World Events Today
- The Ford Motor Company unveiled its new V-8 engine today in 1932
- The last of the British Forces in Malta left today in 1979, the day is now known as Freedom Day and it’s a national holiday on the island
- The largest protest against Poll Tax, occurred today in 1990 in central London, of the estimated 200,000 in attendance, 113 were injured and 339 were arrested
Entertainment Events Today
- The American rock guitarist and singer-songwriter Jimi Hendrix, set his guitar on fire on stage today in 1967 for the first time, he was performing at the London Astoria
- Red Rum, recovered from 15 lengths behind at the final fence, to win the first of its three Grand Nationals today in 1973
- Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life, the last movie to feature all six Monty Python members together, was released in the United States today in 1983
Family Events Today
- The English genius Sir Isaac Newton, widely recognised as one of the most influential scientists of all time, died today in 1727 aged 84
- The English landscape painter John Constable, whose most famous work is probably The Hay Wain, died today in 1837 aged 60
- The Scottish actor Ewan McGregor, star of Trainspotting and a number of Star Wars movies, was born today in 1971 in Perth
Main Event Today
- The iconic Paris landmark, The Eiffel Tower, officially opened today in 1889
National Day Today
- Today, it’s National Clams on the Half Shell Day