Today in 1492, the Ensisheim Meteorite struck a wheat field near the village of Ensisheim in Alsace, France. It’s the oldest meteorite with a known date of impact – and was seen as a sign from God.
Today in 1874, the first cartoon depicting elephant as Republican Party symbol was published in “Harper’s Bazaar” magazine. The artist? Thomas Nast.
Today in 1876, both Rutherford B. Hayes and Samuel J Tilden claimed presidential victory. While Tilden (D) won the popular vote, the Electoral college selected Hayes (R). The election ultimately went to Hayes, via the Compromise of 1877. In return for the Democrats' agreeing to Hayes' election, the Republicans agreed to withdraw federal troops from the South, ending Reconstruction.
Today in 1916, Jeannette Rankin (R-MO) was elected to Congress – becoming the first woman in the United States to hold high office.
Today in 1955, the Maryland State Supreme Court in Baltimore banned segregation in public recreational areas.
Today in 1967, Carl B. Stokes was elected first black mayor of a major US city – in Cleveland, Ohio.
Today in 1967, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed a bill establishing Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
Today in 1973, New Jersey became the first state to allow girls into little league.
Today in 1983, a bomb exploded in the US Capitol, causing heavy damage, but no injuries.
Today in 1986,President Reagan signed landmark immigration reform bill.
Today in 1991, Magic Johnson announced he was HIV positive and retiring from the LA Lakers.
Today in 2000, Hillary Rodham Clinton was elected to the United States Senate, becoming the first former First Lady to win public office in the United States (although actually she still was the First Lady).
Today in 2000, the presidential election between George W. Bush and Al Gore was deemed inconclusive. The result, in Bush's favor, was eventually resolved by the Supreme Court.
Today in 2002, Iran banned advertising of American products.
Today in 2017, Danica Roem became the first transgender person to be elected to a state legislature in the US in North Virginia.
Today in 2018, a dozen people were gunned down at the Borderline Bar & Grill in Thousand Oaks, California. The killer was identified as 28-year-old United States Marine Corps veteran. One of the victims, Police officer Ron Helus, had been shot multiple times by the assailant, but the fatal wound was deemed friendly fire.
Today in 2018, President Donald Trump fired Attorney General Jeff Sessions and appointed Matthew Whitaker in his place as acting Attorney General.