October 18: Fun Facts about Today in History

Today in History

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On October 18, learn about the most interesting historical events and facts that occurred throughout history. The Gregorian calendar’s 291st day is October 18th. Félicette, a black and white female Parisian stray cat, became the first cat to be propelled into space on this day; Texas Instruments introduced the first transistor radio; and Moby Dick’s novel The Whale was first published.

The 18th of October falls under the sign of Libra. Chuck Berry, Lee Harvey Oswald, and Mike Ditka, among others, were born on October 18th. National Chocolate Cupcake Day and National No Beard Day are both celebrated today.

Event
(October 18, 1867) On this day in 1867, the American flag was raised over the Russian territory of Alaska after a deal negotiated by Secretary of State William Seward was ratified against stiff resistance. After paying $7.2 million to Russia to buy it, the United States assumes control of Alaska. Alaska Day is a state holiday celebrated once a year to honour the state's history. photo source: wikimedia.org
Advertisements (October 18, 1922) The British Broadcasting Company (later Corporation) is created by a consortium with the objective of establishing a nationwide network of radio transmitters for the purpose of providing a national broadcasting service.
(October 18, 1926) Chuck Berry, a prominent and important singer, songwriter, and guitarist in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s of rhythm-and-blues and rock-and-roll music, was born in the United States. photo source: wikimedia.org Learn more interesting facts about Chuck Berry
(October 18, 1931) Thomas Edison, an American inventor most renowned for his pivotal role in ushering in the modern era of electricity, died in West Orange, New Jersey. photo source: wikimedia.org
(October 18, 2007) Benazir Bhutto, Pakistan's first woman prime minister (1988–90 and 1993–96), returned to her homeland after eight years of self-imposed exile. Her motorcade was targeted in Karachi hours later, and she was assassinated in December. photo source: wikimedia.org
Advertisements (Died on October 18, 2015) Paul West, English-American author, poet, and academic (b. 1930).
(October 18, 2021) Colin L. Powell, the nation's top soldier, diplomat, and national security adviser throughout his four decades in public life, passed away on Monday. He was 84 years old when he passed away. photo source: wikimedia.org