Throughout the centuries, September 12 has witnessed significant moments in British history. From early military campaigns and colonial expansion to the discovery of historical relics, this date is marked by events that shaped the nation’s development. Each of these occurrences played a role in the evolving political, social, and scientific landscape of Britain, reflecting the nation’s influence both at home and abroad.
What Happened on September 12 in British History?
Peace Treaty Signed Between Prince Louis of France and Henry III of England (1217)
On September 12, 1217, a peace treaty was signed between Prince Louis of France and King Henry III of England. This marked the conclusion of the First Barons’ War, which had erupted in 1215 when a group of rebellious English barons, dissatisfied with King John’s rule, invited Louis to claim the English throne. Louis landed in England in 1216 and quickly gained support, but the tide turned after John’s death and Henry III’s ascension to the throne as a child.
The Treaty of Lambeth, finalized on September 12, effectively ended the conflict. Louis renounced his claim to the English throne in exchange for a payment, and England entered a period of relative stability under the regency of William Marshal, who governed on behalf of the young Henry III. The peace accord ensured the continuation of the Plantagenet dynasty, preventing England from becoming a vassal of France, which would have significantly altered the course of British history.
See Also: What Happened on September 12 in History?
First Submarine Publicly Tested in London (1624)
On September 12, 1624, the first submarine was publicly tested in London on the River Thames for King James I. The design, created by Dutch inventor Cornelius Drebbel, was a revolutionary concept for the time. Made of wood and reinforced with leather, Drebbel’s submarine was propelled manually by oars and could submerge for short periods. This demonstration for the royal court was part of Drebbel’s ongoing efforts to win favor and funding from the monarchy.
Although the submarine was not immediately used for military purposes, the event on September 12 represented a significant leap in naval technology and ingenuity. Drebbel’s experiments paved the way for the eventual development of submarines as a powerful tool in warfare. His work is remembered as an early example of Britain’s long-standing tradition of naval innovation, which would later solidify its dominance on the seas.
Viceroy Thomas Wentworth Sails Back to England (1639)
On September 12, 1639, Thomas Wentworth, the Viceroy of Ireland, sailed back to England. Wentworth, also known as the Earl of Strafford, was one of King Charles I’s most trusted advisors and played a key role in enforcing the king’s policies in Ireland. His administration was marked by efforts to centralize power and impose royal authority on the Irish nobility, making him a controversial figure both in Ireland and England.
Wentworth’s return to England on September 12 came at a time of increasing political tension between King Charles and Parliament. His strong-handed methods and loyalty to the crown ultimately led to his downfall. In 1641, during the height of the English Civil War, Wentworth was impeached by Parliament and executed for treason. His legacy remains a complex chapter in the history of Britain’s governance over its territories, particularly in Ireland.
John Flamsteed Inspired by Solar Eclipse (1662)
On September 12, 1662, British astronomer John Flamsteed witnessed a partial solar eclipse, sparking his interest in the field of astronomy. Flamsteed would later become the first Astronomer Royal, and his observations laid the foundation for modern astronomical science in Britain. At the time, astronomy was still in its early stages, with limited instruments and understanding of celestial phenomena.
The solar eclipse on September 12 acted as a catalyst for Flamsteed’s career, which culminated in the creation of the Greenwich Observatory. His meticulous star charts and precise calculations contributed significantly to the understanding of the universe, and his work remains a cornerstone of British scientific achievement. Flamsteed’s passion for astronomy, ignited by the eclipse, helped to position Britain as a leader in the field of astronomy during the 17th century.
Prince William of Orange Occupies Naarden (1673)
On September 12, 1673, Prince William of Orange, later King William III of England, successfully occupied the Dutch city of Naarden during the Franco-Dutch War. The war was a major conflict that pitted France and its allies against the Dutch Republic, with William leading the Dutch resistance against the forces of King Louis XIV of France. William’s occupation of Naarden marked a key moment in his military career and demonstrated his strategic prowess.
This victory on September 12 further solidified William’s reputation as a capable leader, which later played a crucial role in his ascension to the English throne during the Glorious Revolution of 1688. His leadership during the war endeared him to both the Dutch and the English, and his eventual rule as King of England and Scotland marked the beginning of a new era in British politics, one that balanced monarchical power with parliamentary influence.
British Soldiers Capture Quebec (1759)
On September 12, 1759, British forces under General James Wolfe launched an attack on the French stronghold of Quebec during the Seven Years’ War. This campaign, known as the Battle of the Plains of Abraham, was a decisive moment in the struggle for control over North America. Wolfe’s army successfully captured the city, dealing a major blow to French ambitions in the region and paving the way for British dominance in Canada.
The capture of Quebec on September 12 had far-reaching consequences for the British Empire. It marked the beginning of British control over Canada, which would later become one of its most important colonies. The victory was also a turning point in the Seven Years’ War, which saw Britain emerge as the world’s preeminent colonial power. Wolfe’s leadership during the battle became legendary, and his death in the fighting further cemented his status as a British military hero.
Court Martial Begins for Mutiny on the Bounty Instigators (1792)
On September 12, 1792, the court martial for the instigators of the mutiny on the HMS Bounty began in Portsmouth harbour. The trial was presided over by Vice-Admiral Samuel Hood and involved several of the sailors who had taken part in the famous mutiny led by Fletcher Christian against Captain William Bligh. The mutiny, which occurred in 1789, saw the rebellious crew set Captain Bligh and his loyalists adrift, an act that captured the public’s imagination.
The proceedings on September 12 were part of a broader effort to maintain order and discipline in the Royal Navy. The mutiny raised important questions about leadership and authority, with Bligh being both criticized and defended for his strict command style. Ultimately, some of the mutineers were convicted, while others were acquitted, but the event left a lasting mark on British naval history. The story of the Bounty has since been immortalized in literature and film, cementing its place in popular culture.
Fort Salisbury Founded by Cecil Rhodes’ Colonists (1890)
On September 12, 1890, Cecil Rhodes’ colonists founded Fort Salisbury, which is now Harare, the capital city of Zimbabwe. The event marked the expansion of British influence in southern Africa, driven by Rhodes’ ambition to establish a vast British-controlled territory stretching from Cape Town to Cairo. Fort Salisbury was established as a base for British settlers and became a hub for colonial administration and trade.
The founding of Fort Salisbury on September 12 was part of a broader pattern of British colonization in Africa during the late 19th century, known as the “Scramble for Africa.” Rhodes’ efforts to expand British control in the region were motivated by economic interests, particularly the desire to exploit the area’s natural resources. Although the British Empire eventually withdrew from Africa, the legacy of colonization continues to influence the political and social landscape of countries like Zimbabwe.
Second Quebec Conference Held During World War II (1944)
On September 12, 1944, the Second Quebec Conference took place, bringing together British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, and their military chiefs. Held in Quebec City, Canada, the conference was a follow-up to the first Quebec Conference in 1943 and focused on post-war plans. The discussions on September 12 centered on the occupation zones in Germany, the future of the Allied occupation, and strategies to secure a lasting peace after the defeat of Nazi Germany.
The Second Quebec Conference was a crucial moment in the planning of the post-war world, particularly in terms of military occupation and economic recovery. Churchill and Roosevelt’s partnership played a key role in shaping the future of Europe and the establishment of the United Nations. The conference highlighted the close cooperation between Britain and the United States, which would continue to be a defining feature of international relations in the second half of the 20th century.
Richard III’s Remains Discovered (2012)
On September 12, 2012, archaeologists announced that they may have discovered the remains of King Richard III, buried under a car park in Leicester. Richard III, who was killed at the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485, had long been the subject of historical intrigue and myth. His remains were thought to have been lost, but the team from the University of Leicester used historical records to pinpoint the location of his burial.
The announcement on September 12 ignited widespread interest in British history, leading to further excavations and, ultimately, the confirmation that the skeleton was indeed that of Richard III. The discovery sparked a renewed debate over Richard’s legacy, with historians reassessing his role in the Wars of the Roses and his controversial reputation as one of England’s most maligned monarchs. His reburial in Leicester Cathedral in 2015 was a major event, attended by thousands of people.
Queen Elizabeth II’s Coffin Procession in Edinburgh (2022)
On September 12, 2022, Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin made a ceremonial procession through the streets of Edinburgh, from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St. Giles’ Cathedral. This was part of the series of events following the Queen’s passing, marking a moment of national mourning and reflection. The Queen’s coffin was accompanied by members of the royal family, and tens of thousands of people lined the streets to pay their respects as it passed.
The procession on September 12 was a deeply symbolic moment, as the Queen had a special connection to Scotland throughout her reign. The solemn event at St. Giles’ Cathedral was attended by political and religious leaders, as well as members of the public, who were given the opportunity to file past the coffin and pay their last respects. The day was a testament to Queen Elizabeth II’s long and enduring reign and her significance to the people of Britain and the Commonwealth.
Conclusion
September 12 has been a pivotal date in British history, marked by peace treaties, scientific achievements, military conquests, and moments of national reflection. From the founding of Fort Salisbury to the discovery of Richard III’s remains, each event reflects the diverse and ever-evolving nature of Britain’s past. As history continues to unfold, September 12 remains a significant date, offering a window into the complex and multifaceted story of the United Kingdom.