World Events Today
- The Battle of Los Angeles, an anti-aircraft artillery barrage against a rumoured Japanese attack on the city, started today in 1942, it lasted until the next day
- Fidel Castro retired as the President of Cuba today in 2008, his brother Raúl Castro took over his responsibilities
- The Space Shuttle Discovery embarked on its final mission, STS-133, today in 2011, it would then become the first operational shuttle to be retired from service
Entertainment Events Today
- The first Italian language opera written specifically for the London stage, George Frideric Handel’s Rinaldo, premiered today in 1711 at The Haymarket Theatre
- Peer Gynt, the five-act play, was first performed today in 1876 in Oslo, the classical piece In the Hall of the Mountain King was heard by many for the first time
- My Heart Will Go On, by Celine Dion, the theme from the hit movie Titanic, won 4 Grammy awards today in 1999
Family Events Today
- The French facing driver Alain Prost, winner of four Formula One Championships, was born today in 1955 in Lorette
- The American businessman Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple and co-creator of the iPhone and iPad, was born today in 1955 in San Francisco
- The English football legend Bobby Moore, captain of England’s 1966 World Cup winning team, died today in 1993 aged 51
Main Event Today
- The engagement of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer, was made official today in 1981, the couple gave an exclusive interview on live television
National Day Today
- Today, it’s National Tortilla Chip Day