June 18: Fun Facts about Today in History

(June 18, 1429)
During the Hundred Years' War, Charles VII's army defeats an English army led by John Talbot at the Battle of Patay. The English lost 2,200 men, or more than half of their army, hampering their efforts throughout this phase of the conflict.

(June 18, 1633)
At Edinburgh's St Giles' Cathedral, Charles I is crowned King of Scots.

(June 18, 1812)
On this day, President James Madison of the United States signed a declaration of war against the United Kingdom, beginning the War of 1812, which was sparked by American complaints about oppressive maritime policies during the Napoleonic Wars.

(June 18, 1858)
Charles Darwin is inspired to publish his hypothesis after receiving a manuscript from Alfred Russel Wallace that contains essentially identical conclusions regarding evolution as Darwin's own.

(June 18, 1908)
In the Philippines, the University of the Philippines is founded.

(June 18, 1983)
Sally Ride, the first American woman to fly into space, was launched aboard the space shuttle Challenger with four other astronauts.

(Died on June 18, 2020)
Vera Lynn, English singer who was the "Forces' Sweetheart" in World War II (b. 1917).