Emperor Nicephorus II Phocas is murdered by his wife Theophano and her lover John I Tzimiskes, leading to Tzimiskes' ascent to the throne.
View Historical Events by Day:
What Happened Today in History on February 13
Explore the historical events that shaped our world on February 13th. From major milestones to cultural achievements, see what happened on this day in history. Dates for earlier events may be approximate.
Note: Sources for the historical content shown, include research and reviews of relevant Online History Resources or printed material. When possible, we show a link to a source which provides additional or unique perspective about the event.
We do our best to provide accurate information but would appreciate being notified if any incorrect information is found. You may do so by using our Feedback link.
Death of Emperor Taizong of Song, a significant ruler in Chinese history.
The Barbary Crusade: Norman forces under Roger I of Sicily capture the city of Palermo.
Henry V is crowned Holy Roman Emperor.
Pope Innocent II is elected on February 13, 1130 after Pope Honorius II died. It was a contested election, where a faction of cardinals quickly elected Gregorio Papareschi as Innocent II, but a larger group of cardinals elected Anacletus II, creating a major schism.
Innocent II was consecrated on February 23, 1130, at the Church of S. Maria Nuova. However, Anacletus had more support in Rome, and Innocent II was forced to flee to France where he gained the crucial support of influential figures and widespread recognition from European kings and church leaders. The schism was finally resolved after the death of Anacletus II in 1138. Innocent II then presided over the Second Lateran Council in 1139, which officially ended the schism.
Catherine Howard, the fifth wife of Henry VIII, is executed at the Tower of London for adultery and treason.
The Treaty of Utrecht is signed, ending the War of the Spanish Succession and reshaping European alliances.
Justice Antonin Scalia of the U.S. Supreme Court dies at the age of 79.
The U.S. Senate acquits former President Donald Trump on an impeachment charge of inciting an insurrection.The acquittal comes more than a month after a mob of Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol as lawmakers were counting the electoral results that certified Trump's loss. Five people died in the riot, including a police officer. Two other officers later killed themselves. The Senate vote was 57 to 43 in favor of conviction including seven Republicans, but it was short of the two-thirds majority, or 67 votes, required to convict. It was the second time Trump was acquitted in an impeachment trial.