Happy Birthday August 12

Philanthropist Jonas Hanway was born on August 12, 1712. Hanway became the first Englishman to display an umbrella as part of a city "uniform" in around 1750. He had to suffer ridicule by carrying one habitually in London, suitably fortified against the inclement English climate. The hackney coachmen tried to hoot and hustle him down as they saw a threat to their livelihood in the new contraption. But in spite of the abuse, Hanway continued to carry his "guard from chilly showers."

George IV of the United Kingdom was born at St James's Palace, London, on August 12, 1762. He was the first child of King George III and Queen Charlotte. From 1811 until his accession, he served as Prince Regent during his father's final mental illness. However, once he became king in 1820, George's s heavy drinking, indulgent lifestyle, callousness and weak-mindedness made him unable to govern effectively.

For more August 12 anniversaries, including the deaths of England's Witchfinder General, Matthew Hopkins, English poet, painter, and printmaker William Blake, George Stephenson, the "father of railways," James Bond creator Ian Fleming and legendary actress Lauren Bacall, check out OnThatDay.