Today in 1789, a regular army was established by the US War Department with 700 men.
Today in 1951, the first network football game was televised by CBS-TV in color. The game was between the University of California and the University of Pennsylvania.
Today in 1962, President John F. Kennedy nationalized the Mississippi National Guard in response to city officials defying federal court orders. The orders had been to enroll James Meredith at the University of Mississippi – he was officially enrolled the following day.
Today in 1983, the War Powers Act was used for the first time by the U.S. Congress when they authorized President Reagan to keep US Marines in Lebanon for 18 more months.
Today in 1988, the space shuttle "Discovery" blasted off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, marking America's return to manned space flight following the "Challenger" disaster.
Today in 1992, Earvin "Magic" Johnson announced that he would come out of retirement and play basketball again for the L.A. Lakers.
Today in 2006, US Representative Mark Foley resigned amidst allegations of inappropriate emails to teen house pages were introduced.
Today in 2017, American diplomats in Cuba reveal mysterious sonic attacks, which prompt the US to warn citizens not to travel to Cuba – even pulling some embassy staff.
Today in 2021, US Fish and Wildlife Service declared 23 species of bird, fish and other wildlife extinct, including the ivory-billed woodpecker.
Today in 2021, Britney Spears' father Jamie Spears was suspended as her conservator by a judge in Los Angeles after claims of abuse.