Today in History

President Ronald Reagan arrives in Moscow, the first American president to do so in 14 years.

Zimbabwe proclaims its independence.

Israel and Syria sign an agreement on the Golan Heights.

John Lennon and Yoko Ono record “Give Peace a Chance.”

Adolf Eichmann, the former SS commander, is hanged near Tel Aviv, Israel.

The Supreme Court orders that states must end racial segregation “with all deliberate speed.”

An armistice is arranged between the British and the Iraqis.

Clint Eastwood, American film actor and director.

The first flight over the Pacific takes off from Oakland.

Julian Beck, theater manager.

British and German fleets fight in the Battle of Jutland.

A German zeppelin makes an air raid on London.

The 17th amendment to the U.S. Constitution, providing for direct election of senators, is ratified.

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) holds its first conference.

The Boer War ends with the Treaty of Vereeniging.

U.S. troops arrive in Peking to help put down the Boxer Rebellion.

Norman Vincent Peale, American religious leader.

Fred Allen [John Florence Sullivan], American comedian.

Johnstown, Pennsylvania is destroyed by a massive flood.

New York’s Madison Square Garden opens its doors for the first time.

At the Battle of Fair Oaks, Union General George B. McClellan defeats Confederates outside of Richmond.

Walt Whitman, American poet.

The Godiva procession, commemorating Lady Godiva’s legendary ride while naked, becomes part of the Coventry Fair.

Manuel I, King of Portugal (1495-1521).

Sigismund is crowned emperor of Rome.