Today in History

The Chinese government begins its crackdown on pro-democracy activists in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square. Hundreds are killed and thousands are arrested.

Black activist Angela Davis is found not guilty of murder, kidnapping, and criminal conspiracy.

Vladimir Voevodsky, Russian mathematician.

The Taiwan island of Quemoy is hit by 500 artillery shells fired from the coast of Communist China.

North Korea accepts the United Nations proposals in all major respects.

Juan Peron is installed as Argentina’s president.

Anthony Braxton, jazz composer and saxaphonist.

Allied troops liberate Rome.

In Argentina, Juan Peron takes part in the military coup that overthrows Ramon S. Castillo.

The British complete the evacuation of 300,000 troops at Dunkirk.

Robert Fulghum, American author (All I Really Need to Know I learned in Kindergarten).

The U.S. Senate passes the Women’s Suffrage bill.

French and American troops halt Germany’s offensive at Chateau-Thierry, France.

Gold is discovered in Alaska’s Indian Creek.

Alvah Bessie, screenwriter and novelist.

Dino Conte Grandi, Italy’s delegate to theLeague of Nations.

Beno Gutenberg, seismologist.

Confederates under General Joseph Johnston retreat to the mountains in Georgia.

The French army, under Napoleon III, takes Magenta from the Austrian army.

Charles C. Abbott, American naturalist (Days Out of Doors).

Tripoli is forced to conclude peace with the United States after a conflict over tribute.

British troops capture Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

Captain George Vancouver claims Puget Sound for Britain.

George III, English king (1760-1820).

The Freemasons are founded in London.

Parliamentary forces capture King Charles I and hold him prisoner.

The fortress at Osaka, Japan, falls to Shogun Leyasu after a six-month siege.