A closer look at key historic events that took place on July 12:
In 2013, Malala Yousafzai addresses the United Nations
Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist for girls’ education and the youngest-ever Nobel Prize laureate, delivered a powerful speech on her 16th birthday at the United Nations Youth Assembly. She emphasized the importance of education and women’s rights, inspiring global support for her cause.
![](https://www.tovima.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12/2018-03-29T011843Z_1481995833_RC1B8F313530_RTRMADP_3_PAKISTAN-MALALA-1024x683.jpg)
FILE PHOTO – Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai waves as she arrives for an event with students at Tecnologico de Monterrey University in Mexico City, Mexico, August 31, 2017. REUTERS/Edgard Garrido/File Photo
In 1975, the island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe gains its independence from Portugal
After centuries of colonial rule, São Tomé and Príncipe achieved sovereignty, becoming one of the last African nations to gain independence. The transition marked a significant step in the establishment of a new national identity.
In 1962, the Rolling Stones perform their first show
The Rolling Stones made their debut at the Marquee Club in London on July 12, marking the beginning of their illustrious career. This performance set the stage for their rise to become one of the most influential rock bands in history.
In 1904, legendary poet Pablo Neruda is born
Pablo Neruda, born Ricardo Eliécer Neftalí Reyes Basoalto, became one of the most celebrated poets of the 20th century, known for his passionate and sensuous works. Besides his literary achievements, Neruda was also a prominent diplomat and politician, serving as a senator in Chile and a Nobel laureate in Literature.
![](https://www.tovima.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12/512px-Pablo_Neruda_1963.jpg)
Pablo Neruda in 1963. By Unknown (Mondadori Publishers) – http://www.gettyimages.co.uk/detail/news-photo/three-quarter-face-portrait-of-a-thoughtful-pablo-neruda-news-photo/174306045, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=40912536
In 1862, the Medal of Honor is created
The United States Congress established the Medal of Honor–the highest and most prestigious military decoration–to recognize extraordinary acts of valor during combat. It was first awarded during the American Civil War and has since honored countless heroes for their bravery and sacrifice.
![](https://www.tovima.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12/512px-Tri-service_medal_of_honor.jpg)
Tri-department medal of honor display. By US Special Operations Command – https://www.socom.mil/hall-of-heroes/medal-of-honor, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=97825764
– Don’t miss out on To Vima’s daily “On this Day in History” posts.