In 1861, the American civil war began.

In 1954, Bill Haley and the Comets recorded 'Rock Aoround the Clock'.

In 1961, Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin became the first man into space.

From the Telegraph & Argus of April 12th, 1976...

Bradford swimmer Helen Gilyard was returning home today with a gold medal she won in an international competition in Luxembourg yesterday. Helen, of Moore Avenue, Wibsey, a member of the Green Shield national youth squad, won the 15-16 years 100 metres backstroke event in 68.24 seconds.

From the Telegraph & Argus of April 12th, 1951...

Too lavish equipment in modern houses and a search for perfection by housing officials were suggested as two of the factors adding to the housing problem. In a paper read by Mr Allen R. Bretherick to the Association of British Chambers of Commerce, he said: "Equipment adds greatly to the costs of houses. In many instances, it tends to be too lavish and should be reduced to the safe minimum requirement of any new house."