung Chee-hwa, after he was made a vice-chairman of an advisory body to parliament.
Madoff fraud case
In 2009, Bernard Madoff pleaded guilty to the largest fraud in Wall Street history.
Fukushima radiation checks
In 2011, officials checked radiation levels near Fukushima after an explosion and radiation leak at Tokyo Electric Power Company’s nuclear power plant.
Da Vinci artwork claim
In 2012, researchers said they had found a hidden Da Vinci masterpiece.
Which of these March 12 events do you think had the most lasting impact?
