1736
Invention
James Watt Is Born
James Watt, whose improvements to the steam engine would power the Industrial Revolution, was born in Greenock, Scotland. His separate condenser design dramatically increased engine efficiency.
On This Day in History
1807
War & Conflict
Robert E. Lee Is Born
Robert Edward Lee was born at Stratford Hall plantation in Virginia. He would become the commanding general of the Confederate Army during the Civil War.
1809
Culture
Edgar Allan Poe Is Born
Edgar Allan Poe was born in Boston, Massachusetts. He would become a master of horror fiction, pioneering the detective story genre with works like 'The Raven.'
1915
Invention
Georges Claude Patents the Neon Sign
French engineer Georges Claude received a U.S. patent for the neon discharge tube sign. His invention would transform advertising and urban landscapes.
1953
Culture
Lucy Episode Draws Record TV Audience
The 'I Love Lucy' episode featuring the birth of Little Ricky drew 44 million viewers, more than watched Eisenhower's inauguration. It demonstrated television's cultural dominance.
1966
Politics
Indira Gandhi Becomes Prime Minister of India
Indira Gandhi became India's first female Prime Minister. She would serve for a combined 15 years, overseeing India's nuclear program and the Bangladesh Liberation War.
1983
Invention
Apple Lisa Computer Introduced
Apple Computer introduced the Lisa, one of the first personal computers with a graphical user interface. Though commercially unsuccessful, it paved the way for the Macintosh.