Naismith Publishes Rules of Basketball
On January 15, 1892, Dr. James Naismith published the rules for a sport he’d invented – basketball. It quickly caught on, with the first professional league forming in 1898.
Entertainment
Aloha from Hawaii
On January 14, 1973, Elvis performed the first live worldwide broadcast concert – Aloha from Hawaii.
Farewell to Buffalo Bill
On January 10, 1917, famed scout and showman “Buffalo” Bill Cody died. With exaggerated tales of his exploits selling dime novels, Cody became a folk hero during his lifetime.
Happy Birthday Grace Kelly
Actress, philanthropist, and Princess, Grace Kelly was born on November 12, 1929, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. After a brief, but successful film career, she retired from acting at age 26 to marry Prince Rainier of Monaco.
Happy Birthday Will Rogers
William Penn Adair Rogers was born on November 4, 1879, in Oologah, Cherokee Nation (present-day Oklahoma). A popular actor and humorist, he was called “Oklahoma’s Favorite Son” and “America’s Favorite Cowboy.”
James Dean Dies in Car Crash
A rising star in Hollywood, James Dean’s death on September 30, 1955 sent shockwaves across America. Dean’s career consisted of three major films produced in just 17 months – only one of which was released before his death.
Ty Cobb Becomes First Member of the 4,000 Hit Club
Baseball player Ty Cobb got his 4,000th hit, a first in the sport’s history, on July 18, 1927. In all, he set about 90 records during his career, some of which still stand today.
Birth of James Cagney
James Francis Cagney was born on July 17, 1899, in New York City, New York. Best known for playing gangsters, he was also a talented dancer and had excellent comic timing.
Birth of Nancy Reagan
Nancy Reagan was born Anne Frances Robbins on July 6, 1921, in New York City. As first lady from 1981-89, she renovated the White House and spearheaded the “Just Say No” to drugs campaign.