Today in History
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2006 Eco Morales becomes Bolivia’s first indigenous president
The left-wing politician has primarily focused on combating poverty and limiting the influence of multinational corporations.
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1973 The U.S. Supreme Court legalizes abortion
The Roe v. Wade decision resulted in fierce opposition from the Pro-Life movement, but the Supreme Court has thus far upheld the decision.
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1970 The Boeing 747 takes off on its first scheduled flight
The Pan Am jumbo jet flew from New York to London.
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1963 The Élysée Treaty formalizes the reconciliation between Germany and France
The treaty effectively ended centuries of enmity between the two European countries.
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1943 World record for fastest temperature change
On this day in Spearfish, South Dakota, the fastest temperature change in recorded history occurred. Within two minutes, the temperature rose from 4°F (20°C) to +45°F (+7°C).
Births On This Day, January 22
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1953 Jim Jarmusch
American director
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1909 U Thant
Burmese diplomat, 3rd United Nations Secretary-General
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1906 Robert E. Howard
American author
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1788 Lord Byron
English poet
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1729 Gotthold Ephraim Lessing
German author, philosopher
Deaths On This Day, January 22
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2010 Iskandar of Johor
Malaysian sultan
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2008 Heath Ledger
Australian actor, director
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1973 Lyndon B. Johnson
American politician, 36th President of the United States
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1901 Queen Victoria
of the United Kingdom
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1900 David Edward Hughes
Welsh/American scientist, co-invented the microphone
