1. Charleston was founded on June 12, 1670: On this day, a group of English settlers arrived in present-day Charleston and established the first permanent English colony in South Carolina. The city was named Charles Towne in honor of King Charles II of England.

2. The Battle of Secessionville took place on June 12, 1862: This Civil War battle was fought on James Island, near Charleston. The Confederate forces, under the command of Brig. Gen. Nathan G. Evans, successfully defended against a Union attack led by Brig. Gen. Henry W. Benham.

3. South Carolina became the first state to secede from the Union on June 12, 1861: Following the election of President Abraham Lincoln, South Carolina held a convention and voted to secede from the United States. This event marked the beginning of the Civil War.

4. The first African American mayor of Columbia was elected on June 12, 2018: Steve Benjamin was re-elected as mayor of the state capital, becoming the first African American to hold the position. He has been a vocal advocate for social and economic justice in his community.

5. The Charleston Nine were killed on June 12, 2007: Nine firefighters lost their lives in a tragic furniture store fire in Charleston. Their sacrifice and heroism are remembered every year on this day with a memorial and tribute ceremony in the city.