This Day in History: May 12

Here’s a brief look back in time for this day, May 12.

In 1551, the National University of San Marcos (or the Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos) in Peru opens, where it remains as the oldest continuously operated university in the Americas. Its curriculum mostly centers around science, engineering, and the arts.

In 1820, Florence Nightingale, one of Britain’s most cherished figures in the medical world, is born in Italy. Also known as the “Lady with the Lamp”, she’d play an integral part in the Allies’ victory during the Crimean War against Russia. Her team’s contributions lowered the death rate for British soldiers from 40% to 2%. International Nurses Day is celebrated today in her honor.