Historical events for
Thursday, 12 February 2026

The 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, is fatally shot by actor and Confederate sympathizer John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. The President would die the following morning, leaving the nation in deep shock just after the end of the Civil War.

Louis Renault, born on February 12, 1877, was the founder of Renault and one of the pioneers of the automobile industry. He passed away on October 24, 1944, leaving a significant mark on the development of automobile technology.

Canadian actor and radio personality, forever remembered as Ben Cartwright in the series "Bonanza" and as Commander Adama in the original "Battlestar Galactica" series.

João Soares Louro (born February 12, 1933, and died March 26, 2007) was a prominent Portuguese business administrator. His professional career was notable for his presidency of the RTP board of directors, playing a crucial role in the evolution of public television in Portugal.

Zé Pedro (real name: José Pedro Manso) was born, guitarist of the band Xutos & Pontapés, known for his innovative style of playing guitar and his importance in the formation of the band.

A lighthearted date that encourages searching for forgotten coins in sofas, pockets, or drawers. More than a simple hunt for spare change, it celebrates attention to detail, organization, and the value of small things. It reminds us that small amounts can become meaningful when combined, inspiring saving habits and even charitable gestures. The celebration draws on the Parable of the Lost Coin, where the joy of rediscovery symbolizes the immense worth of every individual and the importance of reclaiming what once seemed lost.

Christian virgin and martyr, co-patron saint of Barcelona. She suffered martyrdom in the year 303 during the persecutions of Emperor Diocletian, becoming a symbol of resistance and faith.

Saint Anthony Kauleas (born 829 and died February 12, 901) was Patriarch of Constantinople. The Catholic and Orthodox liturgies remember his tireless work in promoting peace and reconciliation within the Church, combined with a life of profound prayer.

The English naturalist who changed the course of science. Darwin proposed that all species descend from common ancestors through natural selection, a fundamental concept that unified the life sciences and revolutionized our understanding of the world.

First public demonstration of the telephone. The Scottish-born inventor Alexander Graham Bell showcased the device that would shrink distances and revolutionize human communication forever.

A global appeal to end the recruitment of child soldiers. Established by the UN, this day raises awareness about the thousands of children still fighting in armed conflicts around the world.

Apostolos Tzitzikostas of Greece served as president of the Committee of the Regions from 2020 to 2022.

Start of the 2nd round of the WRC, the only rally on the calendar driven entirely on snow and ice.

First publication of the newspaper Avante!, the official organ of the Portuguese Communist Party, which for decades stood as a symbol of clandestine resistance in Portugal.

Launch of the first issue of this prestigious Portuguese sports publication, enriching the landscape of specialized journalism in the country.

Signing of the deed for this foundation, which has become a fundamental pillar in the study and debate of Portuguese social, economic, and political reality.