Birth of Renowned Writer Edgar Allan Poe
Edgar Allan Poe was born on January 19, 1809, in Boston, Massachusetts. He was one of the first Americans to make a living solely as a writer.
This Day in History
James Cook – First European to Visit Hawaii
On January 18, 1778, Captain James Cook became the first European to reach the Hawaiian islands. The Hawaiians believed Cook had divine powers and considered him a great chief.
Start of Operation Desert Storm
On January 17, 1991, the United States led coalition of 42 countries in Operation Desert Storm, the aerial bombardment of Iraq in the Gulf War. It was the largest air campaign since World War II.
Death of Admiral George Dewey
George Dewey, the only man to hold the rank of Admiral of the Navy, died on January 16, 1917. He was a hero of the Civil War and the Spanish-American War.
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.
Aloha from Hawaii
On January 14, 1973, Elvis performed the first live worldwide broadcast concert – Aloha from Hawaii.
Johnny Cash Performs at Folsom Prison
On January 13, 1968, Johnny Cash put on a concert at Folsom Prison. The live album recorded at the prison that day revitalized his career.
Operation Chopper
On January 12, 1962, American forces participated in their first major combat of the Vietnam War – Operation Chopper.
Another Notable Earhart Flight
On January 11, 1935, Amelia Earhart became the first person to fly solo from Hawaii to California. She completed the 2,400-mile flight in 18 hours.