1977
Entertainment
Elvis Presley Dies
The 'King of Rock and Roll' died at his Graceland mansion in Memphis, Tennessee, at age 42. Elvis Presley had revolutionized popular music and culture, and his death prompted worldwide mourning.
On This Day in History
1896
Exploration
Klondike Gold Rush Begins
George Carmack and his companions discovered gold on Bonanza Creek in Canada's Yukon Territory. News of the discovery triggered the last great gold rush, drawing over 100,000 prospectors to the frozen north.
1858
Technology
First Transatlantic Telegraph Message
Queen Victoria sent a message to President James Buchanan via the first transatlantic telegraph cable. The 98-word message took over 16 hours to transmit, but it connected two continents electronically.
1960
Politics
Cyprus Gains Independence
Cyprus gained independence from Britain with Archbishop Makarios III as its first president. The island's division between Greek and Turkish communities would lead to ongoing conflict.
1328
War & Conflict
Battle of Cassel
King Philip VI of France defeated Flemish rebels at Cassel, establishing his authority early in his reign. Philip's dynasty would face far greater challenges with the onset of the Hundred Years' War.
1954
Sports
Sports Illustrated First Published
The first issue of Sports Illustrated magazine hit newsstands, featuring Milwaukee Braves star Eddie Mathews on the cover. The magazine became the premier sports publication in America.
2012
Politics
Ecuador Grants Assange Asylum
Ecuador granted diplomatic asylum to WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange in its London embassy. Assange would remain in the embassy for nearly seven years before being arrested by British police.