Today in History

The first atomic cannon is fired in Nevada.

Jamaica Kincaid, author (Annie John, Lucy).

Jordan gains independence from Britain.

Raymond Carver, American writer.

Jesse Owens sets six world records in less than an hour in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

John Gregory Dunne, novelist and journalist.

Beverly Sills, opera singer.

Miles Davis, American jazz trumpeter.

John Scopes is indicted for teaching Darwinian theory in school.

The British House of Commons passes Irish Home Rule.

Porfirio Diaz, President of Mexico, resigns his office.

Theodore Roethke, poet.

Gene Tunney, heavyweight boxing champion.

Igor Sikorsky, American aviation engineer who developed the first successful helicopter.